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  1. beebs
    EPISODE 170
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    EJ stands in the DiMera living room, sipping on cognac, as he looks out through the terrace doors.
     
    The sound of the front door opening and closing doesn't deter him, as he keeps his focus out on the lovely day.
     
    From the foyer, a familiar voice calls out to him, as they step inside.
     

    It's Liam.
     
    LIAM: You called?
     
    EJ continues to stare out the window, his only acknowledgement of Liam's arrival is a sly smile that appears on his face as Liam stands in the doorway of the living room, awaiting a response.
     
    ---
     

    Bo stands around the corner from the living room at the DiMera compound in Italy, listening in as Stefano and Rolf sit before a roaring fire in the fireplace, cackling away at their latest scheme.
     
    DR. ROLF: So what is our progress on the Salem front?
    STEFANO: Ohhh, Rolf. The greatest news. Our friend Nicholas has succeeded in taking the Kiriakis holdings. 
    DR. ROLF: Excellent news! So when do we make the exchange public?
     
    Stefano leans in, taking a puff of his cigar before responding.
     
    STEFANO: First of all, Anjelica must be elected first as state governor. Once this goal is accomplished, we can unleash our new recruit, and retrieve John Black. Once we have him, we can get the final piece to the puzzle for the alternative fuels project, and we will revolutionize the energy sector.
    DR. ROLF: But Stefano, that is Nicholas Fallon's project. Wouldn't he have the information we need?
     
    Stefano gets up from his seat, walking slowly over to the bar, where he pours himself a drink as he speaks. Bo stands off to the side, in disbelief as to what he's hearing.
     
    STEFANO: There is an additive that was considered after our dear friend, Mr. Fallon sold the project to Titan. The government tested it, but shelved it when funding ran out. They never released the information, but the ISA knows what it is. John Black has this information, Rolf. It is the key to maximizing the efficacy of the fuel source.
     
    Stefano turns as a hand reaches across to cover Bo's mouth and pulls his back, disappearing from Stefano's view almost in time.
     
    STEFANO: And it will be ours!
     
    Stefano looks at Rolf, but notices a movement around the corner, and looks over. Seeing nothing, he studies further. Rolf turns around to see what Stefano's looking at, but no one is there.
     
    ---
     

    The elevator doors open to the parking garage under University Hospital. Sheryl steps out, dressed as Nurse Crystal Clarke, who lies in the back of Crystal's SUV, after Sheryl knocked her out.
     
    Sheryl hastily walks over to the truck, unlocking the doors remotely, before stepping inside.
     
    Once inside, Sheryl turns the car on, and hurriedly drives out of the parking garage, exiting University Hospital.
     
     
    Driving down the road on her way out of the city, Sheryl is blissfully unaware of Crystal's presence behind her, assuming Crystal is still tied up and unconscious. However, we notice the shine of the tire iron slowly become visible behind Sheryl's head.
     
    At a red light, Sheryl adjusts her mirror, to see Crystal, now untied, wielding a tire iron aimed at Sheryl's head, and ready to swing.
     
    Sheryl's eyes lock with Crystal's, as Sheryl's widen in terror at her potential demise at the hands of the woman she captured.
     
    ---
     
    ---
     
    EJ stares out the window at the DiMera mansion, holding an empty rocks glass in his hand, smiling as Liam steps into the living room.
     
    EJ: You finally decided to show up.
    LIAM: It's not like you gave me much choice, you know.
    EJ: It was extremely important.
    LIAM: So I gathered. So what's this all about?
     
    EJ finally turns around, spotting an annoyed Liam standing near the piano.
     
    EJ: Well, I requested something from you not long ago, and I've yet to recieve it.
    LIAM: Yes, and you're not going to.
     
    EJ places his empty rocks glass on the desk near the french doors. He turns back to face Liam, now visibly irritated.
     
    EJ: And why's that?
    LIAM: Well, I was at Club TBD last night with Jennifer, and...I spotted your little friend Gabi there with Nick Fallon. She was not looking too well, and neither was he. And I realized what was happening.
     
    Liam saunters slowly over to the couch, sitting himself down as he continues to explain himself to EJ.
     
    LIAM: You're giving Gabi those drugs to give to Nick.
    EJ: And just what's wrong with that?
    LIAM: What are you up to, EJ?
    EJ: Well, I don't see how that's any of your busine--
     
    Liam's temper escalates as he cuts EJ off.
     
    LIAM: Oh, the Hell it isn't.
     
    EJ is stunned into silence by Liam's reaction. He watches as Liam gets up from his seat and walks toward EJ in a somewhat menacing way.
     
    LIAM: You have been working against your family interests for weeks now and I wanna know why.
    EJ: The family's interests aren't neccessarily my interests.
     
    Liam chuckles as he steps in closer to EJ, keeping a tension between them that belies Liam's cool expression.
     
    LIAM: Your interests are making sure that Sami never finds out about Abigail, or her baby. I know that. Anjelica knows that. You know that. 
     
    Liam leans intimately close to EJ, and almost hisses out his next words in a whisper to EJ.
     
    LIAM: Stefano knows that.
     
    Liam pokes EJ in the chest as he utters EJ's father's name. EJ barely budges, and his expression remains stoic, as Liam smiles almost maniacally.
     
    LIAM: So, I...am not going to let you ruin this. So you either keep in line with the plan, or those pictures our friend Percy took of you and Abby get made public. And you know how much I love that little girl. I'd never want to hurt her. 
     
    Liam steps back over to EJ, walking in close to him to taunt him one more time.
     
    LIAM: So...choose wisely, EJ.
     
    Liam walks out of the room, leaving EJ behind, a simmering rage inside him.
     
    ---
     
    Dr. Rolf gets off the phone, as Stefano pours himself a drink.
     
    Rolf looks up at Stefano, concern in his eyes.
     
    DR. ROLF: I've got security checking the house to double check if anyone got in.
    STEFANO: Excellent. We cannot be too careful.
    DR. ROLF: Speaking of which, Stefano...I don't mean to...shall we say, stick my nose where it doesn't belong but...you're drinking an awful lot. It's not good for your diabetes...
     
    Stefano takes a big gulp of his drink, sounding refreshed as he sets his drink down on the coffee table before sitting down in an armchair.
     
    STEFANO: I normally would not, but we have plenty to celebrate. So today, I will make an exception.
     
    Rolf bites his tongue, pressing on with the matters at hand.
     
    DR. ROLF: Alright...if you say so.
    STEFANO: Believe me, Rolf. We have all of Salem right where we want them. And there isn't a single thing that could happen now to stop us.
     
    ---
     

     Down at the bottom of the staircase to the cellar of the DiMera compound, Steve leans in and speaks softly into Bo's ear.
     
    STEVE: It's just me.
     
    Bo fights Steve off, turning around angrily.
     
    BO: The Hell, Steve.
     
    Steve is quick to get Bo to simmer down. Putting his finger to his lips before Bo can continue.
     
    STEVE: You were thiiiis close to getting found out, my man.
    BO: Maybe, but I found out a whole lot about what Old Man DiMera's up to.
    STEVE: Oh yeah? I found something too, but you first.
     
    Bo steps in closer to Steve to fill him in, checking around carefully to ensure no one overhears.
     
    BO: This whole thing back home with Titan? Nick Fallon taking it over in some big coup?
    STEVE: Yeah, I heard about that, Kayla told me.
    BO: Well, I'd been wondering how he got his hands on all that money to buy them out. Turns out, DiMera, and Anjelica Deveraux are behind it.
     
    Steve's face twists, stunned to hear Anjelica's name pop up.
     
    STEVE: Anjelica? How the Hell does she fit into it?
    BO: I dunno, man. This is just getting more and more complicated the more we dig up.
     
    Steve comes up behind Bo and smiles.
     
    STEVE: Speaking of digging things up. 
     
    Bo turns to face Steve, looking confused, as Steve motions toward the door at the end of the hall they've just walked down.
    Bo and Steve step toward it, opening the door, to reveal the rows of dimly lit prison cells. Bo steps inside, in awe, Steve following closely behind him.
     
    STEVE: Check it out, partner!
     
    Bo looks around in awe, as the dimly lit room lights up as Steve lights a gas lantern sitting on a nearby table.
     
    BO: What the...what is this place?
    STEVE: DiMera's dungeon, from the looks of it. Mostly empty, too. Except for one thing.
     
    Steve points to the largest cell. 
     
    BO: Stefano's new Pawn
     
    Bo strains to see, as he takes the lantern and walks slowly over to the cell, seeing a man crouched in the corner. Bo looks over at Steve, unsure who the man is.
     
    BO: We got a key in here? 
    STEVE: Nah, man, I couldn't find one.
    BO: Dammit.
     
    Bo walks over, as close as he can to the man in the corner, trying not to startle him. 
     
    Reaching through the bars of the cell, he touches the man. The man flinches wildly at first, before both he and Bo realize who the other is.
     
    Bo looks on, completely stunned, as Steve looks on, thrilled.
     
    BO: Oh my God...
     
    ---
     
    Sheryl is frozen, staring through her rear-view mirror at Crystal, who threatens her with a tire iron from the back seat of her SUV, a maniacal look in her eyes.
     
    CRYSTAL: Don't....move. Or I'ma kill ya.
     
    Sheryl doesn't flinch, not even moving her hand from the rear view mirror, as she studies Crystal's slow movement from behind her.
     
    CRYSTAL: Now, I'm gonna count to three, and you're gonna drive this truck to the next parking lot, and put your hands up, and you're gonna keep em up. And you're gonna explain to me just what the Hell's goin' on here.
    SHERYL: Crystal, I do--
     
    As Sheryl tries to object, the light turns green, and Crystal's shrill command cuts Sheryl off.
     
    CRYSTAL: DRIVE!
     
    Crystal's Southern drawl tightens into an imperative, terse command. Sheryl immediately complies, slowly stepping on the gas to head through the intersection.
     
    CRYSTAL: Right here...turn now, or you're gonna get it.
     
    Sheryl ignores Crystal's order, suddenly accelerating, and knocking Crystal back in her seat.
     
    Crystal struggles to get back upright, as Sheryl drives to try to thwart Crystal's attempts on her life.
     
    CRYSTAL: Stop this truck, right now, dammit!
     
    Sheryl pulls over on a quiet side road. Braking hard, Crystal stumbles forward, dropping the tire iron beneath the back seat.
     
    CRYSTAL: Dammit!
     
    Now outside the city, there are no witnesses around to spot them. Sheryl puts the SUV in park, and takes the keys out quickly, while Crystal lurches forward to hunt for the tire iron, her only hope to save herself.
     
    Sheryl leaps from her seat, out the front door of her SUV, before running to the backseat herself, opening the door and prying Crystal from the floor of the SUV before Crystal can find the tire iron, or escape.
     
    CRYSTAL: No, don't...
    SHERYL: Get back here, you--
     
    The two women struggle in the backseat, as Sheryl finds the tire iron before Crystal can.
     
    In terror, Crystal throws open the back passenger side door of the SUV, in hopes of escaping, but Sheryl runs around the opposite side and, as Crystal exits the vehicle and tries to make a run for it, Sheryl swings the tire iron at Crystal.
     
    SHERYL: Oh no you don't.
     
    Sheryl's swing strikes Crystal hard in the head, as Crystal falls to the ground outside the truck, mortally wounded.
     
    Sheryl slowly steps toward Crystal's lifeless body, and looks down upon it, coldly.
     
    SHERYL: Well....looks like it's time for Plan B.
     
    ---
     
  2. beebs
    EPISODE 181
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Gabi stands in Nick's room at the Kiriakis mansion, holding the pictures he's had hidden in his desk drawer of Gabi, Sami, and Kate trying to drown him in her hand. She's relieved to have finally found them, holding the pictures up to her chest, smiling for the first time in ages.
     
    GABI: Oh my God, yes.
     

    As she celebrates her mission being completed to retrieve the photos, lurking on the other side of the door is Nick, who is spying on her through the slight crack in said door. He practically seethes, livid as he watches her invade his privacy and betray his trust, but he keeps silent and still, observing her every move, as he grips the handle of the door tightly.
     
    Gabi, oblivious to the threat behind her, flips through the photos, before stumbling upon one pic that takes her aback: Abby in a liplock with EJ.
     
    Gabi looks stunned. Realizing what she's unintentially uncovered, she hastily shoves the pictures back in the envelope, and walks them over to her purse, stuffing them inside. As she does this, Nick watches her closely, seeing what she's done with the pictures. Before Gabi can catch a glimpse of Nick, he walks away, defusing the situation.
     
    Gabi closes her purse, and looks up to the ceiling, taken aback by the picture she's seen of EJ and Abby.
     
    GABI: Oh God, you guys. What did you get yourselves into. (sigh) I gotta get out of here.
     
    Gabi sighs, before getting up from sitting on the bed, and rushes out of the room, making sure everything is as she found it. Turning the light off and shutting the door completely behind her.
     
    After leaving Nick's bedroom, Gabi checks both ways down the hallway, before walking away toward her own bedroom.
     
    As Gabi walks past, a face looms from the linen closet next to Nick's room. It's Nick, making sure he's hidden before heading back for his room. From the dark of the closet, he threatens Gabi softly.
     
    NICK: You haven't won yet, Gabi. I'll make sure of that. They're poisoning your mind against me. And we can't have that. Can we?
     
    ---
     

    In the Kiriakis living room, Anjelica and Alex walk in after being dropped off by Will. Anjelica sets down her bag, as Alex sets his things down on the desk. Neither speak at first, but Alex looks at his mother, worry in his eyes. Anjelica catches this look, and furrows her brow in annoyance.
     
    ANJELICA: What?
    ALEX: Anjelica, are you sure you're okay?
     
    Anjelica looks away, as she steps over to the bar, and pours herself a drink. 
     
    ANJELICA: I'm fine. Never been better!
     
    Anjelica downs the drink in one shot, and Alex looks at her, not believing a word she says.
     
    ALEX: Somehow I doubt that.
     
    Anjelica glares at him, as she pours herself another drink.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, other than my nerves being shot after nearly being killed by a stage light...I'm feeling fresh as a daisy.
     
    Anjelica quickly turns to look at Alex, her mockingly chipper tone of voice suddenly dropping to a threateningly low pitch as she holds a second glass up.
     
    ANJELICA: Drink?
     
    Alex isn't amused by Anjelica's snark, and glares at his mother, disapprovingly.
     
    ALEX: I'll pass. Come on, Mother. Tell me what's bothering you. You've been miserable since we left the studio.
    ANJELICA: I'm just trying to figure out whether Nick Fallon was onto something or not.
    ALEX: What do you mean by that?
    ANJELICA: I mean between you and Will Horton.
     
    Alex drops his shoulders, looking away in frustration.
     
    ---
     

    Roman drives out along a quiet country road in the dark of the night. Over the radio, he hears an announcement.
     
    RADIO HOST: (via radio) An update from WXIR-TV. The Walker Report, the live television special hosted by local investigative journalist Nicole Walker, was abruptly cut short midshow tonight after an overhead stage light fell on the soundstage, nearly striking newly-appointed Titan CEO Nick Fallon, as well as Candidate for State Governor, Anjelica Deveraux. Both are said to be fine, but shaken up, and Salem Police are investigating the potential for foul play. More news as it becomes available.
     
    As an advertisement kicks in, Roman is surprised by the news, but is quickly distracted by the reflection of a tail light on an SUV up ahead, obscured by nearby bushes.
     
    ROMAN: What da...
     
    Intrigued, Roman pulls over to investigate.
     
    Stopping his car at the side of the quiet country road, Roman gets out, and fumbles with his phone to turn on his cell phone flashlight.
     
    Slowly walking over to the abandoned vehicle hidden in the brush, Roman inspects the vehicle, a concerned look on his face.
     
    He looks around the otherwise-abandoned roadway, checking to see if anyone's around. When he sees nobody, he flashes the phone light into the front seat.
     
    Nothing.
     
    Slowly walking back to the back seats...
     
    Only a snorkel, and a roll of duct tape.
     
    Roman tilts his head slightly, confused by what he sees.
     
    Even slower, Roman steps back toward the rear of the SUV, inhaling deeply as he spots more scuba gear, but freezes when he sees in the very corner...
     
    A woman's dead body, ghost white from laying there overnight. We see that it is Crystal Clarke's body, though Roman doesn't recognize her.
     
    ROMAN: Damn.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    In the Kiriakis living room, Alex folds his arms, annoyed by his mother's inference about his relationship with Will.
     
    ALEX: You know, I don't appreciate you insinuating that there's anything going on between Will and myself that's not professional.
     
    Anjelica takes a sip of her drink, then turns to face her son, a sour, dismissive expression on her face.
     
    ANJELICA: Wouldn't be the first time.
    ALEX: Mom--
    ANJELICA: Look, Alex, you know I am supportive of you no matter what, but I cannot stress to you enough that I am running on a family values platform in this campaign, and that requires my family to maintain that appearance as well. That. Includes. You.
     
    Alex steps in closer to his mother, speaking firmly, while also appearing visibly uncomfortable.
     
    ALEX: Besides the fact that that's not how support works, I'm telling you, Will is my right hand at work. That's it. And he is very good at his work.
    ANJELICA: And that's where you leave it. At work.
     
    Alex, clearly agitated, begins to raise his voice to Anjelica.
     
    ALEX: Mother, I can't believe that Nick teasing Will has got you so worked up.
     
    Anjelica begins to, in turn, raise her voice to Alex, trying to make her point as clear as possible.
     
    ANJELICA: That's not what's working me up, Alex. It's the fact he sees something going on between you. And whether it's there or not, other people are seeing it, and they will start to talk.
     
    Alex leans in close to Anjelica and softly, but firmly, punctuates his point.
     
    ALEX: Let them.
     
    Alex turns to walk away, but Anjelica follows him, trying to look him in the eyes as she shouts out to him.
     
    ANJELICA: I will do no such thing! I am running for the highest office in the state. I have our family's legacy on my back here. And I will not let it be ruined once again because the men in this family can't get a handle on their moral compass!
     
    Alex laughs sarcastically at Anjelica's comment, raising his voice to match hers.
     
    ALEX: Ohhhh, I think murdering sex workers is a little different--
    ANJELICA: Not to these people, it isn't! You need to keep up appearances, Alexander Kiriakis. We need to present an image of good ol' American apple-pie eatin' wholesomeness for my sake, AND for yours. 
     
    Alex cools his tone, and scratches the back of his neck, before speaking again.
     
    ALEX:  And after the campaign ends? Then what?
    ANJELICA: I don't care after the campaign ends, you can ruin your life all you want!
    ALEX: Bull! Face it, Mother. You're always going to have your nose in every relationship I have. I don't even know why I bother having relationships at all, quite frankly! 
    ANJELICA: Oh, now it's a relationship. I'm sure your WIFE would love to hear that!
     
    Alex sighs, rolling his eyes at his mother. She ignores him, and continues.
     
    ANJELICA: Let me tell you something, dear son of mine: I involve myself because I care about you, and your happiness.
    ALEX: And if you care so much about my happiness, I'd kindly ask you to butt out.
     
    Alex throws his hands up, walking around Anjelica as he heads for the stairs, exhausted from arguing.
     
    ALEX: Look, I need to get to bed. I'm tired.
    ANJELICA: Alexander, don't walk away from me--
    ALEX: There is nothing to say. Anjelica, I am happily married, that's the end of it. Okay? Goodnight.
    ANJELICA: Alex...
     
    Alex walks away, as Anjelica watches him, frustrated.
     
    ---
     

    Marlena emerges from her darkened Penthouse bedroom, wearing her nightgown. She wears a worried expression as she calls out to the empty room.
     
    MARLENA: Roman?? Roman, are you there?
     
    Marlena walks over to the lamp on the side table in the living room, immediately looking around now that the lights are on. She's stunned by Roman's absence.
     
    MARLENA: Roman?
     
    Taking a moment to think, she walks over to the front closet door, opening it to see Roman's shoes not there. She realizes immediately that something's wrong, and rushes over to her sideboard, where her cell phone's been left to charge overnight.
     
    Picking it up, she calls Roman.
     
    It rings...
     
    And rings...
     
    and rings....
     
    After the fourth ring, the call goes to voice mail. Marlena waits through Roman's voice mail message to leave one for him.
     
    ROMAN: (via voice mail) It's Roman, leave a message.
     
    The beep afterward prompts Marlena to leave a somewhat uncertain message. Not wanting to alarm Roman, Marlena holds it together and restrains herself into a calm masquerade.
     
    MARLENA: (into phone) Ah Roman, it's Doc. I'm....I'm just a bit worried, it's....it's midnight and I was expecting you back at the penthouse by now. If you....if you are able to give me a call. If you're...if you're lost at all...just....just call me back, okay? Let me know where you are...or if you need me to come out to meet you. Alright.
     
    Marlena hangs up the phone, now more worried than ever. 
     
    After a moment's hesitation, Marlena checks her watch. It's past midnight.
     
    She calls Abe, who answers after two rings.
     
    MARLENA: (into phone) Abe? Abe, it's Marlena....I'm...I'm calling because Roman is missing again, and I could really use your help in tracking him down....yes, if you want to meet here at the penthouse. Please, as soon as you can. Thanks.
     
    Marlena hangs up, and after a moment's hesitation, makes one more call.
     
    ...
     

    Kim is just walking into her apartment after dinner with Andrew, when she hears her cell phone ring.
     
    KIM: Oh wow, who could be calling at this hour?
    ANDREW: Could be important.
     
    Kim pulls the phone out and looks at who it is. Her face drops as she looks up at her son.
     
    KIM: Honey, I gotta take this.
    ANDREW: Sure! No problem.
     
    Kim answers the phone with a definite harshness in her greeting.
     
    KIM: (into phone) Yes?
     
    ...
     
    MARLENA: (into phone) Ah, Kim, it's Marlena...I just...I'm sorry to call so late, but...it's Roman. He's missing again. I don't mean to alarm you, but...I could use your help tracking him down.
     
    ...
     
    Kim is shocked, and worried, her tone changes slightly in her response to Marlena's request.
     
    KIM: (into phone)  Oh Gosh, ahh...yeah. Yeah, I'll be right over.
     
    ....
     
    MARLENA: (into phone) Thank you, Kim...I'm sorry about this, I know it's late.
    KIM: (via phone) It's fine.
    MARLENA: (into phone) Listen, Kim, if you don't mind, I just wanted to take a moment to apo--
    KIM: (via phone) Listen, Marlena, I can't really talk right now, just...I'll be right over, okay?
     
    Kim hangs up the phone, with Marlena wincing after the call ends, hurt by the terseness in Kim's voice, and their strained relationship thanks to Roman's decline. She puts down her phone, as she leans against the edge of the sideboard.
     
    MARLENA: Please God, let him be alright.
     
    Marlena turns and walks toward her bedroom to get changed back into her street clothes.
     
    ---
     
    Roman, still stunned by the sight of Nurse Crystal Clarke's body in the backseat of the abandoned SUV he's spotted in the bush, panics as he looks around in the dark, trying to figure out what to do.
     
    He remembers after a moment to check his phone to call for help, but there's no signal. 
     
    ROMAN: Dammit! No signal out here.
     
    He races over to his car. Opening the door, he climbs inside to try to radio into dispatch for help, but his hands tremble, as he realizes he can't remember how to operate the radio. He drops the receiver, and puts his idling vehicle into gear, taking off back down the road in hopes of getting back to Salem to call for help.
     
    ---
     
    Nick returns to his room, now that Gabi's gone. He shuts the door behind him, looking around the room to see what's out of place. Realizing nothing's out of place, meaning if he hadn't caught her, he would've never noticed Gabi was in his room.
     
    He pulls open his desk drawer, and makes sure the manila envelope he'd hidden inside was missing, before slamming it shut in frustration.
     
    NICK: Dammit! Damn you, Gabi.
     
    He holds his head, trying to avoid another migraine, when his cell phone rings.
     
    It's Sheryl.
     
    He rolls his eyes as he answers the phone, pinching his nose to try to stop the throbbing in his head from worsening.
     
    NICK: (into phone) Sheryl, what do you want?
     
    ...
     

    Sheryl paces her living room at her new apartment, phone in her ear, her game face on, as she sarcastically replies to Nick.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) You know, I just love your phone manner. It's so warm and genuine.
     
    ...
     
    Nick leans against the desk in his room, shutting his eyes and grimacing through the dull pain.
     
    NICK: (into phone) Sheryl, I don't have time for this right now, what do you want?
    SHERYL: (via phone) I want to give you some advice, Nick...
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) You remember what happened tonight at the studio? With the falling stage lights?
     
    ...
     
    NICK: (into phone) Obviously.
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Well, you should know....that was my doing.
     
    ...
     
    Nick's eyes open as Sheryl lies to Nick about her responsibility for the "accident" at the TV station.
     
    SHERYL: (via phone) And I want you to know that it was not my intention to miss. So you'd better watch your step before you make your next move...
    NICK: (into phone) Or what?
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl gives an evil smile as she purrs her threat through the phone to Nick.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Or it'll be your very...last...move. Understood?
     
    ...
     
    Nick slowly begins to crack up, laughing through the phone at a surprised Sheryl.
     
    NICK: (into phone) You have got to be kidding me. 
    SHERYL: (via phone) I am deadly serious, Nick.
     
    Nick laughs over the phone yet again, shaking his head as he begins to walk toward his bedroom window.
     
    NICK: (into phone) Sheryl, you don't get it, do you? I know full well it wasn't you who dropped that light on me. There's no way, because up until two hours ago, you thought someone else botched the virus operation.
     
    ...
     
    At Sheryl's end, Sheryl's smile drops from her face, as she realizes Nick's got her dead to rights.
     
    NICK: (via phone) So, because I'm such a nice, forgiving guy, I'm gonna make you a little deal. Alright?
     
    Sheryl sighs before answering Nick, putting a hand on her hip in frustration.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) And just what kinda deal would that be?
     
    ...
     
    Nick looks out his bedroom window, his steely eyes looking straight ahead into the night as he delivers his own threat to Sheryl.
     
    NICK: (into phone) You get Jordan and leave town forever tonight, or those photos of you and Jordan that I was going to show on Nicole's TV special? I'm gonna take them straight to the police station. Got that?
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl tenses up, sighing once again, but this time with a certain pent-up rage.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Loud and clear.
     
    ...
     
    NICK: (into phone) You got 12 hours, Sheryl. Don't test me.
     
    Nick presses "End Call", his eyes never moving from looking outside.
     
    ...
     
    The double beep of Nick ending the call signals to Sheryl to drop her show of strength, her body unclenching from the tense back-and-forth.
     
    She grunts in frustration, before slamming her phone into the side table next to her. She looks around frantically, trying to figure out exactly what to do next.
     
