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EPISODE 193 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco In the University Hospital waiting room, Kim stands with her son, Andrew, placing a hand on Kim’s shoulder, while Marlena stands in front of her, holding both Kim’s hands in hers tightly. Kim looks down, avoiding Marlena’s gaze, as she thinks over everything Marlena’s just told her to try to comfort her. ANDREW: Mom…Marlena’s right. We’re here for you. Both of us. We want to help you through this, and if you’re feeling alone right now, you don’t have to. MARLENA: Andrew’s right, Kimmy. I would NEVER do anything purposely to hurt you. Please know that. And don’t ever be afraid to reach out. Kim looks up at Marlena, and then at her son. She tears up, trying to hold the tears in. Finally, she nods slowly. KIM: I know. (sigh) And thank you. Both of you. You…(sigh) I know I’ve been a lot to handle lately. I just…dammit, I’ve GOT a lot to handle. Kim smiles through her tears, laughing at herself. KIM: But I don’t have to handle all of it myself. And I know I try to. Just…Heh… Kim wipes away her tears as she tries to lighten the mood around her. KIM: Try not to let me, please? Marlena smiles earnestly, as Andrew pulls Kim into a tight hug. As he does, Eric and Valerie enter the room. They both look nervous, and the tension in the room immediately returns, with Marlena, Kim, and Andrew all turning to face Eric and Valerie at once. MARLENA: Eric! ERIC: Hey, Mom. MARLENA: Valerie, what…what’s the next step? When do we know? Valerie looks around the room, a sense of trepidation in her voice as she tries to address everyone. VALERIE: The next step…we wait. I sent the results to the lab, they’re gonna look it over. I put a rush on the results. Kim interjects, impatient but trying not to sound that way. KIM: So when will we know? VALERIE: We should find out whether Eric carries the gene that would potentially pass down Roman’s dementia to him in…well…less than 24 hours. Kim, Marlena, Eric, and Andrew all exchange nervous glances, as Valerie bites her top lip, feeling the same tension that surrounds her. --- In the Horton kitchen, Liam is fixing a hearty breakfast, as Jennifer walks into the room, groggy. After wiping the sleep from her eyes, she realizes Liam’s there, and looks on surprised, as Liam flips an egg in a pan on the stovetop. JENNIFER: Liam! How did you…? Liam turns to face Jenn and smiles, before responding, turning back to face the stovetop. LIAM: Oh, Abby let me in on her way out to the square. Jennifer smells the food cooking and steps in closer to inspect what’s going on. JENNIFER: You…you might as well have stayed the night if I’d known you were gonna come back so soon to make breakfast. LIAM: Ahhh, it’s alright! I had to go back to the house last night anyway, and check in on some stuff, so it all worked out. Liam slides the egg onto a plate, ready with fresh toast and bacon, before walking both his and her plates to the kitchen table, where Jenn sits down. LIAM: For you, Madame. Jennifer looks up at Liam and smiles. JENNIFER: You really didn’t have to go to this much trouble, you know. I’m…hardly even awake right now. LIAM: Yeah, I noticed you were a little late getting up, what’s wrong? Jennifer shrugs, as she looks down at her plate, almost unsure if she even has the appetite to eat. Liam sits down across the table from her, looking concerned. JENNIFER: (sigh) I don’t know. I just…couldn’t drag myself out of bed. LIAM: Is it work or something? I mean…I know you’ve been taking on a lot more responsibility since Anne quit, but… JENNIFER: Yeah, I…definitely have, haven’t I? I…I honestly have no idea. I haven’t felt like this since… LIAM: Since around the time your show ended. Jennifer looks up at Liam suddenly, which prompts Liam’s eyes to pop out a bit. JENNIFER: How did you…? LIAM: I… Before either of them can respond, Abby storms into the kitchen, visibly upset. Jennifer and Liam both look up, startled. JENNIFER: Abby? Honey, what’s wrong? ABBY: I don’t wanna talk about it. Abby opens the fridge, and pulls out a pack of yogurt. Liam pipes up, as Abby closes the fridge door and opens the drawer to grab a spoon. LIAM: You sure? You seemed fine when I arrived… ABBY: I…I think I may…have just been dumped. Jennifer and Liam both look at each other, shocked, before looking up at Abby. --- Nick leads Sami, Kate, and Gabi into his office at the Titan building, all three trying to hide their nervousness, while Nick looks confident and as smug as usual. After shutting the door behind him, Nick heads over toward his