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EPISODE 82 Written by A. Washington-BeebyStory Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson Will walks down the hallway on the EnerNext floor of Titan towards his office. As he walks, he passes Alex, who’s heading into his own office across the hall from Will. Will looks up, suddenly nervous as Alex locks eyes with Will and smiles. Will holds back a giggle and smiles back awkwardly. ALEX: Hey Will! How’s the first day going? Will nearly chokes on his words as he responds, voice cracking. WILL: Gre…(clears throat) great! Heh. Will immediately bugs his eyes out as he turns away, opening his office door and quickly scurrying away in embarrassment. Closing the door behind him, he leans up against the other side of the door, exhaling audibly in relief to be out of that situation. A moment later, Will’s cell phone rings. Frantically trying to remember where he’d put his phone, he jumps over to his desk to grab his phone. Seeing Sonny’s name on the screen, his face drops. Looking unimpressed, Will holds his finger over the ‘hang up’ button, but thinks better of it and, after a moment, answers. WILL: Hey. … Sonny is sitting standing by the bar at Club TBD, nervously tapping his fingers against the bar as he begins to speak to Will. SONNY: Will! Hey…I…uh…I’m glad you answered. … WILL: Sonny, I don’t really have much time, I got a lot of work to do. … SONNY: Don’t worry, this…this won’t take long. I uh…I just got off the phone with Maggie, she and Victor invited us to dinner at the mansion tonight. … Will rolls his eyes and tries to cut Sonny off. WILL: Sonny, I don’t really have time— … SONNY: Will, it’s…a big deal. Apparently Victor has a surprise for us or something. It’s a big family dinner. … WILL: This wouldn’t happen to be some ploy to get me to forgive you, would it? Because, seriously, Sonny, I’m really not in the mood for any more games right now, I’m serious— … SONNY: Will, I’m serious. This is no game. Now, please, can we just…put our problems aside, just for tonight and just…pretend everything’s okay? … Will bites his lip, looking to the sky as he mulls over Sonny’s plea. Reluctantly, he answers. WILL: Fine. But this does not mean everything’s good between us. Don’t even try to use this as an opportunity to try to squirm your way back into bed tonight. You understand. … Sonny closes his eyes in frustration, sighing audibly. SONNY: Fine. Meet me at TBD for 6 and we’ll head over together? … WILL: Meet me at Victor’s for 6:30 and we’ll walk in together. … Sonny snaps, finally losing his cool at Will. SONNY: Will, come on! … Will smiles evilly, knowing his got Sonny’s goat. WILL: Final offer! … SONNY: (sigh) FINE. See you at Vic’s. Sonny hangs up angrily. … Will hangs up, a deliciously evil smile on his face as he chuckles to himself. WILL: Sonny, you are not gonna get away with lying to me that easily. Will sits down in his office chair, smirking as he leans back confidently. WILL: You did the crime, now you’re gonna do the time. --- At the hospital, Billie steps into Laura’s office, having interrupted Daniel’s talk with Laura about Liam. Both Laura and Daniel are taken aback by Billie’s arrival, and both struggle to speak. DANIEL: Uh…Billie! Hey…uh…mm, Laura and I were going over some… BILLIE: …Something I’m not supposed to know about? Sorry to drop in like this, Laura. I couldn’t find Daniel in his office and I heard his voice from the hall. Laura, sensing tension in the air, looks back and forth between the two of them and starts to back away. LAURA: I think…I’ll leave you two for the moment. Daniel, we can finish this later. DANIEL: Sure, Laura. Laura walks towards the door, but, before walking out, stops and turns back toward Daniel. LAURA: Oh! And, by the way, Daniel! Thank you so much for everything. You’ll lock up behind me? Laura smiles, and heads out the door, as Daniel holds up his hand in a half-hearted wave back at Laura. DANIEL: Sure. Don’t mention it. Once Laura leaves, Billie crosses her arms, impatiently waiting for an answer from Daniel. BILLIE: Far be it from me to be sticking my nose in where it doesn’t belong, but what exactly was that? Daniel looks off to the side in frustration, knowing Billie won’t stop until she has an answer. DANIEL: (sigh) I can’t go into this with you, Billie. BILLIE: Oh come on, Daniel. I mean, I…Jenn’s a good friend of mine. If something’s wrong with her and Abigail, I want to know about it. DANIEL: Billie, there’s nothing wrong. I…Jenn’s worried about Abigail being in Italy working for the DiMeras, and Laura just wanted me to check in on her. Billie’s eyes peer down at Daniel, who’s sitting in front of Laura’s desk. Billie leans over and perches on top of Laura’s desk. She looks at him intensely as she responds softly and slowly to him. BILLIE: I don’t believe a word you’re saying. And I’m going to find out exactly what’s really going on. Daniel sighs in frustration at Billie’s resolve. --- In Jennifer’s office, Jenn sits behind her desk, working away on her computer, when she hears a knock at the door. JENNIFER: Come in. The door opens and Liam’s smiling face appears. Jenn smiles in return, pleased to see him. JENNIFER: HEY! I wasn’t expecting you! Liam comes in and walks immediately over to Jenn’s desk. The two kiss quickly on the lips. LIAM: I figured you could use a break from the nonstop…press releasing. Jenn laughs and smiles warmly as Liam sits down across from her at the other side of her desk. JENNIFER: Well, it’s definitely welcomed. I gotta get this all done by the end of the week. We have to announce the new head of HR that’s replacing Anne and then…ugh, I’m boring you, aren’t I? LIAM: Never. JENNIFER: Well, good, cos I’m boring myself. (laughs) So what brought you here, I thought you had to go consult at a hospital in Chicago. Liam shuffles in his seat a bit before leaning in close to Jenn, a sensuous look in his eye as he gives Jenn his news. LIAM: I…yeah, but I finished early, so, I thought you and I could leave work a little early today for a little…quiet dinner at Chez Rouge? Jenn leans in, smiling wider than ever, she nuzzles in close to Liam as she answers. JENNIFER: I think that is something that can be arranged, Mr. Frasier. Jenn leans in and touches Liam’s nose with hers. They look intensely in each other’s eyes before leaning in ever-so-slowly for a soft kiss. --- Gabi looks up from reading Nick’s tablet, as she sits across from him at a booth at the Brady Pub. She looks stunned by what she sees: An old modelling picture of her in an apparently new ad for MadWorld Cosmetics. GABI: Wh…what? You want me to be new face of MadWorld? Nick smiles broadly, anticipating a favourable reaction from Gabi to his gift. NICK: Absolutely. I mean, Gabi, you’re gorgeous, and you’re already established with MadWorld…there’s nothing stopping you. GABI: I…Nick, I mean, this isn’t the first time you’ve set up modelling jobs for me and it was a disaster— Nick holds up his hands to stop Gabi midsentence. He interrupts her. NICK: I know! I know, it’s…I didn’t go about it the right way last time. This way, you can stay here in Salem, you can co-parent with Will and Sonny, there’s no great upheaval. We can take it slow. GABI: Nick, you’re…you’re talking like… Gabi stops herself mid-sentence, stopping herself from letting Nick know her true (lack of) feelings for him, but Nick’s suspicious, and it shows