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  1. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 36
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Theresa looks, slightly annoyed at Billie, as they sit at their table together at Club TBD.

    THERESA: Look, Brady is a good guy.
    BILLIE: I know that. Theresa, I just think that maybe you spending all this time with Brady isn't such a...

    Billie stops speaking mid-sentence, noticing Brady step in behind her.

    BRADY: Isn't what, Billie? A good idea?

    Billie looks at Brady, a deer in the headlights look on her face.

    ---

    Nick sits down in his chair at the lab, a smug look on his face. He leans back in his chair, like a man in control of every aspect of his life.

    NICK: Ohhh yes. Everything is just perfect. Nicole is in my pocket, I'm working my way back to Gabi, and soon Titan TV will be out of Victor Kiriakis' hands. The only thing left to worry about is--
    SHERYL: Alright Nick. Where is it?

    Sheryl and Jordan storm into the lab. Nick turns around, unfazed by Sheryl and Jordan's sudden entrance. He looks over to them with a smile.

    ---

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

    ---

    Eric gives Nicole a massage on the sofa. Nicole sits bolt upright and doesn't seem to be any less tense as Eric works the knots out of her back.

    NICOLE: And then Miles comes into the office with this big box, assuming I'd been fired, and I had to chase him out. I swear, if they don't fire that buffoon, I'll throw him out on the street myself with my bare hands. I am so...urrrrh...I could just...
    ERIC: Nicole, you're not gonna be relaxed at all if you keep freaking out about this.
    NICOLE: This is a big deal, okay? I need to...vent my frustrations. It's theraputic.
    ERIC: Honestly, though, your back gets more tense with every word that comes out of your mouth. Honestly, I think the next few weeks off will be good for you.
    NICOLE: Yeah, well, too bad I'll be spending it working.
    ERIC: Seriously?
    NICOLE: I have stuff to do. I'm gonna be researching this EnerNext stuff.
    ERIC: Woah, woah, woah, you're still...I thought you were off that story. Why are you still working on it?

    Nicole hesitates to answer. She still looks away from Eric, thinking of an answer to the question that doesn't involve Nick.

    ---

    Hope descends the staircase at the Brady Pub, where Aiden stands with furrowed brow at the bar, a coffe cup in hand. He looks at her cooly as she approaches.

    HOPE: Caroline's upstairs with the kids for a moment so we can talk.
    AIDEN: Well, she shouldn't have to bother, this won't take long.
    HOPE: Oh would you just cut this holier-than-thou attitude and talk with me like a normal human being?
    AIDEN: All I want is for your little girl to leave my son alone.
    HOPE: You just don't get it, do you? She's hurting, she misses her dad, and I can't spend the time with her that she needs right now either.
    AIDEN: You act like you're the only person who's ever lost somebody. My son mourns his mother every day. I do as well. It's been only about 6 months since she died, and Ciara's attitude, and the new city, it's all just...it's too much for Chase.

    Hope folds her arms, trying to keep a strong front against Aiden.

    HOPE: At least you and your son can take comfort in knowing that if your wife were able to be there for him, she would be.

    Aiden looks to the ground, half in realization of Hope's pain, half feeling wounded by Hope's directness. Hope realizes immediately that she's pushed a bit too far.

    HOPE: Look, I don't mean to be heartless, or to make your pain feel unjustified. I really am sympathetic, but we can't always be doing this. We have to work together to help our kids. They need us right now more than ever, and what are we teaching them by being at each other's throats all the time?
    AIDEN: (sighs) You're right. I mean, I know I can be bullheaded. But I am still in mourning and...quite frankly, if I'm being honest, you push my buttons the same way my wife could sometimes. It really...I react strongly sometimes, and I get sentimental. And I think back to wife and...I'm sorry.
    HOPE: Hey, it's okay. Look, I don't mean to pry but...if you ever want to talk to someone--
    AIDEN: I'll be fine. Look, we should probably go grab the kids.
    HOPE: Sure.

    Aiden walks ahead toward the staircase. Hope puts a hand on his shoulder, stopping him dead in his tracks.

    HOPE: Hey.

    Aiden turns to look at Hope, a lost, sad look in his eyes.

    HOPE: I'm truly sorry about your wife. I can tell she was a great mom to Chase.

    Aiden gives half a smile before turning to head up the stairs. Hope follows slightly behind.

    ---

    Billie smiles awkwardly at Brady. She grabs her purse to grab money to pay for her lunch with Theresa.

    BILLIE: I'm sorry. I was a bit out of line.
    BRADY: Just a bit.
    BILLIE: Brady, I am sorry. I just wanted to...give Theresa some advice.
    BRADY: Well, I'm sure she appreciates it. However, I am here to take Theresa away for a bit.

    Theresa looks up at Brady, suddenly remembering their plans for the evening.

    THERESA: Oh right! The club opening! That's tonight.
    BRADY: Indeed it is!
    BILLIE: Well, in that case, I will let you both get to it. Have a great time tonight, both of you.
    THERESA: Thanks, Billie. And thanks for meeting with me for lunch.

    Theresa gets up and gives Billie a hug. Billie's face shows a look of concern that she tries to hide out of politeness.

    THERESA: I'm...really glad you're in town. You don't know how much I need a friend like you here.
    BILLIE: I'm glad to be here to help. Now, go on, you two. Be safe.

    Billie walks out of the club, and Brady turns to Theresa with a look of slight bemusement on his face.

    BRADY: I didn't realize you two knew each other.
    THERESA: Yeah, well...you know. It's important to have a couple friends here and there, right?
    BRADY: Right. Well, first and foremost, we gotta make you look like the finest lady at that club. So how's about I take you shopping, and then we'll get my driver and we'll take one of the Titan cars up to Chicago to the club opening. How's that?
    THERESA: Sounds amazing.

    Theresa leans in and kisses Brady. They look into each others' eyes with an electricity that could light up a room.

    ---

    Sheryl steps toward Nick, who looks at Sheryl and Jordan with that same smug look.

    NICK: Where is what?
    SHERYL: You know exactly what I'm talking about, no one else knew about it, Nick.

    Jordan grabs Sheryl's arm, trying to get her to stop talking.

    JORDAN: Sheryl, stop it. I don't think--
    SHERYL: Where is that flash drive, Nick?

    Nick gets up from his chair, suddenly clueing in to what Jordan and Sheryl were up to.

    NICK: So THAT'S what you two were up to in there. You two are quite the pieces of work, you know that?
    SHERYL: Give it up, Nick. We need that.
    NICK: I don't have it. But I do have to admi, I'm impressed by you two. What was on there? Some sort of virus to wipe out Titan's files and ruin the EnerNext project?

    Sheryl stops talking, unwilling to give into Nick and give him any more information than she already has.

    NICK: If that flash drive was supposed to give you access to Titan's mainframe? All you had to do was come to me, you know.
    JORDAN: What do you mean?
    NICK: I have access to everything, right here on my tablet. Look, I was serious before. I think we can help each other out here. And it's far less risky to be involved with me than doing these tricky operations on your own. So what do you say, ladies?

    Sheryl hesitates, but eventually extends her hand to Nick, who promptly shakes it. Sheryl looks to Nick with a stonefaced look that means business.

    NICK: Pleasure doing business with you.

    ---

    At University Hospital, Anne Milbauer is on the phone in her office when EJ storms in. Anne jumps from the interruption, and quickly ends her phone conversation.

    ANNE: I've gotta talk to you later, I'm sorry. Bye.

    Anne hangs up her phone and turns to EJ, incensed.

    ANNE: What in God's name are you doing here, and how dare you barge into my office?
    EJ: Oh I wouldn't be so bold, Ms. Milbauer. You are going to answer to me right now.
    ANNE: Or else what?
    EJ: Don't test me.

    Anne stirs in her chair uncomfortably as EJ stares her down menacingly.

    ANNE: So what do I owe the "pleasure"?
    EJ: You are threatening Abigail Deveraux. And that stops, right now.

    ---
  2. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 35
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Ciara, Johnny and Chase walk together down the path toward the Brady Pub, Hope not far behind as they walk. Hope is on the phone to someone and stops near the door of the pub, as the kids talk a bit further away.

    CHASE: My dad says that he fought a bear once and won.
    JOHNNY: COOL!

    Ciara looks at Chase, unimpressed.

    CIARA: So? No one cares what lame fights your dad's in, Chase. I bet he made it up.
    CHASE: Did not!
    CIARA: Well did you SEE him fight the bear?
    CHASE: Just cos I didn't see it doesn't mean it didn't happen!
    CIARA: Then I don't believe you.
    CHASE: Shut up!

    Chase pushes Ciara, and Ciara pushes back, just as Hope notices and Aiden arrives. They both scuttle to stop the kids from fighting.

    HOPE: Hey hey hey!
    AIDEN: What's going on here?
    CIARA: He pushed me.
    CHASE: Did not!
    CIARA: Did so.

    Hope steps between the kids as they begin to grab for each other again.

    HOPE: Okay, okay, enough! Ciara! Come into the pub with me, we're gonna have a talk, okay?

    Ciara folds her arms and frowns in an almost melodramatic fashion.

    CIARA: Fine.

    Ciara stomps into the pub, closing the door behind her. Hope looks at Aiden with a knowing look of parental frustration, but Aiden is not appearing to understand. Holding his son against him as if to protect him, he shakes his head at Hope.

    AIDEN: Why is it SO HARD for you to control your child?

    Hope raises her eyebrow, upset by Aiden's accusation.

    HOPE: Excuse me?

    ---

    Theresa crosses her arms in frustration as Billie sits across from her at the table at Club TBD, unable to contain her disapproval at Theresa's relationship with Brady.

    THERESA: Uh oh? What? What's wrong with Brady?
    BILLIE: I mean....it's not that he's a bad guy. I've known him since he was a kid, he's a great guy but...Theresa, he's in a really bad place right now, and...having been an addict myself, I know what this could be for him right now, and I don't think it's healthy for either of you.
    THERESA: Billie. Were fine. We have a lot of fun together and I let him take a lot of weight off his shoulders. Is that really such a big deal?
    BILLIE: Honey, if he's using you as a distraction for his real problems, yeah. It's a huge deal.

    ---

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

    ---

    Will looks at Marlena with an unimpressed look as he stands in her office.

    WILL: Grandma, come on. This isn't something to celebrate.
    MARLENA: I know. I know, but...well, you know how much I love EJ DiMera.
    WILL: Oh, I'm sure there's enough warmth there to heat our entire apartment block.

    Marlena and Will laugh. Will puts his hand on Marlena's shoulder reassuringly.

    WILL: I know you're just looking out for her. But I have a really strong feeling that, if they can get through this, they might just make it this time.

    Marlena gives a half-hearted smile to Will. She stares at the ground a few seconds before looking to him. Will looks to her the entire time, wondering what she's pondering.

    MARLENA: Will, I don't know if I've ever talked to you about this. But I think you need to hear it. Because I really don't think you truly understand my hesitation at your mother marrying EJ.

    Will nods slowly, a bit confused as to what Marlena's leading to.

    WILL: Okay. What do you mean?
    MARLENA: Well...as your mom told you, EJ...he forced your mother to have...sex with him. And...

    Marlena takes a moment and breathes. She fights back tears as she tries to muster the words. Will rubs his hand up and down Marlena's arm in sympathy. Marlena's fight slowly is lost as she recounts her story to Will.

    MARLENA: I have been in her shoes before.
    WILL: With EJ?
    MARLENA: No, no. It was...so long ago. Before your mother was even born. I was engaged to a man named Kellam Chandler and...he raped me. And I...I just don't know if it's possible for any woman to be able to truly, completely trust and believe in that man after he does something like that to her. Now, your mother has been so strong for so long, and has really fought this feeling about EJ for a long time but...I think the realization of what EJ did to her...it's finally sunk in, Will. And if I'm being completely honest...I'm so glad for that, because now she can see that man for the evil, evil creature that he is.

