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EPISODE 92 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson The sunlight fights its way through every available crack between Nick's blinds. One beam brightly hits Nick right in the eyes, jolting him from his slumber. The bright sunlight shocks him, causing him to squint. Nick goes to sit up, but is hit almost immediately with a searing headache. It nearly cripples him, but he manages to stumble over to the window of his small studio apartment. Looking out the window, he sees the bright day, sighing as he winces, the sunlight hurting his eyes. He turns back to find his laptop bag. Rifling through it, he finds his pills. But his fingers slide across what's resting next to the pill bottle: Marlena Evans' perscription pad. Just as he's about to lift the pad up, he lurches back in pain. The pad gave him a papercut. Nick puts the cut finger in his mouth, wincing at the pain and discomfort. NICK: Mm! Dammit! Nick holds in his pain a moment to awkwardly open the bottle of pills. He struggles, as his hands shake violently. He looks at them, concerned greatly by his symptoms. He quickly opens the bottle, taking two pills from the bottle. He looks down at the bottle, shrugs, and pulls another one out. Taking all three, he steps into the bathroom, and turns on the tap, pouring half a glass of lukewarm water, which he uses to wash down the pills. After downing his medication, he looks into the bathroom mirror. He looks at his messy appearance, the emerging circles under his eyes, and shakes his head. NICK: You gotta get it together, Fallon. You got too much to do today to let this stop you. Wayyy, way too much. --- Sheryl lies half-asleep in bed, sighing after a good night's rest, before she reaches out slowly to caress Lucas' face. She reaches out and finds no one there. Opening her eyes in surprise, she gets up with a start. She looks confused around her room. SHERYL: Lucas? Getting up from her bed, covers, of course, covering her body, she inspects the bathroom before looking for her phone. SHERYL: Where the Hell did you go? Pulling her phone out, she looks down, seeing no texts or calls from Lucas. She looks up, confused by his absence. --- Hope walks into her living room, dressed and ready for work, coffee cup in hand, as the doorbell rings. She jumps momentarily, before putting her coffee cup down, and calls out toward the door. HOPE: One second! She runs over to the door, looking in the small window in the door, she spots Marlena. She opens the door, smiling. HOPE: Hey! Marlena! Her face drops, however, upon seeing the heavy concern on Marlena's face. MARLENA: Hope, I... HOPE: ..W...What's wrong? Come in, come in! Hope moves back away from the door, welcoming Marlena in. Marlena walks in solemnly. She hesitates to speak, sighing as she begins. MARLENA: Thank you. Uh...I had to see you, and I'm...I'm sorry to bother you so early in the morning. Hope shakes her head, looking very concerned at Marlena. HOPE: No, no! Nonsense, you're always welcome here, you know that. Uh...sit down. You, uh...you want some coffee? I just made a fresh pot. MARLENA: Ah...no. No, thank you. I couldn't possibly keep anything down right now. Marlena obliges Hope's request, sitting down, breathing heavily, struggling to hold herself together. Hope quickly walks to Marlena's side and sits down next to her. HOPE: Marlena...you're scaring me. What's wrong? Marlena looks up at Hope, starting to tear up. MARLENA: Roman's missing. And I need your help to find him. --- Lucas wanders through the park, deep in thought over the events of the previous night. Up ahead, he spies Club TBD. He craves a drink, but resists. Looking at the nearby bench, he spots something unusual. It's Roman, asleep by the bush. Lucas looks on, baffled by the sighting, and calls out to him. LUCAS: Roman? Roman doesn't answer, but is startled by Lucas. He stirs, as Lucas approaches. Lucas kneels down next to him, shaking him gently to make sure he's okay. LUCAS: Roman! Hey, man. You alright? Roman grunts as he starts to wake up. Lucas bursts into action as he takes his jacket off to try to warm a freezing-to-the-touch Roman up. LUCAS: Man, you're freezing! Here, take my jacket. ROMAN: Uh...where am I? LUCAS: You're in the park, just outside Club TBD. Are...are you okay? What are you doing sleeping out here? It's got to be like...fourty degrees outside! Roman's eyes widen, as he struggles to catch his breath. He looks around, confused. ROMAN: I...I have no idea. I went for a walk and...who...how did I end up here? LUCAS: I dunno, man, but we gotta get you inside. Come on. Lucas hoists Roman up on his feet and guides him slowly towards the club. --- A tray of food is set down in front of a sleeping Sonny. The sound of the tray hitting the table jolts Sonny from his sleep. He looks, wide-eyed at the tray, before looking up, and seeing Will standing over him, a smile on his fiance's face. WILL: Good morning! Sonny looks stunned a moment, before lifting himself off the couch he'd spent the night on in the hospital lounge. He stutters a bit before he answers. SONNY: I...ah...Will...hey! Will laughs a bit, watching Sonny stumble over his words. WILL: You surprised to see me? I've been with you all night. SONNY: You...you have? WILL: Yeah. I was worried about you. I...I saw Adrienne walk out of here last night, she...she seemed really upset. Did you-- SONNY: ...Yeah. We talked. Will folds his arms, nodding slowly, knowing exactly how it turned out from Sonny's reaction. WILL: Aaand obviously that didn't go very well. Sonny raises his eyebrows, before shrugging, a hint of sadness in his voice. SONNY: You could say that. Will sits down next to Sonny, putting his arm around Sonny's waist, drawing him close to him. Sonny leans into Will, feeling comforted by Will for the first time in a long time. WILL: I'm sorry, Sonny. I...feel like I'm...I dunno, like it's my fault this all happened. SONNY: (sigh) Don't say that. It's not your fault my mom has this...vendetta against you. WILL: Well...what happened? Sonny lifts himself off Will's shoulder, turning to face Will. He sighs with sadness in his eyes before answering him. SONNY: Well...she came to me to tell me what her and my dad were fighting about in the garden. Will looks at Sonny, a very concerned look on his face as he asks Sonny a question, almost not wanting an answer. WILL: And...what was it? SONNY: She says that you are a carbon copy of your mother, and that you are, and I quote: lusting after my brother. Will tenses up, knowing that Adrienne has his number, but he hides the uneasiness. --- --- Sami stands in the DiMera living room, sipping her coffee, as she flips through some paperwork. She hears her phone ring. Picking it up, she quickly answers. SAMI: (into phone) Hey! Uh...Suzanne, it's Samantha Brady...yeah. I, uh, I'm heading into the station today and I just need you to pass along a message to Nicole Walker. EJ walks into the DiMera living room, Johnny on his shoulders, laughing heartily. Sami turns and sees EJ and Johnny step into the room. She smiles as she sees them come into the room, but is immediately striken with tension, as they approach. She fights the tension, as she continues her phone conversation. SAMI: (into phone) ...YES! I, I just want to pass along to her that I would like to meet with her for 11am. Tell her it's imperitive that I speak with her, and she should cancel all other arrangements for that time...Thank you. Hanging up the phone, she looks at Johnny and EJ and smiles. JOHNNY: Mommy! SAMI: Hey, sweetie! You ready for your trip today? JOHNNY: Yup! EJ and Sami laugh as Sami gently pats Johnny's head. She smiles, though her hand trembles. EJ catches Sami's hesitation and speaks up. EJ: I uh...I packed the children's things, Harold...helped me out, but... SAMI: That's great. Thank you. Uh... EJ leans down to lift Johnny off. EJ crouches down by Johnny and speaks kindly to him. EJ: Now, I need you and your sisters to be downstairs in twenty minutes. No later. Alright? JOHNNY: Okay! Johnny runs off out of the living room, heading upstairs, as EJ approaches Sami. He nearly places a hand on her shoulder, but thinks better of it, as Sami, sensing the nearness of his hand, flinches slightly. Setting his hand down by his side, EJ sighs. EJ: Are you sure about this? Sami responds, not turning around the face EJ. SAMI: I think it's better that they are with family far away from all this tension right now, yes. EJ sighs, as Sami turns to face him, explaining her rationale. SAMI: Look, EJ, I don't want them to go to Colorado any more than you do, but the truth is that while you and I are going through therapy and I'm struggling with...our...past...it just isn't healthy for them. They need to feel loved and cared for. I can't give that to them right now, especially Johnny. EJ nods, trying to understand. EJ: I understand...but it seems as though you're punishing the children for something that I did. And by extension, you're punishing me, and yourself. SAMI: I have to do what's best for them. And what's best for them isn't to be around us right now. Not until I'm able to deal with what happened between us that night, and not until I'm comfortable...I'm comfortable being with you again. EJ looks down, fighting his emotions, as he nods. He tries to understand Sami's situation, though he struggles. He finally responds. EJ: I...uh...I need to go check on the children. I'll see you at the office later? SAMI: Yeah! I'll be in after I take care of business at the station. EJ: Alright. Samantha... Sami turns back at look at EJ, who stares at her, hurt, but lovingly. EJ: I do love you, very very much. Sami smiles, unsuccessfully holding in her desire to cry. SAMI: Me too. EJ swallows heavily as he turns back around, heading out after Johnny. Sami stays behind, wiping her tears away, as she hears another notification ping. She looks at her phone, stunned. SAMI: Oh my God! Sami reads the headline: Victor Kiriakis suffers heart attack, hospitalized --- Will sighs heavily, biting his lip as he looks up at Sonny, almost afraid to ask what Sonny did next. WILL: And...what did you say about that? SONNY: Well, of course, I told her it was nonsense...and then I told her that I wanted her to stay away from you, and from me. Will looks stunned, unsure what to say in response to his fiance's act of loyalty. WILL: Sonny...you didn't have to do that-- SONNY: Yes...I did, Will. Look, you know...this is why I was afraid of you taking this job at EnerNext. I...I don't mean to interfere in your career, but...my family, they have this way of...meddling, of worming their way into our lives. And it looks like they found their way in already. Will takes Sonny's hand, and holds it tightly. He smiles warmly at his fiance. WILL: Sonny, I love you. And I really appreciate what you did for me. But I don't want you to ruin your relationship with your mom over me. It's not fair to you, or your mom. SONNY: No, what's not fair is my mom deciding to meddle in our business. She's trying to create problems and make me doubt you. And I'm not going to let her do that. Will looks down, still tightly gripping Sonny's hand, he smiles warmly at him. WILL: I know. But don't you think you're just...both under a lot of stress right now, what with Victor's heart attack, and Chad being AWOL from TBD, and...our...problems at home...don't you think you overreacted just a bit? Sonny looks at Will, then looks down. He thinks over what Will says intensely. --- Hope gets off the phone to the station, and turns back around to Marlena, who is furiously texting, a very worried look on her face. HOPE: Okay, uh...so I just spoke to Rafe...they can't formally put out a missing persons' report yet, but...they are looking into it. Hope looks down at Marlena finishing up her text. HOPE: Who are you texting? MARLENA: Kim. She was with me when...Roman took off. Hope looks on, increasingly concerned for Roman. She takes a moment, unsure whether to ask or not, but decides to go ahead. HOPE: Marlena...is something wrong with Roman? Marlena looks up at Hope, incredibly hesitant to tell her the truth. She looks down and sighs before responding. MARLENA: In all honesty, I don't know. But if we don't find him, I'm very concerned for his well-being. Hope, shocked, rushes over to the sofa again and sits at Marlena's side. HOPE: Good God...it's not Stefano is it? Has Stefano kidnapped-- MARLENA: ...No! No, no, no, it's not Stefano...at least not that I'm aware of. No, it's...Roman himself...I am so worried that he may be a danger to himself. Hope looks on, before pulling a tearful Marlena into a hug. Still unclear as to Marlena's concern, she furrows her brow, concerned for her brother-in-law. --- Lucas sits Roman down on the bench, as T comes over to see what's wrong. T: Hey, uh...Lucas...what's wrong with Mr. Brady? Is he okay? LUCAS: I uh...I think he's okay, but...he's been outside for quite awhile, can you grab us some coffee for him? T: Yeah, absolutely. T runs off to grab Roman a cup of coffee, as Lucas pulls out his phone. ROMAN: Who are you calling? Lucas doesn't look up as he scrolls through his contacts. LUCAS: I'm calling Marlena, first off. She needs to know you're okay. Roman panics at Lucas' suggestion, holding his hand up to reach out for Lucas' phone to stop him. ROMAN: I don't want Marlena to hear about this, you understand me? Lucas looks at Roman, stunned and concerned. --- Nick steps into the lab, where Percy sits at a desk, headphones in, listening intently to various conversations throughout the Titan complex. Nick waves silently to Percy, who, over the sound of his headphones, welcomes Nick loudly. PERCY: GREETINGS! Percy fumbles, realizing not everyone hears the things he is, and quickly takes his headphones off. He walks quickly over to Nick. PERCY: Oh, Nicholas, I have very important news for you. NICK: Oh do you. PERCY: Well...strictly speaking, I have two items for you to look over, but...this first one is of utmost importance. Nick looks to Percy, intrigued, as he sets down his bag on the table. NICK: I'm listening. PERCY: Well...you may not be especially thrilled about this first one. NICK: Try me. PERCY: Well...it seems as though Miss Ridgeway and Miss Connors have taken on a new addition to their ensemble-- Nick pulls out an apple, which he bites into as he replies. NICK: Oh yeah...I met him last night. Jeremy or... PERCY: Yes, uh, a Jerome Grant. Well...it seems as though the three of them have some sort of...computer software they're looking to install on the Titan servers, and it appears to me, as though today is the day they will go ahead with this. It sounds actually like something that could really cause a lot of damage. NICK: Really! Nick smiles wryly as he crunches into his apple. PERCY: Yes...I say this because I have a concern that...well...they may try to use you as a...what did they call it, a...uh...."fall guy" for their plan. And knowing that your intentions are only to assist these young ladies...I wouldn't want to see you harmed. Nick laughs, slapping Percy heartily on the back before pulling him in close to him. NICK: (laughs) Ohhh Percy. Not to worry, I won't be taking the fall for anyone. You can bet on that. Nick looks down at his apple, and bites into it, almost maniacally. ---