    ---
     
    In her own bedroom at the Kiriakis house, Gabi texts EJ on her cell phone, as she stands with the manila envelope she's just collected from Nick's desk drawer in her other hand.
     
    She texts EJ:
     
    got the pics
     
    The photo of EJ in a compromising position with Abigail is out of the envelope, as Gabi stares at it carefully while hitting "send".
     
    Gabi looks up from the photos after a moment, stunned by the photo she holds in her hands.
     
    ---
  3. beebs
    EPISODE 122
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Alex stands, tablet in hand, in the Kiriakis living room. He taps a few spots on his tablet screen before handing his tablet to a waiting Justin, who sits in the easy chair nearby, looking baffled.
     
    ALEX: Mom's decided to follow in Harper's footsteps.
    JUSTIN: I'm hoping you mean that exclusively in the political sense.
     
    Justin studies the electronic edition of the Salem Spectator for a moment, before looking up at his son, stunned by the news.
     
    ALEX: Well...considering her history...it could go either way.
    JUSTIN: We need to tread really carefully here. 
     
    Justin hands back Alex's tablet, deeply contemplative, as Alex places the tablet back in his briefcase, nodding in agreement with his father.
     
    ALEX: Exactly. If she supports EnerNext, and her past becomes tabloid fodder, we could go down in flames with her.
    JUSTIN: Or, on the other hand, we distance ourselves from her, she reacts by campaigning against the oil sands, and she wins...
    ALEX: And the project could be dead in the water as well.
     
    Justin nods, trying in vain to think of a solution.
     
    JUSTIN: (sigh) There's only one way to deal with it. And it's not one I'm a big fan of. We have to wait for her to make the first move.
     
    Alex sighs, equally frustrated by the spot they now find themselves in.
     
    ---
     

    EJ follows an enraged Sonny into the Brady Pub, where he puts a hand on Sonny's shoulder, forcing him to turn to face him.
     
    SONNY: What do you want, EJ?
     
    EJ leans in closer to Sonny, speaking softly so as not to catch the attention of the rest of the pub.
     
    EJ: Listen, you and I need to have a serious chat about what's going on with Gabi.
    SONNY: Oh, you mean, you want to convince me that putting a deadly weapon in an apartment with a toddler is a smart idea? I don't think so.
    EJ: Sonny, stop. Okay? I know you're angry about this. Trust me, I wasn't too keen on coming by with that gun, myself. But you have to understand exactly what's happening and why I'm so worried about Gabi.
     
    Sonny looks at EJ, unconvinced, but willing to listen. Barely.
     
    SONNY: Alright, I'll bite. But this better be the best explanation you've ever given anyone, so help me.
     
    EJ nods solemnly, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole, Eric, Chloe and Daniel stand in the office of the Justice of the Peace, stunned by the sudden arrival of Marlena and Sami at the conclusion of Eric and Nicole's wedding.
     
    ERIC: Mom! Sami, what are you guys doing here?
     
    Sami storms into the room towards Eric. Nicole steps in to ward off Sami from Eric.
     
    SAMI: Stopping you from making the biggest mistake of your life.
    NICOLE: Well, you're too late.
     
    Nicole stares down Sami for a moment, before looking Marlena's way, smiling defiantly at both of them.
     
    NICOLE: Eric and I are already married.
     
    Nicole takes Eric's hand, and attempts to walk him out of the office, but Sami stops him, as Marlena advances to try to intervene as well.
     
    NICOLE: So if you'll excuse us--
    MARLENA: Oh no you won't! 
     
    Marlena attempts to intimidate Nicole as well, staring at her intensely before turning to Daniel and Chloe.
     
    MARLENA: Daniel. Chloe. Would you excuse us a moment?
     
    Chloe and Daniel look at each other, gravely concerned for what's to come, before Daniel puts his hand on the small of Chloe's back, guiding her to the door.

    Justice of the Peace Watkins surveys the situation and addresses Marlena as well.
     
    JP WATKINS: I'll...uh...I'll see myself out as well.
    MARLENA: Thank you.
     
    Marlena turns back toward Eric and Nicole.
     
    MARLENA: I think it's time, we all had a little talk.
     
    Nicole looks exasperated, looking at Eric to see a similarly frustrated expression on his face.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Sonny and EJ sit down at a booth at the Brady Pub. Both with coffees in hand, they look at each other solemnly.
     
    SONNY: Well? I'm waiting.
     
    EJ sips his coffee, before looking at Sonny, keeping his voice low so as not to alarm anyone.
     
    EJ: Look, Sonny...all I can say is that Gabi has been trying so hard to get Nick out of everyone's life before he goes too far, and at every turn he's evaded us so far. 
    SONNY: But then why does that mean you have to go to such extreme lengths to get rid of him?
    EJ: Sonny, come on. This is Nick Fallon we're talking about. He's a convicted murderer, and kindapper. He tried to rape Gabi, and tried to manipulate her into leaving the state with him, just so he could keep her daughter away from you and Will. We know what he's capable of, and we know what he can do to all of us if we don't deal with him exactly the right way.
     
    Sonny leans in, emphatically pointing at EJ as he responds sternly.
     
    SONNY: That does NOT mean you bring a gun into our home. I know full well what Nick is capable of. Quite frankly, he terrifies me. But I know that that gun is only going to escalate things. And someone's gonna end up hurt...or dead.
    EJ: I agree. But where you and I differ, Sonny...is that I see it as an inevitability, whether or not Gabi has a weapon at her disposal. The difference being that, unarmed, there's a far greater chance that the person who may be killed is Gabi, or Will...or yourself. And I can't allow that to happen.
     
    Sonny looks at EJ, then looks down into his cup of coffee, deep in contemplation.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole folds her arms, as the door to the Justice of the Peace's office shuts, leaving only Marlena, Sami, Eric and Nicole inside.
     
    NICOLE: Well, if you're going to try to get me to leave, you can save your breath. I'm not going anywhere.
    SAMI: But God knows I wish you would.
     
    Nicole shoots a look at Sami, snapping back at her snarky remark.
     
    NICOLE: Well, too bad, Sami. I'm his wife now.
    SAMI: I swear to God, Nicole, if I had legal grounds to, I'd be firing you so fast right now.
    NICOLE: But you can't. And I'd like to see you try to make that hold up in court--
     
    Eric steps in, cutting Nicole and Sami's argument off.
     
    ERIC: ...Okay, enough. Both of you. Listen, I don't know how the two of you found out about this wedding, but we weren't doing this to pull one over on you.
    MARLENA: Well, you could have fooled me. Eric, I know you're hurting over what happened with Kristen, and I know you feel some kind of gratitude toward Nicole for trying to track down Dr. Chyka, but to sneak around behind everyone's back and MARRY her?
    ERIC: Mom, I am in love with her. Whether you and Sami believe it or not. And we were going to tell you--
    SAMI: Oh, when?
    ERIC: As soon as we figured out the best way. We were going to...take our time, let things settle down with dad, and...hopefully give you some time to start seeing Nicole in a different light.
     
    Sami rolls her eyes, laughing at the thought of forgiving Nicole. Eric ignores his sister's petulence and continues.
     
    ERIC: And when the time was right, we were going to let you know, and plan a big wedding for the family. But we wanted the time to allow you to accept our relationship first.
    MARLENA: So to do that, you had to marry first? You couldn't wait for us to accept her and THEN marry?
    ERIC: Mom, I just...I didn't want to wait.
    SAMI: No, Nicole didn't want to wait. Because, like usual, Nicole rushes into things when she's up to something.
     
    Sami steps in closer to Nicole, making her squirm.
     
    SAMI: I know you've been cozying up to Nick and Percy the Greetings guy for the EnerNext story, but we all know Nick never does anything out of the goodness of his heart...so, tell us, Nicole...what's he got on you that's got you so nervous? Hm?
     
    Nicole glares at Sami, visibly uncomfortable.
     
    ---
     

    Jerome shuts the door to the motel room, a laptop bag in his hand, which he sets down on the desk for Sheryl.
     
    JEROME: Okay. I pulled some strings and got you a basic laptop so you can get what you need done while you're out here.
     
    Sheryl steps over to the desk, arms folded. She looks down as Jerome opens the screen, and plugs the USB stick into the laptop.
     
    SHERYL: Great. So this has everything I need?
    JEROME: I recorded the interview with my grandmother, took a copy of her resumé, and did a search on her professional profile. I think that we've got enough here that you'd be able to fool the people at University Hospital pretty easily into thinking you're Crystal.
    SHERYL: Well...it's not like they know her.
    JEROME: Exactly. Valerie's the only one who's spoken to her, and you'll just have to work on Jordan until you're able to get her alone and get her out of there, and then you can get out of town.
     
    Sheryl smirks, putting a hand on Jerome's shoulder.
     
    SHERYL: You do think of everything, don't you?
    JEROME: I try.
    SHERYL: Just one thing you didn't think of.
     
    Jerome turns back toward Sheryl, confused.
     
    JEROME: What's that?
    SHERYL: What we're gonna do about Billie Reed. She's the only one who knows it's me, and not Nick that put that virus on the server. If we don't take her out somehow, the entire plan falls apart.
     
    Jerome looks back at the laptop screen, sighing under his breath, as he thinks about what to do about Billie.
     
    ---
     

    Justin packs up to head off for the office, as Alex finishes his cup of coffee, still deep in thought about how to deal with his mother's campaign for governor, and the server breach at Titan, when Henderson walks into the room, with Tyler in tow.
     
    HENDERSON: Good morning, gentlemen. A Mr. Houston to see you.
    JUSTIN: Thanks, Henderson, have him come in.
     
    Henderson stands back to allow Tyler to come in, before exiting the room.
     
    TYLER: Justin! Alex! I'm glad I caught you before you headed in for the day. I think we need to have a bit of a talk.
    ALEX: Us? I thought we were having an emergency board meeting today?
    TYLER: We are. And it's an all-departments one so you'll be expected to join us, Alex. But the three of us are going to have to come up with an action plan beforehand.
     
    Justin turns to look at Tyler, confused.
     
    JUSTIN: Action plan? For what?
    TYLER: For how exactly we're going to make sure Nick Fallon doesn't singlehandedly torpedo this entire company.
     
    Alex and Justin look at each other, more baffled than ever. Tyler looks at both of them with deadly seriousness.
     
    ---
  4. beebs
    EPISODE 149
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Scenes from bloody warfare. 

    A gun being fired.
     
    John Black's face then appears, before disappearing, replaced by more violent images.
     
    The man writhes about, his mouth gagged, keeping him from shouting out. He struggles, trying to resist the intense images presented before him, but enraged far more by John than any other.
     
    ---
  5. beebs
    EPISODE 124
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Valerie sits at home, preparing an e-mail to Crystal Clarke, the new nurse she's hired on at University Hospital.
     
    She finishes up the e-mail, and hits send. Closing her laptop, she smiles.
     
    VALERIE: Alright. There we go Crystal. Welcome to University Hospital.
     
    ---
     

    Alex, Tyler, and Justin stand in the Kiriakis living room, contemplating their next step in dealing with Nick.
     
    ALEX: Well, not knowing much about this Fallon guy, I...I mean the best thing to do is assume he has stuff on all of us and collect whatever we can on him.
     
    Justin shakes his head, walking toward his briefcase to grab his tablet.
     
    JUSTIN: Mmm, probably not enough time for that. We have the board meeting this afternoon.
    TYLER: What we're going to have to do is ensure we have a strong bloc of board members who won't budge on Nick. 
    JUSTIN: That won't be easy. Especially when we're flying blind like this.  John's out of the country...
     
    Tyler shakes his head, frustrated by the sudden turmoil everything's been flung into by Nick's hubris.
     
    TYLER: We'll have to do some convincing other board members. Who else have we got?
     
    Justin looks up at Tyler, suddenly having a thought.
     
    JUSTIN: Billie Reed. Her and I have had a rapport as of late, it shouldn't be too hard to convince her, and if she's on side, Kate and Lucas will easily follow suit.
    TYLER: Let's do it.
     
    Justin zips up his bag, and pulls his cell phone from his front pocket on his soft briefcase.
     
    JUSTIN: I'll have Billie meet me at the office.
    ALEX: Excellent.
     
    As Justin steps out of the room, Tyler shakes Alex's hand.
     
    TYLER: I'll see you all at Titan, then. Good work, men.
    ALEX: Absolutely. See you.
     
    Tyler steps out of the Kiriakis mansion, his tension immediately lessens, as he exhales loudly.
     
    TYLER: Let's just hope this stops everything from falling apart, now. Titan can't afford any more problems. And neither can I.
     
    Tyler steps away, heading off for his car to head to Titan.
     
    ---
     

    Daniel and Chloe pace the main lobby at City Hall, as they wait for Marlena and Sami to finish grilling Eric and Nicole on their now-not-so-secret wedding.
     
    CHLOE: How do you think it's going in there?
    DANIEL: Ohhh, pretty terrible, I'm sure.
    CHLOE: I was afraid you'd say that.
     
    Daniel sighs, putting his hands in his pockets as he looks toward the elevator door, expecting anyone from the family to step out.
     
    DANIEL: Well...Sami's anger is all at Nicole, but I also don't think Marlena took too kindly to being shut out of her son's wedding, and personally, I can't blame her.
     
    Chloe looks up at Daniel, nodding gently in agreement. She turns toward the elevator, looking very concerned for her friend.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole stands with Sami in the Justice of the Peace's office at Salem City Hall. Visibly uncomfortable, Nicole folds her arms, as Sami looks back at her. Sami steps towards Nicole, arms folded, shaking her head at Nicole.
     
    SAMI: You know, I'm really impressed by your chutzpah, Nicole. Sneaking away the first chance you get to marry my brother like that. 
     
    Nicole rolls her eyes at Sami's petulence.
     
    SAMI: And it's funny, because you're doing it on company time, too. 
    NICOLE: Sami--
    SAMI: You are SO lucky that your big report airs this week, because otherwise I'd have grounds to fire you.
     
    Nicole looks at Sami, who's still staring her down, trying to intimidate her. Nicole holds firm.
     
    NICOLE: If you try to have me fired, I will sue you for wrongful termination. And I will win.
    SAMI: (laughs) Oh yeah right, Nicole. Even you're not that stupid.
     
    Nicole ignores Sami's petty comments and speaks firmly and cuttingly in response, never taking her eyes off Sami.
     
    NICOLE: I'll win because everyone in the entire state knows how much you hate me. You are so petty. Really, Sami, you're better than this. Don't even TRY to fire me.
    SAMI: Oh why? So you can sink your claws even deeper into my brother? You know, it wouldn't surprise me if you had found those files on Dr. Chyka and you'd just been hiding them all along? That's how desperate you are, Nicole.
     
    Nicole stirs uncomfortably at Sami's insinuation.
     

    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Marlena and Eric step into the waiting room at City Hall, Marlena closing the door behind them. 
     
    Eric looks over at Marlena, clearly displeased by Marlena and Sami's intervening in their wedding.
     
    ERIC: Look, Mom, I said it in the other room, and I'll say it again. I have really nothing more to say about this.
     
    Marlena holds up on hand to try to stop Eric from continuing.
     
    MARLENA: I know. I know, but hear me out, anyway.
     
    Eric sighs, and shakes his head as him mom carries on.
     
    MARLENA: Eric, this is your wedding day. And, regardless of who you're marrying, I think your father and I deserved to be there.
    ERIC: Mom, you knew that this was just a private little ceremony and that we were going to take our time and plan a big wedding with all the family down the road.
    MARLENA: I know. But that doesn't change the fact that this....this looks like you're running away from something. And I'm pretty sure I know exactly what it is.
     
    Eric looks at Marlena, annoyed by Marlena's prying.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole stands in front of Sami, arms folded, uncomfortable with Sami's insinuation, but trying to deflect.
     
    NICOLE: You know, Sami. I would have to be really sick to keep something so important from the man I love.
     
    Sami looks at Nicole, a smug, mocking smile on her face, almost laughing as she responds.
     
    SAMI: Yeah. Real sick. Sounds just like you.
     
    Nicole rolls her eyes, and starts to head for the door.
     
    NICOLE: I don't have to listen to any more of thi--
     
    Sami grabs Nicole's arm as she walks past, stopping Nicole from leaving the room.
     
    SAMI: Oh no, not so fast, Nicole.
    NICOLE: Sami, there is absolutely nothing you can do. Eric and I are married. And nothing you, or Marlena can say is going to change that. 
     
    Nicole rips her arm away from Sami, and glares back at her.
     
    NICOLE: If you'll excuse me.
     
    Nicole turns to leave the room, leaving an annoyed Sami behind.
     
    ---
     

    Billie sits at her office at Titan, behind her desk, finishing a phone call while putting away some papers in her desk drawer.
     
    BILLIE: He'll be at the airport at 11:40am? Perfect. Okay, thanks, Shane. Yeah, I'll pick him up and fill him in. Great. Bye.
     
    Billie hangs up the phone, breathing a bit of a sigh of relief, when she hears a knock at the door.
     
    BILLIE: Come in!
     

    The door opens, and Justin steps in. Billie looks up at him and smiles.
     
    BILLIE: Justin! How are you?
     
    Justin looks a bit less than enthused as he away from the door, closing it behind him.
     
    JUSTIN: I've...been better.
    BILLIE: Uh oh. What's happening?
    JUSTIN: Well...I don't know if you heard about the attack on the Titan server last night.
     
    Billie looks down, debating momentarily whether she should speak on it or not.
     
    BILLIE: I uh...I had. In fact, I was trying to stop it from happening...but someone beat me to it.
     
    Justin looks at Billie, confused and surprised.
     
    ---
     
    Valerie walks through the main hall of her home, turning the lights out, and grabbing her coat and bag from the coat rack by her front door.
     
    VALERIE: Okay...oven's off. Got my laptop. Got my...
     
    As she grabs her jacket, she feels in her pocket, suddenly realizing she doesn't have her hospital key card.
     
    VALERIE: Damn it...where's my key card.
     
    Valerie frantically searches her purse, hoping to find the key card, but to no avail.
     
    VALERIE: (sigh) Where is that damn thing?
     
    ---
     

    Jerome steps toward Valerie's office at University Hospital, carefully checking to make sure the coast is clear, before pulling Valerie's key card from his pocket. He carefully inserts the card into the card reader on the door, unlocking it.
     
    Checking once again to make sure there's no one around, he opens the door and quickly steps inside, closing the door behind him.
     
    Once inside, he turns the office light on, heading for the office's desktop computer. At Valerie's desk, he moves the mouse slightly, waking the dormant machine back up. 
     
    JEROME: Computer still on, and logged in. Grandma, you need to work on your computer security a bit.
     
    Double checking the info on his phone momentarily, he goes online, and accesses Crystal's e-mail. Quickly digging into his bag, Jerome pulls a USB from his bag, and plugs it into Valerie's computer. After a moment, a program loads.
     
    JEROME: Alright. Let's open you up.
     
    The program deciphers Crystal's password character by character, slowly plugging in the resulting characters into password input box on the screen.
     
    JEROME: Come on...come on.
     
    After a minute, the password is entered, and Jerome presses "enter" to login to Crystal's e-mail account.
     
    Inside, he finds the first e-mail, sent by Dr. Valerie Grant. He smiles, as he notices it hasn't been marked as "read". He quickly deletes the e-mail, and empties the trash folder, covering his tracks, before quickly logging out.
     
    JEROME: Alright, Sheryl. You are now officially Nurse Crystal Clarke.
     
    ---
  6. beebs

    Episodes 97-99

    By beebs,

    For those who want to check out the latest DAYS episodes (hopefully still more interesting than the Dena dreck):



    EPISODE 97

    EPISODE 98

    EPISODE 99
     
    Enjoy! Be sure to leave comments and keep following the blog!
     
  8. beebs
    EPISODE 127
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    John and Anjelica sit next to each other in First Class on the flight from Paris to Salem. John sits, looking at the Salem Spectator headline displayed on Anjelica's tablet:
     
    DEVERAUX KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN: DISGRACED SENATOR'S EX-WIFE ENTERS GOVERNOR'S RACE
     
    He looks up at Anjelica, as she looks back, a wry smile on her face.
     
    JOHN: Governor Anjelica Deveraux, hm?
     
    John hands Anjelica back her tablet, as she moves to put it away in her bag.
     
    ANJELICA: That's the plan. I mean, I could've done with a slightly less antagonistic headline, but I'll take the free publicity.
    JOHN: Well, these days, is there really any such thing as bad publicity?
     
    Anjelica points John's way playfully.
     
    ANJELICA: Touché, Mr. Black.
     
    John laughs at Anjelica, as the flight crew make an announcement through the loudspeaker.
     
    FLIGHT ATTENDANT: (via speaker) Attention, passengers. We are commencing our descent into Salem International Airport. Would all passengers please take their seats, and fasten their seatbelts as we prepare for landing in Salem.
     
    Anjelica looks John's way, a broad smile on her face as she buckles her seatbelt.
     
    ANJELICA: Well. Look out, Salem. Anjelica's comin' home!
     
    ---
     

    Billie walks into Club TBD, finding Kate sitting at a booth alone, sipping a gin martini. Billie sighs as she looks at her mother, heading over to sit with her. Kate looks up, a half-hearted smile on her face as she sets her drink down.
     
    BILLIE: Isn't it a bit early to be drinking, Mom?
     
    Kate sets her drink down on the table, choosing to ignore Billie's comment. 
     
    KATE: You were looking for me, I presume.
     
    Billie crosses her arms as she stops in front of Kate's table.
     
    BILLIE: You're damned right, I was. Mom, I was worried the way you just...ran off like that after talking with Rafe.
    KATE: Well, it took you awhile to find me. 
     
    Kate looks up and gestures to Billie to come sit with her.
     
    KATE: Well, don't just stand there glaring, come sit.
     
    Billie sits down across from Kate in the booth. She leans in toward her mother and speaks to her sternly.
     
    BILLIE: I figured you went to the office, so I went there.
    KATE: I couldn't focus. I just needed some time alone. You know, just to...process everything that's happened.
     
    Billie looks down, then nods her head in understanding.
     
    BILLIE: I get it. But you need to understand, you played a part in creating this situation, Mom.
     
    Kate rolls her eyes, immediately retorting to Billie.
     
    KATE: I know, I know, you can blame it all on me. I should've vetted this woman better before inflicting her and her psychotic best friend on all of Salem, I get it. Alright?
     
    Billie sighs, looking down again with regret.
     
    BILLIE: I'm sorry, Mom. I shouldn't have said that.
    KATE: It's okay. I know you're just trying to help. But I need to understand there's no way to fix this.
     
    Billie nods, before looking up at her mother, who finishes her martini.
     
    KATE: Now...let's focus on things we CAN control. You were just at the office. Any new developments?
     
    Billie sighs heavily as she gives a worried look Kate's way. Kate catches this and her face echoes Billie's.
     
    KATE: What happened?
    BILLIE: We may not have as much control over what's happening next as you think.
     
    ---
     

    Kim and Roman sit in the Brady Pub at a booth. Kim leans in toward Roman, her hand cupping his across the table. Roman looks at Kim, a grave sadness in his eyes. Kim looks back at him, a deep concern in hers.
     
    KIM: Roman, I don't want you to think that I'm trying to push you to retire...or to do anything you don't want to do. But...
    ROMAN: But you think that these...memory lapses I'm having are starting to affect my ability to do my job.
     
    Kim looks away from Roman for a second before slowly nodding.
     
    KIM: Yeah. I do.
     
    Kim's eyes looks back into Roman's, an earnest concern still plain in her eyes, as Roman looks back, disappointed by his sister's assessment.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Roman looks on, as he contemplates what his sister has told him. He sighs before responding.
     
    ROMAN: Look....Kimmy, I know....I've been having some...lapses in my memory. But you need to understand...I need this job. It's the only thing keeping me going every day. I...
     
    Kim squeezes her brother's hand. She looks deep into his eyes, and nods before answering her brother.
     
    KIM: I know. I know, you're...you haven't had an easy few years, but...Roman, your line of work, it's...(sigh) people's lives are on the line here. I don't know how responsible it is for you to carry on working on the police force on the front lines making decisions like that.
    ROMAN: Kimmy, I...
     
    Kim interrupts Roman, trying to clarify her position.
     
    KIM: I know. But...I had an idea. And...jJust....tell me you'll think about it. 
     
    Roman sips his coffee, unsure about what his sister's about to suggest.
     
    ROMAN: I'm listening.
    KIM: Okay, well...ma's...not doing so well...and you know...I've been struggling since Theresa's been in the hospital. I'd like to help ma out. You know...try to...handle the pub for her. I'd like you to help me.
    ROMAN: Kim, that's a...that's a really important thing you're doing. And I think it's great that you want me to help you out, but...
     
    Kim smiles, holding up her hand to stop him from continuing.
     
    KIM: Roman...just...promise me you'll think about it? I just...I want you to try to take a step back  from the force before you hurt someone, especially yourself?
     

    Roman smiles, still holding his sister's hand as he nods in understanding. As they complete their exchange, Sami and Marlena storm into the pub. Recognizing Roman and Kim, they make a beeline for their booth, which catches both Kim and Roman's attention.
     
    ROMAN: Doc! Sami?
    SAMI: Daddy, we have a huge problem.
     
    Roman looks on, brow furrowed, as Marlena and Sami stop in front of their booth. Kim looks up at them, also worried.
     
    KIM: Why? What happened? Is everyone okay?
    MARLENA: Depends on what constitutes 'okay'. Eric just married Nicole Walker.
     
    Roman and Kim both look on, stunned by the news, as Marlena and Sami look down at both of them, distinctly unimpressed, and aggravated.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole and Eric burst through the door of his suite at the Salem Inn, Eric carrying Nicole into the room, deep in an intense liplock.

    Breaking momentarily from their kiss, Nicole giggles gleefully, opening her eyes slightly to look at her new husband.

    ERIC: Welcome, Mrs. Brady.
    NICOLE: Mmm, you know how I love to be called that.
     
    Eric and Nicole kiss again, laughing happily.
     
    ERIC: Yeah, well...you'd better get used to it! 
    NICOLE: (laughs) I think I can manage that. In fact, I will. Gladly.
     
    Nicole looks into Eric's eyes as they kiss again, deep in their newlywed bliss.
     
    ERIC: Great. Let's start now. Where to, Mrs. Brady?
    NICOLE: Ohhh I'm sure you know where, Mr. Brady.
     
    Eric smiles as he and Nicole stop momentarily before walking over to the hotel room bed, where Eric lays Nicole gently down, as Nicole wraps her arms around Eric's neck, never allowing him back up. They continue to kiss deeply as Eric carefully leans forward into their kiss and lays down on the bed with Nicole.
     
    ---
     
    Billie and Kate sit at their booth at Club TBD. Kate looks at Billie with concern.
     