    Will, stunned by Marlena's story and her perceptions of Sami and EJ's relationship, leans in to hug his grandmother, so very much on his mind, he can only stare ahead, eyes wide open.

    ---

    Jenn looks at Liam, confused and slightly hurt by his rejection of her evening plan.

    JENNIFER: What do you mean?
    LIAM: Jenn, I just have a lot of work to do tonight. I know you wanna help take my mind off it but..I've just been so distracted lately and I really need to finish this project for tomorrow. I hope you understand.

    Jenn smiles as Liam speaks. She feels reassured and puts her hand on his shoulder in sympathy.

    JENNIFER: Liam! It's okay. I understand. You shouldn't feel guilty for being dedicated to your job.
    LIAM: I figured you'd understand. Look, we can always get together tomorrow night and I'll tell you how everything went. Okay?
    JENNIFER: I'd like that.
    LIAM: Alright. I'll see you later.

    Liam kisses Jenn tightly on the lips. Jenn watches as Liam heads off for his car, a smile a mile wide across her face. As Liam takes off, she hears the phone ring. Jenn scuttles back into the house, closing the door behind her. She picks up the phone, and hears from her mother.

    JENNIFER: (into phone) Hello?

    ...

    Laura Horton sits at a desk in her office at a Portland clinic. She appears relaxed and content, wearing a huge smile as she begins to talk on her office phone to her daughter.

    LAURA: Hi Darling. It's your mom.

    ...

    JENNFER: Mom! How are you?

    ...

    LAURA: I'm well, honey. I just wanted to call to let you know I'd be coming to town in a few days.

    ...

    JENNIFER: Oh that's fantastic! Uh...where are you staying?

    ...

    LAURA: I'll just be staying at the Salem Inn, it's just for a couple weeks while I work with a patient at the hospital. Marlena asked me to help her with it.

    ...

    JENNIFER: Absolutely not, we'd love to have you stay with us at the house.

    ...

    LAURA: Are you sure? I know it's a really busy place right now, and I wouldn't want to impose.

    ...

    JENNIFER: Mom! Don't worry about it. I'll build a bed for you if I have to. Just...please come stay with us, will you?

    ...

    LAURA: Alright, darling. Oh, and by the way...how is Abigail doing?

    ...

    JENNIFER: She's actually doing much better, Mom. Apparently she's just started a new job today working for Countess Wilhelmina. I don't know how I feel about her working for the DiMeras though.

    ---

    Sami, Abigail, and EJ stand in the hallway at the DiMera Building. EJ is shocked and upset after Sami's news. Abigail is also a bit uneasy, not having realized that she'd be working so closely with EJ in her new position.

    EJ: Samantha, why didn't you consult me about this first?
    SAMI: I didn't think it was a big deal. What, you don't want Abigail working here?
    ABBY: I'm sure he doesn't. That's fine, EJ. If you'd rather I not take this job, I can always find another job.
    EJ: No. No, Abigail. That's not what I meant. Look. Samantha. Can I have a word alone with Abigail for a minute? I just...I don't want her to misunderstand.

    Sami looks at Abigail and EJ, feeling something is going on that she's unaware of. She lingers on their eyes. Both of them fixated on the other. Sami turns to EJ and hesitates before speaking.

    SAMI: Sure. I'll be in my office. We can talk later.

    Sami walks back into her office, before shutting the door, the turns back to Abigail.

    SAMI: Oh! Abigail. Don't forget to head down to HR at 3:00 and pick up your new ID badge, okay?
    ABBY: Okay, thanks Sami!

    Sami closes the door to her office. No sooner has she done this than EJ has taken Abigail by the arm and dragged her into the adjacent board room. Abigail is surprised and tries in vain to fight EJ off, but he overpowers her. He lets go of her, and Abigail falls against the board room table.

    ABBY: OW! What the Hell, EJ?
    EJ: You're going to have to explain to me how you figured I wasn't working closely with Samantha at this company.
    ABBY: I didn't think of it, okay? I figured you were busy working with Stefano. I didn't think I'd be working alongside you all the time.
    EJ: Did you ever think of letting ME know before you accepted?
    ABBY: Why would I do that? What business is my work to you, anyway?
    EJ: It's my business because we have a secret between us that we need to protect, and the more we're together, the more difficult that will be.

    Abby in tense as EJ is approaching her with anger every time he speaks. She tries in vain to back away, her legs pressed against the conference table.

    ABBY: Well, we just have to make the best of it.
    EJ: We absolutely do not, Abigail.

    EJ turns away a minute, running his fingers through his hair with a pensive look across his face. He stops a second a turns to Abigail, a more subdued, inquisitive tone in his voice. He asks with less hostility:

    EJ: You never told me what happened with your job at the hospital.

    Abigail tenses again after relaxing a moment. She looks at the ground as if searching for somewhere to look away from EJ.

    ABBY: It was nothing.
    EJ: Oh ho ho, come on, little girl. You know, that's not it or you'd be fighting to get that job back right now. What happened?

    Abigail doesn't speak, her mouth quivers as she tries to speak, but fails to come up with a good lie. EJ's anger rises, and he desperately lurches toward Abigail, grabbing her by the shoulders and shakes her, as if to loosen the words from her throat.

    EJ: Tell me what happened, damn it! What happened at the hospital, Abigail!
    ABBY: It was Anne! It was all Anne!

    EJ stops, taking a step back. EJ is confused, barely knowing Anne.

    EJ: Anne?
    ABBY: Anne Milbauer. She heard everything. She forced me to quit or she'd...

    EJ holds back from screaming, a great tension in his face turns away from Abigail, a burning rage in him he struggles to keep from letting out.

    ---


  3. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 34
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Marlena is in her office, on the phone to Laura Horton. The old friends are chatting happily as Marlena sits at her desk, having a chuckle.

    MARLENA: (into phone) Alright, so I'll expect you in a few days then? Excellent. Thank you ever so much, Laura! Bye bye.

    As Marlena finishes her call, Will steps into her office. Marlena's smile widens upon seeing her grandson.

    MARLENA: Will! What a lovely surprise!

    Marlena gets up and gives Will a warm hug. She looks out the door as Will walks in. Will clues in immediately to what Marlena's looking for.

    WILL: I didn't bring Ari with me. She's with Gabi this afternoon.
    MARLENA: Oh. Well that's alright. What can I do for you?
    WILL: Well, I'm hoping that that was the person that'll be helping mom you were talking to on the phone.
    MARLENA: Ah, yes. That was Laura. I don't think you've seen her since you were about as tall as my knees though, so I don't know how well you remember her.

    Will and Marlena share a laugh.

    WILL: Well, you know. It's been a long time but I vaguely remember her. But I have to admit, I am worried for mom, even now.
    MARLENA: Why's that?
    WILL: Well, I didn't tell you this when I saw you yesterday but...when Mom was at our place the other night, she...she was going to cut off her engagement to EJ.

    Marlena almost reacts with glee at Will's announcement, but holds back, overcompensating with concern.

    ---

    JJ opens the door to head out for his community service. There at the door, about to ring the doorbell is Liam. JJ doesn't hide his dislike of Liam from his face.

    LIAM: Oh hey, JJ! Is your mom home.
    JJ: Yeah. She's inside. What did you want?

    Liam smiles awkardly, trying to stay cool in the face of JJ's hostility.

    LIAM: I, uh...I had a little surprise I wanted to give her. Our date last night went really well so...
    JJ: Great. I'm glad. Isn't this like...your third or fourth date or something?
    LIAM: Yeah! I think things are going really well. Do you mind if I--
    JJ: ...I'll go get her. One sec.

    JJ turns to go back inside, letting the door swing shut behind him, but Jenn is not far behind him and catches the door before it closes.

    JENNIFER: JJ. I got it.
    JJ: Kay.

    JJ heads out, rolling his eyes at his mother and Liam. He brushes past Liam on his way out. Jennifer gives a disapproving look JJ's way as she leans in the doorway, before looking back to Liam.

    JENNIFER: Sorry about that. How are you?
    LIAM: GOOD! I'm doing fantastic! I had a little something for you.

    Liam presents a box of chocolates to Jenn, who smiles widely at Liam.

    JENNIFER: That's really sweet of you, Liam. Look. I'm sorry that JJ's not taken with you. He's...
    LIAM: He's young. He misses his dad. It's okay.
    JENNIFER: I'm glad you understand. God, it's like you've known me forever. I really appreciate the time I've spent with you, Liam.
    LIAM: Jenn, you're a beautiful, special woman. And that's a rare thing to find. I just hope you feel the same about me.
    JENNIFER: Absolutely, I do. Look, what are you up to tonight?
    LIAM: Oh I just...I have some work to catch up on at home tonight and--

    Jennifer looks to Liam seductively. She grabs the lapel of his jacket and pulls him in slowly as she speaks.

    JENNIFER: ...Well...Abigail is working late tonight at her new job, and JJ is going to visit his Grandma Jo for the weekend, so...how about I go to your place and make you a nice quiet dinner, and distract you a bit.

    Liam stops her and pulls away suddenly.

    LIAM: I don't think that's such a hot idea, Jenn.

    Jenn frowns, confused by Liam's sudden rejection.

    ---

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

    ---

    Billie sits down at a table at Club TBD, a coffee cup before her. She checks her phone for messages, a look of concern across her face. Shortly thereafter, Theresa comes stumbling in, a bit panicked, in a way that Billie seems familiar with. Billie stands up with a smile and arms reaching out.

    THERESA: Oh my God, I'm sorry I'm late.

    Theresa rushes over to give Billie a hug.

    BILLIE: It's okay, hon. I was prepared for you to be a bit late anyway.

    Theresa pulls back from her hug, a mock-serious look on her face.

    THERESA: Hey now, come on. I'm not ALWAYS late.
    BILLIE: I kinda doubt that.

    Theresa rolls her eyes a bit, jokingly, as she and Billie sit down at the table.

    THERESA: Okay, fine. I'm...usually--
    BILLIE: (laughing)...always late.
    THERESA: Oh whatever. (laughs) So what's up with you, I haven't seen you since I left LA.
    BILLIE: I'm alright. I...I'm kinda shocked I'm back in Salem, but...my mom needed me at work so...
    THERESA: Ooo! Does this mean you're gonna be doing more amazing cosmetics work? Some 48-hour concealor that won't come off with an ice pick?

    Billie and Theresa have a laugh, as T passes, Theresa stops him.

    THERESA: Oh, T. Mimosa for me.

    T looks down at Theresa, a bit of annoyance on his face, but still within the realm of professional appearance.

    T: Only if you say the magic word.

    Theresa shoots T a look of daggers.

    THERESA: Please.
    T: One moment!

    T walks off, Billie giggles, and Theresa scowls.

    THERESA: Can you believe the lousy service I get here?
    BILLIE: Well, don't you have a bit of a rep around here already?
    THERESA: That's not my fault. That's Jennifer Horton's fault.
    BILLIE: Now, come on, Theresa. I've known Jennifer about as long as I've known you. She's really a great person--
    THERESA: ...Oh my God. You too. Really? I've heard this speech like...a thousand times already from my parents, from my grandmother, from my aunt Kayla, from JJ, from Daniel, I don't need to hear it again from you. She nearly had me thrown back on a bus to LA with a slight detour at the county penn. I will not forgive that prissy bitch.
    BILLIE: Theresa, seriously. I know how you feel about her but--
    THERESA: ...But nothing. Jennifer Horton and her perfect little life where nothing bad has ever happened can go straight to Hell.
    BILLIE: Theresa, stop it. Jennifer and you have way more in common than you think, honey. She's not had it very easy. I promise you.