desk, as Kate immediately begins talking. KATE: Alright, Nick, what’s this all about? NICK: Now, come on, Kate! Don’t be hasty! I’ll get to it. Kate and Sami exchange a quick glance, before Sami pipes up. SAMI: Well, I don’t know how much time I have, Nick. I’ve got a lot to get done at work if I’m ever gonna…snatch Gabi away from the jaws of the Salem’s biggest botox receptacle— KATE: OKAY, Sami, that’s a bit much, no? This is business, I think we can a little more professional…at least most of us can. Nick interrupts the mudslinging, taking over Sami’s attempt to rebut Kate’s snide remark. NICK: Ladies! Let’s…put our claws away for a moment, yes? Nick smiles, as Sami and Kate pipe down, and glare at the young executive. NICK: There’s ultimately no need for you two to be at each other’s throats like this, honestly. Gabi’s bidding war is, for all intents and purposes, over anyway! Kate, Sami, and Gabi look at each other with confusion. GABI: I mean…yeah, I already signed with MadWorld days ago. You knew that. NICK: Oh, for sure! But I know Kate and Sami are putting on a good show of trying to keep the war going for my sake, and…honestly, guys…you don’t have to. I know what you’re up to. KATE: Oh you do, now? And just what are we up to? NICK: You’re trying to get the drop on me, and I won’t let you do that. Sami, though slightly unnerved, still continues to play it cool, snarking back at Nick against her better judgment. SAMI: Someone sounds paranoid. Why won’t we this time, Nick? What did the guiding spirit tell you? Nick’s face becomes serious suddenly, as his tone of voice drops as he drops his latest bomb. NICK: Because I’ve decided to sell MadWorld to DiMera, and they’re intending to fold it into Countess W, so….you see, Kate? Guess you’re out of a job! Nick smiles broadly, as Kate’s jaw drops. Sami and Gabi look at Kate to see her reaction to the news. --- --- In the Horton kitchen, Jennifer gets up from the kitchen table, and puts her arm around her daughter’s back, looking concerned and curious. Liam stands to the side, but shows concern as well. JENNIFER: Oh Honey, what happened? Abby stares blankly, almost oblivious to her mother’s comforting hand. ABBY: I…I don’t know. I was talking to Jerome and he just…I thought he wanted to go to the party tonight, and he just…made some excuse and left. I just…Mom, I have no idea what I said. It’s like…like a switch went off in his head or something. JENNIFER: Honey, you did nothing wrong. You just…(sigh) You know some guys are a bit intimidated when a girl asks them out. ABBY: Yeah, but…Mom, it didn’t feel like that was what did it. Liam chimes in, still standing slightly apart from Abby and Jennifer. LIAM: Are you sure? I mean…guys can be really hard to read, Abby. They keep a lot of things bottled up. JENNIFER: Liam’s right, Sweetie. ABBY: No. No, it was…something else. Honestly, I feel like I’ve been the one holding back. I mean, Mom, you even said so yesterday. Maybe he’s fed up of waiting for me to open up. LIAM: I don’t know if that’s true, Abby. The right guy would be willing to wait…and to help you feel comfortable around them. Jennifer smiles, and nods in agreement. JENNIFER: Exactly. Besides, if that is the reason he didn’t want to go to the party with you, then maybe you’re better off without him. Abby tries to object, but as she begins, the doorbell rings. ABBY: Oh come on, Mom, Jerome’s— Abby stops mid-sentence and turns toward the door. She breaks away from her mother’s embrace and, huffily, heads for the foyer. ABBY: I’ll get it. In the foyer, Abby walks toward the door. Opening it, she looks up at who’s there, and is stunned. ABBY: Chad! Chad stands before her, smiling widely as he sees his ex- after many months. --- Marlena and Kim walk through the lobby of Universiy Hospital, talking with each other, with a very clear reserve in how they speak to each other. Kim appears visibly shaken, while Marlena tries to keep a cool exterior, but is a bundle of nerves inside, herself. MARLENA: So, are you going to the party tonight? KIM: No, I don’t…I don’t think that’s such a great idea. Marlena stops and turns to look at Kim, slightly concerned. MARLENA: You sure? I think getting out of the house could do you some good. You’ve been so cooped up lately. Kim smiles half-heartedly. KIM: Marlena, as much as I agree with you, it just…it isn’t the same without Shane. Marlena nods, understanding Kim’s position. MARLENA: Believe me. I know. I wish John would be there tonight. (sigh) But…what are you gonna do? I’m just…I’m gonna go to support Maggie and Julie. KIM: That’s good. I know Andrew’s