    KATE: What do you mean, we won't have as much control as we think? What aren't you telling me?
     
    Billie sighs as she sips her drink. Billie puts her drink down before responding.
     
    BILLIE: Justing came to see me this morning.
     
    Kate raises an eyebrow as she raises her own cocktail.
     
    KATE: Oh?
     
    Billie looks at Kate, knowing what she's hinting at.
     
    BILLIE: Don't.
     
    Kate puts her drink down and raises her hands, feigning surrender.
     
    KATE: I'm just saying, Justin is a great guy, and definitely a step up from our spray-tanned surgeon friend--
     
    Billie rolls her eyes, cutting Kate off before she starts a full-on rant against Daniel.
     
    BILLIE: ...Mom! Stop. I don't get to judge you on your partner choices, you don't get to judge mine. Okay?
    KATE: I'm just looking out for you. Now, come on. Tell me what Justin said to you.
     
    Billie sighs, taking a second to clearly tell Kate her story.
     
    BILLIE: He told me that Nick Fallon is planning a coup. He has all kinds of...dirt on every member of the board, and he's planning to use it to take control of Titan at today's board meeting. And if we don't do something about it, Mom....he could very well succeed.
     
    Kate looks away, stunned by the news, and trying to figure out how to deal with it.
     
    ---
     

    Nick and Stefano stand in the DiMera living room, as Nick looks amused, enjoying the new tidbit of information Stefano has just given him.
     
    NICK: John Black trying to save Roman Brady, hm? I don't exactly see Roman in any imminent danger.
     
    Stefano snaps, holding a finger up to Nick's face, making his previous point extra-clear.
     
    STEFANO: NO QUESTIONS! You do NOT get to find out anything more than what I give you. Do you understand?
    NICK: Oh, I understand. 
     
    Stefano backs down slightly, but still glares unflinchingly at Nick.
     
    STEFANO: Good. Because I will not be able to tell you anything. Don't try to squeeze even a DROP more from me. You will not get it, Nicholas. You just keep your head down, and do as I say.
     
    As Stefano finishes his sentence, the doorbell rings. Stefano's demeanour changes slightly with the arrival of their guest.
     
    STEFANO: Ah! Our partner has arrived.
     
    Harold opens the doors to the living room, as Stefano and Nick turn to face their guest.
     
    STEFANO: Ah! Welcome!
     
    Anjelica Deveraux stands into the doorway, smiling widely as she slowly steps into the room.
     
    ---
  9. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES ep. 15
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    NICOLE: EnerNext...

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

    NICOLE: Uh oh.

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    SHERYL: Me? What did I do?

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

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

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

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

    Sheryl laughs, putting her arms around Lucas' shoulders.

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

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

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

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

    LUCAS: Lucas Horton.

    ...

    KATE: Where are you?

    ...

    LUCAS: At Club TBD, you?

    ...

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

    ...

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

    ...

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

    ...

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

    ...

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

    ...

    LUCAS: Gotcha. Be there soon.

    Lucas hangs up. He looks to Sheryl apologetically.

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

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

    ---

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

    NICK: Woah!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    PERCY: GREETINGS!!

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

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

    Percy is delighted and intrigued by Nicole's request.

    PERCY: I believe that can definitely be arranged.

    ---
  10. beebs
    EPISODE 164
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     
     

    Sami storms down the hallway at University Hospital, making a beeline for Marlena's office. Visibly enraged by the news Kim has just passed onto her, she knocks loudly on her mother's office door.
     

    Inside, Marlena looks up from her desk, concerned by the urgency of the knocking sound.
     
    MARLENA: Come in!
     
    Sami throws the door open, taking everything within her not to shout at Marlena.
     
    SAMI: How could you, Mom? 
     
    Marlena takes her reading glasses off, and sighs, already knowing the answer to the question she's about to ask.
     
    MARLENA: How could I what?
     
    Sami slams the door behind her, looking intensely at her mother.
     
    SAMI: How could you ask us to get DNA tests to prove dad isn't really who he says he is?
     
    Marlena sighs, looking frustrated.
     
    ---
     

    Brady sits down at the dining room table at Anita's cabin, as Anita lays down an omelette on a plate before him. Brady looks up at Anita and beams with delight.
     
    ANITA: Western omelette, and your coffee coming right up.
    BRADY: Oh yeah! Anita, I gotta ask...
     
    Anita stands at the kitchenette counter, pouring Brady's coffee as she answers him.
     
    ANITA: Yes, Brady, dear?
    BRADY: How is it that you can make this just as good as my dad used to when I was kid?
     
    Anita turns with his cup of coffee and sets it down before him. She shrugs casually.
     
    ANITA: Maybe we're both gifted chefs? Who knows?
     
    Anita and Brady share a laugh as Anita sits down with her own plate of eggs and toast.
     
    BRADY: Well, I thank you.
    ANITA: You're welcome, Brady.
     
    Anita smiles, as she picks up her fork. She suddenly remembers something she needs to tell Brady.
     
    ANITA: By the way, I've been meaning to ask you if you were able to get that part for the backup generator or not.
     
    Brady finishes a bite of his food before responding.
     
    BRADY: Mm! I did. But I haven't put it in yet, it's in the shed.
     
    Brady gets up from his seat, and sets down his napkin by his plate, while Anita tries to stop him from going.
     
    BRADY: I'll bring it in now while I'm thinking about it--
    ANITA: Oh Brady, no. You don't have to now, finish your breakfast.
    BRADY: No! No, it's okay. It'll only a take a minute. I'll be right back, I promise.
     
    Brady begins to take off, out the front door, as Anita calls out to him.
     
    ANITA: Okay, but don't let your food get cold.
    BRADY: I won't!
     
    As the back door closes to the cabin, Anita shakes her head in amusement. As she's about to sit back down at the table, she hears a loud knock at the front door.
     
    Surprised, Anita turns around, and walks over. The knocking continues, an almost frantic tone to it. This prompts Anita to call out to whomever is there.
     
    ANITA: One second!
     
    Upon opening the door, Anita is stunned to see a very familiar face before her.
     
    ANITA: Tyler?!
     

    Tyler looks at Anita, a frustrated look in his eyes.
     
    TYLER: How could you do it, Anita?
    ANITA: Do what?
    TYLER: Sell your shares. Do you know what you've just done?
     
    Anita looks on, puzzled by both Tyler's visit, and his tone, as he invites himself inside.
     
    ---
     

    Victor lays silently in his bed, resting in his hospital room at University Hospital. The darkened room lay silent save for the gentle hum of his respirator and the gentle rhythmic beep of the heart monitor.
     

    A moment later, the door to Victor's room opens, and Nick steps inside. 
     
    Closing the door softly, he steps over to Victor's bedside. Slowly, a smile grows on his face, as he tries to hold in the laugh that's building inside him, as he sees the powerful man he appears to have defeated lying motionless before him.
     
    NICK: Hello, Victor. Good seeing you like this.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Anita slams the door to her cabin behind her as Tyler walks in, with an indignant expression on his face.
     
    ANITA: I beg your pardon? 
     
    Tyler turns to face Anita, his voice raised as he responds to her.
     
    TYLER: You sold your shares in Titan. 4% of the company stock, and now we've been bought out.
    ANITA: What do you mean?
    TYLER: I mean that that was the amount we needed to hold onto Titan, and you just sold it. Now we have a novice running the show, bankrolled by God-knows-who, because if there's one thing I do NOT believe, it's that a lab technician can afford to buy 51% of a company's stock. Even a company in dire financial straits like ours.
     
    Anita stands, arms folded. Her expression one of defiance, as she paces the living room area.
     
    ANITA: And there it is. The reason I sold the shares in the first place. You know, Victor told me that if I took those shares, I would never want for anything in my life ever again. I would have my home, I would have enough to live on, comfortably. I would have enough to retire on. That was our deal, Tyler. I stay out here in this cabin in the middle of nowhere, build a new life, and he would take care of the rest. 
    TYLER: He's done his best, and so have I.
    ANITA: And you failed. You, and Victor failed me. And you failed Brady. You failed Isabella. You're damn lucky I was able to get Gabi, Rafe, and Dario out the door and into good careers before you failed them too with your incompetence, though I guess the jury's still out on Dario, since you have him on your payroll.
     
    Tyler sighs, realizing the precarious position Anita's in, as he looks around the room. It's run down, in bad need of repairs. Water damage apparent on the upper walls. As he does, the kettle begins to whistle on the stovetop. Anita walks over to take it off the element.
     
    TYLER: Speaking of which, you'll be pleased to know Dario's job is secure, for now.
     
    Anita responds with an acidic sarcasm, as she pours herself some tea.
     
    ANITA: OH! Well, that's a relief. You haven't failed another member of my family. YET. Would you like a medal?
    TYLER: Anita...
     
    Tyler turns to rebutt but is struck by two placesettings at Anita's dining table. Realizing she's probably not in the house alone, Tyler's expression changes. He looks quickly around the room and spots nobody. Anita barely notices, as she's putting a lump of sugar in her tea before turning around.
     
    ANITA: No, I'm not done, Tyler. You have an awful lot of nerve coming into this house and chastizing me for protecting myself from being out on the street, penniless.
    TYLER: We wouldn't have let that happen, and you know it.
     
    Anita turns around, placing her tea on the table, and looking up at Tyler, speaking gently, but firmly.
     
    ANITA: I don't know anything. But I certainly was not going to trust you with controlling interest in Titanic Industries.
     
    Tyler shakes his head, sighing again, as he holds his hands up, hoping to stop the argument.
     
    TYLER: Look, I get it. I wish you had consulted with me or Victor before you had sold the shares, but...I get it.
    ANITA: I wasn't about to do that. The payout was more than enough to ensure I could reinvest the money in a company that wasn't about to bottom out. Simple as that. Now, if that's the only reason you came out here--
    TYLER: It's not. 
     
    Anita looks at Tyler, confused by his answer.
     
    ANITA: Alright. Tell me, then. What did you want to tell me?
     
    Tyler sighs heavily before answering Anita, almost ashamed to say what he's about to say.
     
    TYLER: Victor's in the hospital from a heart attack.
    ANITA: I heard.
    TYLER: Well...what you probably haven't heard is that he ah...he was sinking a lot of company resources into finding Brady, even though we all know Brady's dead.
     
    Anita remains tight-lipped, knowing better, but not saying anything.
     
    After a moment, she nods slowly.
     
    TYLER: Justin...and I, we made the call to...call off the search.
     
    Anita feigns showing sadness at the news. Her muted reaction to the news is curious to Tyler.

    ---
     

    Liam stands midway down the Horton house stairs, as JJ and Laura look up at him from the foyer, surprised by his appearing there.
     
    LIAM: JJ! You ah...you all packed up?
    JJ: Yeah, just...couple more boxes. Ahh...Grandma, did you wanna help me out?
    LAURA: Sure.
     
    Liam walks down the rest of the way, sensing something is off. Meanwhile, Laura bends down to pick up a box of JJ's things, and turns to head out the door.
     
    LIAM: Oh, don't trouble yourself, Laura. I'll take it.
    LAURA: Oh, you don't have to.
     
    Liam stops Laura, putting his hands on the box Laura is attempting to carry out.
     
    LIAM: Look, I must've interrupted something very important, so...I'll just help in any way I can and let you both finish.
     
    JJ looks uncomfortably at Laura, who smiles awkwardly at Liam, before letting go of the box.
     
    LAURA: Alright. Thank you, Liam.
    LIAM: Anytime.
     
    As Liam walks out the door with the box, Laura looks on, turning back to face JJ the second the door shuts behind Liam, her voice speaking with a newfound urgency.
     
    LAURA: I don't trust that man.
    JJ: Neither do I. But there isn't a lot we can do right now.
     
    Laura sighs, frustrated by the situation.
     
    LAURA: Look, I know it's going to be hard trying to research this from afar, but...honestly, JJ, maybe it's safer for you this way.
    JJ: I hope so.
     

    At this point, Jennifer descends from upstairs, all smiles.
     
    JENNIFER: Hey, guys! Have you seen Liam at all?
     
    JJ turns to face his mother, feigning a smile, himself to put his mother's mind at ease.
     
    JJ: He just stepped out to help me finish packing.
     
    Jennifer beams, thrilled by Liam's supposed cooperation.
     
    JENNIFER: Great. Ahh...so Abigail left early, she had to finish some kind of assignment for Nicole, but she says she'll meet us at the pub and we'll all grab lunch there before you head off, okay?
    JJ: Sounds good, Mom.
     
    Jennifer looks at her son, beaming with pride. She gently carresses his cheek.
     
    JENNIFER: You know how proud I am of you right now, JJ?
    LAURA: We all are.
     
    JJ blushes a bit, laughing awkwardly at his family's fawning over him.
     
    JJ: You guys are too much. (laughs)
     
    JJ pulls himself together, looking a bit misty-eyed as he smiles at his mom and grandma.
     
    JJ: Thank you. Thanks for supporting me. I really appreciate it.
    JENNIFER: Anytime, JJ.
    JJ: I'm gonna miss you guys.
     
    Laura, and Jennifer get emotional as JJ pulls them both in for a group hug.
     
    As they do, Liam returns from the car, and witnesses the tender moment. He flashes back to his mysterious phone conversation earlier, while he was in Jenn's bedroom.
     
    ***
     
    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 163
    Liam paces the room, looking intensely at the chest of drawers, where a photo of Jenn, JJ, Abby, and Jack rests. Liam glares at it, menacingly.
     
    LIAM: (into phone) Trust me. They'll never know what's really going on. Promise.
     
    ***
     
    Liam sighs as he observes the family bonding moment, holding in his unsteady emotions.
     
    ---
     

    In the Salem University Hospital parking garage, Sheryl suddenly gets up from being crouched over Crystal Clarke's lifeless body in the wheelchair. Having heard the voice of Dr. Daniel Jonas behind her, she turns around suddenly, putting on her best southern accent for him.
     
    SHERYL: Ah...no. Nah, I'm good. But thank you!
    DANIEL: Well, I know it's not easy helping someone into their car. She....she not waking up?
     
    Sheryl shuffles nervously, trying to hide Crystal's face from Daniel, though she's covered by a blanket.
     
    SHERYL: Oh she's pretty sleepy. We ah....she's a very quiet old lady. Just gettin' over the flu, ya know? She's being discharged, but her daughter just had to go validate the parking ticket, so I agreed to help get her mama up and at 'em so they could get home.
     
    Daniel looks on, a curious look on his face, as Sheryl smiles at him.
     
    DANIEL: Yeah. Yeah, I'm sure. You, ah, you're now around here?
     
    Sheryl smiles warmly, extending a hand to Daniel.
     
    SHERYL: Why, yes, I am! I'm Nurse Crystal Clarke.
     
    Daniel smiles in turn, slowly extending his own hand to "Crystal's".
     
    DANIEL: Ah, Crystal. Yeah. Valerie mentioned she was looking to hire a few new nurses. Welcome aboard.
    SHERYL: Well, thank you, Dr. Jonas! It's a pleasure to meet you.
     
    Daniel once again tries to get a look at the patient in the wheelchair, but Sheryl once again distracts his attention.
     
    DANIEL: You sure you don't want a hand there? I don't have to be upstairs for another few minutes--
    SHERYL: Oh, oh no, I appreciate the offer, but...I gotta take care of this one myself, ya know?
    DANIEL: You sure?
    SHERYL: Oh I am. Thank you, though!
     
    Daniel starts to walk away, though unsure if he's making the right decision. As he walks toward the elevator, Sheryl crouches down by Crystal, pretending to gently wake her up. All the while, her eyes are on Daniel.
     
    After the doors to the elevator finally close, with Daniel inside, Sheryl sighs in relief. 
     
    SHERYL: Thank God he's gone. Now to deal with you.
     
    Grumbling to herself as she moves the front seat back, then hoists Crystal into the backseat of the small SUV. As Sheryl struggles, she dumps Crystal onto the backseat.
     
    SHERYL: Alright. Do I take care of this orientation meeting now, or do I make sure you don't escape?
     
    Sheryl thinks a moment before opening the glove box, and pulling out some yellow rope, and duct tape.
     
    SHERYL: Always gotta be prepared. Glad girl scouts was useful for something.
     
    Sheryl pushes the front passenger seat  gets herself back into the truck, where she ties Crystal's arms behind her back, as well as her feet together. She covers her mouth with the duct tape, then covers Crystal once again with the blanket.
     
    Once Sheryl's finally done, she pushes the front passenger's seat back into place, and shuts the door to her SUV. Locking the vehicle manually before she does.
     
    SHERYL: Well, that's one problem down. Time to take care of the rest of this agenda.
     
    Sheryl walks away back toward the elevator, leaving a comatose, bound and gagged Crystal Clarke in her SUV.
     
    ---
     
    Sami stands in the doorway of Marlena's office, visibly upset with her mother.
     
    SAMI: How could you do this to Daddy?
     
    Marlena stands up from her desk, trying to keep Sami calm, to no avail.
     
    MARLENA: Sami, I have my reasons for this.
    SAMI: There is no good reason to be doing this right now, Mom. Dad is dying, his memory is slipping away day by day.
    MARLENA: And that is exactly why we need to do it now.
     
    Sami looks at Marlena, incredulous, as Marlena steps away from her desk.
     
    SAMI: What are you talking about, Mom? We don't even know what's causing his symptoms.
    MARLENA: No, but I have a pretty good idea. But without Roman's medical records, we have nothing. 
    SAMI: I know, Kim told me.
     
    Marlena folds her arms, frustrated by the news, though unsurprised.
     
    MARLENA: Well, that figures. Look, I don't know what your Aunt Kim told you, but she misconstrued my intentions--
    SAMI: Oh, of course she did. Because nothing you do is ever wrong. Right?
    MARLENA: Sami...
    SAMI: No. Mom, enough. Look, we all know you don't care what happens to Daddy, otherwise you wouldn't have left him for John all those years ago in the first place.
     
    Marlena snaps at her daughter's petulance.
     
    MARLENA: Samantha Gene Brady, that's enough!
     
    Sami stops interjecting immediately, holding her sniveling rage in while Marlena continues.
     
    MARLENA: your father means the world to me. He is staying in my home. I have to watch him...deteriorate little by little every single day, right before my very eyes. 
     
    Marlena begins to tear up, as she becomes more emotional telling Sami her reasons.
     
    MARLENA: So maybe this feels for you like I'm giving up on your father. But for me, this feels like the only way I can keep your father with us. And I'm not going to let go of that hope, that...that dream that maybe we can keep him with us. Not until I know for sure that there is no hope.
     
    Sami takes a moment, holding her own emotions in, as she responds, softly, but wavering with emotion.
     
    SAMI: Well, I'm sorry, Mom. But forgive me if I don't go along with your dream this time. Excuse me.
     
    Sami turns and heads out the door, leaving a sorrowful Marlena behind in her office. Marlena bites her lip, trying to suppress the tears building inside her.
     
    ---
     
    Nick stands over Victor, lying motionless in his hospital bed, smirking gleefully at his rival's frail appearance.
     
    NICK: You know, never in a million years would I think I would be looking down at you like this. But...here we are. 
     
    Nick laughs to himself, holding his arms out, almost in triumph.
     
    NICK: I get to run the company you started with all your mob money. I get all your toys. Your cars, your office...your desk. 
     
    Nick saunters over to Victor's bedside, and pulls a stool over to sit on. As he sits down, he finishes, gloating ever-so-close to Victor's face.
     
    NICK: Your house.
     
    Nick begins to crack up, starting softly and building into an echoing horror that fills the room.
     
    NICK: I am going to have everything I ever wanted Victor. And you and your pathetic family aren't gonna be able to stop me. 
     
    ---
  11. beebs
    EPISODE 118
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Gabi walks around the main room of her shared apartment with Sonny and Will, holding Ariana in her arms as she feeds her her bottle. Ari stays peaceful and quiet as Gabi quietly sings to her, as a knock on the door is heard.
     
    Surprised, as it's relatively early in the morning for visitors, Gabi walks cautiously toward the door.
     
    GABI: Seriously? It's like...6:30 in the morning. Who the...
     

    Gabi opens the door to find EJ standing on the other side, looking back at her gravely.
     
    GABI: EJ?
    EJ: Gabi, I'm sorry, but this is an emergency.
     
    Gabi looks back at EJ, confused and surprised by EJ's rather dramatic greeting.
     
    ---
     

    Sami stands in the DiMera living room, trying in vain to get EJ to pick up his phone.
     
    SAMI: Ugh! Straight to voicemail again? Come on, EJ!
     
    Putting the phone down on the desk, she pinches the bridge of her nose momentarily, trying to figure out what emergency EJ could possibly have at 6:30am, when Harold emerges from the foyer, getting Sami's attention immediately.
     
    SAMI: Harold?
    HAROLD: Uh, a Mr. Fallon to see you, Mum.
     

    Sami's expression changes immediately to one of irritation as Nick steps into the room, a smile on his face.

    ---

    Daniel stands behind his desk in his office at University Hospital, putting down his tablet, as someone knocks on his office door.
     
    DANIEL: Come in!
     

    Billie bursts through the door, a bit out of breath and an excited look on her face.
     
    BILLIE: Daniel! Come, quick!
     
    Daniel walks toward Billie, a worried look in his eye.
     
    DANIEL: Billie? What happened?
     
    Billie starts to smile as she tells Daniel her news.
     
    BILLIE: It's Theresa. I think she's starting to wake up.
     
    ---
     

    In Theresa's hospital room, a woman in black pumps stands by the door. In her hand, a filled syringe.
     
    She slowly steps toward Theresa, being careful not to make a sound as she approaches Theresa's hospital bed.
     
    Theresa lays in her bed, still unconscious, as the woman standing over her leans over to grab her IV.
     
    As the woman jabs the syringe into the IV line and injects the liquid into Theresa's IV, Theresa's head begins to move as her eyes begin to twitch. Theresa struggles to wake up as she sees the blurry shape of a woman standing over her.
     
    The woman pulls the syringe out and quickly makes her way out of the room. 
     
    Theresa, squinting as she struggles to wake up, tries in vain to lift her arm up to reach out to the woman before her energy dissipates yet again and she descends slowly back into her coma.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Noelle wakes up, groggy and sore. She opens one eye slowly, making a sour face. Checking the room around her, she spies Alex walking to the vanity by the bed in nothing but a towel, drying his hair with another towel. Noelle slowly flops over to face her husband.
     
    NOELLE: Ughhh.
    ALEX: Good morning to you too.
     
    Noelle lies back in bed, closing her eyes again, hoping to dull her throbbing headache.
     
    NOELLE: Ugh wake me up next month.
     
    Alex rolls his eyes, somewhat amused by his wife's hangover.
     
    ALEX: You know, I know you don't wanna hear this, but it serves you right.
     
    Noelle stays lying back in bed with her eyes closed as she whines back at Alex.
     
    NOELLE: Shut uuuup. What do you mean?
    ALEX: Well, you know, if you hadn't snuck into Victor's room and had a go at him--
    NOELLE: Aleeeex, come on. Let this go, please?
     
    Alex turns around, exasperated.
     
    ALEX: Well, come on, Noelle. He's family. Whether you like it or not.
    NOELLE: Ugghh, don't remind me.
     
    Noelle fumbles about, flailing to try to feel where her tablet is. Finding it on the bedside table, she haphazardly pulls it toward her and turns it on to read the news.
     
    Alex, meanwhile, bends down to open his underwear drawer, pulling out his briefs for the day.
     
    ALEX: I'm just saying.
     
    Noelle doesn't look up, simply shakes her head gently as she tries to ignore her husband, hoping he either stops talking or changes the subject.
     
    NOELLE: Fine. Whatever.
     
    After a moment, Noelle's eyes widen, shocked by the headline.
     
    NOELLE: Oh God.
     
    Alex stops grabbing his clothing from the drawers of the vanity and straightens up, looking over at Noelle by staring into the mirror.
     
    ALEX: What?
    NOELLE: Not what....who.
     
    Noelle turns her tablet to face Alex. Before him is a picture of his mother under the headline that reads:
     
    DEVERAUX KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN: DISGRACED SENATOR'S EX-WIFE ENTERS GOVERNOR'S RACE
     
    Alex looks over, visibly displeased by the headline.
     
    ---
     
    Daniel steps excitedly into Theresa's room, immedately stepping to her side to check her vitals.
     
    He inspects everything, but sees nothing unusual. He opens her eyelids to check for signs of consciousness, flashing a light into them, before stepping back. 
     
    He shakes his head, hanging back a moment in hopes that maybe he was wrong. Daniel waits a moment before stepping back in closer to her, and taking her hand in his, gently calling out to her.
     
    DANIEL: Theresa? It's Dr. Jonas. 
     
    Daniel waits a moment, before continuing.
     
    DANIEL: Theresa? Can you hear me? If you can, squeeze my hand.
     
    Daniel waits for some kind of small sign from Theresa's again-comatose body, before letting go of her hand and heading out into the lobby, where Billie awaits.
     
    Once Daniel emerges, Billie anxiously walks over to him and puts a shaking hand on his chest.
     
    BILLIE: So? Is she coming to?
     
    Daniel sighs and slowly shakes his head, as Billie's hands quake even more. 
     
    DANIEL: There's no indication she's coming around at all, Billie. I'm sorry, I--
    BILLIE: Did you call our to her? Did you put your--your hand, did...did you hold her hand?
     
    Daniel looks down as Billie holds her still-shaking hands up, before resting them against his body.
     
    DANIEL: I'm sorry, Billie.
     
    She presses herself against Daniel's body as he takes her in his arms to comfort her as she begins to cry.
     
    BILLIE: No...she...I felt her hands, Daniel...
    DANIEL: I know...I know...
     
    Daniel strokes Billie's head with one hand and holds her close to him in the other, as she rests her head against his chest.
     
    ---
     
    Sami leans against the desk in the DiMera living room as Nick stands just inside the doorway. Harold steps out of the room and closes the door behind him, leaving Nick and Sami alone in the room. Sami barely blinks as she glowers at Nick and his sunny expression.
     
    NICK: Well, good morning to you too, Sami!
    SAMI: What do you want, Nick?
    NICK: Oh, trust me. Nothing bad.
     
    Nick all-too-casually steps toward the armchair, sitting himself down and making himself comfortable in it as Sami remains leaned against the desk, scowling back at him.
     
    SAMI: Why does that somehow scare me even more?
    NICK: A negative outlook. Seasonal depression. Irregularity. Could be a lot of things. 
     
    Nick looks over at Sami's mug on the desk beside her and points to it, cracking another joke.
     
    NICK: Oo! Coffee could help, maybe you're the kind that need two cups in the morning.
     
    Sami stands upright, folding her arms in as she maintains her distance from Nick.
     