    Theresa rolls her eyes dismissively. Billie leans in closer to Theresa from across the table.

    BILLIE: I'm serious. I don't want you to think I don't support you, but we have all been where you are. Trust me. Jennifer as well.
    THERESA: Well, I do feel for her, whatever she went through, but that doesn't mean I'm going to suddenly become her closest friend, okay? Look can we talk about something else, please.
    BILLIE: Like?

    Theresa slowly cracks a smile.

    THERESA: Liiiike the hot rich guy I'm seeing.
    BILLIE: Oh my God. Who is it this time?
    THERESA: Brady Black.

    Billie's face drops upon hearing Brady's name.

    BILLIE: Oh no.

    ---

    Nick studies his iPad in the elevator at Titan. An article from the business section at the Salem Spectator is on it, detailing the scandal at the EnerNext press conference and what it could mean for Titan. The article specifically mentions that Titan TV, long on the decline in the ratings game, could be shipped off to pasture by the Titan board this coming week. The article puts a smile on Nick's face as the elevator dings, and the doors open.

    Nick steps off the elevator and heads over towards Kate's office. There is no secretary sitting at the desk, so Nick simply walks in. Kate, focused on work, barely looks up from the paper in front of her on her desk.

    KATE: I see your brush with death didn't instill any manners in you.

    Nick stops in the doorway, reaching back to the other side of the door, and he knocks on it loudly.

    NICK: (loudly) Can I come in?
    KATE: Only if you've come to resign.

    Nick walks in, and immediately begins to pace the room. Rarely looking at Kate, he almost seems to be making a grand speech.

    NICK: Sorry, Kate. No such luck. I do, however, have a proposition for you.
    KATE: Well that can't be a good sign. What are you going to blackmail me into doing now, Nick?
    NICK: Oh come on, Kate. I'm not here to do anything like that. But if you insist. I have a little request.

    Kate keeps her eyes on her work. Clearly disinterested in Nick's grandstanding.

    KATE: Spit it out, Nick. I'm busy.

    Nick walks quickly towards Kate, which throws her off a bit, but she tries to not make it obvious that he's startled her.

    NICK: You need to drop that attitude. I'm making your pathetic little company millions upon millions of dollars and I'm treated worse than the unpaid intern.

    Kate finally looks up at Nick, looking him straight in the eyes with a piercing quality that shows she means business.

    KATE: There's an easy way to fix that, Nick. Stop threatening my family, and stop trying to take Ari away from her family.
    NICK: I have absolutely no intentions of that. But I don't want that little girl to grow up with your morals, or Sami's morals, or heaven forbid, EJ's morals.
    KATE: That's rich, coming from a would-be rapist and murderer.
    NICK: Enough! Kate. You're going to understand something. I hold all the cards here. So follow what I say, or you're all going down. Got it?

    Kate pulls her reading glasses off her face. She stays fixated on Nick.

    KATE: Is this how you're going to conduct yourself? Go around town, day in and day out, making demands on people and blackmailing them if they don't agree?
    NICK: If I have to.
    KATE: Well, then you're of little use to me as an employee, aren't you? People will start to see through you rather quickly.
    NICK: Oh, I'm sure you can cover for me.

    Kate finally loses her cool. She slams her fists on her desk and stands up, now enraged.

    KATE: Damn it, Nick! What do you want? Stop playing these stupid games and just tell me what you want.

    Nick smiles, finally having got a rise out of Kate. He goes back to pacing the room, as though all is well once again.

    NICK: There's a vote coming up. A very important vote. It involves our local TV station.
    KATE: What about it?
    NICK: It's incredibly important, for you, and for everyone else, if you vote against keeping Titan TV under Titan's control. Important enough that if you don't vote against it, it'll be the last vote you ever take part in. Got it?

    Kate narrows her eyes, and shakes her head. Kate's face shows a sense of dread that is unmistakable.

    ---

    EJ walks through the hallway at Countess Wilhelmina towards the elevator, deep in thought. He looks over some files as the door opens and he goes to step on without looking. Just before stepping on though, he sees Abigail about to get off at the same floor. EJ looks shocked to see Abby there.

    EJ: Abigail! Wh-what are you doing here?
    ABBY: Well...trying to get off the elevator, for a start.
    EJ: Oh, sorry.

    EJ steps to one side. He still has a look of confusion on his face, as he goes to ask Abigail a question, Abigail cuts him off.

    ABBY: I didn't realize you were so involved with Countess W.
    EJ: Samantha and I try to run the operation together as much as possible.

    Abigail's eyes widen, surprised by EJ's statement.

    ABBY: I had no idea.

    Sami, seeing EJ and Abigail's tension, steps into the hallway to greet Abigail, almost as a rescue mission.

    SAMI: Abigail! Glad you made it!

    EJ motions to Abigail, still rather confused, but concerned at what might be happening.

    EJ: Samantha, I--
    SAMI: Was just greeting our newest addition to our promotions department. Today's Abby's first day at Countess W!

    EJ looks to Abigail, his uneasiness with the situation painted on his face. Abigail looks nervously up at EJ before quickly looking away, an awkward smile on her face.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

    Victor furrows his brow at Brady's suggestion.

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

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

    ---

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

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

    Nick smiles widely with his trademark sinister smirk.

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    SHERYL: Oh God.
    JORDAN: What?

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

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

    ---
  5. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 32
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson


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

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

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

    THERESA: Billie!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    DANIEL: What were you doing talking with her?

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

    Nicole shakes her head at this entire scenario with disbelief.

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

    Nick points towards the door Percy walked out of.

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---
  6. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 31
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Jennifer slams her folders on her desk, seething after her confrontation with Anne. Liam is not far behind her, knocking gently on her door with a concerned look on his face.

    LIAM: You alright, Jenn?

    Jennifer looks up at Liam as she sits down at her desk. An exhausted, upset look on her face.

    JENNIFER: No. I'm not.
    LIAM: Well, do you need a...someone to talk to I could just...stay with you a minute, if you liked?

    Jennifer smiles slightly, but can only manage a bit of a smile.

    JENNIFER: I'd love that, but I think I need a few minutes to myself, or I'm going to explode, and I'd rather you not be here for that.
    LIAM: (laughs) Fair enough. Look, if you want to, we can always stop into the Brady Pub for a bit and you can sorta...vent your frustrations. I know that tends to do me a lot of good sometimes.
    JENNIFER: Thanks, Liam. I appreciate it. Maybe I'll see you at the Pub for...7?
    LIAM: Absolutely.

    Jenn opens her office door for Liam and there is JJ in the doorway, surprised, and unpleasantly surprised to see Liam.

    JJ: Mom! What's going on?

    ---

    Billie steps into the office where the computer had just turned off. Turning on the light in the room, she begins to inspect the computer. Not finding anything, she pulls out the tower, and inspects the back, stopping when she reaches the USB drive. A small drive that barely looks like more than the size of a thumbtack has been inserted into the drive. Finding this odd, she pulls the key out and looks it over closely.

    Billie gets up, putting the USB drive in her pocket. She hastily exits, turning off the light in the room before leaving.

    ---

    Sami is in her office at Countess Wilhelmina, on the phone with a client, when a knock on the door breaks her focus.

    SAMI: (into phone) ...And so these figures need to be addressed, ASAP, because we cannot go into fall with an overrun like that...and...

    The knocking continues, and Sami struggles to ingore it.

    SAMI: (into phone) ...I don't want MadWorld thinking, even for a second, that they've got the edge. You understand? ...I....I gotta call you back. That alright? Okay.

    Sami hangs up the phone and marches, angrily, to the door. Opening it brusquely, she finds Kate on the other side. Sami is unimpressed.

    SAMI: Kate!
    KATE: Well that took you long enough.
    SAMI: I was in a call, Kate. You know, doing work, that thing I do when I'm at the office.
    KATE: How quaint.

    Kate steps into Sami's office without asking permission. She saunters slowly.

    KATE: Mind if I come in and ask you something?
    SAMI: Why do I have a feeling you won't take 'no' for an answer.
    KATE: Because you're smarter than you look?

    Sami glowers at Kate, while Kate turns to face Sami, looking her up and down.

    KATE: On second thought--
    SAMI: ...What do you want, Kate?
    KATE: I just want you to hire Gabi to model for you.

    Sami looks to Kate, confused.

    ---

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

    ---

    Sami looks to Kate, utterly baffled by her idea.

    SAMI: Why would I hire Gabi to model for me? And why are YOU suggesting it?
    KATE: Well, if we want to elminate Nick Fallon, we need to remove any power he has over Gabi.
    SAMI: I really don't think he has much power over Gabi.

    Kate rolls her eyes at Sami.

    KATE: You know, for a woman who's been on death row, you're probably the most naive person I've ever met.
    SAMI: I just don't see it, Kate. Where is all this power he has over her. He's barely associated with her since he got back from downstream.
    KATE: Oh come off it, Sami. Nick has been obsessed with getting back with Gabi for months now. Look at what he did to her the night we tried to kill him--
    SAMI: SHH!

    Kate jumps back at Sami's paranoid jumpiness.

    KATE: Stop that! There's no one here.
    SAMI: Sorry, I'm just...trying to be careful.
    KATE: Well stop it, and start listening. He was after Gabi before, he's after her now. So we need to nip it in the bud before he tries something else. We all know that guys like Nick Fallon don't give up out of nowhere. He's up to something. We need to keep Gabi from being in any way reliant on Nick, and if he does insert himself in Gabi's life again, that we are both in close enough proximity to him to suss him out before he gets too far. Having Gabi working for you works almost like a mouse trap. Lure him in, and nab that bastard.
    EJ: Kate's right. We need to do this.

    EJ startles Sami with his appearance in her office. Kate seems smugly satisfied by EJ's agreement, but Sami is incredibly uneasy with him.

    ---

    Nicole and Percy stand in the MadWorld lab, looking over to Nick, who is obscuring Nicole's file folder while looking out the window.

    NICOLE: Usually when people talk they face each other, Nick.

    Nick turns around, still hiding the file folder behind him.

    NICK: Alright, Nicole. What's the trouble?
    NICOLE: Oh you know damn well, you sniveling little rat. You set me up!
    NICK: Oh I did now! How exactly did I do that?
    NICOLE: Don't play innocent, Nick. You knew all along that Titan was behind the EnerNext deal. You wanted to make sure that the Titan press coverage was against the news to make them look bad. And you tricked me into playing along.
    NICK: Right, Nicole. Because obviously it's not at all up to the person doing the story to maybe...you know....do their research? It took me a whole ten seconds to make the connection between EnerNext and Titan. So what's your excuse?
    NICOLE: EnerNext had worked with Titan before, but it was nothing to do with this project. The only publicized reports on their partnership was from at least two years ago, which means the only reason you knew about this connection was because you had an inside track.

    Nick approaches Nicole slowly, almost menacingly. Percy stands to one side, cautiously observing the situation.

    NICK: And what if I did? I'm trying to help Percy here to keep his home. I'm trying to stop these corporate nutcases from turning the entire town into a toxic waste dump so they can line their pockets a bit more. I'm trying to do the right thing. I know that's really hard for you to conceive of, knowing your history, but I'd think you'd understand someone wanting to change for the better, no? Trying to stand up for what's right?
    NICOLE: I do. But you don't get that by deceiving the people that are here to help you out. And that's exactly why I'm not helping you anymore.

    Nick isn't at all shocked by Nicole's revelation. Percy is stunned, but Nick clearly has anticipated Nicole's reaction.

    NICK: What did you say?
    NICOLE: I am dropping this story.
    PERCY: But you can't do that!
    NICOLE: Just watch me.
    NICK: Percy. Don't panic. I knew she was gonna pull something like this.
    NICOLE: Ah yes. Mr. Omnipotent. You've got my number. Can't hide anything from you, can I--
    NICK: ...You aren't going to drop this story, Nicole. Okay? You're going to keep working on this with us.
    NICOLE: Says who?
    NICK: I do.