in his eyes. NICK: Like what? Gabi tenses up almost immediately, trying to backtrack to allay Nick’s suspicions. GABI: You’re talking like…like I can just stay in Salem and model, I mean…that isn’t exactly how it works. Nick nods in understanding, but pinches the bridge of his nose, as though feeling a sudden pain. Gabi looks on, trying to sort out what’s happening. NICK: No, you’re…you’re right. GABI: Nick, you okay? A voice is heard approaching Gabi and Nick from behind, while the sound of approaching heels clicks closer slowly. KATE: Is he ever? Gabi and Nick look up in surprise to see Kate looking down with her usual sour expression. She catches a glimpse of the MadWorld ad and looks over at Nick, unimpressed. KATE: What are you up to now, Nick? --- --- Kate leans against the edge of the booth casually, waiting for an answer from an obviously pained Nick. NICK: Nothing, Kate. Just…ugh, taking care of business with Gabi. Kate, unmoved by Nick’s pain, grabs his tablet and looks at it momentarily before holding it up to show Nick the picture of Gabi. KATE: I see, and this wouldn’t have anything to do with your little…amateur adventures at Photoshop, would it? Because I never authorized you to set up any ad campaigns, Nick. You work in the lab, remember? You make the formulas, I sell them. Nick groans as he tries to keep up with Kate, trying to grab his laptop bag to grab his “ibuprofen” tablets. He replies as he searches. NICK: God, Kate. You never let up, do you? KATE: In business, if you let up, you get screwed. You should know that better than anyone. Kate looks over, watching Nick struggle to find anything in his bag. KATE: Having trouble, Nick? NICK: Yeah, can’t find my aspirin, you have any, Gabi? I’d take them from you, Kate, but you have a bit of a history with poisoning things, I’m not gonna take my chances. Kate rolls her eyes as Gabi hesitantly goes through her bag. Not finding anything, she gets up from her seat. GABI: Uh, no. I don’t…if you want, I’ll run down to the drugstore at the corner and grab you something, okay? NICK: Sure, thanks, Gabi. GABI: No problem, uh…Kate, can you do me a huge favour and watch over Ari— KATE: …Say no more, but hurry. I have places to be. Gabi turns back and nods appreciatively. GABI: Yep, no worries, I’ll be right back. Kate turns around and picks Ari up from her high chair, as Nick fumbles out of his seat. Outside the door, Gabi looks back to make sure she isn’t spotted by Kate or Nick. She walks just to the edge of the building, just out of sight from those inside. She grabs her cell phone and makes a call. GABI: (into phone) EJ! I need your help. NOW. --- Will walks onto the elevator to head for home. When the doors open, Will steps in, and leans casually against the back wall, catching up on messages on his cell phone. As the doors are nearly closed, a hand stops them from completely shutting, and the doors open again. Will sighs, impatient to go home, and looks up unimpressed by the new passenger. Until he sees who it is. WILL: Alex. Will immediately lights up as he sees his new supervisor dressed in skin-tight biking gear. Will’s eyes look Alex up and down as he steps on. Alex smiles back at Will. ALEX: Hey! Will! How you doing? WILL: I…uh…good, I…heh. You look, awfully casual. ALEX: Oh! Yeah, this. I…heh…I usually bike home from work, and I wanted to try the commute home from the new office before the weather got too cold. Will nods, half-listening to Alex, as he’s too distracted by Alex’s biking outfit, which leaves…little to the imagination. Will licks his lips and, catching himself, looks up at Alex, smiling. WILL: Yeah, it’s…good weather for that. Alex smiles, before the air fills with an awkward silence, broken only by the sound of the elevator as it beeps, passing each floor on the way down. Alex finally breaks it. ALEX: So, how was your first day? WILL: Oh, it was great. I’m…really glad you were able to help. I have a feeling I’ll…need a bit more. Heh. ALEX: Oh, don’t even worry about it. I’ll definitely be around whenever you need. Just ask. WILL: Thanks. Will looks up, looking at his watch. The awkward silence hits again for a moment, but Alex again takes the opportunity to break it. ALEX: So…you…uh…have any plans tonight? Will thinks a moment, before answering carefully. WILL: I…uh…yeah. A bit later, but...hey, maybe…did you wanna maybe grab a drink before you head home, we can maybe…go over…a few more things and get to know each other better… Will quickly realizes what he’s just said and quickly backtracks. WILL: In a totally professional way, of course. Alex laughs as Will blushes, Alex’s eyes linger into Will’s as the elevator finally stops at the ground floor. The doors open as Alex responds. ALEX: I would love that, but I have dinner plans tonight, and I’d better go shower before all that, so…maybe tomorrow? WILL: I…YEAH! Definitely. ALEX: Alright, I’ll see you tomorrow. Alex goes to head out the door, but puts a hand on Will’s lower back on his way out. Will tenses as he feels Alex’s hand touch him gently. ALEX: Great work today, by the way. Will nearly chokes as he feels Alex’s hand slide away, Alex walking out the door, smiling at him as he waves, that Will nearly forgets to leave the elevator himself. WILL: I…yeah…I mean, thanks! Will exhales as he exits the elevator. He watches Alex walk towards the door, mesmerized momentarily by his muscled body in his tight-fitting sportswear. Will snaps out of it a second later, feeling like the biggest fool on the planet. WILL: Yeah, Will. Great work. (sigh) --- Daniel gets up from his desk, still trying to find a way to allay Billie’s concerns. DANIEL: Billie, you can’t do anything about this. Billie watches from atop Daniel’s desk, looking at him incredulously. BILLIE: Like Hell, I can’t. Look, I know you want to protect them, but if something’s seriously wrong…I mean...you’re not exactly chummy with Jennifer since you two split. DANIEL: That’s…putting it mildly. Billie gets up from Daniel’s desk and slowly walks up behind him. She puts her hands gently on his shoulders and sensuously rubs them, as she softly speaks in his ear. BILLIE: So…why not let someone who’s a little less…let’s say…controversial get the goods you need, hm? Daniel smiles and has a bit of a laugh, but turns around to face Billie. Putting his arms around her, while she rests her arms on his shoulders again, he tries to let her down gently. DANIEL: I would love nothing more than to fill you in on every detail of this… BILLIE: Good— DANIEL: But…it’s not going to happen, Billie. This is something I have to do myself. Billie’s drops her arms to her side. She sulks as she backs away from Daniel. BILLIE: Fine! I’ll just go to Jenn myself and find out from her what’s going on— Daniel’s voice booms as he instructs Billie. DANIEL: NO YOU WON’T! Billie is stopped in her tracks by Daniel’s explosion. Her face looks toward Daniel, shocked by his intensity. Daniel walks back towards Billie. His voice returns to its soft tone, but the intensity remains, forcing Billie to take in every word. DANIEL: Look, you cannot go to Jenn about ANY of this, do you understand? She has no idea what’s going on, and if she does, she may be in grave danger, okay? And if I tell you, there’s a good chance that you’ll be in just as much danger as she is, okay? Billie looks at Daniel, a mix of worry and fear in her eyes as she nods slowly in understanding. BILLIE: But…will YOU be okay? Daniel bites his lip, thinking things over a moment before speaking. DANIEL: God, I hope so. --- Kate holds Ari, bouncing Ari in her arms as she speaks to Nick, unimpressed by his latest antics. KATE: I told you to keep out of my business. Nick, still struggling with his sudden headache, pinches the bridge of his nose while he responds. NICK: Kate, we had a deal. You had to get Gabi a contract with MadWorld or I say what I know. Kate leans in, speaking softly, as if to get Nick to quiet down by proxy by lowering the tone of her own voice. KATE: And it wasn’t time to offer anything to her yet. We had to have product first. NICK: No, no. You were stalling. I knew you were. And I decided to take matters into my own hands. You should be thankful this is all I did. You know what I could do. Kate rolls her eyes, unable to counter Nick once again. NICK: I’m gonna go check with Mrs. Brady and see if she has anything for this headache. Nick heads off to the bar to talk to Caroline, while Kate saunters over to the front of the pub. Suddenly spotting Gabi just outside the doorway, she walks closer to the door to spy on her. Outside, Gabi stands slightly off to the side, thinking she can’t be seen in the building. She has her cell phone out, talking on her phone. GABI: (into phone) I know I was supposed to just get him hooked and get him arrested but it wasn’t that easy… … EJ stands in his office at DiMera Enterprises, an agitated tone in his voice as he talks to Gabi. EJ: (into phone) What do you mean, Gabi? What’s happened? … GABI: (into phone) Hope didn’t take the bait. She couldn’t find the bottle of pills I switched out at all. I know he’s been using it, I mean, he’s been getting these really bad headaches. But…he’s out of pills and I don’t know what to do. Kate is now outside, looking on, brow furrowed as she catches some of what Gabi’s saying. She listens closer as she approaches, as quietly as she can. … EJ: (into phone) Okay…I have an idea. Just…head to the pier and meet the same guy as before in one hour. … GABI: (into phone) No, I don’t have that kind of time, EJ. He thinks I’m already headed out to the pharmacy. Please, you have to make it sooner than that. I can’t do this anymore. This time, the plan has to work. He has to be caught red handed before he goes any farther. … EJ: (into phone) Well, if the pills weren’t enough last time… … GABI: (into phone) Well, then we need something more incriminating then. A prescription pad, a…phony doctor’s note.SOMETHING. Kate is stunned by what she’s hearing. A wry smile starts to appear on her face as she begins to realize what Gabi’s up to. … EJ slams his fist on the desk in anger. He shouts into the phone. EJ: (into phone) Dammit, Gabi! Okay, just head there now. I’ll try to get my guy over there, but no promises. … GABI: (into phone) Oh my God, thank you, EJ. I owe you BIG time. Gabi hangs up the phone, and quickly walks off toward the pier. As she walks away, she doesn’t see a smiling Kate behind her. As she bounces baby Ari in her arms, she laughs quietly to herself. KATE: Bravo, Gabi. I gotta say, I didn’t think you had it in you. --- Liam and Jenn’s kiss is interrupted by Liam’s cell phone ringing. The pair are jolted out of their romantic moment, as Liam leans back in his chair, grabbing his phone and looking at who’s calling. Frustrated, he gets up from his seat and holds up one finger to indicate to Jenn. LIAM: Ahh I gotta take this, it’s Chiacgo, one moment. JENNIFER: That’s fine, take your time, sweetie. Jenn nods, going back to work, as Liam hastily leaves her office, shutting the door behind him. Liam storms into the hallway, checking all around to see who’s passing by, before sliding into the waiting room. As he turns into the waiting room, Laura passes by and spots Liam going in. She carefully follows to the doorway and, just out of his line of sight, listens in closely. LIAM: (into phone) This better be important. … EJ responds, now pacing his office, a headache developing for him as well now. EJ: (into phone) You need to get Percocets and a prescription pad to the pier in 15 minutes or less. … Liam reacts in angered disbelief. LIAM: (into phone) WHAT? … EJ: (into phone) Exactly what I just said. We’ve got an emergency on our hands and if Gabi Hernandez doesn’t get Percocets and a prescription pad in her hands by… EJ checks his watch hastily before continuing. EJ: …4:30, everything we’ve worked for is in jeopardy. … LIAM: (into phone) A prescription pad? EJ, I mean…the drugs are one thing but… Liam looks around the room to make sure no one’s watching or coming into the room. He leans in and speaks softer. Outside, Laura focuses in even closer. LIAM …a prescription pad? That’s not exactly easy to get. Laura looks on, confused as all get out as to what Liam’s up to. She whispers almost inaudibly to herself. LAURA: Prescription pad? And why is he talking to EJ? (sigh) I have a bad feeling about this. … EJ: (into phone) You’re in a hospital, you’ll manage. 15 minutes, Liam. No ifs, ands, or buts. … LIAM: (into phone) Oh, what? I’m just supposed to pull one out of my ass now? Come on, EJ. This is crazy. … EJ: (into phone) There is no time argue or question me. Get the pills, put them in the same ibuprofen package as before, get the prescription pads, give them to Gabi Hernandez, and tell her she needs to sneak the pad into the target’s bag when he isn’t looking. That’s it. … Liam, resigned to his fate, throws his hands up. LIAM: (into phone) (sigh) Yep. Right. I’ll be there. EJ hangs up the phone. Liam follows suit. LIAM: Okay. Percocets…and prescription pads. Good luck, Liam. You’ll need it. Liam turns and storms out of the room. Laura, still standing outside, leans up against the wall as closely as she can, praying Liam doesn’t spot her. He turns away from her, and walks down the hall in the other direction. She breathes a sigh of relief, but looks on, more worried than ever. LAURA: Selling pills and prescription pads…to EJ DiMera. Oh Daniel, I hope to hell you figure out what he’s up to before it’s too late. ---

EPISODE 80 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson Laura sits in her office at University Hospital, recalling what JJ told her the previous night about Liam. ... FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 71 Laura breathes in deeply, standing in her bedroom, as she tries to relax herself and keeps asking JJ questions. LAURA: Right. Okay...so...JJ...what happened after that conversation you had with your mother? JJ: Well...they took off, mom and Liam did...and I stayed behind to try to...sort this out in my head...and as they left...Liam...he looked at me...I caught him trying to...like...stare me down or something. But I'm more worried about Abigail than anything. I mean...she's working for Stefano but...Liam works at the hospital, he has no ties to Stefano. ... Laura thinks intensely about what JJ said, while shaking her head. She swallows hard before talking to herself. LAURA: Ohhh, let's just hope I'm wrong about Liam. As she finishes, Daniel opens her door, knocking gently on it. Laura looks up and smiles at him. LAURA: Daniel! DANIEL: You asked to see me? LAURA: Yes, I...I have a favour to ask you. Daniel squints a bit, unsure what to expect. DANIEL: Oh? What kind of favour? Laura stirs awkwardly for a moment, trying to find the best way to ask. LAURA: I need you to do a bit of digging on