going too. Were you uh…were you planning to bring Roman with you? MARLENA: I think it might be good for him, actually. Some faces that may be familiar to him and all. Kim nods, still reluctant to make eye contact with Marlena. Marlena senses Kim’s sadness, and presses one more time. MARLENA: Kimberly…are you absolutely sure you don’t want to go tonight? You…seem to be…so alone. Kim shakes her head, looking up at Marlena and smiling for a moment. KIM: No, no. I umm…I need to talk to Valerie about something…nothing to do with Roman, before you ask. And then I’d…I’d just like to spend some time with Theresa. You know? Marlena smiles warmly. MARLENA: I understand. I’m sure you know, coma patients can hear us speaking to them. And I think you speaking with her will help her recover, Kim. I can feel it. Kim smiles, starting to tear up a little again. KIM: Thanks. As Marlena reaches out and rubs Kim’s shoulder affectionately, Daniel steps toward them from the nurses’ station, and Kim calls out to him. KIM: Oh, Daniel! DANIEL: Kimberly! Good to see you. In fact, you are exactly the person I wanted to see. KIM: Oh…wow, it’s been awhile since any man’s said that to me. Marlena and Kim chuckle to each other, as Daniel responds. DANIEL: Yeah, well…I think that smile on your face is gonna hold for a bit longer. KIM: Why’s that? DANIEL: Well, I….I don’t wanna get your hopes up, but…I think there may be some improvement with Theresa’s condition. Kim’s jaw drops, as Marlena stands next to her, equally stunned. --- At Crystal’s apartment, Sheryl finishes brushing her long, dyed red hair, and readies her disguise, about to put in her coloured contacts. As she begins to put the first one in, there is a knock at her door. Sheryl calls out to the person there. SHERYL: Just a minute! Stopping before she puts the contact in, returning it to its case, and shaking the contact solution from her finger, Sheryl walks to the door and looks through the peephole, she smiles, and opens the door for Jerome to return. As he steps into the room, Sheryl closes the door behind him, and Jerome hands her a small earbud. Sheryl looks down at it, slightly confused. JEROME: Take this. Sheryl takes the earbud, and holds it up. SHERYL: And what exactly am I going to do with it? JEROME: That’s gonna be how we communicate while you’re at the party. Sheryl walks over to the kitchenette, and pours herself another coffee, while Jerome asks her questions about her plan. SHERYL: So where will you be for all this? JEROME: I’ll be at the Java Café. No one will be suspicious cos there’s people there morning, noon, and night playing video games and they talk some wild stuff, so I’ll blend in just fine. SHERYL: Okay. So at my end, just so we’re clear, I’m going in early. I’ll make sure I blend with the wait staff setting up for the event. JEROME: Okay, that’ll give me time to get set up. The moment you locate Jordan at the party, I’ma turn off the security system and main power to the building, they’ll be on backup generators. SHERYL: And you know how to access that. Jerome sideeyes Sheryl, slightly annoyed by her question. JEROME: I have figured out systems way more difficult that Titan Enterprises. Give me a damn break. Sheryl holds her hands up, knowing she’s offended Jerome. SHERYL: Alright! Alright! Sorry I asked. So…once you’ve turned the system off, the cameras will be out of order, I can get down to Nick’s office, and take care of him, then get out with Jordan to the street. JEROME: And you’re not parking underground. SHERYL: Right, because there’s no guarantee the gate will work if the power’s off. JEROME: You got it. Now, have Jordan change on the drive up. Once you’ve swapped cars, get Jordan to drive the rest of the way, and you can change. Then drive off the embankment, and you call me when you get to where you’re going, and only then. Sheryl nods, clutching the earpiece in her hand tightly. After a moment, Sheryl sighs, suddenly feeling a wave of nervousness. SHERYL: Right. I think I’m ready. Jerome laughs, shaking his head at Sheryl’s sudden nervousness. JEROME: You better be ready, or you’ll be dead. And you better hope to Hell that Jordan doesn’t try to fight you on this. SHERYL: Yeah, well…she hasn’t before. JEROME: She hasn’t had a reason to before. Sheryl glares back at Jerome, before walking toward the door to show him out. He follows casually behind her. SHERYL: …And even if she does, I’ll make sure she follows direction. Opening the door to show Jerome out, Sheryl turns and smiles, her old confidence returning. SHERYL: Trust me. JEROME: Well…Good luck. Please, Sheryl. Make