    SAMI: You know, you're awfully quick with a cheap crack for 7am, Nick. You might wanna cut back on the energy drinks, yourself.
    NICK: Nah, I'm high enough on life right now. And besides, you could make my high even greater if you have that little...proposal we talked about?
    SAMI: Oh, you mean Gabi's modelling contract? Yeah, I sent it to her yesterday, she'll give me her decision this afternoon.
     
    Nick smirks as he clasps his hands together in almost comical self-satisfaction.
     
    NICK: Good. Excellent work, Sami. I think you've earned yourself a little reward for your efforts.
     
    Sami guffaws at Nick's offer, laughing at the absurdity of the situation.
     
    SAMI: A reward? Nick, I hardly think you have very much that I would want.
    NICK: Ohhhhh, I think you might want this. In fact, I guarantee it.
     
    Sami squints, studying the situation and Nick's guarded body language, before speaking up.
     
    SAMI: Okay, I'll bite. What's my great reward?
    NICK: My continued silence about your questionable lifesaving skills...and some valuable information.
    SAMI: Information? What kind?
    NICK: Ohhh very valuable. You might wanna sit down for this.
     
    Sami rolls her eyes as she resolutely refuses to move from her spot by the desk.
     
    SAMI: I'll take my chances, what is it?
     
    Nick's expression changes to one of deadly seriousness.
     
    NICK: It's your brother, Eric. He's getting married today. To Nicole Walker.
     
    Sami's eyes widen as the colour drains from her face.
     
    ---
     
    Gabi stands in the doorway of the apartment, stunned by EJ's early visit.
     
    GABI: I...wh--come in, wh...what's going on?
     
    Gabi steps out of the doorway to let EJ in, and she shuts the door behind him.
     
    EJ: Samantha told me about the bidding war Nick's setting up to try to reel you in.
    GABI: Oh...yeah...what about it?
     
    EJ steps in closer, in disbelief about Gabi's nonchalance regarding the situation.
     
    EJ: Gabi, you've readdicted Nick to the same prescription that drove him to murder, and kidnapping in the first place.
    GABI: Well, yeah, but I can handle it. Nick's gonna slip up soon and we'll catch him and get him thrown in jail before it goes too far.
     
    EJ becomes increasingly emphatic with Gabi, trying to get her to see the gravity of the situation, while simultaneously trying to hold his voice down so as not to be overheard by Will or Sonny.
     
    EJ: No, you cannot handle it on your own, Gabi. I didn't tell you this but that dosage I gave you was far stronger than the first bottle I gave you. Nick is about one step away from a total meltdown right now and if he finds out you, Samantha, and Kate are trying to play him, he's going to take some drastic steps, and I don't think anyone will be safe if he does that.
     
    Gabi curls in her lips, frustrated by EJ's clarity. After a moment of trying to rock Ariana so as to keep her calm in this tense situation, Gabi sighs and responds to EJ.
     
    GABI: Okay, fine. What are we gonna do then?
     
    EJ reaches into his jacket as he replies.
     
    EJ: Well, I'll tell you the first thing you're going to do, and that's carry this with you everywhere you go.
     
    EJ pulls a Glock pistol from his jacket, immediately causing Gabi to tense up.

    EJ holds the gun out for Gabi to take, but a voice calls out before Gabi can reach out for it.
     
    SONNY: What in the HELL is that gun doing in our home?!
     

    Gabi and EJ both turn around quickly to see a just-awoken Sonny standing in the doorway of his and Will's bedroom, looking stunned and infuriated.
     
    ---
  12. beebs
    EPISODE 137
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Gabi paces in her apartment, holding the modelling contract in her hand, as she debates whether or not to sign. She turns to Arianna, who sits in her crib, playing, and rests on the ledge of it. She talks to her.
     
    GABI: Should I even do this?  Sami and Kate say that playing along is the best way to keep Nick in line. But I don't want you to get hurt. And I don't know if playing along with Nick any more than I have is even safe.
     
    Gabi sighs as her phone's text tone goes off. Looking over at the desk where the phone sits, Gabi gets up from the side of the crib and walks over, looking at the phone.
     
    The text is from Nick:
     
    hey. U avail 2nite? meet me @ TBD 4 dinner. 8pm xx
     
    Gabi sighs, putting down the phone, as she debates how to reply.
     
    ---
     

    Eric holds the documents proving Kristen used Dr. Chyka's formula to drug him in his hands, as he stands by the door of his hotel room.
     
    Nicole looks at him, a deep fear in her eyes as Eric looks up at her, stunned. Slowly, Eric begins to smile widely.
     
    ERIC: Oh my God.
     
    Nicole responds timidly, almost stuttering her meek reply.
     
    NICOLE: Wh...wh..w...what is it?
    ERIC: It's a miracle. Nicole, It's...amazing. I finally have the proof.
     
    Nicole looks at an excited Eric, still unsure of whether to be excited or scared.
     
    ---
     

    Nick steps to the head of the conference table at the front of the Titan board room. He looks around as he finishes his toxic presentation making his case for why he should be named CEO of Titan.
     
    NICK: ...In fact, my messenger should be presenting Ms. Walker with the evidence I have against her right now. It's enough to destroy her brand new marriage to Eric Brady.
     
    Lucas, Billie, Kate, Justin, and particularly John, all look on in surprise at the news. Nick pretends to have accidentally spilled the beans, holding his hand coyly over his mouth.
     
    NICK: Oops! I wasn't supposed to say anything about that either. (laughs) My bad.
     
    Nick leans against the edge of the conference table, as he looks around the room with an over-confident demeanour. The others look on, with Kate, in particular, scowling his way.
     
    NICK: So...I guess that tells you everything you need to know to make your decision, folks. What say you?
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Eric looks up at Nicole, thrilled by the news he's just received by the courier. Nicole looks on, still nervous, as she steps forward to look at the papers.
     
    NICOLE: Can I...Can I see that for a moment?
    ERIC: Yeah! Sure!
     
    Nicole takes the documents and looks them over, knowing exactly who sent them to Eric. She flips through them to check the contents of every page, almost frantically. Eric senses Nicole's tension and puts a hand on her shoulder.
     
    ERIC: You alright? You don't seem...thrilled by this.
    NICOLE: I'm just...I feel like there's some kind of catch. Like...who had these all this time?
     
    Eric turns Nicole around and kisses her quickly on the lips, leaving Nicole speechless.
     
    ERIC: Nicole. I know why you're worried.
    NICOLE: You do?
    ERIC: Yeah. You're worried that now that I have the evidence that Dr. Chyka drugged me, that I'm going to abandon you for the priesthood.
     
    Nicole looks away, giving a shrug and a cockeyed smile.
     
    NICOLE: Well, I...I can't say I'd be surprised if you did. 
     
    Eric begins to laugh as Nicole reaches out to put her hands on Eric's shoulders, she responds emphatically.
     
    NICOLE: Eric, the priesthood meant SO MUCH to you. Never in a million years would I think I could compete with that...dedication you had to your faith, your vocation--
     
    Eric puts his finger up to Nicole's lips, and Nicole stops herself midsentence.
     
    He sighs, as he looks down momentarily, thinking for a second about what to say to Nicole.
     
    ERIC: Nicole...my dedication and my faith are in you now. I can see that...this was planned all along. I love you, and no matter what happens now that we have this evidence...I made a promise to you today. And I intend to keep it. We are gonna take every step of this journey together. Okay?
     
    Nicole begins to cry, hearing Eric's reassuring words. She throws her arms around Eric and kisses him deeply to show her gratitude to him.
    However, under the chest of drawers by the door of the hotel room, one of the pages Eric received in the package lies, unchecked, hidden just out of both Eric and Nicole's view.
     
    ---
     
    Gabi looks down at her phone, looking at the text message Nick sent her. She sighs before replying to him.
     
    sure, see u then xx
     
    Hitting 'send', Gabi puts her phone down on the table, sighing heavily. 
     
    GABI: Not exactly how I wanted to spend the evening. But...gotta stick to plan.
     
    Looking at the contracts on the desk, Gabi tenses for a moment, knowing she will have to make the decision of whether or not to sign the contract, as she, Sami, and Kate had discussed.
     
    GABI: Speaking of 'plans'. 
     
    Gabi throws her hands up and steps back over to the table, making a call to Sami.
     
    GABI: (into phone) Hey, Sami. I'm ready to sign....yeah, let's get this over with.
     
    ---
     
    Justin, John, and Tyler all step onto the elevator at Titan, heading down to the lobby to leave after the board meeting. All three men have sombre expressions on their faces, and remain quiet as the doors shut.
     
    After a moment of awkward silence, Justin finally breaks it.
     
    JUSTIN: I trust we have a plan to deal with this.
     
    Tyler turns to Justin, an unwavering resolve clear in his reply.
     
    TYLER: You just leave this to me. If this press conference goes how I hope...he'll be toast by sunset.
     
    John immediately cuts in, looking stoically in Tyler's direction, causing both Tyler and Justin to turn suddenly in John's direction.
     
    JOHN: Don't be so sure about that. If I'm right about him, Nick Fallon could be very dangerous to all of us.
     
    Tyler and Justin stay focused on John, a grave concern on both their faces.
     
    ---
     
    Billie, Kate, and Lucas stay behind in the board room at Titan, Billie and Lucas looking dejected, while Kate packs up her things, looking unworried. Billie seems on edge, almost slamming her files and papers into her bag, which doesn't go unnotcied by Kate.
     
    KATE: You know, if you slam those into that bag any harder, you'll tear a hole in the bottom.
    BILLIE: Well, I'm due to get a new one anyway. You know, I can't believe this, Mom. This is a complete disaster.
     
    Kate rolls her eyes, as she continues to get her things organized in a blasé manner.
     
    KATE: You are being so melodramatic right now. 
    BILLIE: I think I have a right to be. You just exposed all of us to a serial blackmailer, and you let him win.
    LUCAS: Billie's right, Mom. He knows we we were onto him, and he knows all about our plans, which, while Sheryl and Jordan are still out there, means we're all in danger.
     
    Kate, finally exasperated with her children's worries, stops putting her things away and turns toward Billie and Lucas, looking at them sternly as she puts a hand on her hip.
     
    KATE: Okay. Enough. You are both acting like scared children right now, and it's for nothing.
     
    Lucas laughs sarcastically, irritated by Kate's dismissive attitude.
     
    LUCAS: I wouldn't call this nothing, Mom. Nick's got enough on everyone to turn all their votes in his favour when he has ZERO experience running so much as a popsicle stand. That means he's got enough to sink ALL of us, and YOU know it.
    KATE: Maybe he does. Hell, Nick could have enough information to put the Pentagon to shame. But that doesn't mean he's going to get away with it.
    BILLIE: And how do you know that?
     
    Kate turns her head to look straight at Billie. She looks at her daughter with a cocky smile.
     
    KATE: Because nobody pisses off that many Kiriakises that quickly without retalliation. He may think that with Brady dead and Victor in a coma that the family's been defanged, but I have consorted with these people longer than that child has been alive, and I can tell you now...he's overdue to be knocked down a peg or two.
     
    Lucas and Billie look at each other, unsure whether to believe Kate or not. Lucas folds his arms and looks Kate's way skeptically.
     
    ---
     

    Anjelica stands in the DiMera living room, organizing files on her tablet, as the door opens. She looks over to see Nick walking in. She spots a confident expression in his eyes and sets her tablet down on the desk.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, you certainly have a spring in your step.
    NICK: You could say that.
    ANJELICA: I suppose this means it's good news.
    NICK: You could say that as well. Because as of about twenty minutes ago, you are looking at the new CEO of Titan Industries.
     
    Anjelica's face lights up at the news, and she begins to chuckle to herself gleefully.
     
    ---
  13. beebs
    EPISODE 128
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Kate and Billie sit at a booth at Club TBD together. Sitting stirring her martini as she chews solemnly over what Billie's told her about Nick's plan to take over Titan.
     
    KATE: Billie...are you absolutely sure that was Justin told you is the truth?
     
    Billie looks at her mother, unflinchingly. She nods her head before responding.
     
    BILLIE: Yeah. I'm almost certain of it. Justin seemed...(sigh) he seemed...more than flustered, he...he seemed petrified, really. That's why it's so important that we vote him down.
     
    Kate looks down at her martini, before looking back up at Billie. Kate's expression remains solemn.
     
    KATE: We may not be able to do that, Billie.
     
    Billie frowns, a clear, pressing worry on her face.
     
    BILLIE: Why not? I mean, the ball's in our court, Mom. You know he's just bluffing...
    KATE: No....Billie, he's not. We'll have to go after him some other way. But....for now...you're going to have to let him have what he wants. 
     
    Billie looks on at Kate, stunned.
     
    ---
     

    Anjelica steps into the DiMera living room, and is greeted by a warm embrace by Stefano. Nick stands back, looking on as the other two greet each other.
     
    STEFANO: Ahhh Anjelica, it's so good to see you again, my dear.
    ANJELICA: Thank you, Stefano. It's been far too long.
     
    Stefano breaks their embrace, but guides Anjelica toward Nick, one hand behind her back as she steps toward Nick, extending a hand in greeting.
     
    STEFANO: I would like you to meet our very loyal liaison in our mission. Nick Fallon, meet Anjelica Deveraux.
     
    Nick extends a hand in return, smirking as Anjelica returns a wry smile his way.
     
    NICK: Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Deveraux.
    ANJELICA: Likewise. And please, call me Anjelica. We're about to get very familiar, you and I.
     
    ---
     

    Anita steps into her living room, as Brady sits at the desk in the corner, typing away.
     
    ANITA: Brady.
    BRADY: Yeah! Anita! What's happening?
     
    Brady stops typing and turns to face Anita, who leans against the frame of the doorway into the room.
     
    ANITA: I had a favour to ask you.
    BRADY: Okay.
    ANITA: Well...you know that old blue truck you were using to head over to the general store for groceries.
     
    Brady nods, knowing which one she meant.
     
    BRADY: Yeah, the one I nearly crashed into that guy with.
     
    Anita walks into the room, and sits down on the couch as she talks with Brady.
     
    ANITA: That's the one. Well...I was thinking...you're relatively handy. If you can do a bit of work on the brakes...I was thinking of selling it, and using the money we get to buy a replacement for you to use.
     
    Brady shrugs, feeling reasonably confident about the idea.
     
    BRADY: Seems reasonable to me. You want me to set up an ad online?
     
    Anita laughs heartily.
     
    ANITA: You know, crazy old me was thinking of asking you to call the Salem Spectator and place an ad that way. I completely forgot about the internet.

    BRADY: You're living in a new age, Anita.
    ANITA: Ain't that the truth! 
     
    Anita gets up from the sofa, and walks over toward Brady.
     
    ANITA: Well, listen. You set the ad up, we'll put it up for, say...$1500 or best offer, and we'll see if we can get anyone to come in and look at it later. Who knows? Maybe we can get rid of the damn thing by tonight!
     
    Anita pats Brady on the shoulders as she passes by. Brady turns around and looks back at his computer, ready to take on the task.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Marlena and Sami walk over to Kim and Roman, who are sitting at a booth at the Brady Pub. Roman and Kim are stunned by the news that Eric has married Nicole.
     
    ROMAN: Now wait just a minute! Eric is marrying Nicole? I thought he was a priest! He can't...
     
    Sami looks on at her ailing father, worried by his mental lapses. Kim takes Roman's hands into hers, settling Roman back down into his seat.
     
    KIM: Roman...Eric was defrocked. It wasn't his fault, but...Nicole helped him through it.
     
    Sami snorts, folding her arms as she looks down, embittered.
     
    SAMI: You could say that. 
    ROMAN: Well...so...Nicole married Eric...I mean...their relationship didn't cause Eric to be defrocked, did it?
     
    Kim shakes her head, still looking at a confused Roman.
     
    KIM: No, Roman. No, she just helped Eric deal with some problems that happened. The important thing is that Eric is happy. We should all remember that.
    JOHN: I'll go along with that.
     
    Everyone turns as John walks toward the group. Marlena looks on, a deep pain on her face as she looks at her now-ex-husband.
     
    ---
     
    Nick and Anjelica sit in the DiMera living room, chatting with each other, as Stefano puts away papers at his desk. As he struggles to get up from his seat, Nick and Anjelica's focus shifts to him.
     
    STEFANO: Alright. Now, I am going to head out. Nicholas. I want you to keep Anjelica abreast of any problems you encounter. Make sure that your plan goes right today at that meeting.

    NICK: Absolutely, Mr. DiMera.
    STEFANO: And Anjelica, I would offer you to make yourself at home, but...
     
    Anjelica raises her hand, stopping Stefano midsentence.
     
    ANJELICA: Not to worry, Stefano. I have a wonderful suite at the Salem Inn, and of course, for my campaign, obviously it's best that we keep our little connection private.
    STEFANO: I'll leave you to it.
     
    Stefano heads out of the room, leaving Anjelica and Nick in the living room. Nick looks over at Anejlica, intrigued.
     
    NICK: Campaign? You running for office or something?
    ANJELICA: You better believe it. State governor.
     
    Nick's face lights up at the news.
     
    NICK: Ahhh, so I see. So I guess it's important to keep our rather...unethical connection private, hm?
    ANJELICA: Absolutely. In fact, the best thing we can do is make sure that no one can connect me to DiMera Enterprises, or Stefano, at all costs.
     
    ---
     
    Brady walks into the cabin, a digital camera in hand. He walks over to the desktop computer in the corner of the room, all the while opening the flap of the camera holding the memory card. He carefully places the card into a slot on the computer, and prepares to upload the pictures onto the computer, as Anita walks in from the kitchen.
     
    ANITA: Any luck?
    BRADY: Yeah! Just uploading the pictures now, and it'll be up in just a second.
    ANITA: Wow. Technology these days, hm?
    BRADY: Tell me about it.
     
    As Brady types up the last of the ad, Anita walks over and puts a hand on Brady's shoulder.
     
    ANITA: You know, it's been a real help having you here, Brady. It's hard being an old woman separated from her family like this, and my family doesn't come around like they used to. I can't do all the things I've been wanting to do. So, I really appreciate the help.
     
    Brady hits send, then turns around the look up at Anita, a warm, caring expression on his face.
     
    BRADY: You know...Anita...you're the one who's helped ME. I needed a refuge from...everything that went wrong in my life up to now. I...I truly haven't had it easy in a lot of ways, but...I almost feel guilty for feeling that way. So many people have it so much worse than me.
     
    Anita smiles, looking back at Brady lovingly. She sits herself down in the chair by Brady, taking his hands in hers.
     
    ANITA: Never compare your struggle with someone else's, Brady. You've come a long way in a short amount of time. And, no, I don't know a lot about you, but I know that you're a kind, gentle man. A man who's been hurt a lot..and needs to do a lot of healing. I know you'll tell me about what's happened to you in your own time. Don't feel you need to rush.
     
    Brady looks at Anita, smiling sheepishly.
     
    BRADY: You know...I have been feeling so...so down about everything...I just don't wanna burden you with my stupid....stories of self-inflicted wounds. But it comes so easily with you. I feel like...like I've known you all my life. I want to thank you, Anita. You've been a big help to me.
    ANITA: Anytime, Brady.
     
    After a moment, Brady turns to look back at the computer, and points to it, looking back at Anita.
     
    BRADY: The ad's gone live!
    ANITA: Fantastic. Thank you, Brady.
     
    Brady looks back at Anita, smiling genuinely for the first time in a long time.
     
    ---
     

    In her dimly lit motel suite, Sheryl sits at her laptop, blinds drawn. She sits alone, going through ads on an online classified site, when she spots an ad for an older blue SUV, $1500 or best offer. Intrigued, she opens the ad. 
     
    SHERYL: 1995...in good shape but brakes will need replacing soon. $1500, or $2000 with brake replacement included. Lakeview Drive. Sounds perfect.
     
    Sheryl clicks to send off an e-mail about the truck. She smiles her devious smile as she starts her e-mail to come view the truck at Anita's home.
     
    ---
     
    Billie looks on, stunned by her mother's sudden cowtowing to Nick's blackmail.
     
    BILLIE: Mother...I have known you a lot of years, and you've never been one to back down against the likes of Nick Fallon.
    KATE: Well, there's a first for everything, isn't there?
     
    Billie looks at Kate, puzzled. Her voice taking on an incredulous tone as Kate takes a sip of her martini.
     
    BILLIE: I'm sorry, am I talking to Kate Roberts right now? What is it about Nick that's scaring you right now.
     
    Kate puts down her drink, noticeably agitated by Billie's pressing of the topic.
     
    KATE: Look, Billie, you know my history. And you know yours. There's all kinds of skeletons Nick could dredge up at that meeting. None of which you would want exposed. So I think it's best that we play along, do what he says so that we don't alarm him, and build our case against him until we're able to put him away.
     
    Billie shakes her head, in total disbelief about what she's hearing her mother say.
     
    ---
  14. beebs
    EPISODE 153
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

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

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

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

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

    Billie moves in to where her face nearly touches Daniel's. They look adoringly into each other's eyes, as Daniel shifts his body to face Billie's, as he moves his arm up to Billie's face, gently carressing her face. He responds softly to her.
     
    DANIEL: You'll never have to find out the answer to that. I'll always be here.
     
    Daniel and Billie share a tender kiss, as Billie leans into the kiss, and the two roll over, preparing for another round of lovemaking.
     
    ...
     
    Back at the Brady Pub, as Kim descends the staircase, and looks out on a now-empty pub (save for the lone bartender cleaning up), Kim walks into the room slowly. 
     
    She puts a hand on the bartender's shoulder and smiles half-heartedly.
     
    KIM: You're good for tonight, hun. Thanks.
     
    The bartender heads back into the kitchen to pack up to leave, as Kim shuts off most of the lighting.
     
    As the song ends, she leans against the bar, and thinks over the problems facing her. Missing her daughter, and her son, her husband, and the slow decline of her brother and mother. 
     
    Kim is emotionally overwhelmed by a sense of grief, and begins to sob uncontrollably. 
     
    ---
  15. beebs
    EPISODE 121
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Alex comes down the steps of the Kiriakis mansion, adjusting his tie as he prepares for work. At the bottom of the steps, he turns to enter the living room, finding Justin there, as he ends a call on his cell phone.
     
    JUSTIN: (into phone) Yeah, thanks. I'll be there.
     
    Hanging up, Justin turns to face Alex.
     
    JUSTIN: Alex! Good morning!
    ALEX: Hey, Dad. I've uh...I've got some news.
    JUSTIN: Yeah, so do I. Uh...you want a cup of coffee before you head out?
     
    Alex walks into the living room and sits down on the sofa, as Justin steps over to the caraffe placed on a silver tray in the corner.
     
    ALEX: Yeah, sure. Thanks.
     
    Justin pours Alex a cup, as well as one for himself, and hands one over to his son. He then sits down in the easy chair next to Alex.
     
    ALEX: So uh...what's your news?
    JUSTIN: Well...it looks like we've got a hell of a day ahead of us...someone tried to break into the Titan server last night, someone who was trying to sabotage the EnerNext project.
     
    Alex looks up at his dad, surprised and concerned.
     
    ---
     

    Jerome walks back into the living room from the kitchen at the Grant house, finding Valerie sitting in her living room, finishing up her interview with Crystal Clarke, the nurse she's looking to hire at University Hospital. She makes a final note on her notepad, before looking up at the screen.
     
    VALERIE: Alright, I think that's everything I need. Listen, Crystal, you've really impressed me, so...I can't guarantee anything, but there's a very good chance you'll be coming on board with us at University Hospital.
    CRYSTAL: (through the computer) Oh that's great, thank you so much!
    VALERIE: Now, I have to check your references, but either way, I'll let you know by this afternoon if you have the job or not, okay?
     
    Jerome stands back, out of his grandmother's sight, listening in on the end of the interview. As he does, he looks toward the coat rack by the door, and quietly as possible, makes his way over to it.
     
    Jerome smiles widely as he realizes his plan's coming together nicely. He leans into Valerie's coat pocket, and pulls out her hospital key card, slyly placing it in his own pocket, as Valerie finishes up her interview, oblivious to Jerome's theft.
     
    CRYSTAL: (through the computer) I can't wait. Thanks again, Dr. Grant.
    VALERIE: It's no trouble at all, Crystal. I'll speak to you soon.
     
    Valerie shuts her computer and Jerome comes into the living room about then. Valerie looks up, and smiles.
     
    VALERIE: Oh hi, Baby. 
    JEROME: Hey Grandma!
    VALERIE: Did you get yourself a cup of coffee from the kitchen?
    JEROME: Yeah! Yeah I did. Hey...uh...how did the interview go?
    VALERIE: Oh, extremely well. I'm absolutely going to be hiring her. I just...you know, I can't say it straight out or else I can get into all kinds of trouble.
     
    Jerome hangs back, as Valerie gets up from her seat on the couch, and picks up her laptop from the table, putting it in her laptop bag.
     
    JEROME: So how soon will you have her come to Salem, then?
    VALERIE: Well...if everything works out right...I'm hoping we can have her up here by the end of this week.
     
    Jerome nods, trying to hide a smile as he collects his information for Sheryl's plan.
     
    ---
     

    At the office of the Justice of the Peace, Eric, Nicole, and Daniel wait with the Justice of the Peace for Chloe's arrival. As they mill about, chatting excitedly, the door opens. Chloe pokes her head in and smiles, calling out to the group in a singsong voice.
     
    CHLOE: I'm heeeere!
     
    Nicole screams in excitement as she runs over to give her best friend a hug.
     
    NICOLE: Ohhhh I'm so glad you could make it.
    CHLOE: Ohhh I wouldn't miss this for the world. 
     
    As they pull out of their hug, they hold each other's hands and smile at each other.
     
    CHLOE: You have no idea how happy I am for both of you. You deserve this, Nicole.
    NICOLE: Thank you.
     
    Nicole turns toward everyone else, a big, glowing smile on her face.
     
    NICOLE: Well, I guess we should get started.
     
    Nicole steps toward Eric, and the Justice of the Peace, while Daniel and Chloe stand behind them, as Eric takes Nicole's hand in hers, and looks deeply into her eyes, as they begin the ceremony.
     
    ---
     

    Sami and Marlena sit in traffic, Sami anxiously trying to find a way to escape the endless traffic jam she finds herself in.
     
    MARLENA: Do you know when they were planning to start the ceremony?
    SAMI: No idea. Nick just said they were headed there now, so I don't think we have much time.
    MARLENA: Oh God. What is Eric THINKING?
    SAMI: Oh come on, you know Nicole's his achilles heel, Mom. She's suckered him in once before.
    MARLENA: You're right...I just hope we aren't already too late.
     
    Marlena looks out the window and sees the next exit clearing up ahead. She frantically points toward it to get Sami's attention.
     
    MARLENA: Sami! Take the next exit, right there. Quick!
    SAMI: I'm on it!
     