    Nicole laughs sarcastically at Nick's assertion. Nick slowly walks over to the window, where the file folder was. As Nicole carries on, he grabs the folder.

    NICOLE: Well, now I know you've lost your grip on reality. Seriously, Nick. You have no legs to stand on here. I am suspended from my job, thanks to you. I may be fired. Which means I would have no place to broadcast this story to. I look like a loose cannon as it is, again, thanks to you. And frankly, since you're doing so much good for my reputation right now, I don't think I'd want to work with you, anyway. So, I don't know, Nick. You tell me, why should I keep working on this story?

    Nick turns around quickly, the file folder opened.

    NICK: Because I don't think that Eric would be too keen on finding out how much you know about...Dr. Chyka, is it?

    Nicole is stunned into silence by what Nick's just revealed.

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

    Victor and Brady turn to read the headline.

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

    Victor and Brady are intrigued.

    ---

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

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


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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    NICK: Gotta get those files before Nicole gets here.

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

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

    :::

    FLASHBACK to DAYS OF OUR LIVES #26

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

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

    :::

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

    :::

    NICK: Gotcha.

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ANNE: Okay, so here's the scoop.

    Anne leans against her desk casually.

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

    Theresa looks intrigued, but confused.

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

    Theresa nearly jumps out of her chair in excitement.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    NICK: Sure, Nicole. Let's talk.

    ---
  8. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 29
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

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

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

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

    PERCY: Greetings!

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Kate looks on, a plotting look in her eyes.

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    JORDAN: Great. Now what do we do?

    ---
  9. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 28
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

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

    A cross section of Salem appears in Town Square. Everyone from Nicole, who is busy doing a live broadcast previewing the proceedings, to Percy, to Will, Sonny, Gabi, and Baby Ari, as well as Marlena, Hope, Jennifer, Abe, Maxine, all out in protest of the EnerNext deal. Aiden, Adrienne and Justin, are also in the crowd. Kate and Billie hang back, away from the others, observing those around them.

    KATE: I don't see them anywhere.
    BILLIE: Well, it doesn't start for another few minutes, so maybe they're on their way.
    KATE: They better be. I can't wait to see them antagonize Victor and show everybody their true colours.



    Victor and Brady stand backstage, waiting for their grand entrance. Victor is tirelessly ensuring all the final details are in place, while Brady, desperate to try to prove useful, attempts to follow his every move, and take initiative, only to have Victor take over every time.

    BRADY: Grandad, I can do this you know. You don't have to do everything.

    Victor looks over at Brady, a look of resigned annoyance in his eyes.

    VICTOR: You know that mouthwash you're using doesn't cover up bourbon very well.
    BRADY: Dammit, Grandad. ONE SHOT! That's all I had. To calm my nerves.
    VICTOR: And to transfer them onto me. Good God, Brady, you can't even get through a press conference without a drink?
    BRADY: Hair of the dog, Grandad. Trust me, I felt much better afterwards.
    VICTOR: You keep telling yourself that. In the meantime, I've got to get Miles and make sure Nicole's not trying to film this live spot with the lens cap on.

    Victor saunters away. Brady tenses as if to punch something but stops himself.

    As Nicole continues her report, Victor checks with Miles, who is headed backstage, to ensure all is well. Miles and Victor are out of Nicole's line of sight.

    VICTOR: (softly) Has she screwed up yet?
    MILES: No, Mr. Kiriakis. She's right on point, the story will be a huge boon for Titan. So much so, I think I'm going to head down to the stage and get the cues set up. I think she's got this.
    VICTOR: (laughing) You say that now, meanwhile, this one can't even dress herself in the morning. Skin-tight lycra micromini that looks like Picasso threw up on it. Ha! Classy to the end.

    Miles heads back with Victor to behind the stage.

    ---

    Sheryl and Jordan are facing Nick, panicking at being caught hacking into a Titan exec's computer.

    NICK: Well, well. What do we have here? A little corporate espionage, perhaps?
    JORDAN: It's...it's not what it looks like.
    NICK: I'm sure.
    SHERYL: And what the hell are you doing here, anyway?
    NICK: Well, see, I had business to attend to. But you guys are just so much more interesting. So what do you say, if you're not gonna tell me exactly what you're up to, I make a quick call to Kate and--
    JORDAN: Okay okay! We'll tell you.

    Sheryl shoots Jordan a startled and angered look.

    ---

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

    ---

    Theresa looks to Kim, who is sitting on her sofa. Kim looks guiltily at her daughter, while clutching a small pillow, tears in her eyes that she's trying to fight off.

    KIM: How did you figure it out?
    THERESA: Well, it's not hard to use EweSearch, Mom. Besides, I was trying, hoping for any tiny shred of dirt I could find on Phil. I needed to find a way to get him away from us. I was desperate. And that's when I found the film. It was...awful. It was...she was so...dead-eyed and...not the woman I'd met from the time she visited with Bo.

    Theresa flashes back to her teen self at the computer, unsure what to make of what she's seeing. She flips through a telephone book.

    THERESA: I wanted to confront Phil with it...but....for some reason, I just...I knew I had to call her instead. And so I did.

    ...

    In the flashback, we see Theresa phoning someone, panicked and scared. Billie picks up.

    BILLIE: Hello?

    ...

    THERESA: At first, she completely denied any part of it, and she seemed really angry at me. I think someone had tried to use it against her before. Anyway, I had to tell her everything that he'd done to me. The abuse, the touching, the lies. How he told me you'd never believe me...and I bought into that because you didn't. And she didn't ask another question, she just told me she was on her way. And that's what happened.

    Kim stays stone silent for a moment, drinking in what her daughter's just told her. She tries to hold back, but can't fight her tears any longer. She stands up and reaches for Theresa.

    KIM: Oh my God, Theresa. I'm...I'm a terrible mother. I'm so sorry, I should have believed you.

    Theresa tenses at her mother's touch. Kim senses this and pulls away from her. Theresa remains seemingly emotionally vacant.

    THERESA: You're right. You should have. Why did it take Billie telling you about how Phil exploited her for a quick buck before you realized I was telling the truth. You believed someone you'd met a handful of times over your own daughter. How could you?
    KIM: I don't know what to say. I guess I...I didn't want to believe that this same man who put me back together after your father and I separated...how he could be so...hurtful to you. I wish I could take it all back. I really do.
    THERESA: Well, then get on inventing that time machine then.
    KIM: Jeannie, I...
    THERESA: It's Theresa! Mother! (sighs) And I think it's time for you to go.
    KIM: Theresa, I'm sorr--
    THERESA: Go. Please, Mom.

    Theresa walks over to the door and opens it, ushering a reluctant Kim out. Before Kim leaves, she turns to Theresa once more.

    KIM: I will be sorry until the day I die for what he put you through, Honey.

    Theresa says nothing and looks down at the ground. Once Kim leaves, Theresa closes the door behind her, finally letting her pent-up emotions out, she starts to cry as she leans against the door of her apartment.

    ---

    Hope looks over from the crowd of protesters she's surrounded herself with and sees Aiden Jennings speaking with some EnerNext people. She walks over to him, displeased.

    HOPE: Are you seriously supporting this?

    Aiden looks up, and smiles at Hope.

    AIDEN: Ahhh! I KNEW my day was going much too well.
    HOPE: Comedian, I see.
    AIDEN: Well, maybe humour will help these guys get this project through.
    HOPE: I like my air breatheable, thanks.
    AIDEN: And your family and friends without jobs, as well, obviously.
    HOPE: Excuse me?
    AIDEN: Well, just think of all the jobs that this community will not be adding without this project. You know, you really have to start seeing things from other people's perspective, Hope.

    Aiden walks off, leaving Hope making a sour expression. Jennifer looks on with a concerned look.



    Adrienne and Justin look on, Adrienne fully in support of the EnerNext plan, and Justin, who has an inside track, less so. Adrienne is clearly kind of annoyed at Justin.

    ADRIENNE: You should be up there, you know.
    JUSTIN: You know, I just don't think you get why this is such a bad idea, Adrienne.
    ADRIENNE: I don't. I see work for people, which means construction projects for the company, and money for your practice.
    JUSTIN: Yeah, against my uncle. Because things aren't already strained between us because I didn't support this project. Come on.
    ADRIENNE: Well, if you don't make your bonus this year, you know exactly why.

    Justin rolls his eyes as the EnerNext spokesperson steps onstage. The lights focus on the stage, and there is a distinct sound of camera shutters and flashes around the square from the press.

    TYLER: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I am Tyler Houston, and I am CEO of EnerNext. As you are well aware, we have been working toward acquiring a large area of land to the northwest of Salem. And we are excited and honoured to meet with you today to discuss how this will affect your lives, and also to announce a fantastic deal we have just struck that will help to revitalize the area. Now before we get starte--

    Nicole is already set to go, hand in the air, interrupting the proceedings with probing questions. Tyler attempts to stop her but is unable to.

    NICOLE: About these land acquisitions. Your company has been accused of underhanded tactics in order to coerce residents to give up their homes to them using false appraisals, lowballing and tricking home and landowners into selling their land to you under false pretenses. Sir, are you or your associates aware of these actions and what steps have you taken to avoid these underhanded tactics from continuing as the project continues?
    TYLER: I..I...Miss, I will answer your questions after I am finished my presentation.

    Percy raises his arm and voice from the crowd.

    PERCY: The lady has raised an excellent point that needs an answer!

    The crowd stirs, many in agreement, shouting insistently at Tyler to respond to Nicole's question. Brady and Victor are dismayed, but don't immediately recognize the voice as Nicole.

    VICTOR: Here come the environmentalist wingnuts!


    Back on stage, Tyler attempts to calm the crowd by quietly answering her question.

    TYLER: Procedures in the land acquisition was done lawfully and with full disclosure and agreement of the former landowners. To my knowledge, no one was decieved and the documents were clear in their language.

    The crowd is displeased by Tyler's answer. Nicole is ready and loaded to fire again.

    NICOLE: How about the fact that the site just happens to be a few miles from a predominently poorer, ethnic neighbourhood of Salem, as opposed to the east end of Salem, where scientists have shown the tar sands are richer in crude oil, but is near an affluent neighbourhood?

    Tyler stirs, now clearly uncomfortable with the line of questioning. The crowd is quickly whipping up into a frenzy. Brady looks out into the crowd and is horrified by what he sees.

    TYLER: I'm sorry, uh...Miss...but we will have to continue with the questions after I make my announce--
    NICOLE: Or the simple fact that research from Alberta's tar sands project has shown how utterly devastating such projects are to the local environment and air quality?
    TYLER: I'm...um...

    The crowd is now out of control, many demanding Tyler speak up. Brady turns to Victor.

    BRADY: Someone has to stop her.
    VICTOR: Who?
    BRADY: Nicole, she's...she's the one asking all those questions, she's derailing the entire press conference.
    VICTOR: Get Miles over here now. I'm heading out there.

    Brady runs over to grab Miles, and Victor steps out onto the stage. Kate and Billie are looking around, desperately trying to see Jordan or Sheryl.

    TYLER: If you'll just allow me the opportunity to...

    Nicole's questions, like battle calls, continue until she sees Victor appear on the stage. She, along with the rest of the crowd, fall quickly silent.

    TYLER: *clears throat* May I announce our acquisition by Titan Industries. Meet our new co-CEO, Victor Kiriakis.

    Nicole's jaw drops at the news. Nicole suddenly realizes, Nick duped her.

    NICOLE: That miserable son of a bitch.

    ---
  10. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 27
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

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

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

    Sheryl holds up a keycard.