sure you follow my every instruction on this. SHERYL: I will. You’re my eyes and ears in there, so I’ll have to. JEROME: Don’t forget that. And for the last time…my name never appears in the same sentence as any of this. You got that? SHERYL: It’s a deal. Jerome walks out, and Sheryl closes the door behind him. Leaning against the back of the door, Sheryl sighs heavily, her nervousness once again showing. --- In Nick’s office, Kate is incensed by Nick’s threat to sell MadWorld off and put her out of a job. She steps forward, pointing aggressively at Nick, who leans back against his desk, smug expression once again. KATE: You slimy son-of-a-bitch. I gave you a job at MadWorld to begin with, and this is how you repay me? By firing me?? By selling off the company I have been trying to use to save this corporation off for parts?! NICK: Now, now, Kate. Cool your jets! I’m sure Sami will be able to find some use for you at Countess W. Sami looks at Nick, then at Kate. Gabi stands speechless, as Sami questions Nick on the details of the plan. SAMI: That presumes that this is actually what’s going on, and that you’re not just bluffing. NICK: Oh this isn’t a bluff at all. In fact, it’s all in motion as we speak. Sami jumps down Nick’s throat again, not quite listening to what Nick’s said. SAMI: Oh the Hell it is, I haven’t heard a single word about this from E— Sami stops herself, suddenly making a connection in her mind between Nick’s words, and EJ’s mysterious meeting from the morning. SAMI: You son of a bitch. NICK: You know, you and Kate are being awfully liberal with the insults directed at my mother right now and I don’t really appreciate it. Nick casually takes a sip of coffee, as Sami fires back again. SAMI: Your little game isn’t gonna work, and I’m gonna make sure of it. I’m stopping your little deal the first chance I get. NICK: Oh, are you? SAMI: Oh you’re damned right I am. Tell me, Nick. Who’s your partner in this? Nick laughs at Sami’s question, setting his coffee down on the desk. SAMI: Come on, Nick! Tell me who you’re brokering this deal with! NICK: I’m sure you’ve already figured it out, Sami. Sami steps toward Nick, ready to deck him, when Gabi cuts in, trying to reason with him. GABI: Sami, Sami! It’s okay! Gabi pulls Sami back, and takes a rational, calm tone to Nick, hoping to shift the dynamics in the room. GABI: Look, Nick…I don’t understand what’s going on, but…can we just…put all this…just put it all aside for a minute? Look, I don’t want a war between Arianna’s grandmother and— Kate cuts in before Gabi can continue. KATE: DON’T…say it, Gabi. GABI: (sigh) I don’t want a rift in my daughter’s family, and besides, this…this should be a happy time for us. I want us to celebrate this time, together. You know? Nick smiles at Gabi, listening attentively to Gabi. NICK: Mmhmm? GABI: I mean, you’re a power player in business, Ari and I have moved in with you, I…I love you so much, and I want this for us, don’t spoil this day for us with…bitterness over the past, Nick! Gabi reaches out to hold Nick’s hand, but instead of taking it, Nick slowly raises both his hands, and begins to slowly applaud her. Gradually clapping quicker and quicker, before laughing heartily, and shouting out in mocking congratulations. NICK: Brava! Encore! Gabi looks confused, turning quickly to Kate and Sami to try to figure out what is happening, before turning back to look at Nick. Nick leans back against his desk once again, folding his arms in front of him. NICK: Fabulous performance, Gabi. GABI: Wh…what do you mean…performance?? Nick, I’m serious— NICK: Oh I’m sure you are, Gabi. This whole…charade you’ve cooked up with Kate and Sami is just…well, let’s just say, you got a future on the stage, kid. Cos you had me fooled. Gabi tightens up, tense as she realizes something major has changed in Nick. GABI: Nick, what are you talking about? What…what charade are you talking about? NICK: Save it, Gabi. I saw you. GABI: Saw me doing what, Nick? Nick stands up, and saunters over to Gabi, and leans in close, whispering just loud enough for everyone to hear. NICK: I caught you in my room last night, stealing the pictures of you, Kate, and Sami trying to drown me, right out from my own dresser. Gabi’s eyes widen, as Kate and Sami look deflated, realizing the game is up. Nick looks at Gabi, slight menace in his eyes as he looks directly into Gabi’s. --