    Sami quickly puts her signal on, turning out into the next lane to make their way off the crowded highway.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Gabi and Will stand in their living room, looking down at the gun that EJ has handed Gabi for protection. Will sighs as he slowly looks up at Gabi.
     
    WILL: I hate to say this but...EJ was right to give you this.
    GABI: You won't hear any argument from me.
     
    Gabi starts to walk away toward the kitchen area to put on a pot of coffee. Will watches her walk off, surprised by her appearance of nonchalance.
     
    WILL: You don't seem the least bit fazed by this. 
     
    Gabi stops, as she grabs the caraffe from the coffee maker. She looks at Will and shrugs.
     
    GABI: Will, I'm doing what I have to do to protect all of us.
     
    Will looks on at Gabi, incredulous.
     
    WILL: You don't think this is just a bit...extreme? Gabi, this should be such a red flag to you of how far this whole situation has gone. Don't you see how deep you've got yourself involved in all this?
     
    Gabi runs the water, filling up the caraffe, before turning and placing the caraffe down on the countertop, exasperated.
     
    GABI: Don't you think I know that? Don't you think I've replayed this over and over and over in my mind a million times? I'm terrified, Will. I'm fighting for my life, and your life, and Sonny's life...but most important is that little girl over there. 
     
    Gabi points toward Ari sitting in her crib, Will looks over at his daughter momentarily, a mix of love and worry in his eyes, as Gabi continues, growing increasingly emotional, before starting to tear up.
     
    GABI: I am fighting to make sure that Arianna doesn't have to live another day with the threat of that sick bastard hanging over all our heads. I want that little girl to grow up with her family around her. And I am running out of ways to do that. And I am scared, Will. I am so scared.
     
    Will looks back at Gabi, realizing how terrified shs really is for the first time, and responds softly.
     
    WILL: You don't have to be scared, Gabi. We're all here for you--
     
    Gabi snaps, cutting Will off as she becomes more and more emotional.
     
    GABI: YOU CAN'T GUARANTEE THAT, WILL! Not if we don't do something to stop Nick. And fast. Because I will not let my daughter lose her parents, or her grandparents because of that sleaze. EVER.
     
    Will stares at an almost-crazed Gabi, both of them deeply worried and deeply upset by their circumstance. Will walks over to an emotional Gabi and gives her a hug, as Gabi begins to sob on his shoulder.
     
    ---
     
    Alex looks at his father, totally stunned by the news he's just heard.
     
    ALEX: I'm sorry, what?
    JUSTIN: The um...the same people that hacked the City Hall server yesterday that was in the news? They tried to break into Titan's servers last night, and corrupt all the files associated with the EnerNext oil sands project, including all your promotional work you've been working on with Will.
    ALEX: Oh my God.
     
    Justin holds up a hand, hoping to stop Alex from freaking out.
     
    JUSTIN: Now, hold on. Before you panic, we stopped them in time, but you have to know, it's someone in the graphic design department that's responsible.
    ALEX: That means they're under my watch.
     
    Justin nods, uncomfortable sharing the news with his son.
     
    JUSTIN: Yeah. Now, Tyler may have something to say about that. Umm, for now the press doesn't know, but they want to hold an emergency board meeting about it later today, and...hopefully, we can get some of this sorted out.
     
    Alex looks down, away from Justin's gaze. He tries to soak in all the information, momentarily holding his head in his hands.
     
    ALEX: God. When it rains, it pours, doesn't it?
    JUSTIN: You can say that again.
     
    Alex gets up from his seat and begins to pace the room, Justin looks on, trying to reassure him.
     
    JUSTIN: Listen, I don't think anything grave is going to happen where your department is concerned. I just want to give you the head's up. Keep quiet if anyone calls or any press get wind of it. We need to keep this out of the press at all costs. There's way too much riding on getting this project off the ground.
    ALEX: I know, Dad. Don't worry. (sigh) But...that's not even the biggest problem we've got right now.
     
    Justin looks over at Alex, confused.
     
    JUSTIN: What do you mean?
     
    Alex pulls his tablet out from his briefcase, and, after pressing a few spots on the screen, hands it over to Justin.
     
    ALEX: Mom's decided to follow in Harper's footsteps.
     
    Justin studies the electronic edition of the Salem Spectator for a moment, before looking up at his son, surprised by the headline.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl steps out of the bathroom, her hair wrapped in a towel, and wearing a matching white dressing gown. She hears a heavy knock on the door and quickly makes her way over to the front door of the motel room, checking to see who it is through the peephole. Seeing that it's Jerome, she quickly lets him in, hoping no one sees him.
     
    SHERYL: Get in, get in, get in.
     
    Closing the door behind her, she looks at Jerome expectantly, as Jerome takes off the hat he wore to disguise himself, and reaches into his pocket.
     
    SHERYL: So...what did we get?
     
    Jerome pulls a USB stick from his pocket, and hands it to Sheryl.
     
    JEROME: Everything you need to become Crystal Clarke, RN.
     
    Sheryl cocks an eyebrow, impressed by what Jerome has managed to do.
     
    ---
     
    Sami pulls up to the City Hall, and quickly puts her car in Park and turns the car off. 
     
    SAMI: Okay. We're here!
    MARLENA: Now, let's just hope we get in there before it's too late.
    SAMI: From your mouth to God's ear, Mom.
     
    Ripping the keys from the ignition, she and Marlena, make a made dash inside, hoping to stop the wedding in time.
     
    ...
     
    Justice of the Peace Watkins stands before a beaming Eric and Nicole, as they stand before him, holding each other's hands.
     
    JOP WATKINS: Well, good morning, and I am pleased to stand before you today, to join Nicole, and Eric, in matrimony.
     
    ...
     
    Running up to the front desk, Sami waves frantically, trying to get the attention of the front desk clerk.
     
    DESK CLERK: Can I help you ladies?
    MARLENA: Yes, I'm Dr. Marlena Evans, and I--
     
    The desk clerk lights up, recognizing Marlena immediately.
     
    DESK CLERK: Oh my GOSH! Dr. Evans! I remember you from when you used to have that radio show on years ago! Never thought I'd see the day...
     
    Marlena tries to cut her off, impatiently trying to move things along without being rude.
     
    MARLENA: Yes, that was...years ago, listen, my son is getting married today, and we need to know which room they're in. Can you help me and my daughter? We're very late.
     
    The desk clerk smiles, ever-so-casually getting up from her seat, and smiling warmly at Marlena.
     
    DESK CLERK: Oh, for you? Anything, Dr. Evans.
    MARLENA: Thank you. I don't mean to be short but we're very late, and I don't want to miss the big moment, so...if you could.
     
    The desk clerk sits herself slowly down at the computer, nodding happily.
     
    DESK CLERK: No trouble at all, Dr. Evans.
    MARLENA: Thanks again.
     
    Much to Marlena's chagrin, the desk clerk continues to prattle on as she slowly starts to look up the room for the wedding.
     
    DESK CLERK: You know, you hear all these things about what's happened to you in the years since the show ended, and I think it's just such a shame, all these ridiculous rumours that swirl around, them saying you killed all those people but...really...kidnapped them and...I can't even keep track! (laughs) People really need to stop with all this fake news, you know?
     
    Marlena resists rolling her eyes, as Sami gives Marlena a look of pure irritation.
     
    ...
     
    JOP WATKINS: If anyone sees just cause why these two should not be joined, let them speak now, or forever hold their peace.
     
    After a moment of silence in the room, Nicole quietly laughs, thrilled that the ceremony can go on without objection.
     
    JOP WATKINS: In that case...Eric Brady, do you take Nicole Walker to be your wife?
     
    Eric smiles warmly at Nicole, squeezing her hands gently, as he answers softly.
     
    ERIC: I do.
     
    ...
     
    The desk clerk clicks on a tab on her computer screen, almost too deliberately, before turning toward Marlena and Sami.
     
    DESK CLERK: What did you say your son's name was, Dr. Evans?
    MARLENA: Ah, Eric Brady...he's to be married to a Nicole Walker.
    DESK CLERK: Alright...
     
    The desk clerk hits "search" on her database window, and the computer begins to work.
     
    After a tense moment, the desk clerk looks back at Marlena and Sami and smiles, slightly apologetically.
     
    DESK CLERK: I don't know if you heard, but the servers were down here yesterday, so it's taking a while for the system to get back into the groove of things. (laughs) Oh, you know technology!
     
    Sami and Marlena smile awkwardly, as Sami responds this time.
     
    SAMI: Oh, do I ever.
     
    ...
     
    JOP WATKINS: Do you, Nicole Walker, take this man, Eric Brady, to be your husband?
     
    Nicole, without a moment's hesitation, excitedly answers, nearly bouncing as she answers.
     
    NICOLE: I do!
     
    Everyone laughs, as Nicole continues to jiggle with girlish excitement.
     
    ....
     
    A moment passes, as Sami cracks her knuckles, unsure whether this relieves any tension, or if she's winding up to punch the desk clerk. Finally, the results come in.
     
    DESK CLERK: Here we go!
     
    Sami and Marlena snap back to the desk, staring attentively, awaiting their answer.
     
    MARLENA: Yes, which room is it?
    DESK CLERK: Ooo! You better hurry, it's happening now. It's in Room 341. It's on the third floor, three doors down on your right...
    MARLENA: Thank you!
     
    Marlena and Sami take off like a shot for the elevator. The desk clerk barely having time to finish her thought. She looks on, as both Sami and Marlena disappear around the corner.
     
    The desk clerk shouts out to them, while waving.
     
    DESK CLERK: Good luck, Dr. Evans!
     
    The desk clerk sits back down in her seat, her expression immediately changing to one of irritation as she does.
     
    DESK CLERK: Damn society folks in this town, always in such a hurry they forget their manners.
     
    ...
     
    Eric places the wedding ring on Nicole's finger. She beams as she looks at the beautiful silver wedding band.
     
    ERIC: I promise, when we do this properly with the family, I'll have something a little bit more...formal prepared (laughs) but for now....just know that I love you, and I am so grateful that I've been given a second chance with you. I don't know what I'd do without you, Nicole.
     
    Nicole begins to tear up, as she leans in to kiss Eric.
     
    NICOLE: Oh, Eric! I love you too...
     
    As they kiss, the Justice of the Peace makes his final declaration.
     
    JOP WATKINS: By the power vested in me by the state, I now pronounce you, husband and wife.
     
    As he finishes the announcement, and Daniel and Chloe begin to clap in congratulations, the door to his office swings open, and a voice screams out, startling everyone inside.
     
    MARLENA: NO!
     
    Nicole and Eric break their kiss, as they, the Justice of the Peace, Daniel and Chloe turn around with a start, finding a panicked Marlena and Sami standing just inside the doorway.
     
    ---
  16. beebs

    DAYS: Episodes 93-96

    By beebs,

    Hopefully this is cool, just wanted to keep those of you who've been following my DAYS up to date with my new entries, which I'm posting externally.

    EPISODE 93

    EPISODE 94

    EPISODE 95

    EPISODE 96

    Gonna lurk around at SON, but again, likely not gonna be posting much. Hope you all follow DAYS: TAT. Thanks for reading
     
  17. beebs
    EPISODE 183
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    It's a cool dark night on the outskirts of Salem. A chilly wind has kicked up, as Tyler Houston steps toward the front door of Anita Hernandez's cabin. He knocks, as he looks out at the dark night around him. Rubbing his hands together to keep them warm in the cold, he tenses his body as he awaits Anita.
     

    Opening the front door, Anita is surprised to see Tyler standing there.
     
    ANITA: What the--what are you doing here?
    TYLER: (sigh) It's a long story. 
     
    Tyler waits a beat before continuing.
     
    TYLER: May I uh...may I come in?
     

    Anita hesitates, looking back inside at Brady, who's just entered the living room, curious about why Anita's at the door.
     
    TYLER: I know he's here, Anita.
    BRADY: Who's...
     
    Anita opens the door to let Tyler in, as Brady stands back in the kitchen area, stunned to see Tyler again.
     
    BRADY: Tyler...wh...look, if you came to track me down, I, I just can't--
     
    Tyler steps into the room, and holds his hand up to stop Brady from continuing.
     
    TYLER: Brady....no one knows you're here. And no one's going to know. Okay? I didn't come here to try to get you back to Salem.
     
    Anita interjects, slightly annoyed by Tyler's return visit.
     
    ANITA: So why are you here, then? Once wasn't enough?
    TYLER: Look, I...ah, something's happened, and I need to leave town. And I won't be back.
    ANITA: What? Why?
    TYLER: It's...a long story, but I need to call Victor first, and on a secure line. That's why I'm here.
     
    Anita nods slowly, confused by Tyler's vague information. She motions toward the landline phone, as Tyler nods in appreciation, and heads over to call Victor.
     
    Anita turns to face a very baffled Brady, to whom she gives an equally confused expression.
     
    ---
     

    At the Grant house, Jerome sits with his grandmother on the living room couch. He wears a strange expression as he questions his grandmother.
     
    JEROME: You talk like you got some real beef with the Hortons.
     
    Valerie shifts uncomfortably, trying to be somewhat dismissive of what she's already expressed to Jerome about the Hortons, but failing.
     
    VALERIE: I don't really have beef, but like...(sigh) How shall I put it? 
     
    Jerome laughs, breaking Valerie's thought.
     
    JEROME: ...But you got beef with 'em! 
    VALERIE: Look, don't get me wrong, Jerome. They're lovely people. They do their best. I have worked alongside this family for years. But I also know they have their fair share of problems. Ones that are extremely easy for a man like you to get caught up in. And I don't want that for you. I've...pulled your behind out of enough jams for one lifetime.
     
    Valerie notices Jerome's crooked collar, and awkwardly, lovingly adjusts it as she fidgets to distract from her nervousness at the subject at hand. Jerome gently flinches, tickled by his grandmother's touch.
     
    JEROME: Okay, I get that. But...what you mean? What kind of problems?
     
    Valerie stops fidgeting and sighs, before deciding to tell Jerome.
     
    VALERIE: Well...your Uncle Eli's father, for one.
     
    Jerome turns his head quickly to look at Valerie's sheepish expression.
     
    ---
     

    Marlena and Abe head into the underground parking at Marlena's building.  Marlena trails Abe, who is eager to get going. Abe looks back to see Marlena, slowly walking towards him, clutching herself as she walks, deep in thought. 
     
    Abe walks over to Marlena, and comforts her as they walk toward Abe's car, Abe seeing Marlena clearly distressed by Roman's absence. 
     
    ABE: We'll find him, Marlena.
     
    Marlena sighs, leaning against Abe as they walk. 
     
    MARLENA: I know. Still doesn't make me worry any less.
     

    No sooner has Marlena finished her sentence do Kim and Andrew pull into a spot right near Abe and Marlena. Kim honks her horn, startling Marlena, as they both step out of Kim's car. Marlena looks stunned to see Andrew.
     
    MARLENA: Oh my...Oh my God, Andrew! Ohh it's so good to see you! Oh, when did you get into town?
     
    Andrew laughs as he gives his former aunt a hug, while Kim looks on, somewhat less-than-impressed by Marlena's enthusiasm, under the circumstances.
     
    KIM: He ah...he just arrived tonight. We were finishing up dinner when we got the call.
    MARLENA: Ohh, it's so good to see you. Oh that must've been a fantastic surprise for you, Kim.
     
    Kim nods, with a subdued expression as she tries to speed things along to limit her time with Marlena, whom she's upset with.
     
    KIM: It was. It was just what I needed. Look, um...I don't wanna...break up the reunion or anything, but....I think we need to start dealing with why we're here.
    ABE: Kim is right. I think we need to split up and keep each other on a three way call. 
    MARLENA: Makes sense. I can take the route down Riverside Drive.
    KIM: Andrew and I can cover the south end.
    ABE: And I'll handle the centre. Alright, let's get on this, the longer we take, the farther away he might have gotten.
     

    As Abe, Kim, Marlena, and Andrew prepare to separate, we see inside the car just a few steps away from where they've congregated. Inside, Roman sits silently in the car, with the engine off. He's almost in a trance, as he states straight out from the drivers' seat, seemingly completely unaware of his surroundings.
     
    ---
     
    ---
     
    Jerome looks quizzically at Valerie as they both sit on the sofa inside Valerie's house.
     
    JEROME: Grandma, what about Uncle Eli?
     
    Valerie takes Jerome's hand, and holds it gently, as she begins to explain the story.
     
    VALERIE:Well...
     
    Valerie breathes in deeply, as she considers her words extremely carefully.
     
    VALERIE: See...you remember I told you about when I lived here allll those years ago, right?
    JEROME: Mmhmm.
    VALERIE: Well...I fell in love with a young man here named David Banning, and he just happens to be Miss Abigail Deveraux's cousin.
     
    Jerome slowly nods, making the connection.
     
    JEROME: And that...didn't go well.
    VALERIE: Oh no, it was...I mean, it wasn't without its problems, but our relationship was fine. We loved each other. His family was incredibly kind to me, but...they...they had problems. I worked for Abigail's grandmother at University Hospital, and she...she spent a long time in an institution. Abigail's grandfather was a great surgeon, and a very kind man, but...very troubled. David was an alcoholic, like your grandfather. (sigh) I think the pressure was too much for him.
    JEROME: What happened to you and David, then?
     
    Valerie sighs, looking down at nothing in particular as she reminisces.
     
    VALERIE: He had a baby. With his cousin's girlfriend.
    JEROME: I'm sorry.
    VALERIE: I'm not broken up about it. Years later, we met again, away from Salem, and...you know, I think being with him away from Salem was a real blessing. We could be together without the pressure of our families and...people who knew us. It was a great time. It wasn't long but...Uncle Eli came from it, and...it means I have a reminder in my life of that special time. 
     
    Valerie takes Jerome's hand in hers, and smiles wistfully.
     
    VALERIE: Look, all I'm trying to say is, the Hortons are lovely people, but don't get bogged down in their problems. They'll take you with them. 
    JEROME: I won't, Grandma.
    VALERIE: Don't be so sure. I know how you take on the problems of people you care about, baby. I don't want you to sucked into something you can't get out of.
     
    Jerome half-smiles, as Valerie pulls him into a tight hug. As she holds her grandson, she looks out from over Jerome's shoulder, a very worried look in her eyes.
     
    ---
     
    At Anita's cabin, Brady pulls Anita aside and quietly asks her about Tyler, who's stood in the corner of the room, using her landline phone.
     
    BRADY: Anita...how do you know that man?
    ANITA: Brady, it's not a big deal--
    BRADY: The hell it's not! Anita, I do not feel comfortable with that man in this house. He works for my grandfather...
     
    Anita holds up her hands, trying to keep Brady from getting excited (and loud), as she attempts to explain the situation.
     
    ANITA: Brady, don't...don't worry. Look, Tyler has come by before, and he didn't say anything about you being here then--
    BRADY: What??! That's supposed to make me feel better?
    ANITA: Just don't...shhh...Brady. Listen to me.
     
    Brady stops himself from continuing, giving Anita a chance to finish, but folds his arms, looking mistrustfully at her.
     
    ANITA: I will make sure he doesn't tell anyone you're here. I don't think he will, anyway, but I'll make sure. Okay?
     
    Brady unfolds his arms, unsure if Anita will be able to convince Tyler.
     
     
     
    On the phone, Tyler reaches University Hospital main reception desk.
     
    TYLER: (into phone) Yes, may I be put through to Mr. Victor Kiriakis' room, please?
     
    After a moment's wait, Tyler perks up again, hearing the phone ring in Victor's room.
     
    ...
     

    In Victor's hospital room, the phone rings. Victor, watching TV in bed, grumbles silently about the interruption to his show, turning the TV set off with the remote by his bed before picking up the phone, answering exasperated.
     
    VICTOR: (into phone) What?
     
    ...
     
    TYLER: (into phone) Victor! It's Tyler!
     
    ...
     
    VICTOR: (into phone) Oh, look who it is! The World's Worst Hired Help. You had one job, and I assume you're calling to apologize for botching it?
     
    ...
     
    Tyler looks utterly baffled by Victor's snarky comment.
     
    TYLER: (into phone) Wh...Victor, what are you talking about?
    VICTOR: (via phone) He's still alive, you idiot! 
     
    Tyler looks over at Brady and Anita, trying to speak in pointed but hushed tones.
     
    TYLER: (into phone) Nick?
     
    ...
     
    VICTOR: (into phone) Exactly. And now it's too late to make another attempt, so don't even bother trying. I can only imagine the Salem PD all over that studio as we speak collecting whatever they can to tie your sorry ass to it. So forget it. I sent you a portion of what I promised you, but only if you get out of town. 
     
    ...
     
    VICTOR: (via phone) ...and get out tonight.
     
    Tyler looks stunned, unable to respond to Victor, as the receiver drops from his ear.
     
    ---
     

    Hope stands with Nicole and Eric in the WXIR studio, still relatively dressed up from her date with Aiden. She looks around, as other officers snap photos of the fallen lighting rig. Nicole stands in the middle of the studio, arms folded, and explains what happened during the filming of her TV special.
     
    NICOLE: And that's when I heard the snap, and then the light just...came down.
     
    Hope looks up at the scaffolding high above the soundstage. She squints slightly, as she mulls over what Nicole's told her.
     
    After a moment, she asks Nicole a question in a somewhat official "police" tone.
     
    HOPE: Right. Nicole, did you see any...movement up there at all? Maybe someone was on set who shouldn't have been there?
     
    Nicole shakes her head, certain of her answer.
     
    NICOLE: No. I mean, we had a lot of guests in the studio but...no one was anywhere they shouldn't be. I didn't see any movement above us until the light, and that's what caught my attention.
    ERIC: And you're sure it wasn't an accident, then?
    NICOLE: It couldn't have been. Honestly, Nick's been involved in all kinds of things lately that I think make him a target. I mean, the light that fell was almost exactly over where he was sitting when it dropped. I can almost guarantee someone was trying to kill him.
     
    Eric looks to Hope with concern, wrapping his arm around Nicole. Hope appears surprised, before quickly raising her eyes back toward the lighting rig.
     
    ---
     

    Anjelica and Liam stand on the foggy pier, Anjelica points at Liam accusingly, speaking quietly but hissing her words at him.
     
    ANJELICA: You are letting your feelings get in the way of our goal, and it's becoming a liability.
    LIAM: My feelings?
    ANJELICA: Absolutely. You want to disengage because you're bitter about losing me to Stefano--
    LIAM: It's not that...
    ANJELICA: So NOW, you're going to put your energies into Jennifer Horton, which is fine by me, but whatever energy you have left goes to screwing me over as some kind of twisted catharsis for your broken heart. And let me tell you, Mr. Frasier: that's not going to happen.
     
    Liam stares as Anjelica steps in close to Liam, part flirtingly, part threateningly.
     
    After a moment, Liam leans in for a kiss. Anjelica catches him and backs away, never taking her eyes off Liam, as he looks on with disappointment.
     
    ANJELICA: I want to remind you that you're already in this up to your neck, whether you want to be or not. Therefore, if you ever want to be reuinted with your long-lost love...
     
    Anjelica discretely holds out the gun once again, waiting for Liam to take it from her.
     
    ANJELICA: You need to take care of the problem. As soon as possible.
     
    Liam looks down, mulling over his options for a moment before taking the gun from Anjelica, sighing as he puts the gun in his coat pocket.
     
    LIAM: Consider it done.
     
    Liam turns away without another word, and heads up the stairs away from the pier, leaving Anjelica alone. She watches as Liam walks up the stairs, before turning away, sighing as the stress of her situation weighs on her.
     
    ---
     
    Kim, Andrew, and Abe walk away from their huddle in the car park at Marlena's condominium, as Marlena lingers behind, deep in thought, but jumping slightly when Abe touches her arm to get her attention as he walks away.
     
    ABE: I'll bring the car around, Marlena.
     
    Marlena smiles at Abe, as he walks toward the car. Looking away into the sea of cars before her, Marlena spots Roman's SUV parked nearby.
     
    After a moment's glance, she realizes someone's inside.
     
    It's Roman. 
     
    Suddenly frenzied, she calls out to Abe, hoping he'll double back to where she is.
     
    MARLENA: Abe? Abe! Abe, he's here!
     
    Marlena makes a beeline for Roman's SUV, tapping on the front hood, as Roman stares ahead, in his own world as he sits in his parked vehicle.
     
    MARLENA: Roman?
     
    Marlena frantically tries to open the passenger's side door, to no avail. She bangs on the passenger's side window, as Roman looks her way.
     
    MARLENA: Roman! It's Doc, open the door, please!
     
    Roman hesitates for a moment, as though still in his trance, before finally unlocking the door. Marlena steps inside, as Kim and Andrew also double back, and Abe arrives.
     
    MARLENA: Roman, I was so worried about you.
    ROMAN: Doc, I...
    MARLENA: Roman...
     
    Marlena takes Roman's hand in hers, and holds it, realizing how very cold it is. She kisses it, and smiles warmly, as she begins to tear up again.
    MARLENA: Roman, we're all so glad you're safe. Abe, Andrew, Kim, and I we were all about to head off to look for you!
     
    Roman looks puzzled, as he looks out at Abe, Andrew, and Kim, who are standing outside the vehicle, deep concern in their eyes. He looks back at Marlena.
     
    ROMAN: Doc, that...that can't be. Kimmy's dead. I saw her!
     
    Marlena's jaw drops, baffled by Roman's obviously-untrue statement.
     
    ---
  18. beebs
    EPISODE 178
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     
     

    At Sheryl's apartment, she and Jerome sit on the sofa, watching Nicole's TV special intensely.
     
    JEROME: You know, I like Nicole's style.
     
    Sheryl struggles to shift her attention to Jerome, and half-responds, still focused on the show.
     
    SHERYL: Yeah...she's...she's getting a lot out of Nick, but...I just get this weird feeling. Like...
    JEROME: Like...she knows something?
     
    Sheryl turns to look at Jerome, nodding.
     
    SHERYL: Yeah. I dunno, my antennae are going up, you know?
    JEROME: I mean...Nick's a loose cannon on his good days...maybe he fed Nicole info.
    SHERYL: Doubt it. I...I never got the feeling I could totally trust Nick, but...he never gave me reason to doubt him...
     
    As they talk, Nicole asks Nick a question on the TV special, which perks up both Jerome and Sheryl's ears.
     
    NICOLE: (via TV) Nick, I'm sure everyone at home finds your story of climbing that corporate ladder very inspiring. I was hoping you could share with us, what transpired that led you to the top?
    NICK: (via TV) Well...it's actually sort of a funny story.
     
    Jerome looks back to the TV, as Nick pulls out a manila envelope. Jerome's and Sheryl's attention immediately diverts back to the TV screen.
     
    JEROME: You sure about that?
     