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    THERESA: And you didn't believe me. You didn't believe a word of it. Because I'd become such a bad kid that you just figured I was making up stories.

    Theresa finally turns around to face Kim. She looks Kim dead in the eyes.

    THERESA: And that's when I tracked her down.

    Kim's face clearly expresses that she's made some kind of connection with what Theresa's said and something Kim's previously aware of.

    ---

    Sami looks over at Abby, concern on her face, as they continue to talk at Club TBD.

    SAMI: Abby, did I...say something wrong? I'm sorry if something I said got to you, or...
    ABBY: No no no, it's okay. I just...You know...had goals and now...
    SAMI: Well...look, you were always a good writer...we are looking for a junior assistant in our PR department. If you wanted to apply for it--
    ABBY: Sami, I don't want a sympathy handout.
    SAMI: Abby! This isn't a handout. I know you're capable of some amazing stuff, just like your father. Look at this as a chance for you to really shine in a job you're good at.
    ABBY: It is...a really good job...but...
    SAMI: Then yes. I can draw up the paperwork as soon as possible, but first I need to go talk to EJ about it, once I do that, I'll have you sign on. And I'm not gonna take 'no' for an answer. Because you need a job and there's not likely gonna be a better job than this. If I do say so myself, we're a pretty damn good company to work for.

    Abby's at a loss for words what with Sami's generosity. She struggles to respond, and with Sami's motormouth, it's hard to get a word in edgewise anyway. So Abby stands, dons a polite white smile, and nods heartily at Sami's offer.

    ABBY: I...uh....thanks, Sami.
    SAMI: Don't mention it. You're an awesome person, and a hard worker, and I'd know. You don't need a reference if I've seen you work already. RIght?
    ABBY: Right.

    Sami leans over and gives Abby a hug, as though they've been friends for years. Abby is dumfounded.

    SAMI: Look, I've kind of had a frantic week so I gotta go. Uh...I'll see you soon, Abby.
    ABBY: Yeah, you too, Sami.

    Sami takes off hurriedly. Abby stands by the bar, dumfounded, before suddenly realizing how closely she'd be working with EJ.

    ABBY: Oh God, this is gonna get awkward really fast.

    ---

    Sheryl boots up one of Titan's computers and inserts a USB key into the drive.

    JORDAN: Okay, Sheryl, do you not think this is incredibly risky?
    SHERYL: Clearly dating this Rafe guy is making you soft, Jordan. Come on! What is it about Jordan Ridgeway that you can't turn her off and turn Kaylie Matthews back on.
    JORDAN: Because Kaylie Matthews didn't care what anyone thought. Jordan Ridgeway is with a really great guy who doesn't need to know that I'm in cahoots with a woman who wants to bring down a multi-national conglomerate by any means neccessary.
    NICK: Sounds like fun. Can I join you?

    Nick's voice startles Jordan and Sheryl, as Nick enters the room, a wide 'gotcha' smile across his face. Jordan and Sheryl appear petrified that they've been caught.

    ---
  11. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 26
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

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

    NICOLE: Alright!

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

    NICK: Uhh...question.

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

    NICOLE: Yeah?

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

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

    Nicole shuffles uncomfortably in her seat.

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

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

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

    Percy and Nick smile confidently at Nicole.

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    EN announcement 2day. Meet me @ titan hq

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

    ---

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

  12. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 25
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

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

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

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

    BILLIE: Hi, Mom! I'm home!

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

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

    ---

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

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

    Will leans over and hugs his grandmother warmly.

    WILL: So good to see you, Grandma.

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

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

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

    WILL: You tell her.
    SONNY: Okay.

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

    SONNY: Will and I are getting married.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

    NICOLE: Come in!

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

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

    Nick opens the door and leans in, smiling.

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

    Nicole's face drops upon seeing Nick.

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

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

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

    Percy goes to object, but Nick stops him.

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

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

    NICOLE: So here's the plan.

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    hey whats up?

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

    just having a talk with the boys. nothing crazy

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

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

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

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

    SAMI: What? What do I need?


    ---

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

    ---

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

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

    Theresa pulls away from Brady.

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

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

    THERESA: What are you doing?

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Rafe looks down, solemnly thinking of his mom.

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

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

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

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

    ---

    EJ tries to calm an incensed Abigail down.

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

    Abigail turns to leave, EJ stops her yet again.

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---
  14. beebs

    DAYS #1 + intro

    By beebs,

    So yes, I'm gonna try to do this. I'm going to start from the events after Valentine's Day's episode, and try to build the story off from there. Hopefully I don't get too confused as I go, so bear with me! Any feedback would be marvelous! I recognize this isn't overly enthralling (or that different from what's actually going on right now, but indulge me, I'm kind of zooming through some of the current stories to break off from what's happening onscreen).

    Hope you enjoy!

    *** *** ***

    Celebrating JJ's verdict, the Hortons gather at the family home. Jennifer receives a call from Liam, wondering if she's available tonight for an impromptu date. Jennifer informs him of JJ's verdict, and invites him to join the party.

    Upon Liam's arrival, JJ makes another effort to dissuade Liam from pursuing Jennifer. Jennifer overhears JJ and pulls him aside, telling him that her personal life is not his to interfere in, and that he should focus on celebrating his victory. JJ insists that there is something Jennifer needs to know before she pursues anything with Daniel, but Jennifer doesn't want to hear it, and returns to Liam's side.

    Abigail asks JJ what he thinks he's doing. JJ is tight-lipped, and insists that it's nothing. Abigail isn't so sure, though she's preoccupied with her own troubles with EJ.

    After the party ends, Liam and Jennifer kiss goodnight. JJ catches the kiss from the living room entrance and is troubled by it. Jennifer turns after closing the door and tells JJ immediately that she doesn't want to hear it. JJ insists he wasn't going to say anything against Liam, but that he wants to tell Jennifer something about Daniel. Jennifer cuts him off, saying that she isn't going to talk to JJ about her personal life, and really doesn't want to talk about Daniel. Instead, she wants to congratulate JJ on not going to prison, and that she's proud of him for finally being the sweet, honest son she used to know. She hugs him goodnight and goes to bed.

    ---

    Gabi runs into Nick again at the town square. They have a long chat, and Gabi is left believing that Nick is well and truly in the process of changing. Near the end of the chat, Nick asks to hold baby Ari. Gabi agrees, and Nick holds the baby, calling her "his little baby girl". It is at this moment that Sonny and Will arrive at town square hand in hand to share the news with Gabi of their engagement, and they stand in horror as they see Ari in Nick's arms.

    Gabi attempts to allay Sonny and Will's fears, but Will will have none of it, demanding that Nick hand him his daughter. Nick asks Will to calm down and hands him the baby, while Gabi attempts to ease the tension by insisting that everything was under control and that Nick just wanted to hold the baby for a moment. Sonny is having none of it, and instructs Nick to back off. Nick laughs at Sonny's demands, asking if he'd forgotten that Gabi also has a say as Ari's mother. Nick attempts to lay a guilt trip on Will and Sonny, wondering why Gabi's point of view is never considered in anything, before backing away and leaving to "take care of some business".

    Will and Sonny rip into Gabi upon their arrival at their apartment, wondering what she's thinking. Gabi insists that she believes Nick is making a positive change, and thinks that the best thing they can do is to be nice to Nick so that he doesn't press charges. Sonny, unaware that Nick called Sami, Gabi, and Kate out on their attempts to dump him in the river, demands clarification. Once Gabi fills him and Will in on the situation, Will tells Sonny that he actually sees Gabi's point of view. Sonny is stupefied by Will's admission, and insists that Nick cannot use Ari as a tool of blackmail.

    ---

    Marlena is working late at the hospital, and is visited by Abe in her office. After warm greetings, Marlena invites Abe to have a seat. Abe insists he can't stay too long as he needs to get back to JJ's party at the Hortons', but has news from John. Marlena is slightly dubious, but indulges Abe.

    Abe informs Marlena that John has been asked by the ISA to resume working for them, and he, Shane, and Bo are working on a major case together. Marlena wishes to know more, but Abe cannot say. Abe does tell Marlena, however, that the case could change everyone's lives forever. He presents Marlena with a letter from John that he'd been asked to give her in person. Abe then leaves Marlena's office and heads for the Hortons.

    Marlena ponders the letter momentarily before opening it. John expresses in his letter his continued love for Marlena, and his regrets at how he handled their differences over Kristen. Though he is still hurt by Marlena's lack of faith in him, he recognizes that it was all part of Kristen's plans, and that in due time, he hopes they can mend their relationship. The letter brings a smile to Marlena's face.

    ---

    Theresa steps inside Daniel's apartment and attempts to talk to Daniel about what happened the night she overdosed. Daniel is completely uninterested in having this conversation, but Theresa is insistent. Knowing that if JJ is allowed to go home that he will tell Jennifer what really happened the night of her overdose, she throws herself at Daniel in a last-ditch effort, but is rebuffed.

    Daniel then throws Theresa out of his apartment. Theresa, seeing all her leverage and her plans falling apart around her ears, heads to Club TBD for a drink (or six). Theresa's fed up of perpetuating her charade, and her frustration over not being able to bed Daniel (or anyone else) is starting to get to her. She sits down, deep in thought, at the bar, and demands a drink from T. T tries to make conversation with her, thinking Theresa's pretty cute, but is immediately turned down. As T walks away, Theresa looks further down the bar and sees a contemplative Brady sitting at the opposite end of the bar. Theresa makes her way over to him, and strikes up a conversation with him.

    Brady is his typical guarded self, replacing honest emotions with pointed snarky remarks. Theresa is unfazed, and dishes it right back. Brady figures out that Daniel has rejected Theresa, and laughs at her naivete in thinking Daniel would go for her. Theresa responds by ordering another drink.

    After a few more drinks, Theresa realizes she needs to go home, and Brady offers to walk her home. Upon arriving at Theresa's apartment, she stumbles upon getting out of the elevator, and when Brady reaches to catch her, they kiss sloppily, and then desire takes over. Theresa opens the door to her apartment, and Brady follows her in.

    ---
  15. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 23
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

    Brady holds up his hand to stop her.

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

    Jennifer leans in closely and squares in intensely on Theresa.

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

    Theresa gives a defiant look back at her.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    THERESA: See ya, Jenny!

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



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

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

    Sheryl laughs as she gets up from the table.

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


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

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

    Rafe shuffles in his seat uncomfortably at that comment.

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

    Jordan and Sheryl laugh.

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

    SAMI: Oh, and Will?

    Will stops in his tracks and turns around.

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

    A slight smile crosses Will's face.

    WILL: Anytime, Mom.

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

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

    Will struggles to find an answer.

    ---

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

    EJ: Abigail!

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

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

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

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

    EJ lets go, but remains intensely focused on Abigail.

    EJ: Did somebody find out about you and I?

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

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

    EJ relaxes slightly, but remains intensely focused.

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

    ---

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

  16. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 22
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Will walks into the living room of his apartment, putting his jacket on. Sonny, holding the baby, and Gabi, helping to finish dinner, turn, still concerned about Sami's disappearance.

    SONNY: You going out to look for your mom?
    WILL: Yeah. Still haven't heard back yet. Not even a text. I can't even get ahold of EJ so...yeah, I'm really starting to worry. So, Sonny, if mom comes around while I'm out, let me know, okay?
    SONNY: Will do.

    Will & Sonny kiss, and Will heads for the door. As he opens it, Sami appears in the doorway, still in a state. She sees Will and throws herself into his arms tearfully. Will is shocked and takes a moment to react before hugging his mother back.

    ---

    Jordan walks into Chez Rouge alone, and looks around for Rafe. As she looks around, Rafe walks in behind her, putting his hands on her shoulders. He leans in and speaks softly to greet her.

    RAFE: Well, good evening, Miss Ridgeway.