EPISODE 192 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco Inside the Titan building, Sami marches through the sliding doors of the building, quickly followed by Kate, who is trying to catch up, hoping to calm Sami down before she goes any further. KATE: Sami! Sami, stop. Sami ignores Kate and makes a beeline for the elevator, but Kate grabs Sami’s arm to stop her dead in her tracks. KATE: Sami! SAMI: What? Kate looks around and steps in closer to Sami, speaking softly so as not to draw attention to themselves. KATE: Is it not possible that EJ is working on something to help save us? I mean, why does your mind immediately go to sabotage? SAMI: Because there’s too much that doesn’t fit, Kate. I don’t trust him, and I KNOW EJ’s hiding something from me. KATE: For your own protection! Sami, if there was something EJ needed to take care of to clear you, it might be dangerous, and you know you don’t exactly tread lightly in precarious situations. Sami rolls her eyes at Kate, but doesn’t fire back, recognizing she probably has a point. SAMI: (sigh) Yeah. KATE: Look, I know you’re dealing with a lot, and it’s hard to trust a man who would violate you the way he did…but you know what he’s done to make it up to you. Sami, you need to remember that EJ had a choice, multiple times. To choose his father, or you. And he has chosen you. SAMI: And what if he’s playing both sides— KATE: He’s not! Sami, you need to trust someone in all this. Trust EJ. Before Sami can answer, Kate and Sami’s phone buzz. A text message has been sent to them both. Sami looks at her phone, her face drops immediately. Kate looks up at Sami, a horrified expression in her eyes. SAMI: Oh God. KATE: Nick. Kate motions to the elevator. KATE: Come on, let’s go. Kate and Sami turn toward the elevator, making haste to see what doom awaits. --- Nick, upstairs at the Penthouse Grille with Julie, slyly stuffs his cell phone back into his pocket. Julie is directing the staff where to place the tables, as Percy approaches Nick, emerging from the elevator. JULIE: Oh oh oh, Kelly! Put it to the left a bit more. I want to make a dancefloor area for tonight. Thank you, darling! PERCY: GREETINGS! Julie jumps at Percy’s announcement, turning around to see who’s arrived. JULIE: Oh my God! You…(laughs) you scared me. PERCY: My apologies, Mrs. Williams. JULIE: Well, your apology is accepted, Mister…? PERCY: Ruggles. Percy Ruggles. I’m Nicholas’ assistant. JULIE: Ah! Delightful! Nick smiles at Percy as he interjects. NICK: Yeah, Percy is indispensable to me. JULIE: Good help is hard to find. Ah, Nick, I need to go over a couple things quickly for tonight. NICK: Oh, for sure, Julie. I need to as well. Nick turns quickly to Percy, and asks a favour of him. NICK: Ah, Percy. Can you head down to the copy room? I have a folder there I’m gonna need. PERCY: Certainly. Meet you in your office? NICK: Perfect. Percy takes off, as Nick turns his attentions back to Julie. He speaks in a joking manner to his cousin. NICK: Great. Alone at last! Julie smiles widely, grabbing her clipboard from the table in front of her. JULIE: Perfect. (laughs) Now, what did you need? Nick walks casually toward the floor-to-ceiling windows of the room, looking out at the cityscape as he goes over his plans for the night, his hands in the pant pockets of her suit. NICK: Well…I just want to make sure tonight goes off without a hitch. I have some big plans I need executed tonight. Nick turns to look at Julie from the window. NICK: Think you can handle it? Julie nods. JULIE: I think I can. What did you have in mind? NICK: Well…this is my first party since becoming CEO, and I wanted to make a splash. Sort of…announce my arrival in the business world. You know? JULIE: Alright… Nick walks back toward Julie, looking around the room, a bit in awe of the grandeur surrounding him. NICK: I want to have a…sort of official announcement mid-party. Two, actually. One to commemorate the new restaurant and all the work you and Maggie have put into it…and one for me. If that can be arranged? Julie beams, impressed by Nick’s plans. She starts to giggle as she responds to Nick’s idea. JULIE: I think so. (laughs) you know, Nick…I’m just…I’m so proud of you. And I think your mother would be as well if she were here. Julie hugs her cousin, who hugs back, though taken aback by the second reference to his mother that day. NICK: Thanks… JULIE: I do wish she could be here. And your father, too. Nick breaks out of their hug, suddenly with a dour expression. NICK: Yeah, I…I don’t know about that. Frankly, I’m kinda glad they aren’t here. Especially Mom. Julie looks confused, as Nick looks down, away from Julie’s probing gaze. NICK: Look, Julie, I gotta take off. But I think whatever you’ve got planned for tonight is gonna be great. Okay? So…Anyway, I’ll