    ---
     

    At WXIR's studio, Tyler opens the door that leads to the lighting rig catwalk above the soundstage. He looks around the area to be sure no one sees him, before stepping out into the room. 
     
    Quickly, he darts out of the darkened studio, making a beeline for the elevator down the hall.  
     
    At the elevator, he jams his thumb repeatedly against the button, hoping for a speedy escape.  Tyler mutters to himself, as he winces in pain from the cut he received when slashing the wires on the lighting rig.
     
    TYLER: Come on, come on...ah...
     
    A drop of blood falls to the floor by the elevator door, before Tyler looks up quickly, interrupted by the ding of the bell. The door opens, and Tyler is thankfully alone in the elevator car.
     
    The door closes and he leaves the building unnoticed, but for a drop of blood left at the opening of the elevator.
     
    ...
     

    Back down the hall, in the actual studio, Nicole presses on, interviewing Nick, who sits kitty corner to her on the soundstage. Anjelica Deveraux sitting next to him, carefully monitoring his every word. Nick holds a large manila envelope in his hands, and slowly opens it as he tells his story to Nicole, and the home audience.
     
    NICK: See, I was made aware of an eco-terrorist group that had infiltrated the company thanks to some rather...poor hiring decisions....
     
    ...
     
    Back in Sheryl's apartment, Sheryl looks mortified, as she and Jerome listen to Nick's tale.
     
    NICK: (via TV) ...As such, I have a very extensive background in IT and indeed in online security, so I had been tracking their movements. 
     
    ...
     
    Nick continues, as he looks up from opening the envelope, and smiles at Nicole.
     
    NICK: Ultimately, I ended up stopping them from implanting a virus that would have devastated the Titan mainframe and completely destroyed the company's records.
    NICOLE: Fascinating. The executive board must have been grateful.
    NICK: You could say that. I...presented a case to them that they could not refuse.
     
    ...
     
    Nick smirks and chuckles quietly on the TV screen, as Sheryl gets angrier.
     
    SHERYL: That son of a....
     
    Jerome shushes her, as the segment continues.
     
    NICOLE: (via TV) And were the hackers apprehended?
    NICK: (via TV) No.
     
    ...
     
    NICK: Not as of yet. That's...actually...partly why I'm here tonight. 
     

    Alex, Abby, and Will, all standing back away from the soundstage, look on in confusion at what they're witnessing.
     
    WILL: What the...?
     
    Will snaps his head to look at an equally-confused Abby.
     
    WILL: Do you know what's in there?
     
    Abby shrugs, shaking her head quickly, as Will becomes increaisngly tense, muttering under his breath as he watches everything unfold in front of the cameras.
     
    WILL: Oh God oh God oh God oh God...
    NICK: With your permission, I would like to share with your audience, the identities of the hackers tonight, in hopes that the Salem PD, and FBI could locate, and catch these guys before they strike again.
     
    Nick looks directly at the camera, smiling as he holds up the envelope.
     
    Behind the cameras, Alex and Will look at each other, intrigued. Abigail looks on, puzzled.
     
    Above the stage, the lighting rig sways, another wire snapping, as the strain from where Tyler cut takes its toll.
     
    ...
     
    In Sheryl's apartment, Sheryl seethes, trying to suppress her rage, and her fear of being exposed by Nick, who she thought was on her side.
     
    SHERYL: Dammit, Nick...
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    At the Brady Pub, Andrew and Eric watch Nicole's TV special inside the Brady Pub, as Kim is behind the bar, pulling a pint each for Eric and Andrew. Andrew looks back toward the bar, calling out to his mother, who's busy readying their tray of food and beverages.
     
    ANDREW: Hey Ma, you need some help back there?
    KIM: Nah, I'm good, hun! Thanks!
    ANDREW: No problem!
     
    Andrew looks back at the TV screen, as he and Eric finish the beers they have been drinking. Andrew looks impressed as he watches Nicole's interview.
     
    ANDREW: I gotta say, I'm really impressed with her.
    ERIC: Who, Nicole?
    ANDREW: Yeah, man. Her interview style is a real breath of fresh air. She's firm, puts the pressure on, but she's personable, witty, easy to be drawn in by. She has...a lot of potential.
     
    Eric looks at Andrew, amused.
     
    ERIC: Nicole will love to hear you say that.
     
    Andrew looks Eric's way, and smiles warmly.
     
    ANDREW: You're a lucky guy, Eric.
    ERIC: Believe me, I know.
     
    Kim arrives at this moment, beers, and appetizers on a tray as she sets it all down on the table between Andrew and Eric. Excitedly, she sits down, positively beaming to have her son back in Salem.
     
    KIM: Alright guys, here it is. Hope you're still hungry, I got us a little appetizer platter so we each had a little bit of something. And Eric, I hope you like this one, it's a new IPA I just introduced last week, and I know you really like a craft beer.
    ERIC: Ooo, Aunt Kim, I'm impressed! 
    KIM: (laughs) I aim to please.
     
    Eric shifts his body inward, looking inquisitively at his cousin.
     
    ERIC: So...Andrew, you happy to be back?
    ANDREW: Yeah! I mean...I'm glad to be with my mom again. It's been way too long.
    KIM: It has! I was starting to get a little upset with you, you know.
     
    Eric and Andrew smile, as Kim elbows him playfully in the side.
     
    ANDREW: Sorry, Ma. I promise I won't do it again.
    KIM: (laughs) It's okay, sweetie. 
     
    Kim grabs Andrew's arm and rests her head on his shoulder, as she looks at him with a touch of sadness.
     
    KIM: I just wish your sister was out of her coma. I know she'd be excited to see you.
     
    Andrew sighs, as he looks up at the ceiling, the heaviness of the subject hitting him in that moment.
     
    ANDREW: (sigh) Yeah. I gotta say, I'm glad to be here for my mom, but...I do wish I was here under...slightly better circumstances.
    ERIC: Trust me. I can relate. But...on the bright side for you...it sounds like Theresa's starting to get better.
    KIM: Well, yeah. I mean...there has been some progress with her condition, but...I mean...I'll be honest, Eric? Her recovery has been going way slower than any of us expected. Daniel expected her to be out of her coma by now.
     
    Eric and Andrew look confused by Kim's news.
     
    ERIC: I wonder why she isn't.
     
    ---
     
    At University Hospital, we see the feet of a nurse stepping off the elevator in her scrubs.
     
    The floor is quiet this evening, with only a few nurses milling about the floor.
     
    Making her way toward one of the rooms, we see the guard stationed outside Theresa's hospital room. He checks her ID before nodding and stepping aside to allow the nurse into Theresa's room.
     

    The nurse closes the door to Theresa's room behind her, before slowly walking toward the still-comatose woman's bed. The nurse's face is obscured by the dim lighting of the room, but we see a syringe raised up before her.
     
    Taking Theresa's IV line in her other hand, the woman injects the contents of the syringe into Theresa's IV. She remains by Theresa's bedside momentarily, before turning back out of the room, shutting the door behind her.
     
    ---
     

    At Rafe's loft, Jordan is making dinner in the kitchenette for Rafe, as Rafe sits on the sofa nearby, flipping channels. Jordan stirs a sauce in the pan as she talks to Rafe, who stays staring at the TV screen.
     
    JORDAN: Anything good on tonight?
    RAFE: Pfft. Nah. It's not a good night.
    JORDAN: Oh? Why's that?
    RAFE: It's cop shows on everywhere. You know I hate how much they get it wrong.
     
    Jordan giggles, as she grinds up some fresh pepper into the sauce.
     
    JORDAN: I do.
     
    As Jordan sets the grinder aside, Rafe stumbles upon Nicole's TV special. Interested, he stops flipping channels to watch the program. 
     
    RAFE: Oh! Nicole's got a TV special tonight.
    JORDAN: Oh? What on?
     
    Jordan, grabbing a glass bowl from the counter beside her, looks up as she hears Nick's voice coming from the TV.
     
    NICK: (via TV) With your permission, I would like to share with your audience, the identities of the hackers tonight, in hopes that the Salem PD, and FBI could locate, and catch these guys before they strike again.
     
    Jordan's face turns ghost white, as the bowl drops from her hand, smashing on the floor by her feet.
     
    ---
     
    Inside the studio, Nicole glares at Nick, worried about what he's about to do.
     
    NICK: You are okay with me showing these pictures, aren't you?
     
    After an uncomfortable pause, Nicole responds.
     
    NICOLE: Anything to help bring the perps to justice.
     
    Nick pulls out the picture, and begins to turn it around to show the camera.
     
    NICK: Folks, be on the lookout, for two women, named Sh--
     
    Nick is startled by a popping sound above his head. Everyone in the studio looks up, as the lighting rig gives way, the last wire snapping as the blazing hot lights fall from the rig above.
     
    Anjelica, Percy, and Nicole lurch backward, covering their faces as a stunned Nick barely has time to react before the rig crashes to the ground mere inches in front of him. The sound of the crash shocks everyone, and the heat from the stage light causes a bright flash and sparks to erupt from the wreckage.
     
    Alex, Abby, and Will spring into action, Alex calling out to his mother.
     
    ALEX: Anjelica!
     

    The others in the room look stunned, as Nick drops the pictures and envelope to the ground, the now-all-too-familiar high pitched ringing in Nick's ears that accompanies his blinding headaches returns, causing him immeasurable pain as he tunes the sounds around him out. 
     
    Nick tenses up as he holds his head, praying for the pain to stop.
     
    ---
  19. beebs
    EPISODE 144
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

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

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

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

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

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

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

    DAYS #112: The Virus

    By beebs,

    EPISODE 112
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     

    Nick and Tyler burst into the MadWorld lab, making a beeline for Nick's laptop, which sits on a conference table at the far side of the room.
     
    TYLER: I'm telling you, this better be the real deal or I'll have your head on the chopping block so fast, Mr. Fallon--
    NICK: Don't worry. Once I show you what's going down...you'll be thanking me.
     
    Nick leans over the table where his laptop sits, and opens it. Pressing the "on" button, the computer boots up quickly.
     
    NICK: I don't make a habit of wasting anyone's time. Particularly my own.
    TYLER: You better hope not, or I'll get security to hightail you out of this company so fast your head will spin.
    NICK: That won't be neccessary. Just wait. I promise this'll be worth it.
     
    Nick pulls up a chair and sits down in front of his computer. Opening up his surveillance program, he logs into Titan's security camera system. Tyler looks on, stunned.
     
    TYLER: Wait, how did you get access to this? And who authorized it?
    NICK: There's no time to explain that. I started checking things out when I became suspcious something was rotten with our suspect here, and this helps me keep tabs on them. 
     
    Nick turns to face Tyler, a blank, matter-of-fact look on his face.
     
    NICK: You know, you really need to work on your firewalls. For a multinational, your digital security is incredibly vulnerable.
     
    Tyler looks back at Nick with concern and surprise. Nick turns back toward the screen as he zeroes in on Sheryl's office.
     
    NICK: Quite frankly, a security breach would be not only embarrassing...but could be really catastrophic.
     
    Tyler and Nick focus in on Sheryl's office, where they spy her working away furiously at her workstation.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl sits at her desk, Bluetoon in ear, as she stares intensely at her screen. She speaks to Jerome through the Bluetooth, careful never to utter his name as she types and clicks her mouse through the various screens, preparing to load the virus that would destroy Titan's servers into her work computer.
     
    SHERYL (into phone): I'm through the EnerNext partition.
     
    Through her bluetooth, Sheryl hears Jerome's voices come through into her ear with his next instruction.
     
    JEROME (via phone):  Alright. Two minutes to launch. Make sure you start in the backup hard disk. The backup isn't typically in use, therefore will be harder to detect we're in there before it gone.
     
    Sheryl stares dead ahead at her screen. A smug smirk appears on her face as she answers Jerome.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Roger that.
     
    ---
     

    Billie sits in her office, Lucas by her side, as she focuses on her computer screen as well. Hoping to catch some activity from the marketing wing where Sheryl works, she and Lucas listen in on her conversation, unsure who she's speaking with, as they only hear her side.
     
    BILLIE: Come on, Sheryl. Slip up. Say this guy's name.
    LUCAS: You know, I think I know exactly who it is.
    BILLIE: Oh?
    LUCAS: I'm pretty sure it's this guy...Jerry? Or Jerome? He came into her office last week when I was there. I hadn't seen him before, and I just...I get a feeling about him.
    BILLIE: Well...we're not gonna be able to use a feeling as evidence, unfortunately. We gotta have her say his name and make it clear he's connected to what she's up to or else it doesn't exist.
     

    As Billie finishes her sentence, Kate comes into the office. Billie and Lucas turn to face her.
     
    KATE: It's just me. What did I miss?
     
    Billie guffaws as she turns back toward her computer screen as she answers her mother's question.
     
    BILLIE: Well...you missed me nearly getting caught by Justin Kiriakis, and Sheryl Connors as I bugged her office.

    KATE: You didn't...
    BILLIE: No. Thankfully, I didn't. But I did run into her at the elevator. Apparently Sheryl thinks you're manipulating Lucas into possibly breaking things off with her, Mom.
     
    Kate turns toward Lucas with a sour expression.
     
    KATE: Lucas, I told you you had to keep up the charade with Sheryl, and I meant convincingly.
    LUCAS: Okay, enough, Mom. Look, it's nearly over now, and I don't see the point in trying to hide my feelings about her any longer than I have to.
    KATE: Well, you still had to while Billie was putting the bug in Sheryl's office, didn't you? And apparently, you didn't do a very good job and you might have put this entire plan in jeopardy.
     
    Kate turns back toward the screen, shaking her head in indignance at her son's irresponsibility.
     
    KATE: I just hope this is enough to get Rafe away from that conniving little tramp, Jordan Ridgeway or whatever her name is supposed to be.
     
    Lucas looks back Kate's way, shaking his head at his mom's persistance.
     
    LUCAS: You just better hope this plan DOES work, or else you're gonna alienate Rafe more than you already have.
     
    Kate looks back at her son, the both of them glaring at each other, as Billie seems oblivious to it all, keeping close watch over the Titan server, and Sheryl's actions.
     
    ---
     
    ---
     
    Nick types and clicks furiously at his computer, as Tyler paces behind him, on his cell phone with Justin.
     
    TYLER: (into phone) Justin, I know, but this kid is certain that there's about to be an attack and he says it's directly related to the City Hall server crash and the delay in approving the Ruggles land expropriation deal. I know he's got a handle on this...yes, I know you don't like him...I have a strong feeling he....well we don't have much choice right now, do we? If we wait on this...it might be too late...
     
    Nick smirks as he listens on, simultaneously listening to Sheryl through a single earbud, studying Sheryl's movements closely as she is about to launch her virus.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl, meanwhile, is still at her desk, very nearly ready to launch her attack (with Jerome's remote help).
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Alright, we ready to do this thing?
    JEROME: (via phone) In 3...2...1...
     
    Sheryl hits "Enter" on her keyboard, almost ceremoniously.
     
    ...
     
    Up in Billie's office, Kate, Lucas, and Billie study the screen as Billie jumps into action, noticing the activity appear in the backup server.
     
    BILLIE: Damnit! She started in the backup system. I have to double back to access it.
     
    Billie types away furiously to try to access the backup server, but is denied access.
     
    LUCAS: Do you know the password?
    BILLIE: No, but there's other ways to work around it.
     
    Billie moves her mouse over to another window, and begins to work from there, disabling a specific firewall that protects the backup server from being accessed by her computer.
     
    ...
     
    Nick, meanwhile, is overwhelmed by the activity. Realizing suddenly that someone else is trying to work on the backup server, he flips back to the surveillance program, and realizes it's Billie, Kate, and Lucas.
     
    NICK: Oh, no.
     
    Tyler, upon hearing Nick, quickly ends his call to Justin and darts over to Nick's computer again.
     
    TYLER: Yes, it...I gotta call you back, Justin. Don't worry, it's under control.
     
    Tyler looks intensely at the screen, as Nick springs back into action.
     
    TYLER: What's wrong?
    NICK: Nothing. I'm on it.
    TYLER: I hope so.
     
    Nick ignores Tyler's panicked threats, and takes advantage of Billie's disabling the firewall and leaps in. As the files from the backup server begin to be downloaded, then systematically destroyed, Nick locates the IP address for Sheryl's laptop.
     
    NICK: Not so fast, little lady.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl's laptop displays the progress of the virus installation:
     
    2%...

    Sheryl smiles as her external hard drive she's attached to her computer works overtime, downloading and destroying the Titan files.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) We're on our way now.
    JEROME: (via phone) And we only saving the small files and documents about the workings of the company, right?
    SHERYL: (into phone) Not to worry, I programmed it to only save document files, spreadsheets, graphics, media. The rest is getting corrupted and discarded.
    JEROME: (via phone) Perfect. How far we at?
    SHERYL: (into phone) Only 3% so far.
     
    ...
     
    Billie digs further in, tracking down Sheryl's IP.
     
    LUCAS: What are you doing now?
    BILLIE: I'm gonna throw the program they're using into an endless loop that hopefully will jam the program up, and buy me enough time to close up the security hole so they'll be booted from the system.
    KATE: Do you have enough time?
    BILLIE: I'll be fine...
     
    Billie looks on her screen, and realizes there's someone else accessing the server.
     
    BILLIE: If someone else doesn't beat me to it.
     
    Kate looks over at Lucas, who looks back at her, concerned. They both turn their attentions back to Billie, and to her computer screen.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl looks on more and more intensely.
     
    The progress bar inches forward...
     
    5%...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) I'm gonna shift this over to the EnerNext subserver once we're done with this backup.
    JEROME: (via phone) Got it.
    SHERYL: (into phone) Okay...we're in. Downloading EnerNext's documents...
     
    6%...
     
    ...
     
    Nick plugs a memory stick into his laptop, as he continues to work furiously at stopping Sheryl. Tyler looks on in wonder.
     
    TYLER: What are you plugging in there?
    NICK: Just a program to destroy whatever device these guys are using against us.
    TYLER: Like...digitally...
     
    Nick looks up at Tyler, his classic smirk on his face.
     
    NICK: Oh no. Not just digitally. 
     
    Tyler looks on, concerned by Nick's plan.
     
    ...
     
    Billie continues to work away at stopping Sheryl's virus from progressing, as Kate and Lucas sit on pins and needles.
     
    LUCAS: Billie, how much longer is this gonna take.
    BILLIE: Not long now, I'm nearly there.
    KATE: This better work.
    BILLIE: It will, Mom. Don't worry.
     
    Billie focuses in as she clicks to access Sheryl's computer remotely, so she can trip it up and stop it from continuing to spread the virus.
     
    BILLIE: Almost there.
     
    ...
     
    8%...
     
    Sheryl stares straight ahead as she notices unfamiliar activity happening around her.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Dammit! We got company.
     
    Sheryl clicks to kick Billie's computer out of hers.
     
    ...
     
    Nick double clicks his mouse, launching his counterattack against Sheryl.
     
    NICK: Buh-bye!
     
    ...
     
    Billie's computer is suddenly kicked out of the server altogether, shocking Billie, as she leans back in her seat, taking a stunned Kate and Lucas with her.
     
    LUCAS: What happened?
     
    ...
     
    11%...
     
    Sheryl looks down quickly at her work computer and her external hard drive, as her computer's fan abruptly shuts down, and her computer's processor goes into overdrive, causing the computer to freeze up.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) What the Hell?
    JEROME: (via phone) What's wrong? Sheryl???
     
    As Jerome tries in vain to get Sheryl to answer him, her and laptop begin to overheat quickly, and sparks, with a plastic burning smell and smoke emerging from the laptop. The sparking causes Sheryl to jump back from her laptop, breathing heavily from the shock, as Jerome continues to call out to her over the phone to her Bluetooth.
     
    JEROME: (via phone) SHERYL....SHERYL! You there??? SHERYL...
     
    ---
  21. beebs
    EPISODE 167
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Hope stands outside the café at Horton Town Square, looking in disbelief at a downright humble Aiden.
     
    HOPE: You want to take me out for dinner? I'm sorry, are you feeling okay?
    AIDEN: Hope, come on, I'm trying here.
    HOPE: No no, I mean...cut me some slack here. We haven't had a single conversation since we've met where we haven't argued. I mean...I would think you wouldn't want to share the same zip code with me, never mind a meal.
     
    Aiden shrugs, slightly amused by Hope's reticence.
     
    AIDEN: I mean...I know it's hard for guys to admit when they're wrong, but...
    HOPE: Don't I know it.
    AIDEN: But I do want to make it up to you. Seriously.
     
    Hope cocks her eyebrow as she takes a sip of her coffee. She looks to one side before shrugging casually.
     
    HOPE: Okay. Dinner it is. TBD tonight.
     
    Aiden smiles at Hope's decision. 
     
    AIDEN: You're on. I'll pick you up at 7?
    HOPE: (laughs) Not the way you drive. I'll meet you there for 7:30.
    AIDEN: Deal. I'll see you then.
     
    Aiden walks away, leaving Hope standing by the café, bemused by Aiden's change of attitude.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl closes the door to Jordan's office, standing before a stunned Jordan in her getup to emulate Nurse Crystal Clarke.
     
    Jordan is speechless, as Sheryl smiles, almost laughing as she speaks.
     
    SHERYL: Surprised to see me?
    JORDAN: Wh...what are you doing here?
    SHERYL: I came to get you. I'm going to save you from ruining your life, and ours. 
     
    Jordan looks at Sheryl, worried of what's to come, but baffled by what Sheryl intends to do.
     
    ---
     

    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.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Gabi and Nick sit at a table at the Brady Pub, next to Gabi's packed bags. They sip their coffee as they finish their brunch. Gabi looks pleasant, but nervously at Nick, as Nick discusses his decorating plans for the Kiriakis mansion.
     
    As he does this, Abigail steps into the pub and Gabi and Abby's eyes immediately meet.
     
    NICK: So I wanna give Ari the biggest stuffed toy collection for her room, and we'll give the stuffed toys their own crib just like Ari's...
     
    Gabi interjects, trying to tell him that Ari won't be staying with them.
     
    GABI: Nick...don't get carried away.
    NICK: Why not?
    GABI: Well, Ari's...
     

    Nick notices Gabi's eyes turn away from his, causing him to turn his head around toward the door. He calls out excitedly to Abigail.
     
    NICK: Abby! Hey!
     
    Abigail looks surprised to see Nick and Gabi together, but smiles upon seeing them, and heads toward their table.
     
    ABBY: Hey, guys! How are you? 
    GABI: I'm good. You wanna join us?
    ABBY: Oh, I'm just...I'm waiting for my family to get here. JJ's leaving for college today, and...
    NICK: Oh! Wow! Wish him the best from me.
     
    Abby smiles awkwardly at Nick. She nods as she responds, folding her arms in slight discomfort after Nick's prior volatile interaction with Abby at Salem U.
     
    ABBY: Oh definitely, I will. Thanks, Nick.  Ah...you... you guys going somewhere?
     
    Abby points at Gabi's bags, and Gabi laughs at Abby's question.
     
    GABI: Ah, not...not really...
     
    Nick interrupts Gabi, telling Abigail the news excitedly.
     
    NICK: Gabi's agreed to move in with me.
     
    Abigail looks a bit shocked, but tries to stifle her reaction, smiling in a subdued way.
     
    ABBY: Ah...ah wow. That's...a surprise. I guess I should be congratulating you too?
    GABI: Thanks, Abby.
     
    Nick notices Abby's less-than-enthused reaction, and comments on it.
     
    NICK: You seem a bit...concerned, Abby. What's wrong?
    ABBY: Well, no, I just...I guess I'm just surprised. You seemed really happy at Will and Sonny's, and Ari had her whole family there, and...it's just so sudden.
    GABI: Yeah, I know.
    ABBY: Plus, I mean...there's not much room up in Nick's little room upstairs--
     
    Nick cuts Abby off, smiling widely as he shares his other news with her.
     
    NICK: Oh! That's not gonna be a problem. We're moving into the Kiriakis mansion. See, I own it now.
     
    Abby's face drops in response to Nick's news.
     
    ---
     
    Jordan stands facing Sheryl in her office. Sheryl, dressed up to emulate Nurse Crystal Clarke, stands blocking Jordan's office door, and smirks at Jordan with arms folded. Jordan stands nervously, stuttering out her words.
     
    JORDAN: Wh...Sheryl, what are you doing here?
    SHERYL: I came to get you out of this hospital, and out of Salem before it's too late.
     
    Jordan glowers at Sheryl, now folding her arms herself in defiance.
     
    JORDAN: I'm not going anywhere, Sheryl. Besides, what you doing dressed like that, you look ridiculous.
    SHERYL: Thank you. I'm the new nurse here, Crystal Clarke. 
     
    Jordan rolls her eyes at Sheryl's get-up. Responding snarkily.
     
    JORDAN: Original. How'd you manage to pull this one off, hm? You dropped out of nursing school in your first year.
    SHERYL: It all comes back to you. Like riding a bike. Besides, I won't have to do this very long, it's just for the day to get you to come along with us.
    JORDAN: Not happening. I'm staying right here.
     
    Jordan turns to put a file away in her filing cabinet behind her desk, as Sheryl continues, walking toward Jordan while menacing her gleefully.
     
    SHERYL: Oh you're not, hm? Gonna stay here with you cop boyfriend?
     
    Jordan slams the door to her cabinet shut before turning around and raising her voice to Sheryl.
     
    JORDAN: Actually, I am, Sheryl. Or...Crystal or whoever you are.
     
    Sheryl looks on with a raised eyebrow, unconvinced.
     
    SHERYL: Yeah. I'm sure. I'm sure he'll also be just thrilled when I tell him who you really are and that you've been lying to him about your identity this entire time!
     
    Jordan smiles smugly, knowing Sheryl can't touch her with this information.
     
    JORDAN: Nice try. But he already knows.
    SHERYL: Oh, does he?
    JORDAN: Yes.
    SHERYL: Hm.
    JORDAN: I told him not 20 minutes ago. He was here. He promised that no matter what, he was gonna stand by me.
     
    Sheryl steps in closer to Jordan, calling her bluff.
     
    SHERYL: Well, see now, THAT tells me that you've been pickin' cherries, my dear Kaylie. Except you didn't tell him your name was Kaylie Matthews, because THAT would mean he could find your name on an FBI casefile.
     
    Sheryl begins to chuckle, as Jordan becomes more and more tense.
     
    JORDAN: I told him everything I could, Sheryl. And I'm not afraid of you anymore.
    SHERYL: Oh, really. What, are you gonna play informant now? Thow me and Jerome under the bus so you can have your little happily-ever-after? I don't think so.
    JORDAN: I think it's time you left.
     
    Jordan makes a beeline for the door of her office, as Sheryl turns around, watching Jordan huff and puff her way to the door.
     