someone...Liam Frasier. Daniel looks down, sighing in frustration. --- At the former Titan TV studio, Nicole stands with Miles before hearing the sound of the doors to the studio opening, as a group of people enter the room. She closes her eyes, anticipating the worst before turning around to see who's come in. As she turns, she spots a group of men in suits approaching. Followed by none other than Sami Brady and EJ DiMera. NICOLE: No! Sami stops before the group of men, and immediately launches into her announcement. SAMI: Good afternoon, everybody! I'm sure you all know by now, I'm Samantha Brady. And I will be operating the TV operation formerly known as Titan TV, as of today. Nicole breathes in deeply, choking back a scream, as Sami locks eyes with Nicole, a huge smile across Sami's face. NICOLE: No! You've got to be joking! Sami smiles widely, trying to stop herself from laughing as EJ responds. EJ: Oh, believe me, Nicole. This is anything but a joke. Nicole looks at EJ incredulously, before looking back towards Sami. NICOLE: How is it not? Samantha Brady has as much experience running a TV station as Billy Baldwin has at the Oscars. SAMI: My God, Nicole. Even your references are dated... Sami saunters over a little too causally over towards an agitated Nicole. She stands inches in front of her as she continues. SAMI: You know...considering how our...advertisers demand our programming be....youthful, fresh...ahead of the curve? I might be really careful what I say around here. Know what I mean? Nicole scowls at Sami, as Sami smiles smugly. --- --- Marlena walks into the 7th floor lobby at University Hospital as the door to the elevator opens. Eric walks out, catching Marlena's eye. He spots her as well and stops, walking back towards his mother. MARLENA: Eric! It's good to see you. ERIC: Mom. The two hug warmly, though Eric's troubled face doesn't get past Marlena, who immediately begins to worry. MARLENA: You alright? You seem...a bit distracted. ERIC: Yeah, you could say that. The two separate, and Marlena looks at her son. She steps back a moment before answering, a worried look on her face. MARLENA: You want to grab a coffee and we can talk about it? Eric nods solemnly. ERIC: I'd like that. Marlena smiles warmly as she presses the down button to the elevator, headed for the ground floor. MARLENA: Great. I've had quite a morning myself. As the door opens, the two step on, and Eric looks on, puzzled himself. ERIC: Oh? What happened? MARLENA: Ohhh....it's a long story. The elevator doors shut as Marlena looks over at her son, whose own worried expression is now equally directed as his mother as it has been at himself. --- Valerie steps into her office, holding Roman's medical files in hand. Pouring over them, she looks confused by the contents. VALERIE: This...can't be right... As she speaks, Jerome steps into the room, knocking on the door of her office, causing her to jump a moment. JEROME: Hey Grandma. VALERIE: Jerome! Baby, how are you?? When did you get into town? Valerie puts the folder down, and almost runs over to Jerome, throwing her arms around him, gleeful at seeing her grandson. JEROME: Just this morning. I...actually haven't had a chance to go to the house and drop my things off yet. VALERIE: Well, actually that's good because I should probably go help you out when I'm done here. JEROME: Okay, I'll meet you after. Valerie smiles, happy to see her grandson again. VALERIE: Sounds good. I should be done in an hour or so. I just gotta...figure out something with this patient file first. Hey, did you get everything settled at the university yet? Jerome stops a moment, a strange look on his face that Valerie spots immediately. JEROME: I...yeah...I just was taking care of a couple things. Valerie looks at Jerome, squinting her eyes like she knows something's up. VALERIE: Jerome Paul Grant. I have raised you from the time you were in diapers, and I know you're lying to me. Now out with it. What were you really up to? Jerome breathes in, eyes darting quickly to the side as he tries to quickly come up with something to tell his grandmother. --- Nicole keeps her eyes firmly locked on Sami, as she puts one hand on her hip. NICOLE: You know, this is hardly the way to build workplace morale, Sami. SAMI: Well, I always figured it wasn't exactly great for workplace morale to have a murderous psycho on staff, but these folks seem to manage just fine. Nicole rolls her eyes. NICOLE: (sigh) Sami, get over it. Whether you want to admit it or not, I'm good at my job, and I work hard. So at least someone thinks I have something worth holding onto. Sami begins to laugh at Nicole's assertion. SAMI: Like who? NICOLE: Your brother for a start! SAMI: Right, well, Eric always did have rotten taste in women. NICOLE: Oh that's rich, considering you're the one taking my sloppy seconds. EJ finally has had enough and interjects. EJ: Okay, ladies, that's enough, alright? Look, Nicole, I recognize you've done a lot of fine work for Titan TV, and you're in no danger of losing your job now, you understand. Nicole looks back EJ's way with a smug smile. NICOLE: Thank you, EJ. EJ walks up behind Sami, putting both hands on her shoulders. EJ: Besides, Samantha, we have a very special project for Nicole to work on for us. NICOLE: And what would that be, exactly? EJ: You're going to work on that expose of all the shady business practices over at EnerNext. We'll give you every dollar you need. I want you to nail the bastards for us. Nicole smiles widely, partly in relief to get her bosses' support. NICOLE: Oh, I think I can arrange that. --- Daniel squirms as he tries to respond to Laura's request, visibly uncomfortable getting involved in this situation. DANIEL: Laura...I want you to understand something, okay? Jenn and I...when we split, I made the point to stay out of her life as much as possible, and I've held to that-- LAURA: ...Yes, but now she needs you, Daniel. DANIEL: What do you mean? I mean...Liam's a good guy, I work with him every day here at the hospital. Laura begins to appear visibly agitated by Daniel's refusal, her desperation becoming clear to him as she continues. LAURA: Daniel! Look, I know what your situation has been with Jennifer, and I understand you're moving on, but I do NOT trust this man at ALL. Daniel looks stunned by Laura's statement. Laura, meanwhile, gets up from her desk, and begins to pace nervously around the room. DANIEL: Wha...why not? I mean, he treats Jenn really well from all accounts, and...honestly, I don't understand what all the fuss is about, Laura. LAURA: No, you don't understand. Look, before I say anything to you about this, you need to promise me this stays between you and I. Nobody else can know about any part of this. Do you understand. Daniel puts his hands up in surrender, as Laura stands tense before him, looking directly into his eyes with a great intensity that is offputting even to Daniel. DANIEL: You have my word. LAURA: Alright... Laura looks away, a bit more relaxed again, but once again pacing the room. LAURA: JJ came to me last night...he was...he was shaking, Daniel. He was terrified. Daniel looks at Laura, a real concern starting to come across his face. DANIEL: Terrified of what? LAURA: Of Liam. He had overheard Liam talking to someone outside the Town Square on his cell phone, and that someone mentioned that they would be keeping tabs on Abigail while she's out of the country, and...something about reporting to Stefano. Daniel looks down a moment, mulling over what Laura's just told him. Daniel thinks back to Abigail's fall, and her being his patient afterwards. He recalls her nervousness regarding her pregnancy. ... FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 49 Abigail lies in her hospital bed as Daniel casually goes over her chart. Abigail is nervous thanks in part to Daniel's close ties to her family and ex-colleagues at the hospital. ABBY: That's good. Uh...Daniel...umm...you're not going to tell my mom about any of this, are you? DANIEL: Nah, that's...that's not gonna happen. See, your mom and I are, in no uncertain terms, finished. ABBY: Good. Uh...that's....not quite what I meant. I mean, I just...well, you know a lot of my family and friends and... DANIEL: Doctor-patient confidentiality. Cross my heart. Abigail smiles, feeling reassured that Daniel won't speak to anyone about her condition. ... After this moment, his eyes snap back up towards Laura, a realization having struck him. DANIEL: My God. ---