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 79 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson Maggie walks down the stairs at the Kiriakis mansion, a worried look on her face as she calls out to her husband. MAGGIE: Victor?? Maggie looks toward the doorway, then the living room. Not seeing Victor, or indeed anyone else, she slowly walks into the living room. Spotting an envelope on Victor's desk, she sees her name written on the front of it. Curious, she touches the envelope reluctantly. She then turns around, looking behind her, making sure Victor isn't looking in on her. Once she deems the coast clear, Maggie slowly opens the envelope, pulling the paper out and unfolding it nervously. She struggles to read it, having left her reading glasses in her purse. MAGGIE: Oh My God. Hearing a noise behind her, Maggie turns around to find a morose-looking Victor behind her. She smiles warmly at him. MAGGIE: The title for the Penthouse Grille. Victor smiles slightly. Maggie looks on lovingly. VICTOR: I wanted to make sure you had control over the property regardless of what happens to Titan. Maggie looks at Victor, surprised by his attitude. MAGGIE: Victor...what on Earth are you talking about? Victor looks down, away from Maggie, the sadness and worry plain on his face as he struggles to answer her. --- Marlena opens the door to her office at University Hospital. Roman and Valerie follow Marlena into the room. Valerie immediately closes the door behind her, ready to get down to business. VALERIE: Okay, so, talk to me. Tell me about these memory lapses. Roman stands, head down, hands on his hips, as he thinks over the moments he's missed so far. His reluctance to talk about his problem being obvious as he stutters his way through his troubles. ROMAN: Well...they...just started a few months ago. Minor stuff. There were these....holes in my memories that weren't there before. VALERIE: Such as...? Marlena, resting against the front of her desk, chimes in. MARLENA: The first time I met Bo, for a start. Roman turns to look at Marlena. He makes a strong face of frustration, recalling her reaction to his misremembering of that memory. Marlena sees his frustration and stops herself for a second, having been caught off guard by his look. --- Nicole walks into the studio at what is no longer Titan TV, as many of her colleagues mill about, chattering. All are fascinated by what's going on, curtains obscuring the studio wall that formerly held the Titan logo. Nicole looks around, as Miles appears, immediately going to speak to Nicole. NICOLE: Miles! MILES: Hey, Nicole. You excited about the news? NICOLE: To be honest...I'm more nervous than excited. Miles nods, and takes a moment before responding. MILES: Yyyyeah. So am I. If the news matches the rumours I heard, you won't like the news any more than I will. Nicole looks up, eyes widened. A thousand negative outcomes fill her head. --- Kate sits at her desk at her office. She looks up at a worried Lucas, who has just come in panicked about Sheryl and Jordan. Lucas, meanwhile, paces back and forth in front of Kate's desk as Kate tries to relax him. KATE: Oh come on, Lucas. What do you mean, you can't carry the charade with Sheryl? You owe this to me, and to your sister. She's worked way too hard on this for you to back out now. LUCAS: I'm not backing out, I just...we need to talk to Roman and Billie and get them to start making a move. KATE: Oh sure! And blow this whole thing up? And then what? Kate holds up her hands and dramatically makes air quotes. KATE: "Jordan Ridgeway" and "Sheryl Connors" catch wind of what we're doing, and throw US under the bus. No way. LUCAS: Well, Mom. I'm sorry. But I just can't keep up this ruse anymore. I'm not gonna sit there wasting all of my time and energy on a phony relationship just so YOU can win Rafe back. Billie steps into the room as he finishes his sentence, closing Kate's office door behind her, startling Lucas. BILLIE: Well, you're gonna have to, or else this whole operation goes down the toilet. And this is way bigger than keeping Rafe away from Jordan at this point, Lucas, and you know it. Lucas looks on at his sister, sighing audibly. --- --- Valerie, Roman, and Marlena stand in Marlena's office at the hospital, going over Roman's recent history of memory lapses. Marlena hesitates to continue, knowing Roman's frustration and hurt over his disappearing memories is building each time she brings them up, but she presses on. MARLENA: He...I mentioned the day I met Bo, and his "wedding gift" for us...and...well, it troubled Roman quite a bit that he couldn't remember it properly. Valerie looks on, almost through Marlena and Roman as she contemplates the situation. VALERIE: Properly, or at all? Roman looks down, shaking his head. He sighs before turning back toward Valerie. ROMAN: At all. I don't remember that happening. But it WAS over thirty years ago. These things don't always stay as clear in your mind as you get older. Marlena looks on, concerned for Roman, she attempts to chime in, but Roman interrupts. MARLENA: Roman, I-- ROMAN: Now, look, I...want to figure this out as much as you do...but I...I gotta get going. I have to deal with some police business, okay, Doc? Marlena closes her eyes, visibly frustrated by Roman's volatility. She exhales before speaking. MARLENA: Okay. Sure. Roman turns back to Valerie as he turns to head out of Marlena's office. He speaks sternly, with a hint of irritation in his voice. ROMAN: Valerie. If you need anything more from me, let me know. But I can't do this right now. I'll see you later. Roman leaves, closing the door behind him forcefully, causing Marlena to tense up visibly. Valerie shuts her eyes a moment, before looking back up at a troubled Marlena. VALERIE: He's worried, Marlena. MARLENA: (sigh) I know. So am I. Valerie racks her brain, deep in thought over what she's witnessed. She throws her hands in the air, before pacing across Marlena's office. An idea strikes her. VALERIE: I mean...the symptoms, top to bottom....it reads like Alzhymer's. But... Marlena nods. She herself looks down, not giving Valerie eye contact, as her troubled mind racks through all the possibilities. Valerie stops pacing, and looks up at Marlena. VALERIE: Roman's medical records. MARLENA: What about them? Valerie, perking up, moves toward the doorway, an idea having finally hit her. VALERIE: I'm going to grab them. If there is any clues as to what may be wrong with him...chances are it'll be there. I'll be right back. Valerie opens the door, almost running down the hallway towards the records room. Marlena stays behind, a concerned but hopeful expression on her face. MARLENA: My God, I hope you're right, Valerie. --- Maggie shakes her head at Victor in disbelief. She puts down the title deed for The Penthouse Grille and puts her hand on her hip, the other on the desk beside her. MAGGIE: Victor, nothing is going to happen to Titan. It hasn't so far, and there's no way it will now. VICTOR: You can't guarantee that, Maggie. MAGGIE: Oh I don't have to. I've seen how much blood and sweat you put into this company, Victor. And I'm not exactly new to this whole business thing myself, you know? VICTOR: Maggie, that's different. You run a restaurant, not a conglomerate. Maggie looks at Victor, exasperated. MAGGIE: Victor, I've never seen you be such a defeatist. In my entire life, I haven't. Victor looks away from Maggie. He shrugs. VICTOR: Maybe I've always had a reason to fight before. Maggie's face changes, realizing how Victor's been affected by Brady's demise. She approaches him and puts her hands on his shoulders, prompting Victor to look up at her. MAGGIE: Victor...do you remember when I lost Janice? VICTOR: Maggie, this isn't the same-- Maggie raises a finger to hush Victor up. She raises her voice over him. MAGGIE: NOT...a word! Now, I recognize that the circumstances were different...but we pulled through Janice's death. It took time....but we were able to put our lives back together. And remember...you have Phillip, you have Daniel...whether you believe it or not, you have Justin! Victor rolls his eyes, holding back his feelings at the moment about Justin, which Maggie anticipated, and quickly continues before Victor can retort. MAGGIE:...and you have me. Just rememeber that. Victor leans in to kiss Maggie, and embraces her warmly, as Maggie smiles. --- Billie walks into Kate's office, pleasing Kate, as she could use the backup against Lucas' hysterical position. Lucas folds his arms, knowing what's coming from his sister. BILLIE: We have too much on the line for you to be giving this up already, Lucas. We nearly have them right where we want them, right? Lucas rolls his eyes, answering begrudgingly. LUCAS: Right. BILLIE: And...we are VERY close to getting them to do something major that will get them into jail. The deeper we dig, the better the chances of getting Jordan and Sheryl in jail, where they belong. KATE: Exactly. So Lucas, you're doing us all a favour by staying the course for just a little longer. Lucas sighs heavily. Throwing his hands up in defeat, he responds. LUCAS: Okay, fine. Sure. I'll stay with Sheryl for now, but we need to figure out what they're up to with this...Jerome charater. And fast. KATE: Jerome? Who the... LUCAS: That's what I wanna know. I was just in Sheryl's office and Jordan was there...with this...guy named Jerome Grant. Said they were working on a project together. She made out like it was for my birthday but... Billie thinks a moment, before pointing Lucas' way. BILLIE: Okay. I'm gonna look up this Jerome Grant guy, and see what his story is. If that's his real name, and we can get a handle on what he's actually here for, we might be able to intercept them before they do too much damage. Kate smiles Lucas' way, confidence beaming in her eyes. Lucas looks back, much more unsure than Kate. --- Nicole looks around, making sure no one's paying attention as she talks quietly with Miles. NICOLE: What do you mean? What did you hear? MILES: I heard a major corporation was taking over the station, and they're planning to flip the whole operation on its head, and it's someone well-known to us. NICOLE: Like who? Miles hesitates to answer. He stutters a bit as he does. MILES: I erhh...it's someone you know very well, put it that way. NICOLE: I don't like the sounds of this at all, and if you're playing a game on me, Miles, I swear to God... Nicole hears 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. ---

EPISODE 76 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Billie walks up to Daniel by the Nurses' station at University Hospital, and taps him on one shoulder, before darting in the opposite direction. Daniel turns around and looks confused momentarily before spotting Billie out of the corner of his eye and grabbing her. They both laugh heartily as Billie grabs Daniel's arm and smiles. DANIEL: Gotcha. BILLIE: Yeah, well, I don't put up much of a fight with you. How are you doing? DANIEL: Ahhh, alright. Ready for lunch if you are. BILLIE: I think that would be an excellent idea. You made the arrangements for tonight? Daniel looks at Billie and shakes his head. DANIEL: You know I can't talk about that here. BILLIE: I am being as vague as I can, but frankly, I just want to be sure you made the arrangements. This has got to work. Daniel leans in close and hugs Billie. DANIEL: Don't worry. Everything will be fine. As Daniel holds Billie, Kim steps off the elevator and catches the two of them in their embrace. She folds her arms immediately and stares disapprovingly. --- Sami walks down the hallway of University Hospital, just outside Dr. Laura Horton's office, making a quick phone call on her cell phone as she turns the corner. SAMI: Gabi! Glad I caught you...umm...are you free at all this afternoon? ... Gabi walks casually toward The Brady Pub while on her phone, pushing her stroller with her other hand, thinking momentarily before responding to Sami's question. GABI: Uh...yeah. Sure. I can...meet you. Why? Is something wrong? ... SAMI: Uh...no! No, everything's fine, I just...I have a proposition for you, so I just...figure we could meet up. ... GABI: Sure! I'm just about to sit down to lunch with Will, so...maybe after that? ... SAMI: I might have to make that a little later. I've got a quick stop to make to clear up some business so...maybe...around 3? ... GABI: Sounds good, I'll see you then. ... SAMI: Perfect, bye! Sami hangs up the phone before looking down at it again to check the time. She inhales deeply as she looks up at Laura's office. SAMI: Well, here goes nothing. Sami steps into Laura's office, but jumps back a moment when, opposite Laura, sits EJ. He smiles upon seeing Sami enter the room, and gives a small wave. Sami smiles back, relieved that he's made it. --- Gabi struggles into the Brady Pub with her stroller. Will, already inside, catches this and jumps over to help Gabi in. He laughs as he helps Gabi push Ari inside. GABI: Oh my God, thank you SO much, Will. Will lifts the stroller over the bump in the doorway, and lets the door shut behind him as he helps to guide the stroller. WILL: Heh, hey, I gotta make myself useful somehow today. GABI: Rough first day? WILL: Just a bit. Gabi finds their booth and sits down, positioning the stroller so that Ari can face her. WILL: Here, I'll just...grab a high chair, be right back. GABI: Kay. Will grabs a high chair from the corner and they set Ari up in it, at which point Gabi folds the stroller shut. GABI: There we go! WILL: So how was your morning? GABI: Pretty boring. Just...got Ari fed, got myself ready, came here. WILL: Must be nice. GABI: Well, it was pretty uneventful until a minute ago. Will's ears perk up. He looks at Gabi inquisitively. WILL: Oh? GABI: Yeah. Your mom just called me. Something she really wants to talk with me about. WILL: Sounds...serious. GABI: Yeah...and with your mom, I don't ever know what to expect. Will rolls his eyes and nods his head in agreement. WILL: Trust me, I've lived with her my entire life, it never gets any easier. Gabi snickers a bit before looking at Will with a bit of a bemused look as well. GABI: So...morning that bad? Will shrugs, looking down at his menu disinterestedly. Gabi tries to catch his attention. WILL: I guess...I dunno. Met my boss. GABI: And how's he? Will thinks carefully about his answer, recalling the tension he felt as Alex moved in close to him, and helping Alex peel his shirt off. He snaps out of it after a second as Gabi snaps her fingers, trying to regain his attention. GABI: Will! Will shakes his head, trying to get back to the land of the living. He looks at Gabi with a confused, smitten look that's hard to hide, even though he's desperately trying to downplay it. WILL: Sorry. I just...I don't know...I've never met anyone like this guy in my entire life. Gabi looks at Will, trying to downplay how shocked she is at Will's answer. --- --- Jordan awkwardly steps forward in Sheryl's office, half-smiling at Jerome as she goes to take a seat. Jerome gets up as she makes her attemps and steps toward her, causing her to step back slightly. JORDAN: Wow...It's...been a long time, Jerome. JEROME: How've you been...what is it now? JORDAN: Jordan Ridgeway. JEROME: Right. Jerome smiles and opens his arms for a hug. Jordan reluctantly accepts, wincing as Jerome pulls her near. She steps back and sits down as she looks daggers at Sheryl, she smiles smugly at the situation. SHERYL: So nice to see old friends reunited, no? Jordan rolls her eyes at Sheryl. She shakes her head as she responds. JORDAN: You know, you're really starting to make me question this partnership, Sheryl. Ever since we got to Salem, you've been doing nothing but antagonizing me. SHERYL: Well, if I don't push you, you'd be spending all your time cozying up to the good cop Rafael, am I right? Jordan tries to shush Sheryl as she mentions Rafe, but to no avail. Jerome's heard, and turns his head Jordan's way. JEROME: Rafael? You done got yourself some latin dude now? And a cop? My God, nearly going to jail for blowing up that bank really must have scared the crap out of you, Kay. JORDAN: JORDAN. My name in Salem...is Jordan. And no, it didn't. I just have other priorities than constantly trying to take down Western capitalism. It's called growing up. Sheryl lets out a dismissive laugh at Jordan's comment. She looks Jerome's way, while pointing to Jordan. SHERYL: You see what I've had to put up with? So come on now, let's just...get down to business. I don't have much time before Lucas comes to pick up for lunch so...let's get this plan down, okay? JORDAN: Sure, whatever. SHERYL: Not whatever. This is going to give us all the leverage we need to stop this EnerNext deal...with or without Nick Fallon's help. Jordan looks on, increasingly uneasy with Jerome suddenly involved in this situation, but sighs, looking at Jerome, a bit defeated. --- Gabi looks at Will, a bit surprised by his expression about his new boss. GABI: You sound like you're...smitten or something. WILL: I'm not... Gabi looks at Will, giving him a disbelieving "yeah right" look. Will looks to the side, knowing he's been caught. He leans in close to Gabi so as not to be overheard. WILL: He...