    A smile grows across Jordan's face, still facing away from Rafe, who's leaned in to kiss her neck delicately.

    JORDAN: Hello, Mr. Hernandez. I'm so glad you're here.

    Maggie walks in, a little worn down, but still trying to keep her happy face on.

    MAGGIE: Rafe! Jordan! Good to see you.
    RAFE: Hey, Maggie. We had a table for two reserved.
    MAGGIE: Indeed you have. You're not the only ones tonight, though.
    JORDAN: Oh? Who's here?
    MAGGIE: Oh, well...Lucas is here with his date...Sheryl, I think.
    JORDAN: Great! We'll have to say 'hi'
    MAGGIE: And Jennifer's here with her date.

    Rafe looks confused.

    RAFE: Daniel's here with Jenn?

    Maggie responds with more than a hint of indignation in her voice.

    MAGGIE: Oh no. I'm talking about him. She's here with Liam Frazer. And to boot, Brady's here...with Theresa Donovan.
    RAFE: Well, this is an awkward place to be then.
    JORDAN: Look, forget about them. Maggie, is there a really private table somewhere you can sit us at so it can just be the two of us? (softly) I think Rafe was...really looking forward to that.
    MAGGIE: I think I know somewhere. Come with me.

    Maggie winks, and guides them over to a private booth in the back corner of the restaurant.




    Brady hesitates to take the baggie of cocaine from Theresa, but as the waiter approaches with their meals, he quickly snatches it and hides it in his pocket. He gives Theresa an intense look, then winks. He thanks the waiter and they dig in. Not long after, Theresa's phone beeps. She has a text message from Anne.

    just got abby 2 quit. 1 horton down, 1 2 go. come 2 my office NOW!

    Theresa furrows her brow at the message.

    THERESA: (under her breath) What has she done now?
    BRADY: What has who done?

    Theresa realizes she spoke aloud and struggles to cover her slip-up.

    ---

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

    ---

    Jennifer and Liam sit at their table at Chez Rouge, laughing at a story Liam's telling Jenn.

    LIAM: ...And so I knock on the door, and when this poor old lady answered the door, it turned out it was Sycamore EAST, not Sycamore West.
    JENNIFER: Oh NO! (laughs)

    Liam and Jennifer's hands come together in the middle of the table, and a warm, comfortable smile comes across Jenn's face.

    LIAM: You're having a good time, right?
    JENNIFER: I am. Today was a tough day, but, I gotta hand it to you, you have done a fantastic job of putting a smile on my face. I needed that tonight most of all. So thank you.
    LIAM: My pleasure. You're really a special lady, Jennifer Horton. And I can't wait to spend more time with you.
    JENNIFER: I'd like that. I feel this...connection with us, you know? Like I've known you for years. It really puts me at ease, you know?

    Liam stirs a bit in his seat as Jenn makes this comment. He stares off into space a bit, and Jenn notices Liam's looking through her instead of at her.

    JENNIFER: Liam? Liam, you alright?

    Liam snaps out of it suddenly.

    LIAM: Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. I just...noticed the girl behind you. I know I've seen her at the hospital before, no?

    Jenn turns around, and, upon seeing Theresa at a table behind her with Brady, Jenn's face drops.

    JENNIFER: Oh God, NO!




    Theresa fumbles with her phone, trying to cover up Anne's text from Brady.

    THERESA: Oh, nothing. Just...that friend from LA with the tabloid connections. More ridiculous drama I don't have time for.
    BRADY: Well, then I would put my phone away.
    THERESA: Well, yeah, but what if work calls me?
    BRADY: Oh right! Theresa Donovan, concerned about work after hours? Or at all, for that matter.
    THERESA: Hey! That's not fair! I only didn't care about my job because I didn't get along well with my boss.
    BRADY: Which I still don't get. Jennifer's a really sweet woman, and--
    THERESA: ...And I. Do. Not. Care. Drop it. Anne is so much better to work for, anyway. She understands my way of doing...y'know, why are we even talking about work, anyway? Come on, let's enjoy the evening. You want to, maybe, hit up the club after dinner and really get crazy?

    Theresa's suddenly seductive tone lures Brady in, and a knowing smile crosses his face.

    BRADY: That sounds genius.
    THERESA: What can I say? I'm always full of good ideas.

    Theresa and Brady lean in for a kiss across the table.

    ---

    Abigail saunters through the fog at the pier. Alone to think, she looks out at the sky, and through the mist, squints to see the full moon off in the distance. She sighs heavily, as from the fog, she hears footsteps approach, which startle her. A familiar voice rings out.

    NICK: Rough night?

    Abby relaxes upon realizing it's Nick. She stops short of smiling to greet him.

    ABBY: You could definitely say that.
    NICK: Mind if I join you?
    ABBY: Not at all.

    Abigail and Nick both sit down at a bench. They both stare out at the night sky (such as it is). Neither break their gaze to look at each other.

    NICK: So what's eating you?
    ABBY: Well...no one knows this but...I WAS going to start looking for my own place in town soon.
    NICK: Oh yeah? Ready to fly the coop, eh?
    ABBY: Yeah, though notice I say "was"?
    NICK: Yeah! Did something happen?

    Abby finally breaks her gaze to look at Nick, who turns to look back.

    ABBY: Well...this has to stay exclusively between you and me, got it?
    NICK: Lips: sealed.
    ABBY: And if you ever tell anyone, I'll--
    NICK: I get it, Abigail. Don't worry.
    ABBY: Okay. Well...for lack of a better way of putting it...I got fired tonight. And it was for a really stupid reason too and...it's back to square one.

    Nick looks at Abigail, empathy in his eyes. He ponders a moment, then turns to her again.

    NICK: Not neccessarily.
    ABBY: What do you mean?
    NICK: Just...just wait. I have a feeling something's gonna come your way very soon.

    ---

    Will and Sami separate from their hug, Will still confused as to what has got Sami so stirred up. Sami is still wiping away tears.

    WILL: Mom, what's going on?
    SAMI: I just...I just had a huge fight with EJ and it...it...I just needed to...oh God.
    WILL: Come on, come on, let's set down a minute.

    WIll takes Sami over to the sofa, Gabi takes the baby so Sonny can sit on the other side of Sami with Will.

    SONNY: Did you want some water?
    SAMI: (catching her breath) Got any whiskey?
    SONNY: Well, not here, but...
    SAMI: It's okay, Sonny. Just a joke. I'd love some water.

    Sonny gets up from the couch and grabs a glass for Sami. Handing it to her, he stands back with Gabi and the baby.

    SAMI: I...I just....EJ said something to me that took me...completely off-guard. I...hadn't even thought about anything that happened between us like that before. And...
    WILL: Well, like what?
    SAMI: Well, you remember I told you about when Dad and I were in that snowstorm at the cabin?

    Will's eyes bug out a bit, shocked by what came up, he immediately makes the connections and realizes what the fight was about.

    WILL: Woah! He didn't bring THAT up, did he?
    SAMI: Ugh. Yes. Yes, he did.
    WILL: Well, are you okay? I mean, that's pretty...intense.
    SAMI: I don't know, Will. I mean...I realized tonight that...I just...I haven't dealt with that night the way I...

    Gabi feels increasingly uncomfortable in the room, and heads for her room.

    GABI: Um...sorry to interrupt, but I think I need to change the baby.

    Sonny points to Gabi, implying he'll be following Gabi. Will nods, mouthing "thank you" to them as they slip out of the room to give Will some privacy with Sami.

    WILL: You were saying?
    SAMI: Will...I don't think...now that all these memories I've pushed back in my mind, now that they're coming out....I don't know if I can marry EJ.

    ---
  17. beebs

    DAYS #21: Seeing Rouge

    By beebs,

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

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

    MARY: Ms. Brady! Are you okay?

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

    MARY: Ms. Brady!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

    Maggie finally turns back around, suddenly seething.

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

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

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

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

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

    Theresa shoots Maggie a look before sitting down.

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

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

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

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

    Sheryl laughs a little uncomfortably at Maggie's comment.

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Maggie sighs in a sort of defeat.

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

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

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

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

    SHERYL: Thanks!




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

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

    Liam attempts to defuse the situation and interjects.

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

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

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

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



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

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

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




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

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

    Theresa snaps out of it suddenly and refocuses on Brady.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

    ANNE: Now, here's the thing.

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

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

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

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

    ---
  18. beebs
    BILLIE REED RETURNS TO DAYS (SON Blog)







    Yes, Lisa Rinna will be making a return to Days of our Lives. She will be appearing to help Kate take down an enemy working within her company. Will Kate and Billie's old beefs rise back to the surface, and will Billie be able to stop the plot before it gets out of control? Find out, on
    DAYS on MySONtv.








  19. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 4
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    It's a new morning in Salem. Roman begins the day walking into the Brady Pub, cell phone up to his ear, trying to talk over the person on the other end. Caroline walks over to him to greet him, two plates of breakfast in her hands, looking at him inquisitively. Roman instinctively knows she's asking who's on the phone and he mouths "Kate" at her. Caroline nods and mouths "Ohh" back before carrying on her way to an awaiting table.

    Roman sits himself down at a booth and continues his conversation, finally getting a word in.

    ROMAN: Kate....Kate, I can't meet you until later. Okay? I told you that last night. Look, we're swamped at the station right now. [pauses] I know, I know, I told you I'd meet you first thing this morning, but you see Eric called Marlena and I down here to the pub. He's got something he wants to tell us so....Yeah, I'll keep you informed. For sure. Alright.

    Hanging up, Caroline leans against the opposite bench, a smile across her face.

    CAROLINE: What did SHE want?

    Roman dismissively waves his hand as he puts his phone away.

    ROMAN: Ahh, nothing. She's just up in arms 'cos she had something to tell me last night and I didn't have the time to see her is all.
    CAROLINE: Well, it sure sounded important to her.
    ROMAN: Oh yeah, well, you know Kate, Ma. Everything is a big production.
    CAROLINE (rolling her eyes): Ain't THAT the truth. Did you want something to eat?
    ROMAN: Nah, I'm good with just a coffee. Marlena and Eric should be here any minute.
    CAROLINE: Alright, suit yourself.

    Marlena walks in, also with a phone in her ear. She says goodbye to the person on the line before sitting down.

    ROMAN: Who was that?
    MARLENA: Actually, that was Laura. She hadn't called in awhile. Just wanted to catch up.
    ROMAN: Oh yeah? How's she doin'?
    MARLENA: Relieved that JJ's sentencing is over and done with. She's actually hoping to visit soon, so that should be nice. Anyway, I hope you haven't been waiting long.
    ROMAN: No, actually I just sat down a second ago. Ma's gone to get me some coffee.
    MARLENA: Oh good.
    ROMAN: So, you figure the diocese made a decision on Eric and that's why we're here?

    Marlena's face drops a bit, as though she'd been putting on a tense smile this whole time and can finally drop the facade.

    MARLENA: I can't see it being anything else. Unless there's been some new information that's come to light. I know Daniel was working on something.
    ROMAN: Well, according to Hope, that didn't go anywhere, but they have a name now of the doctor that gave Kristen those drugs. I just hope it's not too little too late.

    Eric walks into the pub. Marlena looks up immediately, and Roman turns with a start, revealing he's more on edge about this meeting than he's been letting on.

    ---

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

    ---

    Kate walks into the MadWorld offices, only to find an empty secretary's chair in front of her office door. She calls out for her secretary.

    KATE: Donna? DONNA!

    Kate checks around the corner, seeing nobody, she rolls her eyes and walks into her office, cursing the entire way.

    KATE: That damned useless secretary, I swear to God, I could wring her useless little--

    Kate stops upon seeing the note on her desk from her secretary. She picks it up and reads it aloud.

    KATE: Dear Kate, please accept this as my official resignation, effective immediately, I have found another positionDAMMIT.