EPISODE 77 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Valerie and Marlena sit in the cafeteria in University Hospital, sipping on coffee as they pick away at their lunch. The old friends smile as they catch up. Marlena pulls a picture from her wallet. MARLENA: So this is my daughters Belle and Sami. VALERIE: What beautiful young women they are...Wow. Roman must be so proud of them. Marlena looks down awkwardly, which Valerie catches. VALERIE: Okay, Marlena...you gotta get me up to speed on this whole...Roman situation. What happened between you two? Marlena nearly spits out her coffee at Valerie's unintentionally loaded question. MARLENA: Valerie, if you wanted me to fill you in on that, you'd need all afternoon, not just a lunch date. Valerie smiles, laughing quietly, but realizing how out of the loop she's been. She furrows her brow subtly as she responds. VALERIE: Cliff notes? Marlena puts down her coffee, trying hard to hide her frustration at Valerie's persistance, but Valerie catches on, and holds up her hands. VALERIE: Okay...if you don't want to talk about it... MARLENA: No no. It's just...it's very complicated. (sigh) Basically...we thought we had lost Roman...many many years ago....not to...get into too much detail but...a man came to town. John Black. We...we all thought he was Roman and...I married him. VALERIE: But Roman was alive the whole time? MARLENA: He had been held prisoner...for seven years. And then they kidnapped me as well. Valerie looks on, shocked by Marlena's story. VALERIE: My God! Marlena, I'm...so sorry. Marlena smiles re-assuringly. She puts her hand over Valerie's. MARLENA: It's alright. We managed to escape. Either way, once we were all back in Salem...things got complicated. John and I had an affair...and that's how we had Belle. VALERIE: I see. Is....that why you and Roman aren't together anymore. Marlena nods with a hint of sadness. Valerie looks at Marlena with a sympathetic face. VALERIE: I'm sorry to hear. MARLENA: Oh it's okay. That was a long time ago. I just wish things were going well with John now. Marlena stares off in a distance as she thinks over her recent problems with John, and their divorce. --- Daniel stands by the nurses' station at the hospital, trying to step between Billie and and angry Kim, who has caught Billie and Daniel in a warm embrace. DANIEL: Okay...Kimberly, I want you to understand something here. This hospital is extremely well-protected without a police guard. There will always be someone within eyeshot of Theresa's room, so all this talk about a police guard is unneccessary. Okay? KIM: Says the man that I just caught hugging the woman I have a restraining order against. Come on, Daniel. I'm not stupid. Daniel sighs, as Billie rolls her eyes. Giving up, Billie presses the down button on the elevator. BILLIE: Look. I have to get back to Titan, but, Kim. Just...let it go. I'm not going to see Theresa, okay? I'm respecting your wishes. KIM: If that's the case, then why are you here? BILLIE: Believe it or not, I have friends at this hospital that aren't named Theresa. I had to go see Jennifer for a moment, if you must know. Alright? So just relax and call your dogs off. The door to the elevator opens, with Billie staring Kim down as she steps on, making a snarky remark before leaving. BILLIE: But I will not stop caring about Theresa. And when she wakes up, you better hope she doesn't put a restraining order out against you. Especially conseridering how well you two get on. Have a nice day, Kim. Daniel? I'll see you at Club TBD? Billie steps onto the elevator, while Kim stares her down as the doors close. Kim points to Billie as she looks up at Daniel, who's had quite enough of Kim, himself. KIM: Do you see that? And you try to explain to me why I shouldn't have a police guard up. Daniel finally snaps, looking over Kim's head as he shouts out at her. DANIEL: Okay, Kim, ENOUGH! There will be no guards for Theresa's room and that's final, got it?? Kim looks at Daniel, stunned and disgusted by his strong reaction, and his domineering. --- Eric walks through Town Square, deep in thought as he quickly grabs his phone from his pocket to check a newly received text message. As he does, he continues walking. Turning the corner by Tom & Alice's tree, he slams into a woman passing by, who jumps back before she falls down, herself not having paid close enough attention. NOELLE: Oh God, watch...! ERIC: I'm so sorr-- Eric stands back, shocked to see Noelle again. Eric looks on, at a loss for words momentarily, as is Noelle. ERIC: Noelle Curtis...what are you doing here? --- --- Eric offers a hand to Noelle as he lifts her up off the ground of Horton Town Square. The both smile, surprised to see each other again after so long. NOELLE: My God! Eric Brady, it's been...ages! Noelle leans over and gives Eric a warm hug. Eric smiles and hugs back. ERIC: It's been a...long while. You're looking...fantastic. Eric pulls out of the hug and, still holding her hands, backs away from her to see how beautiful she looks. Noelle smiles, flattered by Eric's compliment. NOELLE: You're not looking so bad yourself. I heard you...have had...quite a year. Eric's face drops, as he nods, a sad look across his face. ERIC: ...Or two. Yeah, you could definitely make a case. But I'm pulling through. NOELLE: Good. I'm glad. Yeah, it's...definitely not be an easy year for me either. ERIC: I heard about your dad. I'm sorry to hear. Neil and my mom were good friends for a very long time. Noelle smiles half-heartedly, a certain sadness in her eyes. She nods as she looks down, deep in thought in a way, as she continues to talk to Eric. NOELLE: Yeah. It wasn't easy on any of us. Especially since now I'm...helping to support her. Eric looks shocked by Noelle's revelation. He looks into Noelle's eyes with a deep concern. ERIC: What?? Noelle holds up her one hand to motion to Eric not to panic. NOELLE: It's...not a big deal, don't worry. I'm taking it all in stride. I'm just...gonna have to make it work is all. ERIC: Well, I hope it does work itself out. Hey, how long are you in town for? 