(sigh)...Gabi, I don't know what I'm supposed to do. GABI: Are you attracted to him? Will sighs heavily, looking down at his coffee mug. He nods sheepishly. WILL: Yeah, I am. But...I just met him today, I mean...you've been attracted to people you've just met before, right? GABI: Well, yeah, but, I mean...I'm not always the most rational person when it comes to guys, now am I? WILL: You said it, not me. GABI: Rude. WILL: I know. Will winks at Gabi, and the two friends laugh a second, before Will looks at Gabi seriously. WILL: But...seriously...you...you can't...don't tell Sonny, okay? Promise me. Gabi takes Will's hand across the table and puts hers overtop, giving it a gentle squeeze. GABI: Will, why would I do that? You know I'd never say anything...but you have to be honest with yourself, Will. I mean...you've only ever really been with...Sonny...I mean...there's me but that... WILL: Hardly counts, I know. And...maybe you're right. Maybe my...brain or my body is just telling me that I'm just...not ready to be married yet. GABI: Maybe. But I do know one thing. I know you love Sonny more than anything. So, you really need to be sure before you take your vows. Will nods. He thinks over Gabi's words carefully before answering. WILL: Yeah. But I do know one thing...I know I can't hurt Sonny. And maybe I'm just...angry at him and want to...lash out because of yesterday but...I know that'll pass. I love him, Gabi. GABI: Then you need to be honest with him. Tell him what's going on, and figure out what you two need to do next. Do it now, before this goes any further. Will looks up at Gabi, struck by her seriousness. --- Sami looks pleasantly surprised to see EJ in Laura's office. She laughs awkwardly, as she steps forward, then takes a seat next to him. SAMI: EJ! Wow...I'm really glad you made it. EJ: Samantha, where else would I be? Laura smiles, seeing the natural closeness they share, she steps over toward her own seat, and sets herself down across from EJ and Sami. LAURA: You know, it's not often that I see such positive energy coming from both partners in a setting like this. It's a very good sign. EJ: It's simply how I feel for her, Laura. If this is what I have to do to give Samantha peace of mind, so be it. I will be here for her every step of the way. Sami looks over EJ, touched by his warm words, and sensing how genuine they seem. She smiles and replies softly and emotionally. SAMI: Thank you, EJ. Laura looks on, putting on her reading glasses as she grabs her notebook and tape recorder. She hits 'record' and begins to take notes as she looks over the top of her glasses at Sami and EJ. LAURA: Okay, shall we begin? Sami and EJ shuffle in their seats at Laura's announcement. SAMI: When ready. LAURA: Excellent. Now, Sami, I wanted to start with you. We've talked about how your relationship with your son has changed recently. How has that situation changed in the last few days? Sami looks up at the ceiling. She thinks a moment before responding. SAMI: Ohhh I don't know...I stepped into Johnny's room last night. Was watching him sleep. I wanted to reach out to him...run my fingers through his little curls...but I couldn't. LAURA: Okay, I just want to focus on something here though...you say you went to his room. Sami, that's actually a good sign. You weren't even able to look at him before without having flashbacks. EJ looks to Sami, seeing her stare straight ahead, letting Laura's words sink in. She hesitates to smile, as though unsure whether she believes Laura's optimism or not. --- Kim steps towards Daniel and Billie, who immediately separate from their embrace. Her arms folded, she tuts them as she shakes her head disapprovingly. KIM: Well! Far be it from me to break up a cozy scene. But don't you think that, as Theresa's doctor, you really shouldn't be so...cozy with the woman I've specifically had banned from my daughter's hospital room? Daniel turns to Kim, arms up to try to motion to Kim to cool down. DANIEL: Kim, you need to hold on a sec-- KIM: I am not going to hold on a second. How am I supposed to trust that you're not sneaking her in? BILLIE: Because I'm not. Kim glares at Billie as Daniel tries to cool the tension between the two women. DANIEL: Kim, I understand why you're concerned about this, but Billie and I have discussed the situation, and she will not be going in to see Theresa, okay? Kim shakes her head, refusing to buy into Daniel's words. KIM: No. I don't buy it. Kim raises her voice, pointing her finger towards the doorway to Theresa's room. KIM: I want that door protected by a police guard so I can be absolutely sure...that this woman... Kim points to Billie as her voice lowers to a hiss. KIM: Stays the hell away from my daughter. Billie sighs, biting her tongue hard as Daniel looks on, still trying to reason with Kim, who could shoot daggers at Billie with her eyes. ---

EPISODE 74 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson At what is for now Titan TV, Nick smiles smugly while lounging in a chair opposite Nicole's desk. Grabbing his laptop bag as he pulls out his tablet, he taps and slides his finger across the screen before showing Nicole footage of their exchange up to now. NICOLE: You....what? NICK: I have it all right here. See, I've got eyes, Nicole. Everywhere. You know, once you master the art of hacking, you really can do anything! It's crazy! The colour drains from Nicole's face, as Nick puts his tablet back in his bag, and pulls out a flash drive from his bag, placing it on the desk before a stunned and terrified Nicole, who was just caught by Nick's surveillance equipment admitting to hiding the documents proving Eric was drugged. Nicole gulps audibly before responding to him with as strong, but cool a voice as she can muster, which comes off more upset and wavering than she'd like to believe. NICOLE: What do you need me to do, Nick? Nick nods, still smiling as Nicole squirms, hating cowtowing to her blackmailer's increasing demands. NICK: Much better. Everything you'll need is on that flash drive. Just remember to destroy it when you're done. Have a great day, Nicole! Nicole holds up the flash drive, looking it over as Nick grabs his bag and leaves Nicole's office. Nicole holds it firmly in her fist, silently cursing Nick. She sits down at her desk and thinks aloud. NICOLE: There has GOT to be a way to trap that little rat in his own game. But he's on the side of the good guys...how the hell does that work? Nicole shakes her head as she puts the flash drive into her computer and waits for it to load. --- Will walks down the hallway towards his new office at EnerNext, holding a coffee mug in his hand, before stopping at the door. He turns the doorknob and steps in, jumping back upon seeing Alex standing inside. ALEX: AH! Will! I was looking for you. Will stands at his doorway, keeping a goofy smile on his face, stunned by Alex's presence in his office. --- Laura walks off the elevator at University Hospital and stops at the nurses' station. Maxine greets her immediately with a warm smile. MAXINE: Well! Good morning, Dr. Horton. How's it going? Laura smiles, but with a tension in her face that Maxine can't quite put her finger on. LAURA: Oh, just fine, Maxine. Uh...you haven't seen Dr. Jonas around anywhere, have you? MAXINE: No, he's taken a late start today. In fact he's requested to work evenings all week. Should I have him get ahold of you when he comes in? LAURA: Yes, if you don't mind. Thanks! MAXINE: Anytime, Dr. Horton. Oh! And, uh, by the way, there's a very improtant meeting at 10:45 in the board room. Laura looks up from her mail, a bit surprised, but smiles Maxine's way. LAURA: Oh. Alright, thanks. Any idea what it's about? Maxine shrugs dismissively. MAXINE: I dunno, usually it's about not wasting paper in the photocopier and boring budget updates. I wouldn't worry too much. LAURA: Heh, alright. Thanks again, Maxine. MAXINE: Have a good day, honey. Laura steps away from the nurses' station and over to the coffee machine. Pouring herself a cup, she sighs heavily while looking over to see none other than Liam talking with one of the doctors at the opposite end of the room. Laura looks on momentarily, before muttering to herself. LAURA: Alright, Laura. Keep calm, and tread lightly. Daniel may be able to help you keep on eye on Liam, but don't overplay your hand. Jenn and JJ's safety depends on it. --- Brady wakes up, pale and sweaty, to find a tray of breakfast food arranged beside his bed, a note laid down beside his plate of eggs, bacon and toast. Brady rubs the sleep from his eyes and reads the note carefully, his vision still not the greatest. Figured you'd want a nice breakfast. If you need anything, just holler. Anita Brady tries to get up from his bed but quickly realizes he can barely move them, after days of bed rest. As he tries to shuffle over to his breakfast, Anita walks in, hearing the rumbling. ANITA: Oh good, you're up. Here, I wasn't sure if you'd be able to reach the food, but I knew that you'd better eat something or you'd shrivel up and die. Anita rushes in and grabs the tray from the TV dinner table set up beside the bed. She quickly pops the tray on Brady's lap. BRADY: Well, I'm not so sure I'm not gonna shrivel and die yet. ANITA: Don't talk like that. You're looking better every day. BRADY: You know, I'm...I'm still not hungry. I feel so... ANITA: That's probably you coming down from your drugs. Brady looks up, shocked that Anita was even aware of his relapse. BRADY: What? How...? How did you even know I-- ANITA: The doctor told me during his house call. You had a rapid heart beat and dialated pupils. He figured you were high when you ended up in the water. Honestly, from what that doctor told me, it's a miracle you're even alive. Brady looks up at Anita, alarmed by her sombre statement. --- --- Anita sits at the edge of Brady's bed, conversing with him about his situation. Brady looks at Anita with a concerned look. BRADY: What do you mean, lucky to be alive? ANITA: You showed up washed ashore by the lake. Limp as a fish. I thought you'd drowned, but thankfully...I'm a retired nurse so... Brady flops down, exhausted, in the bed. Looking at the ceiling before inhaling deeply and shutting his eyes, trying to soak in each breath. BRADY: Why don't I feel so lucky? ANITA: Probably withdrawals. And your body's probably weak. Lucky for you, I managed to get your body warmed up, or that cold lake water would've killed you before the withdrawal symptoms ever could. BRADY: Great. (sigh) I don't think I wanna eat. ANITA: I'll leave it here for you anyway. You might get hungry later. But you do need to eat. Anita gets up and heads for the door, stopping and turning back, as though remembering something. ANITA: I'll make you a pot of tea, that might help. Brady continues to stare blankly at the ceiling. BRADY: I...sure. Anita stands in the doorway and smiles. ANITA: I'll be back in a minute. As Anita walks out, Brady summons the strength to sit up again in the bed. Looking around the room, he looks out the window overlooking the lake. The images flood back in his mind of the night of his accident. His harsh words for Theresa. The sound of his car speeding into the icy water. He shudders as he relives the moment of panic, recalling the impact. He flops back in bed, squinting his eyes shut, as if shutting his eyes will wipe the memories away. --- Sami stands in the DiMera living room, standing before the desk. She closes up her briefcase after filing away some papers, and putting her tablet inside her purse, as she hears the living room doors swing open. She continues preparing, assuming EJ is at the door to motivate her to get a move on. SAMI: I'll be there in a sec, EJ, just gotta... Sami turns around and jumps back immediately upon realizing Nick is at the door, not EJ. NICK: Oh come on, Sami! I'm way skinnier than EJ. But I appreciate the compliment. He's a looker, that one! Sami looks on, eyes squinting with malice. SAMI: What do you want, Nick? NICK: Just wanted to have a little talk with you. SAMI: Well, I don't have time right now. I have to get to the hospital, as a matter of fact. Sami tries to walk out, appearing busy as she collects her things. Nick grabs Sami's arm to stop her, causing Sami to stop in her tracks, a bit of a shiver as she looks at Nick with an insane contempt. Nick looks back, an arrogant, dangerous nonchalance in his eyes. NICK: Not so fast, Sami. This will only take a minute. And I think it's in your best interests, and Kate's...and Gabi's...if you stuck around for....just a minute. Don't you think? Sami continues to stare him down as Nick retains his firm grasp on her arm. --- Nicole sits at her office desk and looks down at the flash drive Nick's given her. NICOLE: (sigh) Alright. Let's see what dirty little secrets you have locked inside you. Nicole holds the drive in her hand before rolling her eyes. NICOLE: Although, knowing Nick, he's probably just loaded a virus onto this thing to wipe my hard drive clean. Oh well, I'll just expense a new one with my new boss, I guess. With a bit of a laugh, Nicole plugs the flash drive into her computer. She talks herself through the process as though she's at a slot machine in Vegas. NICOLE: Alright, baby, show Mama the money.... Nicole looks on with laser-focus as the document list appears on her monitor. Clicking on the first document, she waits with baited breath as the document loads on her screen. She inhales deeply as she soaks in the information. NICOLE: My God. Victor, you're going DOWN. Nicole smiles a satisfied smile as she reads on. --- Will relaxes a moment, miraculously keeping his coffee cup in tact as he steps inside his office toward Alex. WILL: I...Alex. I...sure, what do you need? ALEX: Come here. Alex opens a folder as Will steps close to him. Alex leans in close to him, causing Will to tense up. Alex begins to show him a document for Will to work on. ALEX: I'm gonna start you off slowly, just to get your feet wet, so...here...is a press release we'll be sending out tomorrow regarding the property acquisition problems we're having. As Alex speaks,Will feels Alex's body move in close to him, his breath on his neck, and every touch, no matter how inadvertent, excites him. Will breathes in deeply to try to relax himself, all the while, so focused on holding himself back, that he barely listens to Alex. ALEX: Okay, so... Will sits himself down at his desk to look over the file, as Alex crouches down beside him. Will sets his coffee on the table and leans in close again, as Alex explains the file. ALEX: So essentially, you'll be editing this for time, and we need this to read more like progress is being made on this front. We can't let the press see that we're stagnant on this issue. Will moves his arm over to point to a piece of this document. WILL: Right, so, here... Will clips his coffee mug as he points over the folder and knocks it off his desk...and all over Alex's shirt. Alex jumps back and Will jumps up from his seat. WILL: Oh God. I'm... Alex looks himself over, holding back a curse as he tries to undo his tie and shirt before the heat of the coffee burns him. ALEX: Ow Ow ow ow ow! WILL: Ahhh I'm sorry, here, here, here, let me get that off...you... As Will jumps over and helps peel Alex's wet shirt off him, they both stop a moment. Will looks down at Alex's body and swallows hard. He stutters as he tries to speak. WILL: I...I'm so sorry. I just...I... Alex laughs a bit, looking at an obviously embarrassed Will. ALEX: Don't worry. I'm...a klutz half the time myself. Uh...look. Let me...go change. I bring a change of clothes usually just in case...a pen explodes...bit of my lunch falls on me... WILL: Some idiot newbie spills coffee on you on the first day. Alex smiles, putting a hand on Will's shoulder in reassurance. ALEX: Nah, come on. Don't be so hard on yourself. Will. I'm not gonna fire you for this. If I was going to, I'dve fired myself last year. Okay? Will nods sheepishly. Alex now puts both hands on Will's shoulders, looking up at Will to try to convince him to look up his way. Will finally does, and their eyes lock. Will's defenses go down and he smiles at Alex, they both laugh gently at their situation, as Will's eyes get distracted by Alex's shirtless body. --- Marlena arrives at University Hospital's board room to find it filled with people from all over the hospital. She quickly walks over to Laura, who looks over and greets Marlena. LAURA: Good morning. I take it you got word about the meeting? MARLENA: Yes, I did. It's unusual of them to ask so many people to one of these meetings, so I'm rather curious what it could be about. LAURA: Sounds serious. MARLENA: It very well could be. Laura looks over to see Jennifer walk into the room with Liam in tow. Laura stares with a deeply troubled look, which Marlena immediately picks up on. MARLENA: Laura...are you alright? Laura holds her gaze a moment longer before responding, looking Marlena's way only as she finishes speaking. LAURA: I'm fine. I'm...just fine. MARLENA: Why don't I believe you? Laura smiles and tries to reassure her friend, but is barely able to reassure herself. LAURA: Don't worry. I'll be just fine. Marlena looks on, deciding to drop it, as the door closes behind a newly arriving Kayla, who calls out to the room for their attention. KAYLA: Good morning, everyone! Let's get started! Kayla walks over to the head of the board room table. She remains standing as she speaks to the crowd gathered in the room. KAYLA: So...you're probably wondering why I've called this meeting this morning. And I do want to thank you all for coming out on such short notice....but I am...officially announcing my resignation as Chief of Staff at University Hospital. The crowd look on, stunned by Kayla's announcement. ---