see you tonight. Nick heads for the elevator, leaving Julie behind, a little baffled by Nick’s less-than-positive reaction to his mother’s mention. --- At University Hospital, the elevator doors open, revealing Eric as he steps off to meet with Marlena and Kim, who are seated together in the waiting area. He can tell immediately the two women are tense, and approaches carefully so as not to startle them. ERIC: Morning. Marlena looks up at Eric, and smiles warmly at her son. MARLENA: Eric! I’m glad you’re here. KIM: Morning, Eric. Eric looks at Kim, and smiles quickly, before looking around for Roman, and Marlena and Kim rise from their seats. ERIC: Hey, Aunt Kim. Um…where’s dad? MARLENA: Oh, Valerie’s already taken him in to start his tests, we’re just waiting for him to finish now, and then… ERIC: …And then it’s my turn….Does…ummm…does Sami know about the test yet? Marlena looks down, somewhat embarrassed. MARLENA: Umm…no. I, I didn’t have a chance to tell her. Kim looks at Marlena, annoyance back on her face, as she probes for more information. KIM: Did you try to call her, at least? MARLENA: Well, we had to be here early, and…(sigh) I know this would upset her. She’s got enough on her plate right now, so— Before Kim can respond, Andrew emerges from down the hall with a tray of three coffees, one for Marlena, one for Kim, and one for himself. He nods and smiles as he sees Eric has arrived. ANDREW: Okay! Here we go, ladies! Hey Eric! So that’s…one for you, Ma. One for you, Marlena…umm…did you want one, Eric? I can always go back, and… Eric holds up his hand to refuse, shaking his head. ERIC: No no no no, I’m fine. Gotta keep an empty stomach before the tests anyway, so…I’ll get some after. Thanks, though. ANDREW: It’s cool, man. No problem. As Andrew finishes handing off the coffees, Valerie emerges from the exam room, approaching the group. They all turn to face Valerie, the group growing suddenly silent. VALERIE: Oh good. Eric, you’re here. ERIC: Yes! Dr. Grant. VALERIE: It’s time for your tests. Step inside with me, we’ll get you started. Valerie tries to cut the tension, smiling to welcome Eric into the exam room. As Eric walks inside, with Valerie following, she shuts the door behind him. The others stand outside the room, looking extremely tense, desperately worried about the outcome. --- --- Abby emerges from the Java Café, walking into the Horton Town Square, where she notices the hubbub of a camera crew set up. Curious, she looks around to see what’s going on, before she spots Jerome walking toward the café. The both smile as they greet each other. ABBY: Hey, Jerome! JEROME: Abs, what’s up? Jerome kisses Abby gently on the cheek, which makes Abby blush a bit. ABBY: Oh you know, just…morning coffee. JEROME: That was my plan, too. Got some time today, so I figured I’d take a walk for a bit, see what’s going on. ABBY: Yeah…looks like there’s a lot going on here. Abby points out the cameras and lights being set up in the square, which Jerome turns momentarily to look at, as well. JEROME: Yeah, some kinda…video shoot or ad or something for the Anjelica Deveraux campaign, I heard. ABBY: Ohh okay. JEROME: Hey, you busy tomorrow night? I got nothing planned and I figure, maybe we can go on a REAL date, maybe? Abby chuckles, but then sighs. ABBY: I wish I could. Nicole’s got me doing a bunch of work for the next show, and I won’t be able to get away. Abby perks up, suddenly, remembering the party. ABBY: BUT, I do have tonight free, if you wanna be my +1 at the Penthouse Grille party. Jerome’s face drops suddenly, as he stammers, trying to worm his way out of Abigail’s invitation. JEROME: Ah, oh….naw, I can’t tonight. I um…I gotta take care of an assignment. ABBY: Oh that’s fine, just do the assignment today and you should be done in time for the party. It doesn’t even start until 7— JEROME: Nah, it’s…it’s group work, and we…look, Abby I’m sorry. But we’ll get together soon. I promise. Abby looks confused, as her voice trails off. ABBY: Yeah, sure… JEROME: Look, I gotta get this coffee and head back. I’ll call you this week and we’ll figure something out, okay? Abby nods half-heartedly, as Jerome puts his hand on Abby’s shoulder, before heading into the Java Café. ABBY: Yeah, sure. Bye. As Jerome heads inside, Abby looks annoyed and disappointed. … Abby watches the film crew setting up, as Noelle and Anjelica stand together by the benches, going over their plan for the ad shoot. They are deep in discussion, as television cameras and lighting equipment are being set up around them. Noelle taps away on her tablet as she and Anjelica