'Cause I really would love you to meet everyone, catch up with me and Sami and... Noelle laughs at Eric's enthusiasm as she interrupts him to give him her news. As she does, Nicole appears from the opposite end of Horton Town Square and spies Eric and Noelle speaking. She hangs back, observing their body language from afar. NICOLE: Who the Hell is that? Noelle smiles and responds to Eric. NOELLE: Well...we'll have plenty of time for all that. I'm staying in Salem...hopefully for good. Eric's eyes light up at the news. He smiles widely, still standing hand-in-hand with her. ERIC: Really?? NOELLE: Really! ERIC: That's fantastic! Eric pulls Noelle back in for a big hug as Nicole looks on. Now blind with jealous rage, she storms over to Eric and Noelle and, upon approaching them, makes herself known. NICOLE: And just what in the HELL is going on here? Eric pulls away from Noelle and turns to face Nicole, his face immediately twisted into one of confused displeasure. --- Jordan sits down at Sheryl's desk, sitting in a chair next to Jerome. Sheryl leans over her desk, placing down before the both of them a single page each. Jordan squints at the page as she picks it up, looking up at a smirking Sheryl as she scans the page. JORDAN: You're serious about this? SHERYL: Absolutely. Jordan sets the paper down on Sheryl's desk. She looks over incredulously at Jerome. JORDAN: You're going to steal all the data Titan has on EnerNext from their mainframe and cover your tracks with a virus? SHERYL: Not just any virus, Jordan. That's why I brought Jerome back to help us. He can explain it a lot better than I can. Sheryl motions to Jerome to continue. He smiles wryly and begins, hands clasped together as he sits casually at his seat. JEROME: We will be accessing that specific server only. Once the files are accessed and copied, which should only take about twenty minutes, we would have to cover our tracks to avoid any chance of Titan's security system catching the transfer. As a result, we will systematically corrupt and effectively paralyze the Titan servers, top to bottom. JORDAN: And what if the firewall stops us before then? I mean, wouldn't someone not get a warning that there was a breach in the firewall? SHERYL: Not if Jerome's plan goes correctly. Jerome looks over to Jordan, who is still a bit lost on the logistics of the plan. JEROME: There is a hole in every firewall. We just have to figure out where it is, and take advantage of it. SHERYL: Once we're in, we take what we need, and then effectively set fire to the house. Jordan looks at Sheryl, unimpressed, and responds sarcastically. JORDAN: Sounds extreme. JEROME: It's the best way. It's effectively untraceable, destroys Titan's inner workings, which will cost them millions if not billions, and whatever we collect on the project will go straight to the media, which will put the final nail in Titan's coffin. Jerome turns to Sheryl at this point, pointing and smiling, looking impressed. JEROME: Oh, and by the way. Great work with the Titan TV sale. I didn't think you could pull that one off, but it helps us out big time. SHERYL: Thank you. JORDAN: Won't that still be a bit of a battle? I mean, I'm sure there's a boatload of Titan loyalists still left at the station. I can't imagine they'd be thrilled with this. Jerome looks back to Jordan, a wry smile on his face, and a glimmer in his eye. JEROME: Trust me. When the man isn't signing their cheques, they'll take him down in a heartbeat for a good story. You can believe that. SHERYL: And truth be told, I'm certain that by the end of the week, there won't be a Titan for them to worry about anyway, and we'll be miles away by then. As she finishes her sentence, Sheyl looks up shocked as the door to her office swings open. Lucas looks on, confused by the scene he sees in front of him. LUCAS: Miles away from where? Sheryl looks on, stunned and at a loss for words as Jordan and Jerome turn to see Lucas in the doorway. LUCAS: Sheryl, what the Hell is going on here? --- Daniel pulls Kim into his office, with Kim attempting to free herself from his clutches, as he shuts the door. Kim pulls off him, finally, and curses him as she feels her not-as-sore-as-she's-making-out upper arm. Daniel leans against his desk and points a finger at Kim as he starts in on her. KIM: Let go of me! What kind of neanderthal are you? DANIEL: One that's concerned about your daughter's well-being. Daniel stops a moment, relaxing somewhat as his tone changes to a more reserved, concerned one. DANIEL: ...And yours. Kim looks up from studying her arm for bruising. She squints at Daniel in wonder. KIM: My well-being? (laughs) Daniel, I've been through...so much worse than this. DANIEL: Yeah, and how did you handle that? Kim looks away a moment, annoyed by Daniel's interference. KIM: I don't want to get into this with you, okay? Daniel raises his voice, hoping to stifle Kim's objections. DANIEL: You need to, Kimberly! Daniel stops a moment before softening his tone again, his eyes unmoving from Kim's. DANIEL: Your daughter has been in a terrible accident. The longer she's in that coma, the greater the chance she'll never wake up from it. Now, I want to do everything I can to make sure she does wake up, but that includes her being surrounded by friends and family that will help her heal. And whether you want to admit it or not...that includes Billie. Kim looks away at the window, shaking her head in denial. As she responds to Daniel, she becomes increasingly emotional, tears beginning to form in her eyes. KIM: That woman has caused us nothing but pain. She's torn every bit of stability and normacly away from that girl. And just when I finally get my daughter back... Kim stops a moment to collect herself as she begins to break down. Daniel looks on, sympathetically, but folds his arms and stays put, not wanting to step towards Kim. KIM: I can't take any chances with this, Daniel. Billie Reed poisoned my daughter against me, and I'm not going to let her near my daughter again, ever! Daniel looks down, retaining his composure as best he can as he takes in Kim's emotion. DANIEL: It's not right. And you know it. Kim nearly hollers over Daniel, refusing to accept what he has to say. KIM: Oh to HELL with what's right for Billie! She has no right to insert herself into this. DANIEL: Okay, Kim...I want you to realize something. Okay? I saw Billie with Theresa, and I saw how much Billie cares about that girl getting better. That kind of energy is sometimes exactly what can make the difference between someone coming back out of a coma, and someone never waking up. Kim stays silent, wiping away her tears as she listens to Daniel. DANIEL: But I have to respect that restraining order. If I don't, I run the risk of losing my job, and my licence. Why would I risk that? Just...don't let this anger consume you, Kim. Billie may be in my life, but that's not gonna give her special privilege where Theresa's concerned. You need to trust that. Kim stops a moment, mulling over what Daniel's said before continuing. KIM: Okay...fine, I won't ask for a guard for Theresa's room, and I will respect...whatever thing you have going with her...but if I ever catch Billie Reed in my daughter's hospital room again, so help me, you will live to regret it. Do you understand me? And trust me, if she's in there, I WILL find out. I can guarantee you. Daniel looks up again, afraid to even make a response against Kim's strong reaction. --- In the hospital cafeteria, Valerie studies Marlena's troubled expression with concern of her own. VALERIE: What do you mean by that? Is everything okay with you and John? Marlena sighs as she answers, not able