EPISODE 72 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Sonny lies on the sofa in the living room of the apartment, fast asleep until the sound of the curtains being brusquely opened is heard. The bright morning light billowing into the room jolts Sonny out of his slumber, his eyes blinking wildly as he covers them with one arm, trying to adjust to the new light. SONNY: Ugh! God! What the He...Oh my God. Sonny stops, eyes suddenly wide open at the sight of the person standing in front of him. He looks on completely flabbergasted. --- Laura steps into the living room of the Horton house, dressed in her housecoat, a lost look on her face, and deep in thought. Her daughter, Jennifer, steps into the living room, coming from the kitchen, with two cups of coffee in her hand, oblivious to her mother's distress at first. JENNIFER: Good morning, Mom! I heard you stirring upstairs so I got an extra cup of coffee ready for you... Jennifer looks over as she puts the coffee down on the table in the living room. She stops suddenly and looks with concern at her mother. JENNIFER: Mom, you look awful, Are you okay? Laura tries to allay Jennifer's worries, as she tries to rub the sleep from her eyes and stretches her arms and back while she talks. LAURA: Yes, Honey. I'm fine. I just...I didn't sleep very well last night, that's all. JENNIFER: (sigh) You're worried about Abigail too, hm? LAURA: You could say that. Laura walks over to the other side of the sofa and sits down beside Jenn. They both begin to sip their coffee as they talk. JENNIFER: I just...I worry that she's in over her head, working for DiMera like this, it's...it just seems so dangerous, Mom. Laura nods in agreement, putting her coffee cup down as she speaks. LAURA: I just hope this trip doesn't drag out too long. Quite honestly, Jennifer, the longer she stays in Italy, the more worried I am for her safety. Jennifer looks at her mom, surprised by her alarmism. JENNIFER: Mom, what are you saying? Do you know something you're not telling me? Laura looks up at Jenn, her face looking a bit surprised but still painted with the fatigue of worry. --- Sami walks into the DiMera living room, fully dressed, and ready for another day’s work. She smiles as she spies EJ turning toward her, also dressed for the day. EJ: Ready? SAMI: As ready as I'm gonna be. Did you get everything set up? EJ smiles as he hands Sami his tablet. EJ: We can make the announcement by this evening. Should be finalized by noon. Sami beams as she reads the tablet. She looks up at EJ, but hesitates to hug him. Her smiles drops off a bit, as the tension persists between them. SAMI: You are a miracle worker. EJ: Only when I'm properly motivated. Sami looks down a moment, trying to contain herself, but EJ, sensing Sami's guard starting to finally come down, touches her chin, prompting Sami to look back up at EJ. She touches his hand to pull away, but stops herself from gripping his hand. They both pull back from each other, as Sami breathes in deeply and speaks seriously. SAMI: I, uh...I asked Laura Horton if....if we could, uh...do a...umm...a group session together. The three of us. EJ tries to interject but Sami interrupts, anticipating EJ's objection. EJ: Samantha, I don't-- SAMI: ...EJ, we need to do this. Do it for me. If you want this marriage to...hold together or survive in any way...we need to do this. Please. EJ sighs heavily, looking through Sami as he thinks over her request. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Nick bursts into Nicole's office at what is, for now, Titan TV. Nicole is visibly displeased to see Nick, and immediately turns back to her computer pretending to be hard at work. NICK: Knock, knock. NICOLE: And here I thought I was gonna have a GOOD morning. NICK: Ohh, come on now, Nicole. This is easily the low point of your day. Nicole shoots a glare at Nick before returning to her computer monitor. NICOLE: Or a bad omen. Nick sits down opposite Nicole at her desk, undisturbed by her ignoring him. He leans in, a sleazy smile on his face the whole time, enjoying the repartee. NICK: Life's what you make it. Especially now that you're free from your...suffocating ex-employer. No? NICOLE: Oh please. Give yourself some credit, Nick. You've managed to somehow be far more suffocating than even being MARRIED to Victor could ever be! NICK: Flattery will get you everywhere. Come on, you've gotta be at least...somewhat happy with this. Now we can get down to the business we came here to do, right? Nicole finally breaks her laser-focus with her computer monitor and glares Nick's way. She turns to face him, leaning over her desk, almost hissing her response to him. NICOLE: What part of this don't you understand, Nick? I don't want anything to do with you or your sleazy plans. Is that clear enough for you or do I have to draw you a diagram? NICK: I think I hit a nerve. I think I need to remind you of something, Nicole. I hold all the cards here. So I'd suggest dialing that temper of yours back before your little secret ends up the first story you read on the 6 o'clock news. Nicole rolls her eyes, looking annoyed, but knowing Nick has her number. She shakes her head at him, astounded by his audacity. --- Laura turns away from Jenn as they sit on the sofa in the Horton living room. She shakes her head. LAURA: No, no. Darling, I don't know anything more than you do. JENN: Well, then I think we need to take a step back. I mean, I know...I'm as worried about her being in Italy working for DiMera as you are, but sitting here...stewing about it all the time is...it's only going to stress us all out, and we know that's not what you need. Laura gets tense as Jennifer alludes to her mental health. She turns to Jenn with a slight agitation. LAURA: Don't start with that, Jennifer Rose. I am entitled to show concern for my granddaughter. I just can't...I'm getting worried about how close Abigail is getting to the DiMeras and for her own safety, I think that...well...maybe we should convince her to quit once she gets home. I think it would do her a world of good. Jenn looks over to Laura, thinking over her idea, shaking her head in agreement. --- EJ sighs as he steps away, turning towards the doorway to the garden. He finally speaks up to respond to Sami. EJ: Samantha, I don't know that that's such a good idea. SAMI: I know, it's...not exactly what you wanted. But...but it's a good first step, you know? Get all our...awful past out on the table, maybe work out what makes our relationship so...you know...volatile. EJ: (sigh) I just...I don't like the idea of...pathologizing our problems like this, it seems... SAMI: EJ, this is for me...and for...Johnny. EJ turns around, surprised. EJ: Wait, you're not telling me that Johnny's become affected by everything between us. Sami shrugs, defeatedly. SAMI: Are you surprised? He was always...super aware of everything that happens between us. He's a really sensitive kid, EJ. EJ: Yes, but...to this extent? Sami sighs, dreading telling EJ the truth of the situation. She finally speaks up. SAMI: That's not all. He, uh...I've been having trouble when I... EJ: What? What is it? Sami stammers and puts her arms up a moment before walking towards the garden doors herself, hoping that focusing on something other than EJ will help her speak. SAMI: I...uh...I was out...in the garden. Few weeks ago, you know. Just...after our fight. Wanted to (sigh) clear my mind. Sami turns around to face EJ, who looks on, listening intently, seeing the pain Sami's in, and for the first time, seeing her pain beyond his own suffering. He tears up a bit as he listens to Sami speak. SAMI: Johnny ran out to see what I was doing... Sami pauses, looking down. She takes a moment before starting to tear up herself. SAMI: He hugged me. And I couldn't....I couldn't stand the touch of him. I wanted him...away from me. All I could think about was...you. That night, making me...service you so that Lucas could live. I... EJ: Samanth-- Sami interrupts EJ, increasingly agitated as she recalls the situation. SAMI: I thought...I was over it. I thought I'd moved on. That...that we were finally past it, but...but I can't do it, EJ. I can't. You...all the things you have done to me, and all the times I've had to fight back. EJ:Samantha. I love you. And I will spend every...single day of my life...from here on out, making this up to you. Sami cools down again, fighting her anger with every muscle in her body. She breathes in deeply before speaking again. SAMI: EJ. If you want to make it up to me...the first step is to come with me to see Laura. EJ looks down, seriously contemplating Sami's point. --- Will turns around from opening the curtains. Fully dressed in a smart, tailored business suit, he smiles with a hint of smugness as he looks down at a half-asleep Sonny. WILL: Good morning. Sonny looks Will up and down, awestruck. He finally croaks out a response. SONNY: I...you look like...a whole new person. Will raises his eyebrow and smirks at Sonny, in a bit of a pose. WILL: Amazing what a suit and a shave can do, hm? SONNY: Yyyyeah. Wow...you look amazing, Will. WILL: Well, you'll have all kinds of time to ogle me later. I need to get to work. Will grabs his laptop bag. He smiles at Sonny as he walks over to the door. Sonny calls out to him to stop him. SONNY: Uh...Will! Will stops and turns around. WILL: Yes? SONNY: I...did you feed Ari this morning? WILL: Oh! Yeah, it's all taken care of, Sonny. Ah, look. Just because...well, you know...how things are right now, I think we should probably stay in separate rooms again tonight. You know? Oh, but if you had a rough sleep, you can definitely sleep in the bedroom while I'm at work. Will flashes a [[email protected]#$%^&*]-eating grin Sonny's way, while Sonny looks on, brow furrowed, clearly hurt by Will's coldness. SONNY: Will... Will laughs, continuing his chipper charade for Sonny. WILL: Sonny, come on, I'm gonna be late for work. SONNY: Aren't you forgetting something? Will looks himself over, feigning ignorance. WILL: Mmm...got my bag, got my laptop, did my teeth, deodorant...mmmmmmnope! Sonny sighs audibly, slumping down on the couch. SONNY: Will, come on, let's talk about this. WILL: I wish I could, but I gotta go. Bye! Will struts out the door and shuts it as Sonny calls out, trying to object. SONNY: Will, come on, I-- As the door closes, Sonny turns away, upset by Will's lingering anger. SONNY: ...wanted to talk. ... Outside the apartment door, Will smiles and adjusts his posture. WILL: Alright, Sonny. You don't think I can hack this job...time to show you what I can do. Will walks off, pulling out every ounce of confidence he can muster as he heads off towards his car. ----

EPISODE 67 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Chloe stands in the Horton Town Square, surrounded by Brady's friends and family, facing off with Victor at Brady's memorial. VICTOR: Who invited this pox on our family, anyway? Nicole steps in to defend her friend, retorting sassily to Victor. NICOLE: I did. Victor gives Nicole the sideeye. VICTOR: You're lucky you're no longer my employee. I assume word got out that we're selling the station off. If not, surprise! It's your lucky day! Your newest dumb move didn't result in a pink slip. You might want to drop by the corner store and pick up a lottery ticket. Maggie cuts in, frustrated by Victor's petulance. MAGGIE:Victor, enough! This is about Brady, and in case you forgot, Chloe happens to have been married to Brady. VICTOR: Oh trust me, I wish I could forget. The damage she's caused my grandson is the reason we're here today. Victor turns back to Nicole and Chloe. VICTOR: You've got some nerve dragging that bitch here. She turned him to drugs, and broke his heart over and over. I hold you responsible in large part for Brady's accident. Both of you. Nicole steps in to defend her friend, but just then, John interjects, trying to cool down the proceedings. JOHN: Woah! Woah, Vic. Come on. Chloe's just here to mourn her ex-husband. Now, you two may not see eye to eye, but...just let her be here. This is about Brady. VICTOR: Yes, it is. And he would want Chloe here. God knows why. Come on, Maggie. Victor and Maggie walk off, as Chloe leans over to John. CHLOE: Thank you. JOHN: Don't thank me. Just trying to keep the peace around here. How've you been? CHLOE: I'm alright! It's good to see you. I just...wish it were under-- JOHN: ...Better circumstances, I know. But you know, I know that Brady wouldn't have wanted us to dwell on that, and that's exactly why I think this whole wake thing is a great idea. Chloe smiles, a little misty-eyed. she nods in agreement with John. ... Sami and Laura arrive at the Town Square, and Marlena, who has been chatting with Maggie, Roman, Eric, and Nicole (begrudgingly), smiles and reaches out to greet Sami and Laura with hugs. MARLENA: Ohh it's good to see you both. SAMI: Hey Mom. While hugging Laura, Marlena begins to get emotional, and holds her eyes shut a moment to fight back tears. MARLENA:Ohh, what a...bittersweet day. I'm glad you both could come. You came together? Sami hesitates to answer, looking Laura's way before telling her mother. SAMI: Uh...yeah, Laura was at the...house, she offered me a ride down. Marlena nods, trying to read between the lines. Sami senses Marlena's probing and is immediately uncomfortable. MARLENA: I see. Sami, you sure you're okay? Sami responds a bit defensively, hoping Marlena will back off. SAMI: Yes, Mom. I'm fine. Promise. MARLENA: Alright. You're in good hands with Laura. Sami, a bit relieved that Marlena isn't probing any further, smiles. SAMI: I know. Hoping to change the subject, Sami interrupts the group's conversation with an almost-too-cheerful question for the group. SAMI: Hey! Uh, has anyone seen Will or Sonny yet? --- Sonny walks into Club TBD, looking more than a little nervous as he looks Will's way. Will sits at the bar, a sour, pissed off look on his face. SONNY: Will. WILL: So...hard at work at the club, I see. SONNY: Will, I-- WILL: ...NO excuses, Sonny. Now, do you wanna tell me where you actually were? Or should I give you this ring back now? Sonny looks mortified at Will, as his biting question hits him. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Eric stands with the group at Town Square, responding to Sami's question. ERIC: Haven't seen Will or Sonny yet, why? SAMI: Well...I wanted to thank them for the offer to stay with them while I was....working on my issues with EJ. I think I'll be okay there at the mansion for now, there's a whole empty wing I can stay in for the time being, and...they're a bit of a full house right now. Marlena's far from thrilled by the news, and pipes up immediately. MARLENA: No! No, Sami...you can stay with me if you like. SAMI: Mom, it's okay. I'll be fine. Sami immediately tries to change the subject again, hoping her mother will stop trying to insert herself into her affairs. SAMI: Speaking of Will and Sonny, they've been trying to...give me some news for the past while. Has anyone found out what it is? I'm so curious. MARLENA: Yes! They did tell me the other day at lunch. They had been hoping to tell you first, actually. Sami's standoffishness quickly changes, as her own nosiness into HER child's life creeps in. The others in the conversation smile with anticipation. SAMI: Oooh, tell me! Tell me! Tell me! MARLENA: Well...I really shouldn't be saying anything. I don't wanna steal their thunder, but... Everyone huddles up like schoolchildren in on the latest gossip, giggling in anticipation. MAGGIE: Come on! Tell us! MARLENA: Okay, okay! (laughs) Marlena takes Sami by the hands and smiles excitedly as she tells Sami the news. MARLENA: Your son, and Sonny are engaged to be married. Sami's eyes light up. The first bit of great news she's had in awhile. She's speechless, as the others in the group gasp in excitement, then begin to chatter away excitedly to each other. Everyone, that is, except for Eric, who looks on in stunned silence, trying to absorb the news. --- JJ and Jennifer are having a tense moment in the park just outside Town Square. JJ looks to a stunned Jennifer with worry, as he tells her about what he'd just seen. JENNIFER: What did you just say? JJ: Okay, so I...I came to Brady's memorial and on the way in, I saw Liam off the side of the park, and he was on the phone. Jenn looks at JJ, a bit confused. JENNIFER: Okay? JJ: He was talking about Abigail's trip. And something about...keeping tabs-- JENNIFER: Woah, woah, woah, no, STOP! JJ, seriously. This has got to stop. First Daniel, now Liam? Now JJ looks at Jenn, confused as to what she's talking about. JJ: Wh...what? I don't-- JENNIFER: First you do everything you can to tear me and Daniel apart, and I understood, because you miss your father, and now, once you decide that, oh, Daniel's okay, and I move on with someone else, you decide to go after Liam? I mean, JJ, are you ever gonna be happy with any man that comes into my life? JJ: Yes! But I don't trust this guy. JENNIFER: Don't lie to me. You've done enough of that today already. JJ: Mom, I was respecting Abigail's wishes. Mom, she didn't even want ME to know where she was going. She told me she was going to California. I had to sneak a look at her boarding pass to find out she was actually heading to Rome. Jenn looks away, incredulous. JENNIFER: My God! JJ: And I'm worried, because when I heard Liam on that phone, he-- A voice interrupts JJ, causing both he and Jennifer to jump. LIAM: ...I was trying to figure out where she was and if she was okay. JJ looks on in fear as Liam walks into the park. --- Sami steps away from the group, taking a moment to step aside and grabs her cell phone. Holding it up, she texts EJ. did u read the news? if not, check the spectator website Sami hits 'send' and looks back up. She talks quietly to herself. SAMI: Hopefully EJ has some insight on how we can make this deal work for us. She smiles slyly before turning back to the crowd and rejoins the conversations. --- Will and Sonny step into the office at Club TBD, and Sonny shuts the door to the room behind him. Will leans against the desk, arms folded, a contemptuous look on his face, while Sonny is looking worried himself, but angered by Will's outburst in the main room. SONNY: There, now we can talk like adults instead of some trashy reality show! WILL: Why? Didn't want your three patrons out there to hear what a rotten liar you are? SONNY: Will, enough! Sonny steps toward Will, his expression and tone become a much cooler, calmer one as he continues. SONNY: I need you to understand what happened today-- WILL: ...Oh, you mean you need to explain why you lied and said you'd be at the Club when you were really...? Sonny looks down, away from Will. Will follows his eyes, making sure Sonny never gets an opportunity to look away from him. Sonny rolls his eyes. WILL: Not gonna tell me? Do I really need to take this ring off, for real? SONNY: How dare you even suggest that...let alone twice. WILL: Sonny, you need to understand something. I have had such an unstable upbringing between all the guys that my mom would force out of her life,and mine, of course...that I don't put up with lies. And if we're going into this on lies, then we aren't going into it at all. You understand me? SONNY: Alright. I get it. Will gestures, waiting for Sonny to spill the beans. WILL: So? I'm waiting. Where were you this afternoon instead of at the club? Sonny sighs heavily, closing his eyes as he confesses. SONNY: I went to see Victor about his company hiring you. Will shakes his head in stunned disbelief. ---