    Lucas walks in on Kate's tirade, a cool, calm demeanour eminating from him.

    LUCAS: Well you're having a good morning.
    KATE: Lucas, I don't want to hear it.
    LUCAS: Hey hey! What did I do? Come on, I'm just, you know, saying good morning to my mother.

    Kate stops and breathes heavily. She turns to Lucas, trying very hard to keep calmer.

    KATE: Alright. Actually, I am glad you're here.
    LUCAS: Oh?
    KATE: Oh yes. Looks like we need to do some more thorough background checks on new hires from now on.

    Kate drops the article her PI handed her the previous night on the table. This time, a second picture appears. Sheryl's mugshot appears alongside Jordan's. Lucas is stunned.

    ---

    Theresa lays in bed beside Brady, playing with her phone. She gets a twinkle in her eye. She has an idea. She leans over and nuzzles in next to Brady before taking a selfie. The flash stirs Brady into semi-consciousness, when he realizes he's being photographed, he snatches Theresa's phone.

    THERESA: HEY! What the hell?!
    BRADY: Oh no! You are NOT taking pictures of this.

    Theresa gives him an exasperated look.

    THERESA: Are you for real?

    ---

    Marlena shuffles over to allow Eric to sit down. An uncomfortable silence looms over the table before Eric finally moves to break the silence.

    ERIC: So...
    MARLENA/ROMAN (talk over each other)

    Marlena and Roman stop, look at each other and hold back a little laugh.

    ROMAN: Go ahead, son.
    ERIC: Well...I figure you both have some idea why you're here.
    MARLENA: Did the diocese make a decision?
    ERIC: No, not yet. But...well, they won't have to.
    ROMAN: What da hell does that mean?
    ERIC: Well, I've made a decision. I am going to leave the priesthood.

    Marlena and Roman look on aghast. Eric's eyes dart between his two parents, preparing for the onslaught to follow.

    ---

    Nicole walks into Titan TV, armed with her purse, her laptop bag, and a traveller mug filled with hot coffee. She strides confidently into her office and shuts the door. As she turns to head for her desk, she is stopped and scared stiff as her chair slowly turns around. It's Miles, holding a brown envelope exactly like the one she hid in her desk the previous night. Miles has a wide grin across his face as he holds the envelope up.

    MILES: Good morning, Nicole! Were you looking for this?

    Nicole immediately drops her mug on the ground in shock, spilling her coffee all over the office floor.

    ---

  20. beebs
    The halls of Titan TV are dead quiet as Nicole walks quietly into her office. The cleaning staff can be heard in a distance. Nicole checks the halls to ensure no one sees her enter before unlocking her office door.

    Walking over to her office desk, she sets her handbag down and pulls out a flashlight. Before turning it on, she mutters to herself.

    NICOLE: Better this than risk being seen. And better getting rid of that envelope now than leave it at Daniel's. Now where's the "on" switch.

    She turns on the flashlight while it's facing her chin, bright light flashing her in the eyes momentarily.

    NICOLE: AGH! Dammit! OW!

    Nicole drops her flashlight, quickly remembering she's being loud and covers her mouth quickly. After a moment of blinking and making sure she's not been blinded, she bends down and picks up the flashlight, then steps behind her desk with the envelope. Unlocking the drawer at the bottom, she files the envelope away in the very back of the drawer.

    As she rises from the desk, Nicole catches a shadowy outline pass her office window. Nicole tries to stay still as it passes. She waits another moment before sneaking back out of the office, making sure no one sees her leave.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4
    ---

    Gabi doesn't know what to say in response to Sonny's accusation. She stumbles to respond.

    GABI: I....look...maybe I...
    SONNY: Oh my God, she actually is still in love with Nick.
    GABI: Hey, I didn't--
    SONNY: What is wrong with you?


    GABI: Why are you so unwilling to believe that Nick might have actually changed, or that at least he's trying to, if someone would just give him a chance to?
    WILL: We gave him chances, Gabi. Over and over. And he did terrible things to us all in return. Especially to you, Gabi.
    GABI: But you just said it was a good idea to be nice to him. I don't get it.
    WILL: I'm not suggesting we do that because I think he's suddenly a stand-up guy, Gabi. I'm saying we do it because we don't know what he's plotting. And whatever it is, it could be really dangerous.

    Gabi goes to speak but stops, unable to retort.

    SONNY: We have to hold our cards close to our chests, Gabi. Will's right.

    ---

    Kate wanders through Horton Town Square, clutching the envelope she's just received, containing shocking information on Jordan Ridgeway. Kate mutters to herself.

    KATE: Jordan Ridgeway aka Kaylie Matthews, former bank robber, turned physiotherapist, hm? Now, should I go to the police, or to Rafe first.

    Kate ponders this momentarily before hearing laughter behind her. Rafe and Jordan are out for a late-evening stroll. Rafe greets her warmly.

    RAFE: Kate! Fancy meeting you here!
    KATE: Indeed. You two having a great night, I'd imagine.
    JORDAN: That we are.
    KATE: And what have you two been up to tonight? Anything particularly memorable on the agenda?
    RAFE: Nothin' too special, just thought we'd take a nice walk now that the legs are back workin' for me again.
    KATE: Well you know what I think? I think you two should take some special time together and take advantage of this beautiful night while you still can.
    RAFE: What do you mean by that? It's not late at all and it's beautiful out tonight.

    Kate pauses for a second before speaking.

    KATE: All the more reason to take advantage. I heard that...what was it, polar vortex was swirling back this way. Best to enjoy it before the winds change.

    Kate gives a smile, much to Jordan and Rafe's bemusement.

    KATE: I'll see you both later, I'm sure.
    RAFE: Yeah. Definitely.

    Kate saunters away, leaving Jordan and Rafe somewhat baffled.

    JORDAN: What is she even talking about?
    RAFE: Search me.

    Kate walks out to the bench outside town square before making a phone call.

    KATE: Roman? It's Kate Roberts. I need to speak to you immediately.

  21. beebs
    NOTE: Hopefully this entry is a little easier to take in for some of you. I know a few of you have been hoping to see more of my dialogue. Expect quite a paring down of the cast. I find there's a few characters that just aren't working right now, and they'll be gone soon. Some will be a surprise, but the episodes will soon be quite a bit more focused. Anyway, enough of me rambling on. Here it is!


    DAYS OF OUR LIVES #2

    At the apartment, Sonny stands aghast at Will for agreeing with Gabi regarding her tactics with Nick.

    WILL: Look, I'm not saying I like the guy, or anything. All I'm saying is that maybe Gabi's onto something.

    Sonny clasps his hands together and closes his eyes, looking like he's trying with everything in his power to hold back what he really wants to say.

    SONNY: I don't....I don't even understand what you're talking about right now.
    WILL: Sonny, don't you get it. Look, Nick's back. We don't know what he wants, what he's hiding, anything. All I'm saying is that maybe if we give him some time while we're figuring out what he's up to--
    SONNY: And then what? In the meantime, we hand Ari over to him? Will, look what he did to you before. To Gabi. You can't seriously think this guy is actually about to turn on his heels and do a 360 now, do you?

    Gabi's had enough, and interjects suddenly.

    GABI: What if he has?
    WILL/SONNY: Seriously??

    ---
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KZsiMhziRI
    (yeah, that's right. I'm kickin' it old school)
    ---

    Nicole paces Daniel's apartment, clutching the envelope containing the evidence of Eric's innocence to her chest. She ponders what Hope has told her previously, that any evidence collected from Dr. Chyka's hideout would likely hurt Eric's case, not help it. She flashes back to Eric telling Nicole that he's giving up the priesthood to be with her. She sighs heavily.

    NICOLE: This is the right thing to do. Now, where to hide this.

    Nicole stares at the fireplace and contemplates throwing the evidence into it.

    NICOLE: I could just burn it...then it'd be gone forever...I can't do that.

    Nicole turns away and continues pacing. She holds the package away from herself and starts shaking it before her.

    NICOLE: UGGGH! What am I gonna do with you?? I wish I could just...throw you in a drawer and forget you're even there.

    Nicole thinks for another minute before coming to a conclusion.

    NICOLE: The only place that I know only my eyes will see you is in my office.

    Nicole grabs her purse and heads off to the TV station.

    ---

    Kate walks through the park outside Horton Town Square and runs into a shady-looking man, holding a large brown envelope. They both look around to ensure they are alone before speaking.

    KATE: So? What do you have?
    MAN: See for yourself.

    The man holds out the envelope, which Kate takes from him. Opening it up, she finds an article and a familiar-looking mugshot staring back at her.

    KATE: Well, well, well, Jordan Ridgeway. Or should I say Patty Hearst?

    Kate dons a wry smile, amused by her own wit.

    ---

    Back at Will, Sonny & Gabi's apartment, Gabi has worked up the nerve to stand up to Sonny and Will's objections about Nick.

    GABI: Look, I think we should just give him a chance. I mean, he knows that Sami and Kate tried to kill him but he's not--
    SONNY: Woah, woah, wait a minute. He knows? And where exactly is your name in all this?
    WILL: Seriously, Gabi, you hit him over the head with a rock, I wouldn't exactly say you didn't do anything--
    GABI: Nick says I'm innocent.

    Will and Sonny stand aghast. Sonny suddenly realizing the depth of Gabi's insecurity and desperation. He responds with more than a hint of disgust.

    SONNY: Oh, God, you're still in love with the guy, aren't you??...Admit it, Gabi.

    ---
  22. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 19
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

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

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

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

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

    Kim walks to Theresa and takes her hand.

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ROMAN: Gotcha!

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

    ...

    KATE: Kate Roberts.

    ...

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

    ...

    KATE: I'll be right over.

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

    Jordan gets up to leave, Sheryl stops her.

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

    Jordan sighs and sits back down.

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

    Abigail raises an eyebrow and gives EJ a knowing smile.

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

    EJ walks right past her and into her office.

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

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

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

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

    ---

  23. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 18
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Hope stares down Aiden at the table, where Jenn and Aiden are sitting at the town square. Jenn tries to break the awkward silence.

    JENNIFER: Uh...Hope. Hi! Uh..sorry. I've had a bit of a rough day.
    HOPE: So it would seem--

    Aiden gets up with a start, grabbing his coffee cup.

    AIDEN: Look, I don't want to interrupt family time. Jenn?
    HOPE: Oh don't leave on my account.
    AIDEN: Well, I do have some things to get done anyway, so it's alright. Jenn? You gonna be okay?
    JENNIFER: I'll be fine. Thank you for the coffee.
    AIDEN: It's my pleasure. Hope.

    Aiden walks away, Hope glares as he departs before sitting down beside Jenn.

    HOPE: So why were you confiding in him of all people?
    JENNIFER: Hope, he ran into me at the hospital, I didn't even have time to--
    HOPE: Jenn. Really. I just...the man's a real jerk. I would suggest you stay far away from him.

    Jenn, surprised by Hope's strong dislike, is at a loss for words.

    ---

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

    ---

    Eric leads a blindfolded Nicole to a clearing in the woods, and has her stop in the middle of the clearing.

    NICOLE: Oh God. We stopped. Eric?
    ERIC: (laughing) Yes?
    NICOLE: Why did we stop? What's going on? I'm still not a fan of surprises, if you hadn't noticed.
    ERIC: Why don't you have a look?

    Eric gently pulls off Nicole's blindfold, revealing to her a beautifully arranged picnic, complete with freshly picked wildflowers, and soft music. Nicole is taken aback by Eric's gesture.

    NICOLE: Eric! What is all this?
    ERIC: It's a picnic, what else?

    Nicole and Eric sit down on the blanket the food's arranged on, Nicole still absolutely in awe of Eric's work.