to quite look Valerie in the eyes, hoping to retain her composure. MARLENA: No, I can't say that they are. We're getting a divorce. Marlena feigns a smile, as Valerie reaches out across the table to touch Marlena's hand in comfort. VALERIE: I'm really sorry to hear that. But I'll tell you something, you look a hell of a lot more conflicted than sad about this. Marlena...are...are you sure this is what you want? Marlena looks down, contemplating Valerie's question. She slowly nods, before looking back up at her friend to answer her question. MARLENA: Yes. Yes, it's probably for the best. Too much water's passed under the bridge, and as much as I don't want to admit it, I have much more important priorities to consider right now. Valerie raises an eyebrow at Marlena's vague statement. VALERIE: Such as...? MARLENA: What to do about Roman. VALERIE: What do you mean? Is he okay? Marlena takes a sip of her coffee before answering. Putting the cup down, she shakes her head subtly, hoping to maintain discretion concerning his situation. MARLENA: No. And actually, that's something I really should ask you about, especially with your expertise in neurology. VALERIE: Absolutely, anything. Marlena leans in, looking around to make sure no one could be listening in on them as she softly asks Valerie her question. MARLENA: Roman's been having very...bizarre memory lapses and these...strange moments that almost seem like the beginnings of dementia... VALERIE: It very well could be, but he's so young, that's a surprise to me. MARLENA: To me too. And it comes so soon after his mother's diagnosis with Alzheimer's as well. But, that's the thing. The symptoms don't quite line up. Valerie looks on, head tilted slightly in confusion. VALERIE: How do you mean? MARLENA: I mean that something in my gut is telling me something else is happening to him. And I need you to figure out what it is. VALERIE: I'll do whatever I can. Marlena smiles at Valerie warmly. MARLENA: Thank you. I'll be meeting with Roman after lunch so maybe we can have a chat with him then. VALERIE: Sounds good to me, I'm free for a little while longer, so I don't mind at a... Before Valerie can finish her sentence, she spots another familiar face walk through the door of the cafeteria, looking for someone. She spots Roman immediately and calls out to him as she stands up, smiling widely. VALERIE: Chris Kositchek! Aren't you a sight for sore eyes! Roman looks at Valerie, bewildered, and as though looking at a stranger, as Marlena looks on, a flash of deep concern hits her as she looks quickly back and forth between Roman and Valerie. ---

EPISODE 71 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Jordan and Rafe sit down at a table at Club TBD. Rafe tries to prod a smile out of Jordan, who is deep in thought. RAFE: Hey! Earth to Jordan. Come on, what's up? Jordan snaps out of it, though she still looks concerned and distracted. She gives Rafe a half-hearted smile. JORDAN: Ugh, I'm sorry, Rafe. I just...I got so much going on at work, and... RAFE: Aaaand you're not at work. Look, you've been distracted all day. you didn't make it in time for Brady's memorial, and you've spent every moment... Rafe sees Jordan looking away every couple seconds at her cell phone, which is planted face-up on the table. Rafe puts his hand over her phone and slides it towards himself. RAFE: ...looking at your phone. What's going on? --- JJ knocks on Laura's bedroom door. Laura's still awake and calls out to him from her vanity stool, where she's finishing putting lotion on her face. LAURA: Come in! JJ walks in carefully, as Laura turns and smiles to see her grandson. LAURA: JJ! How are you? JJ: I'm alright, Grandma. I...uh...I wanted to talk to you. It's...really important. LAURA: Sure! What is it? JJ breathes in deeply before speaking, a hopeful look on his face as he quietly speaks to his grandmother. JJ: I need you to talk to my mom about Liam. Laura's face drops as JJ brings Liam up to her. LAURA: What do you mean? JJ: Okay...so...when I got to Brady's memorial today? I saw Liam, he was with my mom, but...then he got this phone call. And I...I followed him out into that park by the square? Laura nods in understanding, all the while still intently focused on what he's saying. LAURA: Okay? Then what happened. JJ looks down a moment while speaking, before looking up at his grandmother, a worried look on his face. JJ: I overheard his conversation, and I'm certain I heard him say that he was watching over Abby for Stefano. Laura draws herself up immediately, a wave of panic on her face. --- Daniel walks up to his door to the sound of someone knocking frantically on his door. He's half-naked and clearly not fully awake. The frantic knocking causes him to scurry quickly to the door, if only to make the persistent knocking stop. He opens the door to find Billie standing in front of him. He's surprised to see her at this hour. DANIEL: Billie! BILLIE: Oh thank God, you're still up. Billie walks into Daniel's apartment before Daniel even gets a moment to react. DANIEL: Come...in? BILLIE: I'm SO sorry I'm barging in at this hour, I just...I needed to ask you something. As Daniel tries to object, Billie holds up her finger to stop him. BILLIE: And before you say a word, no, it can't wait until tomorrow. Daniel sighs, giving up. He looks to Billie, arms folded, an exhausted look on his face, eyes half-open. DANIEL: Okay...what do you need? BILLIE: I need you to find a way to get me in to see Theresa. Daniel's eyes squint even harder, trying to process what Billie's proposing. ---- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Nicole sits with Eric at the edge of the river. Visibly upset by what Eric's just told her, she looks intently at Eric. NICOLE: What do you mean, you can't marry me, Eric? EVER? Eric nods, slowly, and with a heavy heart. ERIC: Nicole, my faith means a great deal to me. I...I can't just...turn my back on the teachings of the church because they're convenient for me-- Nicole interrupts, hurt and upset, a rage coming over her. NICOLE: ...Convenient isn't the word for it! Eric, this is what's right, this is not convenience. Damn it, Eric, we love each other. I think there's a reason why we've been...brought back together after...all these years. It's meant to be, Eric. You can call it...God. Or...whatever you want. But would a just God want to deny you the one thing that makes you happy because I married the wrong person once or...a few times? Eric says nothing. Staring straight out at the water. Deep in thought, contemplating what Nicole's saying, and his own perspective. NICOLE: Eric? Still staring out, Eric doesn't even acknowledge that he's listening. Nicole tries desperately to get Eric to respond. NICOLE: Eric, say something! Eric sighs, finally speaking up. ERIC: Nicole, just because it...feels right doesn't mean it is. NICOLE: Why? Why is it not right? Who is it hurting, Eric? Eric sighs again, this time reluctant to answer. Nicole doesn't wait for his answer. NICOLE: There's a reason you can't answer that. Because you know, in your heart...that I'm right. Eric looks at Nicole, a very troubled look still stuck on his face, as he gets up and walks away, leaving Nicole by the river, still tense with anger, and confused and upset by Eric's reluctance to dedicate himself to her. --- Jordan tries in vain to get Rafe to give her back her cell phone. He slides the phone off