    SHERYL: You're right. I have a lot I need to do. Let me know when you're ready to come with me, Jordan. 
    JORDAN: I won't be, because I'm not leaving. You are.
    SHERYL: Don't be so sure about that.
     
    Sheryl walks slowly over to the door, slowing her walk to whisper her threatening words to Jordan on her way out.
     
    SHERYL: I'll be back later.
     
    As Sheryl saunters out of Jordan's office, Jordan slams the door behind her. She leans back against the door, relieved that Sheryl's gone, but livid that she's still not rid of her.
     
    ---
     

    Hope stands outside the café at Horton Town Square, texting Rafe to let her know she's on her way to the police station, when Marlena walks up behind her and startles her.
     
    MARLENA: Boo!
     
    Hope jumps slightly, turning to see Marlena behind her, and breaks out laughing.
     
    HOPE: Oh my God, Marlena, you startled me.
    MARLENA: (laughs) I'm sorry, I couldn't resist. Did you have a moment?
    HOPE: I do, just...not long, I have to head back to the station.
    MARLENA: Oh, that's fine. I'm meeting Valerie here anyway, in a few minutes. I just thought I'd see how you were doing.
     
    Hope looks to one side and shrugs as she responds.
     
    HOPE: Wellll...confused.
    MARLENA: About what?
     
    Hope sighs, looking a bit flustered.
     
    HOPE: Aiden Jennings.
    MARLENA: What about him?
    HOPE: Well...he just asked me out on a date.
     
    Marlena looks at Hope, somewhat intrigued. Hope looks back, still baffled and a bit unnerved.
     
    ---
     
    Tyler sighs as he stands beside Victor's bed.
     
    TYLER: Victor, I am not playing your hitman.
    VICTOR: On the contrary. That's exactly what you'll do, and it's the only way you're gonna get out of this mess.
    TYLER: Oh, really now? And how do you figure that?
    VICTOR: When I say Nick Fallon told me everything, I mean he told me everything. That includes him blackmailing the Titan board into making him CEO. Which means he knows about our previous connections and the fact you've been running my, shall we say, undocumented business dealings.
     
    Tyler looks aside, sighing once more as he realizes Victor's correct.
     
    TYLER: Okay, you got me.
    VICTOR: And I also expect that that's how he got you to play mentor to his scrawny behind while he figures out what the Hell he's doing in a three-piece suit as opposed to a lab coat.
    TYLER: That's exactly it. But I figured if I coached him, all the while working with you, possibly with Kate, and Justin, that we'd be able to steady the ship and lull Nick into a sense of security so we could oust him.
    VICTOR: Not a chance. I'm not in any position to gamble with what little this company has left. We need Nick out of the picture, Stefano to relinquish control of our assets, and all without the public finding out all our dirty laundry. The only way that can happen is if Nick disappears, and you along with him.
     
    Tyler looks at Victor, a certain disappointment and sadness in his eyes.
     
    TYLER: I know this sounds somewhat...melodramatic of me, but...where will I go?
    VICTOR: I'll see to it that you'll be financially stable, and no one will find you.
    TYLER: So I'll be living out in the woods with Anita?
    VICTOR: Nonsense. That'll put a target on both your backs. Anita's finally out of danger, and you wanna put her back in? You'd have to be mad to do that.
    TYLER: I was out there today. She needs help, Victor. She won't admit it, but she does.
     
    Victor looks at Tyler, confused.
     
    VICTOR: What do you mean?
     
    Tyler sighs again, looking down as he takes a moment before speaking.
     
    TYLER: Anita sold off her stock in Titan. That's how Nick and Stefano were able to get the 4% they needed to have majority ownership.
    VICTOR: Damn it! 
    TYLER: I know. I was furious with her at first, but...the house is in a real state. The dividends weren't paying out like they used to and she's burning through her savings fast. I...honestly don't think she had another option.
     
    Victor shakes his head in disappointment.
     
    VICTOR: I'll make sure Anita's covered. Just make sure you get the job done, and get out of Salem. When you do, you tell me immediately. And do not come back under any circumstances.
     
    Tyler looks back at a steely-eyed Victor, who stares him down unflinchingly.
     
    ---
  22. beebs
    EPISODE 116
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Percy finishes apply bandages from the First Aid kit in the Titan lab to Nick, as Nick sits on the island counter of the lab, he winces slightly as his tender wounds are touched.
     
    PERCY: There you are, that should cover it.
    NICK: Ugh, thanks, Percy.
     
    Nick looks over his wounds before jumping down off the counter, walking over toward his laptop, as Percy puts the contents of the First-Aid kit back together.
     
    PERCY: You know, you gave me quite a scare, Nicholas.
    NICK: Yeah, I...I dunno, Percy. These headaches I've been getting--
     
    Percy turns around, surprised to hear about headaches.
     
    PERCY: Headaches? Nicholas, you've been...rather hazy for weeks...are these headaches connected?
     
    Nick looks down at the table, closing his laptop and putting it into his case, he speaks nonchalantly to Percy.
     
    NICK: (sigh) Yeah. Just didn't want to alarm you...or anyone else. People seeing me in pain is seen as a showing of weakness in the business world. Always best to struggle through your pain.
    PERCY: You're far beyond struggling through, Nicholas. You're in great pain, Nicholas. I mean, you've been moody and irritable for weeks. And now I find you...sprawled out on the floor of the lab. Is someone trying to harm you, Nicholas or...is something else going on?
     
    Nick keeps looking down, a serious look on his face as he packs the last of his things away.
     
    ---
     

    JJ sits in the Horton living room, alone, contemplating the cheque that Liam's given him, when Laura opens the front door and steps in.
     
    JJ turns around, and, upon seeing his grandmother, gets up from the sofa. Laura beams as she walks toward her grandson, giving him a warm hug.
     
    LAURA: JJ, darling. How are you?
    JJ: I'm good. I'm good. Uh...how are you?
     
    Pulling out of their hug, Laura smiles warmly at her grandson.
     
    LAURA: I'm alright, sweetheart. A bit tired, though, I'm going to head up to bed if you--
     
    As Laura turns to head up the stairs to her room, JJ stops her, a serious tone in his voice that catches Laura's attention.
     
    JJ: Ah, Grandma! Please. I need to talk to you about something, it's really important.
     
    Laura looks at JJ, concerned by JJ's tone and troubled expression. She nods slowly before redirecting toward the Horton living room.
     
    LAURA: Okay...so...what seems to be the trouble, JJ?
     
    JJ stops before Laura. He sighs as he looks down at Liam's cheque, before unfolding it, and presenting it to her. Laura hesitates before taking the cheque, studying it intensely before breathing in deeply. A look of grave concern on her face as she slowly begins to look up toward JJ.
     
    ---
     

    Noelle sits with Nicole at Club TBD, now rather sloshed, as they continue to laugh and drink. As they continue to laugh at a joke, the door to the bar opens, and Alex steps in. Noelle takes notice of her husband's presence and straightens herself up, donning a serious expression that makes Nicole take notice.
     
    Nicole turns around to face Alex, unsure who it is approaching.
     
    NICOLE: Well, who is this handsome devil?
     
    Alex, smelling the martini on Nicole's breath, makes sure not to get to close, instead rests casually on the bar next to her, trying to maintain a sense of humour despite being rather unimpressed by his wife's public drunkedness.
     
    ALEX: Ohh nobody, just the tired husband here to collect his wife.
     
    Noelle leans against the bar, sloppily pointing a finger Alex's way.
     
    NOELLE: You got my text. But I am not some meat piece you pick up. I am a woman.
    NICOLE: That she is. A woman who's clearly been drank under the table by an experienced professional.
     
    Nicole takes on a mocking haughty tone as she sips the last of her martini. Noelle shakes her head at Nicole, her eyes squinted partly in irritation, partly in exhaustion.
     
    NOELLE: I don't have to take this. But I do have to take this ride because taxis are eps...expensive.
     
    As Noelle stumbles to get out of her seat, she nearly tumbles, but Alex manages to break her fall.
     
    ALEX: I think you're right.
     
    Noelle, still not paying enough attention to try to regain her balance, objects loudly.
     
    NOELLE: Hey! Don't take her side on this!
    ALEX: I'm not, honey. I promise. Look, we need to go. I hope you two had a good evening.
     
    Alex pulls Noelle back upright, and she struggles to keep balance as she holds onto Alex's arm for dear life, attempting to no avail to maintain a sense of dignity on her way out. Nicole waves goodnight to them, quite amused.
     
    NICOLE: Oh, absolutely, had a blast, get home safe, you two!
    NOELLE: Goodnight, Nikki!
     
    Noelle turns back to talk to Alex as they head out of the bar.
     
    NOELLE: You know, that Nicole is so much nicer when you're not near a man, it's like day and night...
     

    As Noelle and Alex head out the door, Nicole sighs, shaking her head with amusement. T walks over and points toward Nicole.
     
    T: You wanna settle up?
    NICOLE: Are you kidding? The other fake blonde's the lightweight here. Hit me up!
     
    T laughs as he steps away to make Nicole another martini. In curiosity, Nicole checks her phone. Seeing Nick's name in her contacts, she looks down and sighs.
     
    After a moment, she shakes her head, and says something to herself.
     
     
    NICOLE: You know what, Nick? You're not controlling me anymore.
     
    Nicole hits a button on her phone, blocking calls from him Nick's number. She looks up with a sense of satisfaction.
     
    NICOLE: Because tomorrow morning, I will be Mrs. Eric Brady, and even if Eric sees those files, I'm gonna know he chose me. You can't hurt us anymore, kiddo.
     
    As she turns back to the bar, putting her phone down on it, T presents her new martini, which Nicole takes a congratulatory sip of.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Alex drives through the night with a stern expression on his face. Next to him, a decidedly uncomfortable Noelle sits, uneasy with the tense silence between them. She finally breaks the silence, trying to maintain her composure despite her obvious intoxication.
     
    NOELLE: How was your eveni--
    ALEX: It was good.
     
    Noelle senses the terse tone in her husband's voice, and immediately knows something is indeed very wrong between them.
     
    NOELLE: Look, Alex, I don't wanna fight abo--
    ALEX: Then don't, okay, Noelle? I'm really not in the mood right now.
     
    Noelle sighs, before folding her arms and slouching down in her seat. As the pair hit a red light, Noelle looks back over at her husband and tries talking again.
     
    NOELLE: I had a really good talk with Nicole tonight. That was...Eric's...fiancé...back at TBD...
     
    Alex's stone silence as he presses down heavily on the gas from the stoplight makes Noelle lean back slightly in her seat, only adding to her discomfort as she looks out at the road ahead.
     
    NOELLE: She helped me relax a bit...and I'm sorry about earlier at the hospital...
     
    Alex still doesn't react. Noelle persists, trying to provoke some kind of response from Alex.
     
    NOELLE: Alex? Did you hear me? I said I was sorry about earli--
     
    Alex finally reacts, still keeping his eyes on the road as he snaps back at Noelle.
     
    ALEX: I heard you. 
     
    Alex finally looks over momentarily at Noelle. Catching her eyes, his eyes snap back to hers, causing him to relent a little.
     
    ALEX: Look, I just....Noelle, I heard you but...
     
    Noelle leans back in her seat, trying to retain her composure, gurgling out a response.
     
    NOELLE: But what?
    ALEX: But I don't know if I believe you or not. You....you had such anger toward Victor, it just...I don't kn...I...Noelle?
     
    Noelle puts her hand over Alex's, as she begins to sweat.
     
    NOELLE: Alex pull over.
     
    Alex looks over, confused.
     
    ALEX: Huh?
     
    Noelle begins to look panicked, as she raises her voice to Alex.
     
    NOELLE: Pull over.
    ALEX: Noelle, I'm not gonna let you walk home from here, it's still about three miles from the ho--
    NOELLE: Now! Please!
     
    Noelle puts her hand over her mouth, sweating more and more profusely as Alex realizes what's wrong. His expression changes and he immediately checks behind him before pulling over by a park. Noelle immediately gets out and runs from the car, sick from the excess martini.
     
    Alex sits in the car, rolling his eyes momentarily before stepping out of the car to check on his wife and hold her hair back like a dutiful husband.
     
    ---
     

    Jennifer and Liam sit at a table at Chez Rouge, as the waiter pours them glasses of white wine. As the waiter, walks away, Jennifer looks up and smiles.
     
    JENNIFER: Thank you.
     
    Jennifer looks over to Liam, raising her glass to toast him.
     
    JENNIFER: Well, I would like to make a toast to you, tonight.
    LIAM: To me?
    JENNIFER: Yes! To you!
     
    Liam and Jennifer laugh as Liam also raises his glass.
     
    LIAM: What for?
    JENNIFER: For reaching out to my son. For trying to build bridges even though you've had problems in the past. It means a lot to me, and I know that, despite his reservations, JJ appreciates it too.
     
    Liam smiles as he moves his glass toward Jenn's and they toast.
     
    After taking a sip from their glasses, Liam sets his glass down and smiles at Jenn.
     
    LIAM:  I just hope that I can keep making you happy, and you know what? I'm gonna make sure JJ comes around, even if it kills me.
     
    Jennifer laughs as she leans across the table to peck Liam on the lips.
     
    ---
     
    Laura stands in the living room of the Horton house with JJ. She turns suddenly to face JJ, horrified by Liam's latest 'gesture'.
     
    LAURA: JJ, you cannot accept this money.
    JJ: I know. I don't want to but--
    LAURA: No buts. JJ, this is dirty money.
     
    JJ looks at Laura, puzzled.
     
    JJ: Grandma, Liam offered me this to go to Stanford. He said this would cover my tuition and my living expenses for awhile, and--
     
    Laura holds up her hands, stopping JJ midsentence.
     
    LAURA: JJ, Liam works for Stefano, he's been supplying people with pharmaceuticals on the sly, this is dangerous to get involved with him. Besides that, isn't it obvious he's trying to buy you off and get you out of town so he can manipulate your mother further?
     
    JJ looks down, sighing. He nods solemnly.
     
    JJ: Yeah, it looked that way to me too.
     
    Laura walks closer to JJ and cups his hands in hers. She stares deeply into her grandson's eyes as she instructs him.
     
    LAURA: That's why you cannot accept this money. Your mother needs you. Your sister needs you. I need you. We've got to stay together to protect this family.
     
    JJ looks down, soaking in what his grandmother's telling him.
     
    LAURA: Please, JJ.
    JJ: Look, Grandma, I understand what you're saying. And I agree, my family needs me...but what if there's another way? What if this money is our ticket to stopping this guy from destroying this family?
     
    Laura looks at JJ, unsure what he has in his mind.

    ---
     
    Nick zips up his bag and nods, turning toward Percy to respond to him.
     
    NICK: Listen, Percy. I don't know what's going to happen from here on out. All I know is, I have a target on my back. And so will you. 
     
    Percy looks at Nick, confused.
     
    PERCY: Nicholas, I don't understand--
    NICK: Listen, Percy. Tonight I stopped Sheryl and Jordan from planting that virus in the Titan server.
     
    Percy looks stunned at Nick, shocked that he would back away from their plan.
     
    PERCY: Wha--why? I mean, that was our plan all along was to allow them access to Titan's computer system to stop this blasted deal--
    NICK: I know...I know, that was what we planned, but...
    PERCY: But Nich--
    NICK: Percy, just...just hear me out. 
     
    Nick looks at Percy, emphatically explaining his change of plan, as Percy looks back, incredulous.
     
    NICK: See...Sheryl was setting me up to take the fall for the virus...and if we were going to see this thing through...I can't let that happen. I can't go back to prison. Ever. So, I decided the best way to stop the oil sands project, is to control it from the inside.
     
    Percy's eyes grow wide, as he realizes the change in Nick emerging.
     
    PERCY: Good lord, Nicholas. You're not saying...
     
    Nick smiles, as he interrupts Percy. A devilish smile on his face.
     
    NICK: Yes, Percy. We're not gonna take down Titan. We're gonna take OVER Titan.
     
    ---
  23. beebs

    DAYS1979 #3 - June 1979

    By beebs,


    Episodes
    JUNE 1979
     
    Susan, fresh back in Salem, pays the David Martin Clinic a visit, and the first person she visits is Tom, who is thrilled to see her back in Salem. When he presses Susan as to the reason for her visit, Susan informs Tom that this isn't merely a visit, Susan and Anne are back in Salem permanently. Things with Eric didn't work out, and she feels that, no matter what, she's at home in Salem. Tom is thrilled to have her back, and wonders if Susan will return to working at the David Martin Clinic. Susan wishes to do so, but also feels the clinic is running fine without her, so she's intending to loosen the reigns somewhat, and involve herself in other projects as well. Tom is pleased for her.
     
     
    Donna and Pete ride off on Pete's motorcycle to grab burgers and a soda, and catch up on what's happened since Pete's been away. Pete tells Donna that he's now graduated, and has decided to spend the summer in Salem with his uncle Neil. He hopes to work, save some money, and hopefully head away to college in the fall. Donna is happy to have Pete back in her life, but insists they keep their reunion private, especially from her father and stepmother. Pete is reluctant, not wanting to begin their renewed connection with a lie, but Donna insists that is the way it has to be, as Don would never accept Pete back in her life.
    Pete goes along with this for a few nights, but resents sneaking around. He also is firm with Donna that they're just friends for now, he wants to take it slow, and he wants to see other girls. Donna doesn't love this idea, but goes along with it, simply happy to have Pete back in her life at all.
    One of the girls Pete has his eye on is Anne Peters. He spots her one night while out with a friend, and approaches her. After some flirtation, and more than a hint of presuasion on his part, Anne agrees to go out with him, but asks that he keep it a secret, as her mother is, in her words, "ridiculously overprotective". Anne keeps the dates secret from Donna as well, admitting she's just getting to know Donna, and some of the other girls in school consider her a blabbermouth and a troublemaker.
     
     
     
    Mickey is approached by Kate, sharing the news that her mother has passed away, and that there is some degree of dispute with her relatives over her share of the inheritance. She hopes Mickey can advocate for her. Mickey is pleased to help, and takes on the case. They meet at his office to discuss the matter, and Kate reveals to Mickey that she, in fact, has little interest in the money in her mother's estate for herself, she plans to use it as a scholarship for medical students at Salem University. The reason her family objects is entirely based upon greed. They argue Kate has no need for the money herself and is estranged from the family. Additionally, their mother's will was last updated in 1966, and she has been ill for years, too ill to update the will, but her relatives insist Kate would not be included, based on the word of their mother. Mickey thinks it an easy win for Kate, as the relatives can’t speak on behalf of the mother, and Kate assures Mickey that her mother was of sound mind to the end, regardless of her physical health.
     
    At home, things are not so serene. When Mickey discusses his day, and the help Linda had given him, and how she's been an excellent fit, as though she'd never been away, Maggie seems distant. When Mickey points it out, Maggie gets defensive, but quickly catches herself, admitting to a hint of lingering insecurity. She wishes Linda would return to working for Anderson, though she knows that's not possible. She laments that Susan's return means that she won’t be as involved with the children at the David Martin Clinic as she had hoped.
    At the hospital, Susan's return means Maggie knows she’ll be needed less in the clinic, but Susan insists she’d love Maggie to be around to help out as needed, and Neil offers her more work with him, if she's interested. Maggie accepts. The two work closely together, with Maggie working as his de facto secretary, while also volunteering some of her time with Susan at the clinic.
    Through this, Maggie begins to see Neil's softer side, and is charmed by him, and he is wowed by her quick connection with Pete when he visits Neil at the office. Maggie provides Pete with guidance when he comes by Neil’s office, troubled by his deception in seeing Donna behind Don and Marlena's back (though he doesn't mention Donna or her parents by name). Neil sees the two talk at one point, and it wowed by Maggie’s easy connection with Pete, whom Neil hasn’t had quite as easy a time getting through to.
     
     
    Stephanie makes the trip to Margo's to help her set up the house and paint. There, she and Margo talk about her situation with David, and Margo asks why she feels such animosity toward Trish, wondering if it's a degree of insecurity. Stephanie denies this, saying she actually doesn't mind Trish as a person. In fact, in another life, she's sure they'd be the best of friends. The problem is, beyond David's obvious lingering feelings toward Trish, Stephanie resents how Trish ripped Scotty away from David early in life, when he had the love of both parents. A sore spot for her, she says, as she grew up without a father. Margo understands, but counters that Trish wanted a career, much like Stephanie has. In Trish's world, the only way to have that career is to leave for Hollywood, which David had no interest in doing. As much as she feels that what Trish did was wrong, she understands why she did it. Stephanie agrees with Margo, but doesn't feel like being as magnanimous, under the circumstances.
     
    As their bond gets closer, Stephanie visits Margo again, and they discuss Stephanie's injury to her hands. Margo is stunned by how extensive the burns are, and asks how she got them. Stephanie is vague about details, but repeats her story about dropping the hot pan, then picking up the hot pan from the floor so as not to damage the laminate. Margo seems uncertain about the story, since the scabs on the burns look too uniform to her eyes, but she keeps quiet. Stephanie and Margo have an intense discussion over dinner regarding what would happen if her leukemia came back. Margo is hopeful, but says that if it does come back, it will likely be fatal, and could be incredibly painful. Stephanie wonders how long Margo could remain in this state, and Margo tells Stephanie the doctors speculate she could die within days or could linger for months, but that Margo has decided that, if things get too hard, and there's no hope, she'll ask Mike to allow her to pass away on her terms. Stephanie believes that's the best idea, though she hopes it doesn't go that way for her. Margo thanks Stephanie for her optimism, but also tempers it by making it clear that she's very at peace with her fate.
     
    Mary is increasingly uncomfortable with Stephanie’s confidence at work, and is still uneasy about Stephanie's story about her burns, and troubled by the convenient timing of her burns: just as the government ID checks were beginning. She recalls how familiar everyone found Stephanie to be when she was hired, and finally decides to ask Bob about Stephanie's hiring. Bob confirmed that Stephanie's documentation is with Linda, in fact, when they had begun the government background checks, Bob wasn't able to locate the files, as he assumed Linda had them when she was off in New York.
    Mary approaches Linda, asking if she had seen Stephanie's employee file. Linda, still playing the amnesiac, tells Mary that she didn't take the file when she left for New York, and doesn't remember ever having seen it. Mary is stuck, until she has a chat with Margo over lunch one day, and discusses the burns on Stephanie's hands. Margo is struck by how severe the burns on Stephanie's fingertips are, and how fortunate she is that the burns weren't so bad as to require skin grafts. This sparks an idea in Mary's head, and she heads for Tom's office to ask about accessing Stephanie's records. Tom, of course refuses, despite Mary's pleas. Mary voices her frustrations to Chris, who, while believing that something is amiss with Stephanie, encourages Mary to drop her investigation, or, at least, hire a PI. Mary doesn't want to raise any alarm bells prematurely, but desperately wants an answer, and resents Chris' advice, snapping at him after he receives a call from Amanda, asking him when they'll get together that night.
     
     
    Chris and Amanda continue to see each other, with Chris becoming more and more attached to Amanda, though Amanda is still uncertain about how attached she can get before divorcing Greg. Greg, of course, still hopes that Amanda will return with him to Chicago. When Amanda visits Chris at Anderson, Chris feels Amanda is being pulled in two different directions, and tells her to go back to Chicago with Greg for the time being to try to get her house in order. He will be here for her whenever she’s ready, and tells Amanda that he will call her every day until that time. Amanda is grateful to Chris for his patience, and vows to return to him, and Salem, again soon. They kiss for a long moment, long enough for Mary to walk into the room and catch them. Mary makes snarky remarks about their lack of professionalism that Chris brushes off. Chris then asks Mary about her new beau, Steve. Mary is less-than-thrilled by that line of questioning, frustrated by Steve’s extended stay in Paris. She makes the flip remark that she doesn’t need Steve to be hanging from her lips at every moment to keep him. Chris thinks Mary is a bit defensive, which Mary finds insulting, and storms off.
     
     
    Bob is thrilled by the progress Anderson is making with the government contract. They’re nearly ready to commence production, and Bob is looking at expansion of the plant to accommodate secondary assembly lines. He tasks Stephanie with arranging a trip for himself and Chris to head to Washington, in hopes of approving the expanded contract, as well as potentially finding other investors looking to have product lines assembled via Anderson.
    Chris finds the timing perfect, as he’ll be leaving town just as Amanda heads back to Chicago, so he’s all set to head off. Mary resents that she can’t go along, but Bob pacifies her by giving her more control at the plant while he’s away, essentially evenly dividing Mary’s and Stephanie’s workloads. Bob recognizes Mary’s hurt from when Stephanie was away recovering from her burns, and he thinks this is a much better opportunity for Mary to show her worth. Mary jumps at the chance.
     
    Stephanie has been calling to make the arrangements for Chris and Bob’s hotels. After a conversation with Bob about the details of their trip, and which government offices they’ll need to be in relatively close proximity to, Stephanie slips in a call under hushed tones to a friend of hers. While looking over her shoulder and being generally secretive, Stephanie gives the person on the other end some very specific details about the trip, and what Bob and Chris will be looking for in an investor. She smiles broadly as she hangs up the phone.
     
     
    Marlena and Don are mostly happy at home, though both are very busy people. They make a point of spending at least one night together at the weekend alone, and one with Donna. The system seems to work, though tensions arise one weekend night when Jordan calls Marlena to the hospital on one of her date nights with Don for an emergency with a patient. This doesn't bother Don too much the first time, but the second time, when Jordan calls while he and Marlena are in bed making love, does. Marlena is indignant, recalling numerous times when Don has had to be called away during intimate moments. Don attempts to explain those away, but Marlena doesn't buy it, and asks that they discuss it when she comes back from the hospital.
    While at the hospital, Marlena feels ill, which concerns Jordan. After collecting herself, Marlena goes to see Neil, who runs some tests, while Jordan calls Don. Don is initially openly hostile on the phone, but when Jordan explains the situation, Don races to UH. Upon arriving, Neil informs Don that there's good news, and tells both he and Marlena that they're expecting a baby. The news lifts both Don and Marlena's spirits, softening any hard feelings between them for the time being. Don apologizes for his hostility both to Marlena and toward Jordan.
     
     
     
    Doug feels he's made the correct decision in not revealing Dougie's paternity to Julie, particularly after yet another negative pregnancy test result, and hearing the news of Marlena's pregnancy. Julie feels a sense of inadequecy in not being able to give Doug a child, and, while she loves Hope, wants to give her a brother. Doug wonders if adoption is the answer, but Julie is dead set against that, particularly after her own experience in having David adopted. She's even more dead set against using Doug as a sperm donor to another woman's egg (which is, of course, how Dougie was conceived), feeling that their baby should be THEIRS. Doug feels that this is giving Julie a complex, and that maybe they should hold on on trying for a baby. Julie refuses, expressing that this is what she really wants. Doug thinks it wise to maybe visit Neil again, and ask what options there are for them.
     