talk. NOELLE: So after you mention your energy plan, you’ll turn to Camera 2, and give the campaign slogan, and we’re out. ANJELICA: That simple! NOELLE: Thaaat simple. Anjelica smiles, a look of pride in her eyes, as Noelle saves a note on her tablet. As Anjelica begins to speak, Noelle looks up at Anjelica. ANJELICA: You know, I’m pleased you decided to join the campaign team, Noelle. You’ve been exactly what I needed. A firm hand, someone who’s organized, keeps up with me. Noelle looks down at the table in front of her, and sets her tablet down on it. She sighs, smiling at first, though very clearly troubled by something. NOELLE: Well, thank you, Anjelica. I think it was exactly what I needed. Lord knows sitting at home, trying to keep my husband’s attention isn’t working. Anjelica puts a hand on Noelle’s shoulder, as Noelle turns back to face her mother-in-law. ANJELICA: Hey. Alex loves you very, very much. NOELLE: Yeah, well. If he does, he’s forgotten how to show it. Noelle looks over, as the director walks over. DIRECTOR: Alright, Ms. Deveraux, we’re ready for you. Anjelica nods, and smiles at the director, before turning back to Noelle. ANJELICA: Perfect. Thank you. Anjelica squeezes Noelle’s hand quickly, trying to give her quick comfort before going in front of the camera. ANJELICA: Noelle. I know my son. If he wanted to be with anyone else, he would be with them. But he’s with you. You need to believe in that love he has for you. Okay? Noelle looks at Anjelica, and smiles half-heartedly, and nods, before looking back down at the table in front of her and grabbing her tablet to do a bit more work. Anjelica walks over to the director, before standing before the cameras as they prep her shot. Anjelica thinks to herself. ANJELICA: (voiceover) And if he doesn’t stay with you…then we’ll all have a lot more trouble. Anjelica looks straight ahead at the camera. And sighs, before brushing off the troubles on her mind, and smiles broadly. --- Kim steps into the hospital waiting room with a coffee in hand for Andrew, where Marlena and Andrew are seated, catching up. As Kim enters, Marlena and Andrew stand up, with Kim passing the coffee to Andrew. ANDREW: Thanks, Ma. MARLENA: Kim, any news? Kim shakes her head, all three of them visibly nervous and hesitant to talk. KIM: Not yet. (sigh) Not that I have any idea what this is going to achieve, anyway. Marlena pipes up, reiterating her reasons to Kim. MARLENA: Kim, we’ve been over this. We wanted to be sure that whatever is going on inside Roman’s brain isn’t hereditary. I’m hoping that we can maybe spare our kids the pain of going into this unprepared. Kim scoffs at Marlena’s assertion, dismissively responding. KIM: Oh, you mean like you prepared Sami? Marlena is stunned silent, as Kim continues, getting increasingly upset as she speaks. KIM: Because, honestly, Marlena, I think that shows me exactly what your real motives are for running these tests. It’s not to help Roman, it’s not to help Eric, or Andrew, or Theresa, or Chelsea, and Shawn, or ESPECIALLY Sami. Because if it were really about protecting them, you would’ve made SURE she was okay with it before we got here this morning, and the fact you didn’t? That shows me that this is still about proving that this is all another game of Stefano’s, and proving this…flight of fancy that MAYBE, just MAYBE, Roman isn’t actually dying because the man that’s dying before our eyes isn’t the real Roman Brady after all. Right, Marlena? ANDREW: Mom, come on-- Marlena nods, holding in whatever anger she’s feeling, and tries to speak compassionately to Kim. MARLENA: No, no. Andrew, this is good. Kim, let it out— KIM: Oh, don’t you DARE patronize me, Marlena! MARLENA: No, Kimmy, I…you’ve been holding in your anger so much for so long, about everything. Kimmy, so much has happened to you lately, the more you bottle it up, the more likely it is that— KIM: That what? Marlena stops herself, and Kim waits a second for answer, before laughing with incredulity. KIM: Oh my God, you’re trying to shrink me! Marlena tries to remain calm, and speaks softly, but firmly. MARLENA: No, Kim. That’s not what I’m trying to do at all. I’m looking out for you as your friend. KIM: Oh come on, I’m not stupid. Come on, Marlena! Dammit, I’m a therapist too. I know what you’re doing. It’s not going to work with me, and you aren’t going to deflect from what I’m saying. ANDREW: Mom, it’s okay! Look, Marlena really is trying to help you. And deep down, you know that too! Kim scoffs at Andrew, almost to the point of tears at this point. KIM: Do I? Andrew, I don’t…I don’t know