EPISODE 65 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Jennifer steps into the town square, and sees Liam off in the corner. Jenn looks over and waves his way, as Liam walks over to her from across the square. Liam notices the glum look on Jenn's face and, as he meets Jenn near one of the tables in the square, he gently touches her chin and smiles as she looks up at him. LIAM: Jenn? You alright? Jenn sighs heavily before answering Liam's question. She turns away slightly as she answers, her voice heavy with concern. JENNIFER: I don't really know. LIAM: Well...what's wrong? JENNIFER: (sigh) Aibigail...disappeared this morning. Liam appears distressed by the news, Jenn immediately tries to placate him. LIAM: What? JENNIFER: No! No, she's okay... Liam breathes a sigh of relief at the news, visibly relaxing after a moment's tension. LIAM:Oh, thank God for that-- JENNIFER: ...but the problem is where she's gone. Liam looks up, confused, Jenn tries to calmly explain the situation, hoping not to upset Liam again. LIAM: What do you mean? JENNIFER: (sigh) It turns out that Sami sent her on an assignment to Italy last minute, and so now, one day after she's in hospital for that fall, she's on a plane to Europe to work for the DiMeras. Liam looks at Jenn, not sure quite how to respond or react to Jenn's news. He looks off, away at nothing in particular, deep in his own thoughts. --- Sami stares out the window at the DiMera mansion, deep in thought as she considers the possibility that Abigail's project in Italy may not be purely a business decision on EJ's part, but a clever manipulation among many others. Considering Jennifer's words from earlier, Sami is mentally checked out. ***Sami flashes back to Episode 63*** JENNIFER No. (sigh) When I came here, I was upset and I was...blaming EJ for it because I just...I had this feeling that it's all this big...plan to get Abigail back on side so that Chad can move back in but... *** Sami snaps back to the current moment and realizes she needs to speak to someone. She walks quickly over to her purse and pulls her cell phone out, she quickly makes a phone call. SAMI: (into phone) Laura? You wouldn't happen to be free for a house call, would you? --- Hope drives down the road at lightning pace, obviously speeding as she makes her way towards Horton Town Square in time for Brady's memorial. Her impatience is plain on her face and in her mannerisms as she moves frenetically between looking at the road and checking the time on her car stereo. HOPE: Come on, come on, come on. Ugh, this damned guy in front of me would just MOVE! Hope honks angrily on her horn as she shouts at the cars in front of her. HOPE: COME ON! Ohhh my God, I'm so late. Hope leans back in her seat, looking to the sky, trying to calm down, as she mutters to herself. HOPE: Come on, Hope. You're not supposed to be the one getting road rage, you're a cop. You're supposed to obey the traffic laws, and smile and drive defensively! Hope takes a second to breathe before finally getting fed up and turning into the next lane, when the car in front of her turns abruptly to make the same move. Hope hits her brakes, but not soon enough and bumps into the side door of the car in front. Hope curses as she undoes her seatbelt to get out of the car. HOPE: Damn it! Damn it, damn it, damn it! Hope gets out of the car, infuriated. She continues to curse as she steps out on the roadway and turns toward the driver of the car she hit. HOPE: As if this day couldn't get any... Hope slams her car door shut and turns around to see the man in the car in front get out. It's Aiden. HOPE: ...worse. --- Victor stands by his office desk at Titan, and looks at Sonny incredulously. VICTOR: Rescind the offer? What for? SONNY: Because I don't want him sucked into this world of greed and lies, I just... Victor's face turns to one of anger and frustration upon realizing what's going on. VICTOR: You've been sucked in by those knuckle-dragging treehuggers, haven't you? SONNY: No, I-- VICTOR: Because I've got news for you, Sonny. The offer stays on the table, and you'd better back off if you ever want to see Will Horton stand at the altar with you. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Laura sits in a chair in the DiMera living room, a recording device in hand as she leans over to speak to Sami, who is casually laid down on the nearby sofa, shoes off. Sami is still deep in thought as Laura tries to coax out her inner most feelings to try to give Sami some sense of healing. LAURA: Tell me what you feel at this exact moment. Sami pauses a moment, staring straight out at nothing in particular. A very expressionless look on her face as she ponders, then answers Laura's question. SAMI: Helpless. I feel like...like I've finally run out of ways to fight back...or maybe I just don't want to fight anymore. I can't tell. LAURA: That's not, in my experience, your usual way of reacting. SAMI: No. It's not. LAURA: For as long as I've known you, you seem to lash out when you're backed into a corner, so tell me what's different this time. Sami hesitates, breathing in deeply as she tries to honestly answer Laura, but is almost afraid to respond so openly. SAMI: Because this time, it's my son who would bear the brunt of it. I can't defend myself without...destroying Johnny. LAURA: What do you mean? Sami becomes increasingly emotional, but tries to hold herself in as responds. SAMI: I mean I can't look at my own child without thinking about how he was conceived. I can't feel his touch anymore and feel the love he clearly feels for me and the warmth and love I saw...see. Every time I look at my own son, I love him, I know I do, but...there's this... Sami looks down at the engagement ring EJ got for her. She looks at it thoughtfully as she pulls it off her finger, and holds it up for Laura to see. SAMI: It's like this ring. You see, I have looked at this ever since EJ put it on my finger. Laura smiles as she looks at the beautiful diamond ring, clearly noteworthy for the size and shine of the diamond. LAURA: It's absolutely beautiful, I have to admit. Sami manages a weak smile as she takes the ring in the palm of her hand and closes her fist around it tightly. SAMI: Yeah. I always thought so too. But then I was looking at it from a weird angle one day when I was out and....you know...the sun just...hit it at just the right angle. And...you know, I saw this...tiny, tiny imperfection just on the top right hand corner. It's...barely visible to any normal person, even if you looked it over with a magnifying glass, you'd never notice it. Sami holds the ring up again, this time right up in front of her eyes, shaking her head, disappointment in her face and her voice. SAMI: ...But you know...now...that's all I see is that tiny little flaw. And I can't unsee it. I don't know if I ever will, and I know that I shouldn't let it overtake everything else about it for me but...I'm worried I can't help but feel that way. I mean...this is just a ring. But, I mean, we're talking about my son. My beautiful....beautiful boy. And I can't see him without thinking of how...the man I'm supposed to be marrying...he forced me to have sex with him in exchange for his sister's father's life. Sami stands up and begins to pace before the couch. Laura follows her every step carefully, her every expression, her every gesture. SAMI: I mean...how screwed up is that? How...terrible of a situation to be in, not to mention how he even came to be. Sami stops and sighs heavily. She sits down again and looks earnestly at Laura, struggling to ask her a question as the emotion wells up in her voice. SAMI: Laura...how am I going to...when the time comes...I mean...he'll have questions. How am I going to be able to tell my son that he was the product of rape? --- Hope sheepishly looks Aiden's way as he steps over to Hope's car. Aiden looks at Hope sternly. AIDEN: I thought the police were meant to be better drivers than the rest of us. HOPE: I'm....really sorry. I just...I thought you were gonna turn with the car in front and then you just...turned fast into me and... AIDEN: Oh, so now you're gonna blame this on me? Hope shrugs, trying to play nonchalant with Aiden, who is quickly getting angrier. HOPE: Well...you turned out of your lane without signalling...you know I could have you ticketed for that. AIDEN: Ohhh you're gonna pull THAT one out now. Just throw your weight around? You know, I was on my way to a meeting with a new client, a real important client and-- HOPE: ...And I was on my way to my friend's son's funeral. And now I'm gonna be late. And I'm not happy. Aiden, upset, and worried, walks over to the driver's side door of his car as he speaks. AIDEN: Oh, YOU'RE not happy. I don't have a fender now because of you...you...you know what? Just, let's just...I'm going to the repair shop now, and maybe I can get a rental in time to meet with my cli...client... Aiden looks over to see Hope taking her cell phone out and taking pictures of the damage to his car. He walks back over AIDEN: What in the hell are you doing? Aiden doesn't look up at Hope, but at her car, then back at his page. HOPE: Writing down your licence plate number, and...I'll need your insurance info. AIDEN: Oh for...Hope, let's be reasonable, okay? You have to get to your friend's memorial service, and I need to get to your client, so can we agree to do this later? Our cars are still perfectly capable of getting to where we're going, so we can just-- HOPE: We can just...don this by the book. Okay? Or would you rather that ticket I was talking about? AIDEN: Okay. Okay...look, you're right. Let's just...drive down to the police station, we'll get this checked out and...I'll just...have to call my client and say I'll be a bit late. HOPE: There we go, now you see sense! Aiden walks around to the driver's side door again and Hope to hers, before they both step into their respective vehicles, Aiden looks over to Hope and shakes his head before stepping in. He sits down in the driver's seat and turns the key in the ignition. The car grumbles and then fails. AIDEN: Ohhhh great. Hope, overhearing Aiden's car's failure, saunters over to his window. He winds it down and looks out to see Hope's smug face, raised eyebrow and smirk. HOPE: Need a lift? --- Sonny stands in Victor's office, arms folded as he angrily counters Victor's threat. SONNY: Are you seriously gonna stand there and tell me that unless I cowtow to your demands, I'm gonna lose my fiance? VICTOR: Will needs a job, this is a great opportunity for him. If you deny him this, he'll resent you until the day you die...which will be about twenty minutes after he finds out we had this conversation. SONNY: He won't find out if you don't tell him. Victor stands, unmoved. Sonny gestures in frustration. SONNY: Which you will. Of course. Because everything needs to be your way. VICTOR: Sonny, I've had a hard day. We lost a member of our family, and I've had to make some tough business decisions. You should be thrilled that I'm welcoming Will into the family fold, especially considering the bunch of winners he calls his kin. SONNY: Well, I'm not. Not under these circumstances. You're pitting him against me to prop up your dirty business. As if you think you can buy my approval of this disgusting project of yours. Well it's not gonna work. VICTOR: I'm doing no such thing. Sonny tries to hold back from yelling at Victor. He fights it a moment but his frustration lets loose regardless. SONNY: Yes, you are! Don't act like I'm stupid, Uncle Vic. Please, just...tell Will that you...decided to go with someone more experienced and no one has to know we ever had this conversation. Please. For Will's sake, for my sake. Ari's. Just...please just take the offer back. Victor looks straight into Sonny's eyes, a stern, almost stone-like expression on his face. VICTOR: I'm sorry, Sonny. I can't. Sonny shakes his head before turning toward the door. SONNY: No. I'm sorry. I'm sorry I ever tried to talk any sense into you. Because it's obvious to me that all you care about is the bottom line. You're no better than any of these other snake CEOs trying to...pillage the land of every drop of oil they can get their hands on at any cost. Well, guess what? You just cost yourself an awful lot more than just money, Uncle Vic. Victor looks steadfastly ahead, never once looking away from Sonny, though it's clear the hurt this is causing both of them. Sonny turns back around when Victor calls out to him. VICTOR: Sonny! Sonny looks at him, eyebrows raised, looking like he isn't really interested in what Victor will say, but he gives him the opportunity regardless. VICTOR: You'll thank me soon enough. Sonny guffaws as he begins to turn back around for the door. SONNY: Right. See you around. Sonny slams the door to Victor's office shut as Victor looks away, mad at himself for the turn things took. --- Liam stares off into the distance. Jenn looks concerned by Liam's sudden distraction and calls out to him. JENNIFER: Liam? ....Liam?? Liam snaps back to reality. He turns towards Jenn and puts a hand on her shoulder. LIAM: I...have to make a quick call, I'll be right back, okay? Jennifer watches with concern as Liam steps off towards the exit of the Town Square. JJ walks in from another entrance as Liam leaves. Liam pulls his phone from his jacket on his way out. Observing Liam walking out, and Jenn's concerned reaction, JJ decides to discretely follow Liam out, as Jenn gets distracted by Maggie handing her program bookets for the memorial service. Outside the square, Liam gets on the phone, while JJ hides behind the archway, obscuring any way of Liam seeing him. LIAM: (into phone) Yeah, so when exactly were you gonna tell me about Abigail Deveraux? ...mmmhmm?...Yeah? Well, tell Stefano I want an update every day until she's back then. Got it? JJ's eyes widen as he makes a connection between Liam, Abigail and Stefano. Terrified for his sister, he sneaks off quickly from the park towards the square, unsure what he'll do next. ---