    Neil believes they don't have many options, but thinks an avenue to consider is IVF, a new treatment that has worked for a couple in the UK and is beginning trials in the US. Neil believes Doug and Julie could be ideal candidates for this new treatment. Julie is excited by the news, but Doug wants her to really think about it first. Julie agrees. Julie is thrilled when Steve calls Julie, telling her of a huge find he has uncovered at an estate sale in Provence. He encourages Julie to fly over to help him. Doug thinks this is the distraction Julie needs, and thinks she should go, so Julie makes last minute arrangements and heads for Paris.
     
     
     
    David and Stephanie sneak moments alone while at work at Anderson, but David is strict about not being seen together for the divorce hearing, which will soon begin. Stephanie is trying to be patient, but admits she resents the distance in their relationship. David insists it's only temporary. Stephanie is increasingly unsure.
    Trish, meanwhile, is feeling increasingly confident about her chances with the case, and says as much to Jeri while visiting her mother. Jeri, feeling that there's still a sense of sadness in Trish, asks her if she still carries a torch for David. Trish admits that, yes, she'd rather reconcile with her husband, but, knowing that's impossible, she has to win custody of her son. Jeri isn't so sure it's as much of a lost cause as Trish would believe, noting that since Jeri's visit to David's apartment, David and Stephanie have probably been keeping their distance. At least, she says, that's what she's heard. Trish doesn't appreciate her mother giving her false hope, but Jeri explains that she doesn't actually want her and David together, not after how cruel he's been in keeping Scotty away from Trish. Trish blames herself for David's behaviour.
    As Trish performs at Doug's Place one night, Jerry Reinhart shows up, and commends Trish on her performance. Trish is flattered, and they sit together. Jerry admits he came to see what kind of work environment Trish has here and how suitable it would be for Scotty in the eyes of the court. Trish recognizes it's not neccessarily the greatest, but it's a clean, respectable establishment, and she works with people that are like family to her. Jerry agrees. The conversation turns from talking business to more casual conversation, but Jerry, sure to be seen keeping things professional, keeps things brief. Trish, however, is definitely charmed by Jerry.
     
     
     
  24. beebs
    EPISODE 175
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    We see a man's dress shoes walking down a quiet hallway. The noise of which echoes through the otherwise silent hall, as Tyler approaches the doors to the WXIR studio where Nicole will be shooting her TV special. Tyler stops by the sliding doors, as the stagehands rush in and out of the studio, preparing for the telecast. 
     
    Tyler sighs, his mind heavy with the memory of what Victor told him at the hospital. His mind flashes back to Victor's ominous words.
     
    ***
     
    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 167
     

    Victor lies in his hospital bed, a simmering rage in his voice as he instructs Tyler, sat next to his hospital bed, what to do.
     
    VICTOR: ...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 shakes his head, worried about how he will go about making Victor's plans happen without getting caught, before stepping inside the studio.
     
    ...
     
    Inside the studio, there's action all over, as Tyler stands back, trying to be inconspicuous. 
     

    As the stagehands truck over a crane camera, Abby walks over to Nicole, handing her some papers and a glass of water. Nicole seems stressed, and disinterested, barely looking at Abby, who barely looks up at Nicole, both seemingly in opposite worlds.
     
    ABBY: Notes. And your water.
    NICOLE: Thank you.
     
    Nicole looks up, as Abby, studies some of her own papers, struggling to get her head around it all.
     
    NICOLE: You okay? You seem--
    ABBY: I'm fine. Just. Fine.
     
    Nicole looks unconvinced, as Abby rolls her eyes. Nicole responds to Abby sarcastically.
     
    NICOLE: Convincing.
     
    Abby looks back down at her notes.
     
    ABBY: Thanks, I try.
    NICOLE: Abigail, listen, we got a lot going on, but if you need to talk to someone, I don't mind stepping into an office after the show.
     
    Abby looks up, putting on a hardened, professional face.
     
    ABBY: Thanks, but...honestly, I am talked to death for one day, and besides, we have...
     
    Abby checks her watch before continuing.
     
    ABBY: ...twelve minutes to air, and only one guest is here.
    NICOLE: Okay, which guest?
    ABBY: Anjelica Deveraux. No one's heard back from Nick yet.
     
    Nicole looks around, frustrated, before calling out to the studio at large.
     
    NICOLE: Has anyone heard anything from Nick Fallon?
     
    Another assistant rushes in from outside the studio as Nicole finishes her question.
     
    ASSISTANT: He's just in the parking lot, he'll be up in a second!
     
    Nicole turns to a still-fretting Abby, a relaxed smile on her face.
     
    NICOLE: See? Nothing to worry about.
     
    Abby looks back, now the one unconvinced.
     
    ---
     

    In the parking lot at WXIR, Nick parks the car that he and Percy have rode in together. Both men look weary from the taxing day, but Nick notices Percy is more troubled than usual.
     
    NICK: Percy.
    PERCY: Yes, Nicholas?
    NICK: You look worried. 
     
    Percy doesn't respond immediately. Nick chuckles and answers before Percy can.
     
    NICK: There's nothing to worry about. We're gonna go in there, we're gonna make the alternative fuels project look like God's gift to the planet, and we're gonna save your land from being expropriated. Trust me, brother. We got this.
     
    Nick goes to open the driver's side door to exit, then Percy finally speaks up.
     
    PERCY: Nicholas, there's...there's something you should know.
     
    Percy's ominous words stop Nick dead in his tracks. He looks back at Percy, who looks at him with concern.
     
    PERCY: Earlier I came to see you, and...I found Miss Hernandez in your room. 
     
    Nick smiles at Percy, trying to play off Percy's observation.
     
    NICK: Well, Percy, she's living with me, I plan to marry her soon, I mean...I'm sure she'll be in my room a lot.
    PERCY: She was looking for something, Nicholas. And she was deeply troubled by being caught.
     
    Nick stares at Percy, the smiles disappearing from his face.
     
    ---
     

    At the DiMera offices, EJ works away his desk, when Sami storms inside, barely looking at EJ as she begins to rant and rave while placing her bag down and busily arranging her things on a table by his desk.
     
    As Sami rants, EJ looks up at her, and slowly gets up from behind his desk, making his way over to her.
     
    SAMI: I can't believe you can sit there looking so calm with everything going on right now. I mean, Nicole's TV special is on tonight, and now that Nick's taken over Titan, Will's worried Nick's gonna blow his career out of the water, I don't have a clue what that loose cannon might dig up on us, and frankly I wish Gabi would use that stupid gun you gave her to put him out of his misery because I swear to God...
     
    Sami turns abruptly, walking into EJ. Sami looks up after bumping into him. EJ smiles warmly at Sami.
     
    EJ: Samantha...
    SAMI: EJ, not now, I have no much going on, and I really don't have time to--
    EJ: Samantha. Talk to me. 
     
    Sami looks up at EJ and rests her head on his shoulder, as she begins to tear up. EJ is taken aback, hesitant to put his hands on her.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Kim opens the door to her apartment, and gasps with delight.
     
    KIM: Oh my God! It's YOU!
     
    Reaching out to embrace him, Kim finds her son, Andrew, standing in the doorway. He laughs, as he reaches over to hug his mom, spinning her around as he steps inside her apartment.
     
    ANDREW: Mom! I missed you!
     
    Andrew sets Kim down just inside the doorway, and Kim beams with happiness. 
     
    KIM: Oh honey, I missed you too. Oh, this is such a wonderful surprise.
    ANDREW: I thought you needed something like this.
     
    Kim smiles, but with a touch of sadness in her eye.
     
    KIM: I did.
     
    Kim looks behind Andrew for his bags.
     
    KIM: Let's get your stuff inside and get you unpacked.
     
    Andrew doesn't move, turning to watch his mom step out into the hallway of the apartment block. He calls out to stop her.
     
    ANDREW: Ah, Mom! My bags aren't here.
     
    Kim stops in her tracks, before turning around, confused.
     
    KIM: Wh...well,  don't tell me you booked a hotel room. You could stay here with me. Or at least take a room above the pub. One of the guest rooms just opened up!
    ANDREW: No. No, you don't have to worry about that. I actually am here with work. 
    KIM: Work? Work sent you all the way to Salem? We're moving up in the world, aren't we?
     
    Andrew chuckles as he answers his mom.
     
    ANDREW: You could say that. They've got me doing a special report on the governor's race, and since I have production experience, they figure they can save money by having me self-package it.
    KIM: Right. I'm glad that's going well for you.
    ANDREW: It's keeping me busy, at least. What about you? How are you holding up?
     
    Kim shrugs, responding unconvincingly.
     
    KIM: I'm keeping busy, at least.
    ANDREW: Hey, you don't get to turn that one around on me, Mom. 
     
    Kim and Andrew laugh for a second at Kim's deflection, but Andrew's expression immediately gets more serious.
     
    ANDREW: I'm serious. I know Theresa's accident was hard on you, Mom. And...I know it's been rough with Uncle Roman so sick, and being without Kayla or Dad around to help you, plus taking care of Grandma...how are you holding up?
     
    Kim looks at Andrew, a sad seriousness in her eyes as they well up.
     
    ---
     
    EJ stands, unsure what to do as Sami begins to cry on his shoulder.
     
    EJ: Samantha...I ah...
     
    Sami wipes her eyes carefully, as she lifts her head from EJ's shoulder.
     
    SAMI: Sorry, I...I've just....I'm hitting my limit right now, there's so much going on.
    EJ: I can tell. Just....what's got you so upset? It's not this Nick rubbish again, is it?
    SAMI: No. No, I just...(sigh) My mom and I got into a fight today.
     
    EJ rests against the front of his desk, as he asks Sami about her fight with Marlena.
     
    EJ: What about?
    SAMI: My dad's condition. He um...he's not doing well, and I found out from my Aunt Kim that my mom wants to run a DNA test on him because suddenly, after twenty years, she's starting to doubt whether he's really Roman Brady.
     
    EJ looks stunned by the news. He stutters as he tries to make sense of what Sami's told him.
     
    EJ: Eh....I'm...I'm sorry, wh...your father is at death's door, and...
    SAMI: And this is what my mom's priority is. I know. I...honestly, EJ, with everything else going on right now, I don't know whether I can handle this too. I just...
     
    Sami begins to break down in tears, as EJ stands up from his desk, and steps over to Sami, but stops short of pulling her into an embrace.
     
    EJ: You....you don't mind if I...
     
    Sami shakes her head, as he wraps his arms around her tightly, the iciness between them from the past weeks starting to thaw, as Sami finally allows herself to be close to EJ again, feeling comforted by his arms.
     
    ---
     

    At the Salem City Hall, Abe leads Roman, Lucas, Kate, and Billie into an office to discuss the Jordan Ridgeway/Sheryl Connors case.  He stands by the door, ushering them all in with a serious expression.
     
    KATE: Alright, Abe, this better be good.
    ABE: I promise you, it is, Kate.
     
    Once they're all in, Abe shuts the door behind them, before speaking to all three of the others.
     
    LUCAS: Abe, please tell me we're finally reaching the end of this nightmare?
    ABE: Almost.
    LUCAS: Why does that sound like there's another few steps involved in this?
    BILLIE: Because there is. 
     
    Lucas looks at the others, displeased.
     
    ABE: Billie tells me that Sheryl Connors appears to have disappeared since the virus was implanted.
    BILLIE: Exactly. Her and her accomplices have seemed to have settled.
     
    Kate looks at Billie, uncertain.
     
    KATE: Accomplices? Wasn't it just Jordan?
    LUCAS: She obviously means Nick.
    ABE: Not...neccessarily.
    BILLIE: Right. We believe there may be a third person involved. We aren't sure who. Having said this, we know Jordan's settled into her life at University Hospital, and apparently...she's engaged to Rafe Hernandez.
     
    Kate rolls her eyes at the news.
     
    KATE: Don't remind me.
    LUCAS: Is...is Rafe aware of who she is? I mean...she could be dangerous to him.
    ABE: She won't be a threat if Rafe's kept in the dark about who she is. As long as Jordan isn't at risk of being exposed, Rafe remains safe. And besides. He'll have protection.
     
    Abe looks at Roman, who looks on awkwardly back at Abe. Abe appears concerned by Roman's spacey appearance.
     
    ABE: Roman?
    ROMAN: Yes, partner?
    ABE: You...you have anything to add to this? I mean, you will be providing Detective Hernandez with his protection while we finalize the operation, obviously.
    ROMAN: I ah...no, I'm good.
     
    Abe looks concerned, as Roman shuffled uncomfortably.
     
    LUCAS: I just hope this won't go on much longer. Do we know what their plan is? Who they're connected with?
    ROMAN: Well, potentially Nick Fallon but...we aren't certain.
    ABE: Well, they were. But any connection between Nick, and Jordan and Sheryl was severed after Nick stopped the virus from infecting Titan's mainframe.
     
    Billie pipes up, looking around the room seriously as she makes her suggestion.
     
    BILLIE: I think...we need to keep an eye on Nick, regardless, though. Especially if he, and Sheryl and Jordan are at odds with each other. Now that he's become so powerful, Nick could be at high risk, or worse, be a risk to others.
    KATE: You really think they'd risk getting caught to off the little weasel?
    ABE: Wouldn't surprise me. And the Penthouse Grille re-opening party looks to be a perfect opportunity for them to strike.
     
    Kate and Lucas look at each other, as Abe surveys the others for their reaction.
     
    ---
     
    Inside the WXIR studio, Tyler observes the goings-on in the busy room, as the doors to the studio open, and Nick and Percy walk in. Tucked away at the back of the room, Tyler spots Nick and Percy and scuttles away behind the soundstage.
     
    PERCY: Greetings!
     
    Nicole sees Nick and Percy and reacts immediately.
     
    NICOLE: Finally! Where the Hell have you two been?
     
    Nick smiles widely as he walks over to Nicole like a superstar.
     
    NICK: Unavoidably detained, let's say. Shall we get on with it?
    NICOLE: On one condition.
    NICK: Name your price.
    NICOLE: We interview Percy as well.
     
    Percy looks deeply uncomfortable with the idea, but Nick interjects on his behalf without hesitation.
     
    PERCY: I, ah--
    NICK: I think that's a fantastic idea, actually. What do you say, Perc?
    PERCY Nicholas, I...do you really think...
    NICK: I do. Let's do it.
     
    Before Percy can object, Nicole confirms Percy's interview, excitedly.
     
    NICOLE: Great. It's really gonna help drive this home. You're not gonna regret this.
     
    Percy smiles half-heartedly, as Nicole goes over the plan for the episode.
     

    Behind them, Alex and Will arrive in the studio, curious to see the busy setting for the TV special.
     
    WILL: You know, I always wanted to work in television.
    ALEX: Really? I always took you more for a print man, myself.
     
    Will looks over at Alex, amused, as they step over to the back of the studio, observing the action before them.
     
    WILL: You haven't known me long enough to get a feel for what kind of man I am.
    ALEX: I dunno about that. We've been working together pretty much non-stop since you've been hired. Plus what Sonny's told me about you...
    WILL: Sonny talked to you about me?
    ALEX: Yeah, here and there. He'd phone us every so often to catch up. You really made an impression on him. And on me.
     
    Will looks up at Alex, surprised and flattered.
     
    WILL: Well, let's hope that impression is good enough to keep me from being fed the wolves on live TV.
     
    Will looks out at the studio, deeply uncomfortable with the potential for Nick to throw him under the bus. Alex's eyes follow his a moment later, as they survey the busy space before them.
     

    Back at the soundstage, Nicole continues to prep Nick and Percy, as Anjelica emerges from the dressing room. Her team are busily briefing her on her segment as she walks out.
     
    PR MAN: So we need you to ensure that you hit that talking point before the first commercial--
     
    Anjelica stops her PR person, as she spots Nick and Percy, walking over toward them.
     
    ANJELICA: Sounds great. Hold that thought a moment, would you?
     
    Anjelica stops steps from Nick, speaking to him with a saccharine tone.
     
    ANJELICA: Nick? A word?
     
    Nick obliges, as Nicole purses her lips in annoyance at being interrupted.
     
    Nick and Anjelica huddle together, as Anjelica speaks in hushed but pointed tones.
     
    ANJELICA: I don't think I need to remind you of how important this interview is to the both of us, no?
    NICK: Whatever do you mean, Ms. Deveraux?
     
    Anjelica looks at Nick, unimpressed by his sarcasm.
     
    ANJELICA: I mean this may be the only opportunity we get to sell this project before the election, and Stefano is counting on us to deliver results. Need I remind you of your little gaffe at the hospital today with Victor.
     
    Nick sighs, displeased by the reminder.
     
    NICK: You don't need to remind me of that. Let's just hope Victor heard nothing, and keep pressing forward. He can't touch us once the energy project's in operation.
    ANJELICA: Well, you better just hope that everything does go to plan, or your neck will the first one snapped clean off. Understood?
     
    Anjelica flashes a million dollar smile Nick's way, before turning back toward the soundstage to get mic'd up for soundcheck. Nick hangs back, another headache ringing in his ears, as he reaches into his pocket to pull his pill bottle out.
     
    Popping another pill, we see Tyler standing above him on the lighting scaffold, glaring down at Nick from above. Tyler glares, unflinching at Nick, as Nick stands near the set, oblivious.
     
    ---
     
  25. beebs
    EPISODE 117
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Billie steps off the elevator at University Hospital. Standing at the nurses' station is Daniel. Billie and Daniel smile at each other as they give each other a peck on the lips as a greeting.
     
    DANIEL: Well, you're out and about awfully early.
     
    Billie chuckles to herself, checking her watch as she responds.
     
    BILLIE: More like up really late...we had a hell of a night at work and...(sigh) I just needed to see some friendly faces.
     
    Daniel looks up from his tablet, where he's finalizing some work, and gives Billie a stern look.
     
    DANIEL: Well, I hope one of those faces isn't Theresa Donovan.
     
    Billie furrows her brow at Daniel, frustrated.
     
    BILLIE: Of course she is.
     
    Daniel sighs, glowering at Billie's bullheadedness.
     
    DANIEL: Billie--
    BILLIE: ...Well, what do you expect me to do, Daniel? That girl was like a daughter to me before I had Chelsea in my life. I'm closer to her than her own mother. I have a right to see her, regardless of what her mother says.
    DANIEL: You and I know that but I still don't think it's a risk you should be taking. Remember? If I let you in that hospital room, I'm putting my career on the line, and yours as well.
     
    Billie looks to the side, biting her lip, trying to hold in her frustration at Daniel.
     
    BILLIE: Five minutes.
    DANIEL: Billie--
     
    Billie gets agitated, leaning in close to Daniel so as not to project her voice and potentially have others hear their conversation.
     
    BILLIE: Daniel, come on. Just...five minutes, you stay closeby, check in and I'll head home. Okay?
     
    Daniel hesitates another moment, Billie persists.
     
    BILLIE: The guard's on his break, no one will know I'm there. Come on.
     
    Daniel sighs, before taking a moment and motioning silently toward the door.
     
    Billie turns and makes a beeline for Theresa's hospital room door, she looks back at Daniel and smiles warmly at her boyfriend before winking at him, then stepping into the room, closing the door behind her. Daniel looks on, gravely concerned for the consequences if she's caught.
     
    ---
     

    Sami stands in the DiMera living, still in her robe. It's early in the morning with the sun just peaking out. She paces the living room, studying work documents on her tablet, as she sips her morning coffee.
     

    Down the steps comes EJ, groggy, but noticing the lights on in the living room. He steps into the room, surprised to see Sami up so early.
     
    EJ: Samantha...what are you doing up at this hour?
     
    Sami turns to look at EJ, she sets her coffee and tablet down on the desk in front of her.
     
    SAMI: Oh, I...I couldn't sleep so I...I figured I could at least get some work done.
     
    EJ steps into the room and walks over toward Sami, he hesitates before putting a hand on Sami's shoulder, unsure of her reaction. Sami doesn't pull away, though the uncertainty is still on her face.
     
    EJ: I...umm...if there's anything I can do to help.
     
    Sami looks up at EJ, and smiles.
     
    SAMI: Nah it's...it's okay. I gotta present this contract to Gabi at some point today and then...help Will with some wedding plans, and...
    EJ: Contract?
     
    Sami turns back to the desk to pick up her tablet, she taps it a couple times before presenting it to EJ.
     
    SAMI: Oh yeah...it seems Nick Fallon's trying to pit Kate and I against each other for his golden girl. So Kate, Gabi, and I are gonna play along and get the drop on Nick. And hopefully he'll keep his mouth shut on what happened by the river that night.
     
    EJ looks down at the tablet, before looking up at Sami, a grave concern on his face.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole stands in front of the mirror, beaming from ear to ear as she looks at herself in her wedding dress.
     
    NICOLE: Well...take two, Nicole. Hopefully this time, it goes off without a hitch and you'll become Mrs. Eric Brady.
     
    Nicole looks herself over, before her face drops, the worry hitting her like a ton of bricks.
     
    NICOLE: Just so long as Nick Fallon doesn't pull anything first. (sigh) Nothing can go wrong today. I won't let it.
     
    ---
     

    Aiden sits in his office, taking a sip of his first coffee of the morning. He sets it down on his desk, then getting to signing a document on his desk, when a knock is heard at the door. He looks up, calling out to the person at the other side.
     
    AIDEN: Come in!
     
    A delivery man steps into the room.
     
    AIDEN: Oh! Great. Yes. Ahhh....here it is.
     
    Aiden picks up a large manila envelope and hands it to the delivery man.
     
    AIDEN: And that's going to Mr. Eric Brady at the Salem Inn. That's Room 226.
    DELIVERY MAN: Need a signature on that?
    AIDEN: I will, yes. And uh...please make sure, no earlier than 6pm this evening.
     
    Aiden and the Delivery man nod to each other, acknowledging their arrangement, as the man steps out of Aiden's office. As the door closes, Aiden looks on, sighing.
     
    AIDEN: Alright, Nick. I hope you know what you're getting yourself into.
     
    ---
     
     
     
    ---
     
    EJ's concerned face confuses Sami, she furrows her brow as she steps over to the desk in the DiMera living room, grabbing her cup of coffee to take a sip.
     
    SAMI: Why do you look like something terrible's just happened. 
     
    EJ looks away, suddenly deep in thought.
     
    EJ: Because something terrible may be just about to happen.
     
    Sami suddenly looks concerned.
     
    SAMI: What do you mean, EJ?
     
    EJ turns to face Sami, a sense of urgency in his voice.
     
    EJ: I can't get into it, but you need to be VERY careful how you proceed around Nick Fallon from now on. You, Gabi, and Kate.
     
    EJ turns to head out of the room, leaving Sami stunned and confused.
     
    SAMI: EJ? What...where are you going?
    EJ: I have to take care of something.
     
    Sami stands dumfounded as EJ runs off up the stairs.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole continues to insepct herself in the mirror, when she hears a knock on the door. She turns around quickly, confused as to who would be there.
     
    NICOLE: Now who would that be at this hour?
     

    Nicole opens the door to find Eric standing on the other side, dressed in his tuxedo and ready to go, taking Nicole by surprise.
     
    ERIC: Morning!
     
    Nicole jumps back behind the door to hide her wedding dress.
     
    NICOLE: Aah! Eric! What are you doing here?? It's bad luck to see me in my wedding dress before the ceremony!
     
    Eric chuckles to himself as he leans against the doorframe.
     
    ERIC: You're really gonna play traditional right now? This is probably the least conventional wedding I've ever seen.
    NICOLE: Yeah, well...I have my reasons for being a little bit superstitious. This doesn't exactly have the highest marital success rate, if you hadn't noticed.
    ERIC: Yeah, well...I figure we can be an exception. 
     
    Eric smiles widely and melts Nicole's defenses. She cracks a smile and chuckles to herself before looking into her fiancé's eyes.
     
    NICOLE: (sigh) Okay. Let me grab my coat, and let's go!
     
    Nicole steps away from the door, and grabs her coat, putting it on and grabbing her purse before opening the door to her suite. She steps out to find Eric stood with his elbow stuck out to one side, inviting Nicole to wrap her arm around his.
     
    ERIC: M'lady.
     
    Nicole takes Eric's arm and looks warmly in his eyes as they head for the elevator.
     
    ---
     
    Aiden continues to work at his desk, when he receives a call. Without looking up from his papers, he picks up the phone on his desk.
     
    AIDEN: (into phone) Aiden Jennings.
     
    ...
     

    Nick stands in the Brady pub, a to-go cup of coffee before him as he shakes the sugar packets in his other hand.
     
    NICK: (into phone) Aiden, it's Nick Fallon. Is it sent?
     
    ...
     
    AIDEN: (into phone) It is, as requested.
     
    ...
     
    NICK: (into phone) Excellent. I'll be contacting you probably tonight with what I need next from you, alright?
     
    ...
     
    AIDEN: (into phone) Hey, as long as you keep paying my fee, I'm all yours, Fallon.
     
    ...
     
    Nick stirs his coffee casually as he looks up, smirking once again.
     
    NICK: (into phone) Oh, trust me, that won't be a problem.
     
    Nick hangs up the phone, chuckling smugly to himself.
     
    ---
     

    Billie sits next to Theresa's comatose body in her hospital room. She holds Theresa's hand as she speaks gently to her.
     
    BILLIE: Hey, Sweetie. I've been meaning to come see you more but...well...you know your mom.
     
    Billie laughs half-heartedly to herself as she looks down at her friend. She sighs, trying to hold her emotions in.
     
    BILLIE: I guess I should let you know what's up. I...uh...well, Daniel and I are getting pretty serious now. I know he's...not exactly your favourite person, but...he's been good to me. Hell, he's the one making sure I can still come to see you, so that's gotta count for something, right?
     
    Billie stops a moment, never taking her eyes off Theresa's face, as she holds Theresa's hand in hers.
     
    BILLIE: We miss you, Theresa. I know you've got a long way to go and...you may...no, I'm not gonna think like that...I'm not giving up. You're gonna make it all the way back to us, you hear me?
     
    As Billie squeezes Theresa's hand, she feels Theresa squeeze gently back, her thumb moving, causing Billie to jump after a moment, as the heart monitor makes note of Theresa's slight increase in heart rate.
     
    BILLIE: Theresa??
     
    Billie jumps up, and heads for the door of the room to find Daniel to let him know that Theresa's starting to wake up. She stops for a second at the door, a big smile appearing on her face, as she carefully steps back out into the hallway to look for Daniel.
     
    After a moment, the door to Theresa's room, creaks open. A woman in a pair of black pumps steps into the room. She carefully closes the door behind her.
    In her hand is a filled syringe.
     
    ---
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