who to trust anymore. I couldn’t trust Philip, your father’s disappeared again, your sister is lying in a coma I don’t know if she’ll ever get out of, my mother barely recognizes me anymore, and my own friend is trying to…gamble with whatever’s left of my brother’s life. Marlena steps in, grabbing Kim by the hands and looking straight into her eyes. She speaks insistently to her friend. MARLENA: NO! No, Kimberly, that is NOT true! You have been hurting for so very long, and you have far too much on your plate. We’re here for you, Andrew and I. Look, whatever you think I’m trying to do, I promise you, I am not trying to hurt you or Roman. I love you both very very much, and I want your health and happiness more than anybody. Andrew puts a hand on Marlena’s shoulder, and agrees with Marlena. ANDREW: And so do I, Mom. We just want to look out for you. MARLENA: Now, I didn’t tell Sami about today because she has far too much going on right now herself. And she can be extremely unpredictable when she hears news that upsets her. I didn’t think you needed that today, so I held off until I knew something one way or another. Kim looks uncertain, as her eyes dart back and forth between her son and Marlena, studying them to see what to believe. KIM: And you want me to believe that you did this for me. MARLENA: I do because it’s the TRUTH, Kim. I did it for Sami, and for you. I want to take some of the burden off your shoulders, and so does Andrew. Please let us do that for you. Kim looks at her son, whose concern is plain on his face, before looking at Marlena, who still is holding Kim’s hands in hers. Kim sighs, thinking over everything she’s been told. --- At the Titan Building, in the hallway leading toward Nick’s office, Kate and Sami step off the elevator, and Sami walks quickly toward Nick’s office. Kate languishes behind, calling Sami back. KATE: Sami, wait. Sami stops, and turns back around, sounding annoyed at Kate. SAMI: What, Kate? KATE: We have to talk strategy before we go in there. SAMI: What is there to talk about, Kate? He’s just gonna blow more smoke, maybe get one of his headaches and make a bunch of idle threats. We got this. KATE: Except we don’t. I have a feeling something is up, otherwise he wouldn’t be calling us up to his office. Nick doesn’t play it that way. Now, we have to make sure Nick thinks we’re still in a bidding war over Gabi, and that you’re very annoyed with me for Gabi signing with MadWorld over you at Countess Wilhelmina. We have to keep the game going, and NOT even give a HINT of tension between you and EJ, got it? Sami is at first tense, her arms folded, and her demeanor defensive. But as Kate lays our her plan, Sami relaxes a bit, unfolding her arms, and finally nodding in agreement. SAMI: Yeah, probably for the best. I just…I don’t think we have anything to worry about where Nick’s concerned. As Sami finishes her sentence, the elevator doors open, revealing Gabi. Kate and Sami look dumfounded as Gabi steps off the elevator, just as surprised to see them as they are to see her. GABI: Okay, why are you two here? Kate turns to Sami, her eyes wide. KATE: I told you. He’s absolutely up to something. Kate turns to Gabi, and motions to her to come along. KATE: Let’s go. GABI: Okay, what is who up to? SAMI: Nick, who else? He’s called us all to his office. KATE: Right, and that means we have to stick to our game plan. GABI: And just what exactly IS our game plan? Kate stops just near Nick’s new secretary’s desk, and turns to look at Gabi. KATE: Follow my lead, and say nothing if at all possible. Kate turns back to look at the young woman at Nick’s reception desk. MALAYA: May I help you? KATE: Yes, we’re here to see Mr. Fallon. He should be expecting us. MALAYA: Perfect, and you are? KATE: Ms. Roberts, Miss Brady, and Miss Hernandez. MALAYA: Perfect, sit tight, I’ll let him know you’re here. Malaya calls through to Nick, who’s waiting inside his office. As she does this, Sami turns to Gabi, speaking softly so as not to be heard over the intercom. SAMI: (whispering) Kate’s right, don’t say a word unless you’re spoken to, and let Kate and I fight it out. GABI: (whispering) Okay, but he just said he had a surprise for me over the phone, I don’t know what that’s supposed to mean. KATE: I’m sure we’re about to find out. Nick emerges from his office, a bright smile on his face, as he motions to the three ladies come in. NICK: Morning, ladies. Won’t you step inside? Sami, Kate, and Gabi look at each other, then at Nick, suspicious and very clearly afraid of what’s coming, but trying desperately to hide it from Nick. ---