the table and puts it in his shirt pocket. Jordan tries to reach for it frantically. JORDAN: Rafe, give that back. RAFE: Ah ah ah! nope. We agreed to spend a quiet evening together. Not checking our social media every few seconds. Jordan rolls her eyes before giving up. JORDAN: Okay. Okay. Sorry. RAFE: Well, it's better to at least see something other than the top of your forehead. Jordan squints her eyes, unimpressed by Rafe's humour. JORDAN: Ha ha. Very funny. I was actually waiting for a call from someone. RAFE: And when it rings, I can hand you the phone. It's no big deal. JORDAN: Rafe, yes it is. That's a very important call. Rafe becomes more and more agitated as Jordan becomes more and more frantic. RAFE: From who? Jordan, you're not acting like yourself at all. What's wrong? Jordan flashes back to her last conversation with Sheryl. *** FLASHBACK TO 64 Jordan sits attentively at her desk at the hospital, waiting on Sheryl to fill her in on what the next step of their plan is. JORDAN: Okay. Tell me, what's this great plan of yours? SHERYL: Simple. I made a phone call today, to an old friend of ours. Jordan's brow furrows, as she pulls her glasses off her face. JORDAN: An old friend? Sheryl leans in, smirking confidently at Jordan as she quietly tells her the name of their old friend. SHERYL: Jerome Grant. Jordan leans back, surprise plain on her face as the news hits her. *** Jordan sighs, before rolling her eyes and telling Rafe what he wants to hear. JORDAN: I'm worried about...a friend. RAFE: Anyone I know? JORDAN: Yes. Okay, fine. It's Sheryl. Look, she and Lucas have been...I dunno. He's been so busy with work lately that she hasn't heard a word from him and she's getting a little...anxious. You know? Rafe shrugs, before taking Jordan's hand and looking into her eyes, hoping she'll listen to his advice. RAFE: Well that's for them to worry about. Not you. Jordan looks away, trying to avoid Rafe's gaze, but he holds his hand up to her chin, guiding her gaze back his way, ever so gently. RAFE: Hey, hey. I know you're concerned about your friends. I understand. But you can't fight everyone's battles for them. Sometimes you just gotta...let whatever's happening happen. Jordan nods reluctantly, smiling half-heartedly at Rafe. JORDAN: I guess you're right. RAFE: I know I am. Now...come on. Let's enjoy our evening together. No. Distractions. Jordan finally gives in, smiling warmly at Rafe as he leans in across the table. She gets up slightly from her end as they gently kiss each other's lips. --- Daniel shakes his head slightly, checking to be sure he heard Billie correctly. DANIEL: You...you want me to what? BILLIE: I want you to find a way to sneak me in to see Theresa. Daniel blinks, shaking his head again in disbelief. DANIEL: I...Billie. Seriously? This is all kinds of...illegal and unethical. BILLIE: And doable. Kim doesn't have a guard at the door of that room. And you know full well that if I go in later in the evenings, the hospital will be quiet enough that no one will see me, as long as we're careful. Daniel holds up his hands to object to Billie, but Billie won't hear of it. DANIEL: Billie, I can't-- BILLIE: No buts, Daniel Jonas. I will not have Kimberly Brady trying to concoct some kind of parallel history that denies my relationship with her daughter. Theresa is my friend, and I am one of her ONLY friends. She needs me around her. You know that. DANIEL: Billie, I can't interfere with a court order. I mean...do you understand what you're asking me to do, here? BILLIE: I think I might. I used to be a cop, remember? Come on, you don't have to be any more involved than just...schedule your checkups on Theresa for later in the evening and let me in. Daniel laughs in disbelief at Billie's suggestion. He takes a moment to respond so as not say anything too harsh. DANIEL: You have no idea how my rounds work, do you? It's not that simple, Billie. Billie chokes up a bit as she walks in close to Daniel. She looks intently at him, hoping to appeal to his symapthies. BILLIE: I know it's not simple, but...please. Daniel. I need this. I need to see Theresa. This is the only way I can make this work. Daniel shakes his head as he puts his hands on Billie's shoulders. DANIEL: Do you realize what could happen if we're caught doing this? I could lose my license, and you would go to jail immediately. Billie sighs, looking at the ground before she looks up at Daniel, nodding. BILLIE: I'm ready to deal with that. I don't care, as long as I get to see Theresa. Daniel, people in comas, they hear us. And I know that it'll be good for Theresa to hear my voice. That girl needs to hear my voice, Daniel. Please. Do this for me. Daniel thinks it over a moment, walking over to the window before turning around suddenly to face Billie. DANIEL: Okay. Billie smiles immediately, rushing over to hug Daniel. BILLIE: Thank you. Thank you...oh God. Thank you, Daniel. Daniel holds Billie tightly, but looking out, a concerned look on his face as he contemplates what he's about to do. --- Laura looks concerned as JJ speaks to her, the concerns she's had about Jennifer and Liam's relationship coming out JJ's mouth. JJ: I'm worried, Grandma. He...he was talking to some guy and...I know I heard her name. LAURA: Did you tell your mom? JJ: Yes, but...this is what's really scaring me, Grandma. Liam came out of nowhere and he heard me tell mom about his conversation. He knows I heard him. Laura's now trembling in fear from JJ's comments. JJ sees Laura tremble and takes her hands into his. JJ: Grandma...you okay? LAURA: I...I don't know. JJ: Just...try to relax, okay? Laura breathes in deeply, as she tries to relax herself and keeps asking JJ questions. LAURA: Right. Okay...so...JJ...what happened after that conversation you had with your mother? JJ: Well...they took off, mom and Liam did...and I stayed behind to try to...sort this out in my head...and as they left...Liam...he looked at me...I caught him trying to...like...stare me down or something. But I'm more worried about Abigail than anything. I mean...she's working for Stefano but...Liam works at the hospital, he has no ties to Stefano. LAURA: JJ, I don't...I don't understand any of this. I mean...what business would Liam have spying on Abigail for Stefano, unless... Laura halts midsentence. JJ immediately more tense as Laura's expression becomes even more terrified. JJ: Grandma?? Grandma what's wrong? Laura tries in vain to allay JJ's fears, too terrified herself to relax. LAURA: JJ...I...I have to ask you something. JJ: Anything, Grandma, what? Laura leans in close to JJ, trying to ensure JJ listens carefully to her. LAURA: Don't do anything else. I have a terrible feeling that I know exactly what's going on. JJ: What? What, Grandma, tell me what it is. LAURA: I can't, JJ. If I tell you...I don't know if either of us will be safe. Just...leave it alone. Leave it all to me. I will take care of this. Okay? Promise me! JJ looks on, now terrified for his family, but not sure what Laura won't tell him. He nods in agreement as he gets up from the edge of Laura's bed, where he was sitting. JJ: Okay. I promise. Goodnight. JJ walks out of the room in a daze. Confused by Laura's reaction and petrified by what Laura won't tell him. He closes the door behind him as Laura stares into the mirror, visibly terrified and upset. LAURA: Damn you, Stefano! You better not be up to what I think you are. ---