EPISODE 63 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Kate, standing in the Titan board room with Victor, turns around and cancels the call quickly before she allows Victor to confirm that Nick was on the phone. KATE: Uh...what are you talking about? VICTOR: Oh don't play dumb with me, Kate. I saw Nick's name pop up on your phone in large print. And despite what you think, I haven't got cataracts just yet. KATE: Well, first of all, it's none of your business who calls me, and secondly, so what if Nick did call me? He is, after all, my employee. It was probably just a call about a product we're testing. Victor steps in close to Kate, in hopes of intimidating her. VICTOR: You'd better hope that's all it's about. I will be watching you after today, believe that. Kate stares back, not threatened by Victor's tactics. KATE: Duly noted. Kate grabs her bag and, with a flourish, slings them over her shoulder, sashaying out of the board room. Victor watches her head out, and scrunches his face slightly, indignant at his major loss. VICTOR: Damn it all. --- Billie walks through the 16th floor lobby of Titan, on her cell phone, as she prepares to leave the building. She has a worried look on her face as she talks to the person on the other end. BILLIE: (into phone) Yeah, I have a feeling Nick had a hand in this. But for the life of me, I can't tell what it is or how deep he is involved in this. But I'm certain it has something to do with the other two...Okay, I'll get back to you. Billie hangs up, and notices a text message on her phone from Daniel. u feeling any better now? Billie smiles, texting back: cup of coffee + an aspirin did the trick lol Billie pops her phone back in her bag, and smiles a bit as she steps onto the elevator to head down to her car. --- Jordan sits at her desk at the hospital, finishing up some reports, when she hears a knock at the door of her office. JORDAN: Come in. SHERYL: Hello, Stranger. Mind if I have a word. Sheryl steps in, and immediately incites a bit of anxiety in a previously relaxed Jordan. --- Jennifer stands before EJ in the DiMera living room, enraged by his nonchalance in the face of her worry for her daughter. JENNIFER: Come on, EJ. You're a father. Imagine if in a few years, Sydney just...took off one day to another country without saying a word to you. You'd be worried. EJ: If it was an actual cause for concern, yes. But this is not, Jennifer. This is work-related. You blowing this completely out of proportion. JENNIFER: No, see, that's where you're wrong, EJ. Because I know you manipulated the situation to benefit yourself. Just like you always do. EJ gestures in 'confusion' at Jenn's accusation. EJ: What are you even saying, Jennifer? How would I benefit from this in any way? JENNIFER: Oh my GOD, it's SO obvious. I have no idea why you're so hellbent on denying it. EJ: Deny WHAT?! Jennifer steps in close to EJ, her rage bubbling in the surface as she quietly lays into EJ. JENNIFER: That that little chat you had with Abigail last night? That was you convincing her to get on that plane today. One day after she's out of the hospital because of, what? Business? I'm sorry, but it reeks of manipulation and intimidation. In other words, every hallmark of the DiMera men. EJ: How fair of you, Jennifer. Jennifer steps back, raising her voice a bit again as she challenges EJ's insistence of innocence. JENNIFER: It's more fair than you deserve. Because I can tell that this is all just a set up so that you can win Abigail back for Chad. EJ: What?? Oh, come on, Jennifer, that's ridiculous. JENNIFER: (interrupting EJ) You heard me! You can't tell me that you had any other innocent motive for sneaking my daughter onto a plane at 5am so she can work intimately with your goons. Tell me, EJ, is Chad waiting for her in Italy too? EJ has full on lost his cool now, shouting over Jenn trying to stop her ranting to no avail. EJ: It was business! This was not some grand scheme cooked up for duplicitous purposes, Jennifer. She's an important part of our team, and she doesn't need Mummy to keep tabs on her every move! JENNIFER: I know one thing for sure, that if this was a simple business trip and nothing shady was going on, wouldn't I have heard about it by now? Something must have happened after Abby checked out, because I don't remember Sami talking about it last night at the hospital. At that moment, Sami steps into the living room, overhearing her name from the other side and looks Jenn's way with a look of interest. SAMI: Talk about what? Jenn turns around quickly to see Sami standing in the doorway, both her and EJ snapped out of their intense debate. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Jennifer looks to Sami standing in the doorway of the DiMera living room. Sami's surprised to see Jenn and wondering what Jenn's just said about her. JENNIFER: Sami! Do you happen to have a minute? We need to talk. SAMI: I...sure! You want to talk alone? JENNIFER: Oh no, no, EJ's heard what's on my mind already, he doesn't have to leave. EJ, collecting himself from his frazzled state, swallows visibly as he heads towards Sami, who, having heard the commotion from outside the door is rather uncomfortable as EJ approaches her, all of this in Jenn's line of vision. EJ: Well, actually, I am needed at the office, so I should go. You ladies enjoy your time together. EJ walks past Sami and hesitates as to whether to lean in for a kiss or not. He decides to go for it, but Sami lurches back away from him, causing EJ to retreat. Jennifer notices the tension and looks on with curiosity. EJ puts on his blazer and gives his farewells as he exits the room. EJ: Goodbye, Samantha. Jennifer. As EJ leaves, Jenn catches her breath, releasing a lot of the tension from the confrontation that just took place. After a second, Jenn looks back at Sami, as she points in the direction of where EJ was. JENNIFER: I'm....so sorry, Sami. I... Sami walks over to Jenn, concerned, putting a hand on her shoulder. SAMI: No, no. I...what's going on? Jennifer tries to hold back a bit of tearing up as she laughs a bit at the situation. JENNIFER: I could ask the same of you two. I mean...I...I know it's none of my business but-- SAMI: ...Don't even ask, Jenn. I really don't want to get into it. JENNIFER: Well, I understand that too. (sigh) Look, I came to see you because I...got up this morning and discovered my daughter was gone. And I know it was for work and I know...she's an adult and can make her own decisions but...I figured you would understand, as a mother, that-- SAMI: Wait, Abigail didn't tell you about the Rome trip? Jenn shakes her head, she looks down, a bit disappointed, but not blaming Sami. JENNIFER: No. She didn't. I know a lot of that is because she knows I'm not...too thrilled with her taking this job in the first place, but... SAMI: I'm sorry, Jenn. I should've...let you know. Like...a text or something. JENNIFER: No. (sigh) When I came here, I was upset and I was...blaming EJ for it because I just...I had this feeling that it's all this big...plan to get Abigail back on side so that Chad can move back in but... Sami looks at Jenn, shocked by Jenn's accusation. SAMI: He what? JENNIFER: I'm sorry. I know, that was...out of line of me to think that. SAMI: No, no, it seems...actually a...fairly reasonable jump to make. Especially with how much EJ's been doting on Abby lately. But...Jenn, I want to reassure you.I was the one who hired her. None of that had anything to do with EJ. (sigh) I know that...Chad did some pretty awful things before he went to Boston, but...I don't think EJ is plotting with his brother to get Abigail back. JENNIFER: Well, Sami, with all due respect, you tend to turn a blind eye to a lot of things the DiMeras do, and right or wrong I know that's because you love EJ and...nothing will change that. Sami looks a bit uncomfortable as Jenn brings up her relationship with EJ, but stifles herself from giving too much away. Jenn fiddles uncomfortably with her hands as she finishes speaking with Sami. JENNIFER: I just...I was hoping to...maybe open a door of communication between you and I. SAMI: That's fine. I understand. I will keep an eye out for Abigail for you. JENNIFER: Thanks. Jenn heads for the door slowly, unsure whether to give Sami a hug or not, but chooses not to. Instead grabbing her purse from the coffee table and walks away slowly. Jenn stops suddenly and turns back to Sami, who is still looking out the window. JENNIFER: Oh, and Sami. One thing. If you...ever need to talk to anyone...about...anything. I am here for you, too. Sami turns around to smile at Jenn, unsure to what Jenn's referring but grateful nonetheless. SAMI: Thank you, Jenn. Jenn smiles as she heads out the door. Sami turns back to the window, the smile fading from her face as she stares pensively out at the spring day before her. --- Sheryl saunters over to the chair opposite Jordan's desk in her office, and has herself a seat. Jordan tries to ignore her, but Sheryl stares straight into her eyes, patiently waiting for Jordan to react. Jordan tries to continue writing up her report at her computer but finally cracks. JORDAN: Can I help you? SHERYL: I thought you'd never ask! Jordan rolls her eyes before clicking at her computer, presumably to save her work, before wheeling away from the computer and stopping herself at the centre of her desk. Jordan leans in towards Sheryl with her hands clasped together, almost mockingly attentive. JORDAN: I'm listening! SHERYL:Good! Stay sitting down, you'll be glad you did when I tell you what we've pulled off. JORDAN: I'm waiting with baited breath. SHERYL: We did it. Titan TV is out of Victor Kiriakis' control as of ten minutes ago. Jordan's eyes widen, not sure whether she believes Sheryl's news or not. JORDAN: I...are you for real? This is happening. SHERYL: This is absolutely happening, Jordan. The board, with a little help from Nick Fallon, sided with us. The people of Salem are gonna know the truth about that damned oil sands project. Finally. It finally dawns on Jordan. She looks away momentarily as she allows the reality of the situation set in. JORDAN: Well I'll be damned. Nick Fallon wasn't playing us? SHERYL: So far, so good, eh? JORDAN: Yeah...so what's our next move then? Sheryl leans in towards Jordan and says in a bit more hushed tone. SHERYL: That is exactly what I want to talk about with you. --- Kayla, helping set up Brady's memorial service in town square,notices Roman looking blankly at Brady's portrait set up near Tom & Alice Horton's tree. She walks over to her brother and gently places a hand on his shoulder. KAYLA: It's hard to believe, isn't it? That Brady's gone? Roman stares at the picture, scanning every feature bit by bit. He finally turns to Kayla, and looks at her with a panicked expression. ROMAN: Kay, that...that's not Brady. Is...is it? Kayla looks at Roman, knowing that she'd heard about his memory troubles, but not that they had progressed so quickly. Kayla takes Roman's arm and squeezes it, almost cuddling it in an attempt to comfort him without smothering him. KAYLA: It's okay. That is Brady now. What do you remember him looking like? ROMAN: I...Kay, Brady's just a little kid. I remember him being so....young. He wasn't even school aged and now...why can't I fill that time in. Kayla sees her brother go deep into thought and pulls him in close, holding him as he zones out, trying in vain to fill the blanks in his memory. --- Billie steps off the elevator at the hospital and, upon seeing Daniel perched at the nurses' station, sneaks up behind him, covering his eyes with her hands. BILLIE: Guess who? DANIEL: Gah! I needed those! Billie laughs as she jumps back, and Daniel turns to see Billie. He smiles through his lingering hangover. BILLIE: You look like you could use an...Aspirin or...something. DANIEL: Yeaaah, Maxine already suggested that. I'm trying to avoid overmedicating myself, especially for... Daniel feels a bit of the dull, nagging headache pain hit him and holds his nose for a moment. Billie giggles. BILLIE: For...self-inflicted wounds. DANIEL: Yeah. BILLIE: Well, I'm gonna tell you right now that the only person suffering for your tenacity is you. So, I'd suggest giving in. DANIEL: Hey, who's the doctor here? Billie laughs heartily as they walk through the main room of that particular floor. As they approach the door of Theresa's room, the elevator door opens and Kim Brady emerges, a police escort in tow. She immediately spots Daniel and Billie and looks their way with a satisfied smile on her face. DANIEL: So you're here to see Theresa? BILLIE: Yeah. I'm hoping to get in to see her as much as possible, since Kim's threatening lawsuits and beheadings if I stand on the same floor as her. DANIEL: Just...don't let it get to you. She's concerned about her daughter, just like you are. I'm sure you're gonna be able to work it out. As Kim stops, standing behind Daniel and Billie, Daniel catches Kim out of the corner of his eye and turns to face her. Kim smiles as the policeman addresses them. POLICEMAN: Miss Billie Reed? Billie looks the policeman up and down before looking suspiciously at Kim. BILLIE: Can I help you, Officer? Kim holds up an envelope in Billie's face, an almost smug look on her face as she serves Billie. KIM: This would be a restraining order that says that you can't be within 100 feet of Theresa. ---

EPISODE 51 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Gabi guides a drunk Nick through the door to the loft. They stumble in, with Nick's arm around her shoulder, though Gabi's the one lifting his wobbly body down to the living room. Once they reach the sofa, Gabi flops Nick down on it, nearly falling on top of him in the process. After an awkward moment, which surely could be taken for sexual tension, Nick looks at Gabi and asks her a question. NICK: You never answered me before...was this like...date tonight...did you agree to go with me because you're afraid of me? Gabi pulls herself up off the couch quickly, then heads over to the kitchenette to grab Nick a glass of water. GABI: No. Nick, I went out tonight because I feel like you and I needed to...reconnect. That's all. NICK: Well, good. I don't...want to scare you, Gabi. I loveyou. Gabi cringes a bit at Nick's admission. She turns around, glass of water in hand. She hands it to him. GABI: Here, drink up. You'll thank me in the morning. NICK: Thank you, Gabi. I reeeally approa...appre...thank you. Nick goes to drink the water, and dribbles all over his shirt. Gabi jumps into action and pulls the glass away from him. GABI: You're slobbering all over yourself. Here, here, here. Gabi unbuttons his shirt, which Nick takes a sign of interest. Gabi stops dead in her tracks, unsure what to do next. Nick leans in to kiss her, but passes out just before their lips touch. Gabi breathes a sigh of relief, as she lets Nick flop down on the sofa. She jumps up, heading for her purse. She pulls out the bottle of pills she got from Liam. GABI: Time for action, Gabi. --- In her room at University Hospital, Abigail looks to EJ from her bed, shocked at what he just accused her of. ABBY: I....what? EJ steps closer to the bed, leaning against the front of it, staring directly into her eyes. EJ: Abigail, I expect a straight answer from you. Is that my baby you're carrying? Abigail's jaw drops, in disbelief that EJ knows about her pregnancy. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Gabi struggles to get Nick into his bed. Pulling off his wet shirt and taking off his pants, she grunts and grumbles in exasperation, trying to remove his clothes from his limp body. GABI: My God, it's like mothering a 150lb baby. UGH! Gabi falls back as Nick's trousers come off. She rolls her eyes, then lifts Nick's limp legs into his bed. She then takes off her own dress, before walking slowly over to her purse. Looking behind her repeatedly, afraid of beign caught, she pulls the bottle of pills back out from her bag, and makes her way quietly over to the bathroom. Gabi closes the door behind her, and then immediately opens the medicine cabinet. Once inside, she finds Nick's bottle of Ibuprofen. Looking inside the bottle, she immediately dumps the bottle into the toilet and flushes them down it. Quickly thereafter, she replaces the Ibuprofen with her lookalike pills. Putting the cap back on the bottle, she hastily shoves them back into the medicine cabinet, closes it, then hustles back into Nick's room, where she, uncomfortably, lays herself down next to him in his bed. GABI: My God, this better work. I need to get Nick out of our lives, for good. This is the only way. --- Sami walks over to Marlena and Kim, as Kayla steps out of Theresa's room. Kayla hesitates to smile as she steps out from the room. SAMI: How's everything, is Theresa okay? KAYLA: Well, she's still in a coma, but the surgery was a success. We managed to stop the bleeding, so...she'll be able to recover slowly. KIM: But...how soon before she wakes up? KAYLA: That's...the thing, Kim. We aren't sure how long it will take. She may recover in a matter of days, weeks, months. However long it takes for her body to recover from the trauma. She fell out of that car at a pretty high speed. KIM: Oh God. MARLENA: So, Kayla, you mean, there's a chance she may not wake up. Kayla takes a moment before responding, hoping to retain her composure while answering. KAYLA: It's a distinct possibility. KIM: No...NO! Not my baby girl. Kim leans into Marlena, who gives her a warm hug. Sami puts a hand on Kim's arm in comfort as well. KAYLA: Look, we will keep you in the loop if anything changes, and you can come visit her whenever you want, Kimmy. Kay gives Kim a hug, as Kim cries on her shoulder. KIM: Can I....May I see her now? KAYLA: Sure. KIM: Thank you. Kayla and Kim separate from their embrace, as Kim shuffles over to the door of Theresa's hospital room. Once inside, Kim sees her daughter, just brought back into her life, once again ripped away from her. She tears up and rests her head on her daughter's shoulder, crying painful tears. Outside the room, Marlena and Sami begin to talk. MARLENA: So, what did EJ want? SAMI: Oh, he and I were just discussing work stuff. MARLENA: You sure about that? You seemed a bit rattled a moment ago. I nearly went over there but you seemed to hold it together. SAMI: Eventually. It's not easy, but...I can't fall apart every time I see him, you know? MARLENA: Just don't push yourself too hard. SAMI: Mom, I won't. But thank you. MARLENA: Anytime, Sweetie. Where is EJ now? SAMI: I'm not sure, he sort of...just...ran out of here in a hurry to tell Abigail about the new project he wants her to work on in Europe. So...I guess he's in there. MARLENA: Oh? SAMI: Yeah, looks like she'll be working from Italy for the next few months. Wish I could get away from him so easily. --- Abigail backs herself