    NICOLE: But...I thought you'd reserved at Chez Rouge.
    ERIC: Oh, you're disappointed now?
    NICOLE: NO! Don't be ridiculous. I'm shocked but I'm certainly not disappointed!
    ERIC: Oh I know. Well, I wanted to give you a special night. But I also wanted to do something a little more...intimate. Especially since it's such a beautiful evening.

    Eric snuggles in close to Nicole.

    ERIC: You see, I figured, we could sit back, have dinner. Watch the sunset, and just relax. Get away from all the problems in our lives for a while.
    NICOLE: Mmmm, I like the sound of that.
    ERIC: I figured you might.

    Eric leans in to give Nicole a soft kiss.

    ---

    Brady has just burst into the Titan board room, shirt untucked, the smell of alcohol on his breath. He bows regally to the group.

    BRADY: My apologies for my tardiness.

    Brady jumps up and moves to the head of the table.

    BRADY: NOW! Let's get this show on the road! Grandfather, may I?
    VICTOR: If you insist.
    BRADY: I do.
    VICTOR: You're on your own, Brady. (whispers) Try not to make an ass of yourself.

    Brady throws a shady look Victor's way, but shakes it off and begins. Brady slurs his words and stumbles.

    BRADY: Okay, so tomorrow...is a big...bigday. For all of us! And do you know why? Because we are going to announce our merger with EnerNext. And that's gonna kick off a whole bunch of other awesome stuff. uh...do we have a ...a power point or something of this? I feel like I need a visual. Anybody?

    Victor shakes his head, deeply embarrassed by Brady's state. As Brady continues to speak, Kate's eyes suddenly bulge out of her head. She squeezes Lucas' hand, startling him.

    KATE: Oh my God, Lucas. I figured it out.
    LUCAS: OW! Mom! That hurt.

    Kate pulls her hand back.

    KATE: Sorry, sweetie.
    LUCAS: What did you figure out, anyway? That Brady's the worst CEO in history?
    KATE: Ha! Far from it. I figured ou--
    BRADY: UH, EXCUSE ME?!

    Brady points in Kate's direction. He starts to wag his finger lazily about.

    BRADY: Am I boring you two or something?

    Kate furrows her brow as much as she's able to, pursing her lips into their usual soured expression.

    KATE: Pardon me, Brady. Carry on.
    BRADY: Thank you, Kate! Now, you see..

    As Brady carries on, Kate leans over again and whispers to Lucas some more.

    KATE: I've figured out why Jordan and Sheryl are in Salem.
    LUCAS: Why? What is it?
    KATE: This! EnerNext! The oil sands project. Lucas, they want to shut it down, and take Titan down with them.

    ---

    Theresa is in her apartment, readying herself to leave for the afternoon to work. Remember at the last second to grab her phone, she picks up, seeing a text from Brady.

    Reservations @ 8 chez rouge. C U then

    Theresa smiles broadly, then places her phone in her bag and heads for the door. She hears some talking in the hallway as she does, but thinks nothing of it. As she opens the door, there stands her mother and her landlord in front of the apartment right across the hall. Her landlord handing Kim the keys.

    LANDLORD: There you go, Mrs. Donovan. Welcome to your new home!
    THERESA: What the hell is going on??

    Kim and the landlord both look to Theresa is surprise. Theresa is incensed.

    ---

    Sami runs over to EJ and pulls the phone from his hand, stopping him from making a phone call to turn himself into police.

    SAMI: EJ, What the Hell are you doing??
    EJ: What does it looks like to you, Samantha? I mean, what do you want me to do to prove to you that I'm not hiding something, I'm not lying for Kristen. If there was a way I could track her down, I would. But even then, it would kill me, because I know what she's gone through in her life. Just like I know that if you had been put in similar circumstances, you wouldn't be in much better shape.
    SAMI: How dare you compare me to Kristen at all? I've grown, and changed since I was teenager. She still carries on like the world owes her something.
    EJ: You really don't get it, do you?

    Sami cools off, looking more disappointed and deflated than angered.

    SAMI: What's there to get, EJ? You see your family's problems as bigger than mine. But Eric didn't do anything to deserve what Kristen did to him. And my sympathy for your sister ends the moment she takes her hurting and uses it as a weapon against anyone within a 50 mile radius.
    EJ: And that's what I mean, Samantha. Neither of us are perfect, either. Right? I've done hideous things. To YOU! And you to me. And yet, somehow, we learned to accept those things and move on. Why can't that be the case for Kristen?

    Sami explodes, not willing to hear another word from EJ defending Kristen.

    SAMI: Because she raped my brother!
    EJ: And I raped you!

    Sami is stopped dead in her tracks. Her eyes glaze over as she contemplates the truth in EJ's words, as though an unbroken trust had been breached with his bringing this up. EJ, impassioned, but not enraged, continues to shout back to her.

    EJ: You remember that, surely. I forced you to have sex with me in exchange for Lucas' life!And yet now, here we are. My ring on your finger. We're planning to marry. Do you not think Kristen can be afforded 1/10th of the same benefit?

    Sami sits down at the desk. She can barely breathe, but manages to choke out a few words.

    SAMI: EJ...I need to be alone. Please go.
    EJ: Fine. If you need me, you know how to reach me.

    Sami breaks down in tears as EJ slams the door shut.

    ---

  24. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 17
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Victor mills about the Titan board room, speaking to the other execs and organizing his paperwork. Kate and Lucas enter the board room together, and Victor perks up momentarily, then relaxes, realizing who's arrived. The disappointment painted on his face.

    VICTOR: Kate. Lucas. Good to see you.
    KATE: Well you could've fooled me. I assume you were expecting your wayward grandson?
    VICTOR: Give it a rest, Kate. If you had any moral compass, you'd be concerned and asking me how Brady is doing, instead of mocking his suffering.
    KATE: Victor, please. I do care about Brady. But how many favours are you doing him by letting him run Titan into the ground like this?
    VICTOR: He's an adult, Kate. I can't shadow him for the rest of his life.
    KATE: Maybe you'd better start. Your livelihood might depend on it.

    Kate turns and walks over to her seat, head held high. Lucas takes his next to her. Victor waits a few more seconds, before excusing himself to the hallway outside the board room. Pulling out his cell phone, Victor calls Brady. The line goes straight to voice mail.

    VICTOR: (into phone) Brady Black, you have five minutes to get into this board room or I'm gonna tie you up from the nearest flagpole. You have an important announcement to make tomorrow. Get with it, already!

    Victor hangs up and storms back into the board room. Visibly upset, he begins.

    VICTOR: This meeting will come to order. In the absence of our CEO, I will be overseeing the proceedings.

    Brady bursts into the room, shirt untucked, breath smelling of alcohol.

    BRADY: Goooood afternoon, everybody!

    Victor stares down Brady. Brady seems unconcerned by Victor's disappointed glare.

    ---

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

    ---

    Eric leans over and hugs Nicole, kissing her on the cheek, as Nicole sits in her desk chair, looking with bright eyes at her computer screen.

    ERIC: Do you have any idea how proud I am of you?
    NICOLE: I think I have a little hint of it?
    ERIC: Well....you're about to get a whole lot more of a hint. You hungry?
    NICOLE: I am, in fact. All this research got me workin' up an appetite!
    ERIC: Okay, well...

    Eric gets up and walks over to the chair on the other side of Nicole's desk, where he's placed his messenger bag. He stops, and points to Nicole.

    ERIC: Close your eyes.

    Nicole squints her eyes and glares at Eric.

    ERIC: Do it! Come on now!

    Nicole laughs and closes her eyes, while Eric walks back over to her.

    NICOLE: You know...I was never good with surprises. Never had many good ones to talk about, really.
    ERIC: Well, this one will be a very very good one.

    Eric ties a blindfold around Nicole's eyes gently. He gets up from behind her desk, and takes her hand to guide her up from her seat.

    NICOLE: Oh God, I'm blind. Ack!

    Nicole trips a bit getting out of her seat, but Eric gently guides her over.

    NICOLE: (in a whiny voice) Where are you taking me?!
    ERIC: You'll see. Just be a patient.
    NICOLE: Have we met or something? I am SO impatient.
    ERIC: (laughing) Oh I know.

    Eric grabs his bag and guides Nicole out of her office.

    ---

    Jennifer smiles a bit as Aiden provides her a bit of comfort over her breakup with Daniel, as they sit in the town square having coffee. Unbeknownst to either of them, Hope is standing nearby, listening in on their conversation.

    JENNIFER: ...So, I dunno, I feel like...I know he was trying to help but...
    AIDEN: It's not enough. I know. He kept things from you. Big things. It's....not easy. And I know how painful it is to...

    Hope makes a move and emerges from behind Tom & Alice's tree. She approaches cool and casually.

    HOPE: Hey Cous! ...Aiden.

    Aiden looks up, a little frustrated to see Hope.

    ---

    Sami returns home from work. She's exasperated by the day's events. EJ sits in the living room, looking over some files at his desk when Sami comes bursting in.

    SAMI: Ooooh I swear I could just STRANGLE that woman!

    EJ looks up suddenly, a little shocked from Sami's sudden entrance, though a dulled shock, probably from years of enduring this melodrama.

    EJ: Which woman? It could be about 16 on this block alone.
    SAMI: Don't be cute, EJ. I'm talking about Nicole.
    EJ: Oh God. What has she done now?
    SAMI: She has coerced my brother out of the priesthood.

    EJ is stunned. He pulls his glasses from his face and turns to face Sami.

    EJ: Voluntarily? St. Pius X himself stepped down?
    SAMI: If that is some kind of sick joke, I'm not laughing.
    EJ: Seriously, Samantha. I just can't understand what that man sees in her, but that is entirely up to him. You can't force him back into the priesthood. Even if they'd let him back in, which is doubtful at this rate.
    SAMI: You would say that.
    EJ: Why, Sami, why? Because of my sister? Is that what you're going to say? For the 100,000th time, I do not know where Kristen is. I do not know.
    SAMI: Really, EJ? Because last time I checked, you seem to know a lot more than you let on about a lot of things.
    EJ: That is not fair, Samantha. I was in the dark just as much as you about Kristen's plans for Eric. Oh but YOU! You want me to tell you where she is? Betray her, right?
    SAMI: It's not about that, EJ. You're loyal to the wrong people. What about my family? Why hasn't it even entered your mind that my family is going to your family once we're married?
    EJ: And the same goes for you, Samantha. Whether you want to admit it or not.

    Sami approches EJ slowly, almost trying to stare him down into submission.

    SAMI: My family is not out to ruin people's lives, EJ. We're loyal to each other because we know we're good people at heart. You'd do well to remember that.
    EJ: Fine, Samantha. I think I understand now.

    EJ grabs his cell phone from his jacket pocket and begins to dial.

    SAMI: What are you doing?
    EJ: Calling the police. If I'm being made to throw my sister under the bus, I might as well go down with her!

    ---

    Sheryl sees Jordan in the hall at the hospital and pulls her aside.

    JORDAN: Sheryl! You scared me! What are you doing h--
    SHERYL: ...We need to talk, right now.
    JORDAN: Ow! You're hurting my arm, Sheryl.
    SHERYL: Well, if you and I don't figure out our next move, it might not just be your arm that's hurting, Jordan.
    JORDAN: What?

    Jordan looks around her, concerned and a bit suspcious. She leans in as she talks to Sheryl.

    JORDAN: What do you mean by that?
    SHERYL: I think Lucas Horton might be onto me.

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

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

    ERIC: Hard at work?

    Nicole looks up from her computer and smiles.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

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

    THERESA: EUGH! Leave a MESSAGE, mother!!

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

    BRADY: You alright? What was that about?

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

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

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

    BRADY: I know you can do it.

    Theresa smiles as Brady kisses her.

    ---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Roman looks back to Marlena, confused.

    ---
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