up in her bed, afraid of EJ's reaction. ABBY: I...okay, yes, it's yours. EJ looks down and shakes his head. He walks back from the front of the bed, soaking in the realization that Abigail's baby is his. That Abigail even has a baby, for that matter. He explodes in anger suddenly, causing Abigail to sit bolt upright in fear. EJ: Do you mean to tell me that you were just going to pretend you weren't pregnant and then whoops! One day you pop a baby out? Is that seriously what you were going to do? ABBY: No! I was not...I-- EJ: So what was it then? Were you planning to abort the baby and not tell anyone? ABBY: NO! I would never do that! EJ, I only found out a few weeks ago. EJ turns, his voice dropping to a quiet, menacing tone. EJ: And you never thought to tell me about it? You've had weeks, Abigail. Weeks! I don't know about you, but I think I have a right to know about something like this. ABBY: I never said you didn't have a right to know. I just...I wanted to make this decision on my own, I wanted to tell you in my own time. After I'd made a decision and took care of it all myself. EJ: Well, guess what? You waited too long, sweetheart. ABBY: What do you mean? EJ: There is too much at stake here. We haven't had sex since Feburary? March? That means you're now 6 months pregnant? Oh, you're doing quite well not showing but I see the signs now. And people are asking questions. Ones you'll need to answer for. ABBY: So what do I do, EJ? EJ: I'll tell you what you'll do. EJ pulls a plane ticket he was going to give Anne from his jacket pocket. EJ: You're going to take this, and you're going to get on a plane to Italy-- ABBY: ...What? EJ: No questions! Sami and I have arranged for you to do some work for DiMera in Rome. You will do this work from the condominium we have in Rome. You will not go to DiMera's offices. Someone will come to you. When that baby is born, it will be adopted. You will return to Salem, refreshed, a new woman. And you will never speak of this again. Do you hear me? ABBY: I...what?? How dare you?? How did you get Sami to agree to this? I don't get to even...see my baby? I'll never be able to...know them? What?? No, EJ. That's insane. EJ: No, what's insane, Abigail, is you thinking that you could just cover your ears and pretend that nothing is happening when you're 6 months pregnant with the child of man that's to be married to another woman. This is the only way you and I will be able to keep our secret. Do you understand that? I'm not doing this TO you, I'm doing it for you. Abigail, visibly angered by EJ's overbearing swift action, looks away, tears forming in her eyes. She breathes in deep, then sighs, throwing her hands up. ABBY: Then I guess I have no other choice, now do I? EJ: I knew you'd make the right decision. ABBY: But here's the thing, EJ. After this, I never EVER want to speak to you ever again. Stay the Hell away from me. Forever. Got it? EJ wordlessly turns toward the door, and walks out of the room, closing the door casually behind him. Abigail looks on in disgust. ---

EPISODE 50 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Gabi sips awkwardly on a glass of wine as she sits across the table from Nick at Club TBD. Nick can sense the tension, and breaks the silence. NICK: So....are Will and Sonny looking after Ari tonight? Gabi smiles and puts her glass of wine down, stopping herself from choking on her wine as she tries to speak. GABI: Mm! Yeah...sorry, yeah, Will and Sonny are at home tonight and so...they're fine to look after her. NICK: Even knowing that you're going out with me? Gabi looks away, giving a bit of a sheepish grin. Nick clues in immediately. NICK: ...They don't know, do they? Gabi shakes her head after a second's pause. GABI: No, they...I didn't tell them it was you, I...kinda told them I was going to visit Rafe tonight, so... NICK: You shouldn't have to lie on my account. GABI: No, honestly, Nick, it's just...easier this way. I need to keep the peace at home and this...this just isn't going to make it any easier if I start going out and spending time with you again. NICK: No....I understand. Just...I don't want to complicate things for you at home, that's all. Gabi smiles and reaches out a hand, hesitantly, to Nick's across the table, as she looks thoughtfully into his eyes. Just before she places her hand over his, T walks past, and Gabi raises her hand to get his attention instead. GABI: Oh T! Can I get a Vodka soda on the rocks. Gabi smiles and looks to Nick. NICK: Uh...make mine a double. Thanks. T smiles awkwardly at them both, not overly happy with the scene before him, but willing to serve as always. T: Yoooou got it. Coming up! GABI: Thanks! Nick looks back to Gabi and smiles. After a second, he finally speaks up. NICK: Gabi, you're not just going out with me because you're afraid of me, are you? Gabi's caught off guard by Nick's directness, and stumbles to find a safe reply. --- Will lights a tall candle at the dinner table before running to dim the lights in their shared apartment. Once the lights are off, he turns to call for Sonny. WILL: Alright, you can come out now! Sonny emerges from the bedroom, shutting the door slowly behind him, almost tiptoeing as he does. SONNY: Shhh! Ari's sleeping, this might be our only quiet moment tonig...wow! WILL: Impressed? SONNY: I mean...I didn't know you could cook, let alone make all that. Will glares at Sonny, as Sonny laughs at Will's exasperation. WILL: Lucky for you, I ordered in, now would you sit down? SONNY: Okay, okay. As Sonny sits down, he leans over to kiss Will gently. They begin to dig into their meal, and a moment later, Sonny remembers to ask Will something. SONNY: Oh, I forgot to ask, did you ever show anyone your new blog? WILL: Oh yeah, I, uh...I showed it to Aunt Maggie this morning when I ran into her down at the Club. We were both grabbing coffee and I put the link into her favourites on her tablet. SONNY: Nice! I read it while you were out and...honestly, your article about raising Ari and our life here...it sounds insanely cheesy...but it really touched me. Will laughs a bit at Sonny's earnest praise. WILL: Sonny, I'm trying to eat here. Sonny rolls his eyes, before smacking Will on his arm playfully. SONNY: God, would you just take a compliment already? Seriously! WILL: (laughs) Whatever, Sonny! You're the one who got all cheesy on me. SONNY: Whatever yourself! Honestly, you're one of the best writers I've read in a long time. And I can't wait to marry you. Will smiles sheepishly at Sonny's compliment. WILL: I can't wait either. The two lean in and share a kiss across the table, softly, gently, and sweetly. The smile as they look to each other, an intense, loving gaze that couldn't be broken. --- Maggie sits in Horton Town Square, reading something intently on her tablet. She looks smart in her business attire, and reading glasses on her nose. As she studies the article before her, Tyler approaches her at the table as she takes a sip of the coffee in front of her. TYLER: You look thoroughly embroiled in that story. Mind if I distract you for a moment? Maggie looks up with a start, before pulling off her glasses and looking a smiling Tyler. She smiles back. --- EJ closes the door to Abigail's hospital room, before making a beeline for the main room of the hospital, where Sami is sitting. He stops right before a visibly shaken Sami and startles her with his brusque proclamation. EJ: You and I need to have a little chat about Abigail. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Maggie's smile lingers on Tyler as she motions to the seat across the table from her. MAGGIE: Please do. As Tyler sits down, Maggie lays the tablet down on the table before her. MAGGIE: It's good to see you again. I know we had a sort of...quick meeting this morning when I was at Victor's office, but I'm curious, I thought you'd stepped down from EnerNext. What kind of work are you doing for Victor? TYLER: Well, basically I'm back running it now. Victor was going to take the reigns and I'd be able to pass quietly into retirement but...with this unfortunate turn of events with your grandson Brady, I'm going to be taking control back. Maggie appears less than impressed with Tyler's news. She pauses a moment and thinks carefully about what she says next. MAGGIE: I see...you know, i don't really have much good to say about that whole project you're trying to set up in the west end. TYLER: Well, why not? There's a lot of very lucrative jobs to be had, ones that will benefit your business quite handily, I might add. MAGGIE: How do you know I run a business? TYLER: It's not hard to find out these things, you know, especially with how much Victor talks about you. Maggie smiles sheepishly, blushing a little. MAGGIE: Well, it's always nice to know he's only saying nice things about his wife...uh...listen, Mr. Houston-- TYLER: ...Uh...Tyler. MAGGIE: Tyler...if you don't mind, I had promised my grand-nephew I'd read his article and tell him about it tonight, I really don't want to let him down so-- TYLER: Oh, your grand-nephew is a writer, hm? MAGGIE: Well, yes. A rather good one, I might add. TYLER: Do you mind if I have a look over it? MAGGIE: Not at all. Tyler takes Maggie's tablet from the table and sits down a minute to read it. Maggie leans in, putting her elbows down on the table and leaning into her hands. MAGGIE: Now, be easy on him, he's fresh out of college, you know. Tyler doesn't respond right away. Carefully reading his writing, Tyler seems transfixed by what he's reading. TYLER: That only makes what I'm reading more impressive. This boy has a real way with the written word that's rare in those twice his age. It's something we really need at EnerNext in our PR department. I...hope this isn't too presumptuous or anything, but...you wouldn't mind putting me in contact with him, would you? Maggie is taken aback by Tyler's enthusiasm for Will's work. She struggles to respond to Tyler's request. --- Nick is now starting to get a little more lazy in his movements as he sits with Gabi at Club TBD, the result of three double vodka sodas. Gabi tries to appear as though she's enjoying herself, but is having a hard time. NICK: (laughs) ...and so...then they came in and BAM! Gabi jumps back a bit at Nick's joke, putting a phony smile on her face and taking another sip of her drink. NICK: And...then...I forget the rest. You know...it's so good to be here with you again, Gabi. I...mmmissed you. GABI: Me too, Nick. Me too. NICK: You know, you and me should...we should go back to my new place. I just got a new place and we...we should go to it. Gabi smiles knowingly now. Almost relieved that Nick's made the suggestion now. GABI: Yes! Yes, that's a good idea. Let me settle up and we'll head up. Gabi goes to get up, but Nick waves to get her to stop, pulling his wallet out and lazily handing her arbitrary bills. NICK: Gabi Gabi Gabi Gabi Gabi HERE! He's handed her six $1s and a $100. NICK: Tell T he can keep the change. Gabi slowly walks over to pay the bill. T glances over to Nick, sitting less-than-gallantly at the table. T: You sure he's gonna be alrght? GABI: Oh he'll be fine. T: Yeah, but....what about YOU? GABI: T, for the first time in a very long time, I feel like everything is under control. --- Will and Sonny are cleaning up after dinner, when Will's cell phone starts to ring. He puts a plate he's rinsed on the dish rack before picking up the phone. WILL: Hm...strange. SONNY: What's that? WILL: Strange number. Let me see. Will answers the phone, an unsure tone in his voice. WILL: I...uh...Will Horton speaking. * * * Tyler replies at the Town Square. He paces back and forth as he speaks. TYLER: Yes, William. It's Tyler Houston from EnerNext. I was hoping to speak to you at some point. * * * WILL: Uh...yes, regarding what, exactly? * * * TYLER: Well, I just read some of your writing, and I'm interested in discussing an opportunity with our company's PR department. Uh...would you be available to meet with me this evening? * * * Will stutters and stumbles, in shock at the sudden offer dropped in his lap. --- Sami stands up, very displeased with EJ's tone and walks with him to the waiting room nearby. As the door closes, Sami tears into EJ. SAMI: How dare you come over to me like that when you know what I've been like this last week. I just got out of a therapy session and you come barrelling at me like that?? What the Hell's wrong with you?! EJ: (over Samantha's tirade) Samantha, Samantha! Woah! I'm sorry. I'M Sorry. Okay? Something has come up that I got excited about, and...I think you should listen to what I have to say. Sami steps back, arms folded. She glowers at EJ, who begins to relax after a moment of silence. EJ: Alright. So, DiMera has a rather...extensive project in Europe right now that we need a strong writer to help with publicity and marketing. And I think this is an excellent opportunity for Abigail. SAMI: I...you're right, it could be great, but...she just started with us at Countess W, I mean...don't you think she might be over her head a bit? I mean, she's been so stressed out lately herself... EJ: I don't think that will be a problem. In fact, I think this might be exactly what Abigail needs. A change of scenery, some new faces, the ability to work her magic on her own. It could be exactly what she needs. Sami thinks about it a moment, then turns back to EJ, nodding in agreement. SAMI: I think...I think you're right. We should go ahead with that. EJ: Excellent, I'll go tell her right away. EJ makes a beeline for the door, but Sami calls out to him just before his hand touches the doorknob. SAMI: Oh, wait, EJ. EJ: Yes, Samantha. SAMI: How is she doing? EJ: Great. She just had a hit on the head, she'll be out soon enough, maybe even tonight. SAMI: Maybe we should call Jennifer or somet-- EJ:...NO! No, I wouldn't worry about that. It'll be fine. EJ steps out of the office, leaving Sami confused by EJ's strong reaction to Sami's suggestion. EJ walks down the hallway, almost running for Abby's hospital room. He opens the door to her room, and Abigail turns to him, unpleasantly surprised to see him. ABBY: EJ... EJ shuts the door quietly but intensely. A menacing look across his face that immediately intimidates Abigail. EJ: So...when exactly were you going to tell me you were pregnant? ---

EPISODE 49 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson A knock is heard on Kate's office door. Kate looks up from her computer. KATE: Come in! Billie and Lucas step in, a look of worry across both their faces. KATE: Ah! Billie! Lucas! Excellent. BILLIE: Okay, Mom. You sounded urgent on the phone...what's going on? KATE: Well...have a seat, and we'll discuss it. Billie and Lucas obey their mother's command and sit down in front of her desk. Kate leans over her desk, as if to give a proclamation. KATE: I think it's time we sat down and discussed the Titan board meeting next week, and whether or not the company should hold onto Titan TV. Lucas seems confused, Billie looks over to him. LUCAS: What does that have to do with us? I mean, we'd have to start putting more money into our advertising budget, but surely Victor can grandfather something in. KATE: No, no. It's not just that. We could face a very hefty penalty as a company for the things we do with that TV station. Everything from the news to, yes, our advertising deals. The FCC could have major problems with that. BILLIE: What? Wait, mom. You've never forced our hand on a board vote before. What's got you so concerned this time? Kate pauses a moment, not sure how to respond. --- Jenn is sitting at her desk at the hospital, having a chat with Laura. As she talks with Laura, Jenn tries to do some filing. LAURA: So how was your night with Liam? JENN: It was wonderful. Honestly, I've never met a man who just...understood me so completely, not since... Jenn stops herself, choking up a bit thinking of Jack. LAURA: Since...Daniel? Jenn stays still a moment, then shakes her head. Outside Jenn's office door, Daniel approaches, with a document in hand for Jenn. Just before stepping to the door, he hears Jenn say his name. JENN: Not since Jack, Mom. I mean...Daniel....Daniel, I thought he was fantastic. I was so patient with him, because I knew how hard it's been with him since his wife died and...he knew when Jack came back to town so give us space. He was really great when Jack died. He knew exactly what I was going through... Jenn pauses for a moment. Laura presses. LAURA: But... JENN: But, Mom, he didn't trust me when my son was in trouble. He lied and made me believe he'd not only sleep with someone like Theresa, but that he'd be doing drugs with her? All for what? Because he didn't think I'd stand by my son? Because I couldn't be trusted to protect my own son. Laura walks over to Jenn and hugs her for a minute. Jenn leans in to give her mom a warm hug like she'd been wanting to for a long time. LAURA: I'm so sorry, honey. I didn't realize. I know, we all miss Jack. I just...well...just give it time. Don't rush into things, okay? Liam seems like a good guy but...I want you to just take it easy, okay? Jenn pulls away from her mom's embrace and, still holding her hands, smiles warmly at Laura. Outside Jenn's door, Daniel shakes his head, wincing from the stinging words Jenn has spoken about him. He walks away from Jenn's door, heading back to tend to Theresa. JENN: Thanks, Mom. Can we...uh...talk about something else? Jenn wipes away tears as she asks Laura the question, and Laura sits back in her chair, immediately knowing what else she had on her mind. LAURA: Well...how's Abigail been feeling? JENN: You know...it's strange, she's been...so run down the last few months, and sick a lot. Not much of an appetite, and when she does it, it's been terrible food. I mean, if I didn't know she'd only been with Chad, honestly, I'd say she were pregnant. Laura looks to Jenn, a bit concerned. --- EJ kneels over Abigail as she lies on the floor of the DiMera offices, unconscious. EJ checks her breathing, as Abigail slowly stirs. EJ: Abigail? You alright? ABBY: Uh...huh? EJ? What?... Abigail looks around the room, in a daze. She grabs her stomach suddenly, before realizing where she is, and lets go. ABBY: My b...my God. I... EJ: You need to go to the hospital immediately, we'll get you checked out. Abigail protests weakly, as EJ sits her up to head for the elevator. ABBY: No...no...no, I'm fine... Abigail's face is increasingly panicked as she gets boosted up into EJ's arms and whisked off to UH. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Anne continues to slap the man at the door of the elevator, thinking him to be EJ, until a strong American accent throws her off and stops her assault. REPAIR GUY: Hey, hey, hey! LADY! What the Hell??! Anne backs up, and takes a closer look at the man before her. She jumps back a little, an apologetic look across her face. ANNE: Oh...oh my God, I'm...I'm so sorry, I... REPAIR GUY: This how you treat everyone that comes to help ya, lady? ANNE: I...I thought you were someone else, see, it's actually a really funny story, see... REPAIR GUY: I'm sure it is. Anne steps casually off the elevator, following the now-completely-bemused repairman away from the elevator. ANNE: See, I thought you were this guy who's been following me around and has people all out to make me think I'm crazy and when, well, really, I'm not, he's just an... Anne stops herself, realizing how absolutely insane she sounds. She smiles at the repairman, and takes his hand in hers, patting it gratefully. ANNE: You know what? Nevermind. Thanks again! I really appreciate it. Anne steps towards her door and hastily opens it, stepping into her apartment. The repairman stands back, in shock at what's just transpired. REPAIR GUY: I gotta get outta this town, man! --- Gabi walks into Club TBD. Looking around, she sees Nick, sitting at a booth in the corner. She tenses, incredibly wary of coming anywhere closer to Nick. Finally she steps forward, essentially forcing herself into line. She sits down at the table. Nick immediately takes her hand in his. NICK: I'm so glad to see you. Gabi pulls her hand away quickly. She smiles immediately, realizing how bad that looks. GABI: Sorry. I'm....a bit nervous. NICK: I understand. It's alright. Please, can I order you a drink? Gabi smiles a slightly devious smile, but catches herself and nods, changing her smile to a more flirtatious one. Nick smiles and flags down T. Gabi looks on, thinking to herself: I have to make this happen. I have to get him hooked again. I can't have him hurt me, or Ari. I won't let it happen. --- Kate gestures, trying in vain to find some kind of answer to Billie's question. She stands up and begins pacing the room while talking. KATE: It's....simple, really. I just...did a bit of research, it's really nothing to do with anything. BILLIE: Okay, seriously. Mom, what's going on? Why are you so freaked out? I can tell you're not yourself right now. LUCAS: Seriously, Mom. Spill! What's got you so riled up? Kate takes a second to breathe before turning around to face her kids' onslaught of questions. KATE: It's just best business practice. I'm just....nervous about how Victor's going to react, is all. I mean, we haven't exactly been on the best of terms since I-- LUCAS: ...Tried to have him killed at the Coronation... Kate rolls her eyes at Lucas' snarky remarks before carrying on. KATE:..and now...well...I just...he's been gracious enough to have me as CEO at MadWorld and I'm not prepared to give that up, but going against him, particularly when he's so distressed about Brady's accident, I just... Billie gets up and walks over to Kate. Putting a hand on Kate's shoulder, she reassures her. BILLIE: Mom, I get it. I'll think about it, but...we're in your corner, Lucas and I. Okay? Kate smiles and hugs Billie tightly. KATE: I knew I could count on you. Lucas looks on, not quite so convinced, and folds his arms while shaking his head. --- EJ walks down the hallway at University Hospital, having come from Abigail's hospital room. He is deep in thought, concerned for Abigail, but not so sure about what's been bugging her. Upon entering the 6th floor lobby, EJ sees Sami standing with Marlena and Kim. They look concerned themselves. EJ begins to head over to greet Sami, but Sami looks up at him, and freezes. EJ immediately remembers Sami's recollections after their argument, and stops himself. Sami turns away momentarily to tell Marlena and Kim something. SAMI: Uh...look, I....think I need to talk to EJ for a moment, do you mind? MARLENA: Are you sure that's a good idea? SAMI: I'll be fine, Mom. Thanks. Marlena gives Sami and quick kiss on the cheek and hug before stepping aside with Kim. Sami steps to EJ slowly, almost reluctantly, yet trying to come off nonchalantly. EJ: Samantha. SAMI: EJ. I guess you've heard about Brady and Theresa's accident today. EJ: I have. I'm sorry to hear about it. How is everyone holding up. SAMI: (sighs) I suppose as well as can be expected. My Aunt Kim is just waiting to hear back from the doctors before she goes in to visit. Daniel was operating and they're just letting Theresa rest for a bit before they let her visit so... EJ: I see. SAMI: Yep. So...what are you doing here? EJ: Uh, I was actually here tending to Abigail, you see, she's been in a bit of an accident at work, and-- SAMI: What?! Is she okay? EJ reaches out to stop Sami from running off to find Abigail's room, but when EJ touches her, he catches himself as Sami flinches. EJ: I'm sorry. SAMI: (sigh) It's...okay. Uh...is she okay? Can I see her? What happened? EJ: She had a ladder fall on her at the office earlier, it's...no big deal, she's fine, I just...I stopped you because the doctor was in with her just now. SAMI: Oh...right. EJ: I'm actually going to check on her to see what the doctor says and if you want I can ask Abigail if she wouldn't mind a visitor. If you like, that is. SAMI: That...sounds great. EJ: Alright, I'll be right back. EJ smiles a bit, Sami smiles back. As EJ steps away, she almost collapses, as though she'd been holding onto every bit of strength she had during their exchange. Sami takes a seat at a nearby bench and breathes heavily, trying to regain some semblance of composure. Inside Abigail's hospital room, Daniel talks with Abigail. Abigail is extremely nervous, knowing Daniel's close relationship with her family and friends, particularly her mom. DANIEL: Well, looks like you just had a bit of a hit on the head. No need for any surgery, so...you should be out of here in a few hours. 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. ABBY: Great. So uh...why a few hours, what else needs to be done? As Daniel explains, EJ approaches the door to her hospital room, and begins to open the door to check on the progress of Abigail's appointment. As he opens the door, he hears Daniel speak. DANIEL: We just have to run one more test to see how your baby's holding up after the accident and you should be set to go! EJ's eyes pop out, shocked by Daniel's news. ---

EPISODE 45 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Sami steps off the elevator at University Hospital, and grabs her cell phone, she makes a quick call to her secretary at Countess W. SAMI: (into phone) Yes, Jessica? It's Sami. Look, if you can cancel my appointments for the morning, I'll be in an important meeting...Thanks. I'll let you know when I'm heading back. Bye. Sami hangs up as she approaches Dr. Laura Horton's door. She sighs heavily before stepping inside. --- EJ arrives back at the DiMera mansion, on his cell phone with somebody. He is focused and serious with them as he heads directly into the now-empty living room. EJ: (into phone) So she should be contacting you shortly. I want you to make sure you have that exact medication ready for her...precisely...alright. Call me when it's done. EJ hangs up the phone, a smirk develops across his face. EJ: One way to squash a fly... EJ's smug moment of satisfaction is interrupted by the sound of an argument in the foyer between Harold and a person at the door. EJ's curiosity piqued, he heads for the door. Anne is at the door, enraged, while Harold tries to keep her at bay. ANNE: You WILL let me in because I have something very important to share with Mr. DiMera and if you think that-- EJ: Ms. Milbauer. How lovely to see you. Come in. Harold takes a step back, while Anne smiles a phony "gotcha" smile to Harold, and steps forward towards EJ. --- Theresa walks through the path towards the University Hospital parking lot. She's uneasy, and deep in thought about her actions the previous night in Chicago. She looks at her phone and reads the news reports about Brady's ousting at Titan. She feels regretful, but flashes back to seeing the couple that appeared to be Brady and Chloe kissing at the party. THERESA: You deserved it, Brady. You and that little oompa-loompa of yours. Just then, Brady pulls up in his car. He looks exhausted and wired. He glares at Theresa with an intensity and anger that Theresa isn't used to from him. BRADY: Get in. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Tyler steps into Victor's office, while looking down at a file folder with paperwork. He knocks as he opens the door, but steps right in without concern. TYLER: Victor, I think we need to go over the details of your succession plan, iron out the details so we're covered with regards to Brady...oh. Upon looking up, Tyler realizes that Victor is not the one in the office, but Maggie. She turns around the face Tyler, smiling warmly. MAGGIE: You know, I'd heard of married couples starting to look the same over time, but this is ridiculous. Tyler is taken aback, feeling a bit sheepish for his error, but Maggie gives a cheeky smile, before extending a hand in greeting. MAGGIE: I'm Maggie Kiriakis. TYLER: Pleasure to meet you. Tyler extends his hand in greeting, the two linger a little too long in shaking hands. --- Anne storms into the DiMera living room, as EJ motions to Harold. Harold nods and heads for the kitchen. EJ steps into the room casually, as though he knows exactly what's going on. Anne is visibly agitated, and ready for a fight. EJ: And what can I help you with, Ms. Milbauer? Anne reaches into her bag and slaps the freezer bag containing the suspect letter against EJ's chest. ANNE: Either you're really bad at intimidating me, or this is more of your macabre DiMera humour. Seriously, EJ? Suspiciously powdered letters? EJ takes the bag and opens it, casually pulling the letter out of the bag, and opening it, as he speaks, he pulls the letter out to show Anne, while dusting it off. EJ: I confess, I was not at the office this morning when this was sent to you. I was working from home on the fundraising for the hospital for you, and when the delivery man arrived, I'd already begun baking cookies with the children. As EJ says this, Harold strolls into the room with a platter of cookies. EJ hands the letter over to Anne, who looks it over suspciously, before looking up at EJ, who has taken two cookies from the platter. EJ: I was unable to clean my hands so I'm sorry for the uhh...heh, baking powder all over the letter. Uh...would you like a cookie? The children worked very hard on them. Anne looks down at the cookie, and shakes her head. ANNE: You really must think I'm an idiot. Like I'm gonna take cookies from you, you know you're really a sick man. EJ: Oh come on, Ms. Milbauer, it's not like they're poisoned. See? EJ takes one of the cookies and takes a big bite from it. He smiles, and holds his arms out almost victoriously. EJ: See? I'm fine! I don't know why you're so paranoid, Ms. Milbauer. At this point, Anne is livid and steps towards EJ menacingly. ANNE: You know exactly why I'm suspicious of you, EJ. And don't chalk it up to paranoia. You have the audacity to threaten me, and then play these ridiculous, childish pranks in order to scare me out of town so your little affair with Little Miss Sunshine doesn't get found out? You think I'm that stupid? I know it was you sending someone to follow me last night, to freak me out? EJ: I did no such thing... ANNE: I know you sent me that letter today with the suspicious powder to make me think it was some kind of poison, and I know those cookies are just your way of making me think I'm losing my mind, or at the very least to discredit me. And you know what? It's not going to work. Because you don't have the balls to actually follow through on any of your threats. You have too much to lose. So stop with the little warning shots, because I know you. You'll all talk, and no walk. Excuse me. Anne backs away from EJ, grabs her bag and heads off towards the door, grabbing a cookie from the tray on the way out. She tastes one, stopping before she's out the door. She turns to face EJ with a sour look on her face as she chews it. ANNE: Mm...some advice? Never open a bakery. Anne turns back around and heads out the door, throwing the cookie out into the bushes as she goes. EJ laughs to himself as Anne closes the door. --- Sami steps into Laura's office. She appears incredibly tense, and Laura can instantly sense this in her. Laura motions for Sami to sit down in a chair on the other side of Laura's desk. Sami obliges. SAMI: Thanks. I'm...so glad to see you. It's been a really long time. LAURA: Likewise. Your mother showed me pictures of your children the last time she visited me. They're beautiful. Sami tenses a bit, thinking of her hesitation with Johnny the previous week, as she finally began to come to grips with his conception. She responds less than happily. SAMI: Uh...thank you...you know, I've hired your granddaughter, Abigail. She's been...really helpful to me at Countess W. LAURA: I'm glad. It's such a shame she had problems here at the hospital. I was hoping we could work together, but... SAMI: Yeah. Some people just don't get along, I guess. LAURA: I suppose...look, Sami. I noticed your tension when I mentioned your children just now. Are they doing okay? Sami hesitates to answer for a moment, but smiles and forms an answer. SAMI: Yes, they're fine. I just...we had some... LAURA: Sami, are you worried you're disconnecting from your children? Sami stops and thinks for a second. She nods to Laura hesitantly. SAMI: And it's not just that. I...the other night, EJ and I fought and...he brought up the night that...Johnny, my youngest son, the night he was....conceived and... LAURA: Sami, is Johnny's conception a happy memory for you? Sami looks to the ground. She tries in vain to fight back tears as she struggles to answer Laura. She finally chokes out an answer, barely audible. SAMI: No. And I'm...I'm afraid of... LAURA: What are you afraid of, Sami? Sami swallows, and breathes deeply. After a moment, she finally answers. SAMI: I'm afraid I'm going to push him away...because when I look at Johnny now...I see what happened that night, and not my beautiful little boy anymore...and I can't...I need help, Laura. --- Gabi walks through the park, trying to look inconspicuously for someone. She sits down on the bench and begins to check her texts. EJ's text instructs her to wait on the bench at 3pm for a gentleman. Not describing him any further, Gabi's unsure what to look for. GABI: Real helpful, EJ. Just as she says this, a man sits down on the bench next to her, and quietly speaks. MAN: You Gabi? Gabi looks over at the man, and nods. GABI: You have it? MAN: It's all yours. The man hands her a small pill bottle, as discreetly as possible. Gabi looks up at him, while looking around to see if anyone else is looking. She slips the pills into her bag, and the man looks her intensely. It's Liam. LIAM: And remember, you've never seen me before, and you won't recognize me if you see me again. If you need anything else, contact EJ. Gabi stares nervously at him, and nods, before grabbing her bag and taking off. --- Brady drives aggressively down the road. Theresa sits next to him in his car, visibly nervous. So nervous, in fact, she can barely look over at him, nearly transfixed on the road. THERESA: So...Brady. BRADY: I thought we could go for a drive....have a little talk. You and I. THERESA:oh...oh yeah? What about? BRADY: Well, what happened to you last night when you left the party...you know I wanted to find you. THERESA: Ohh yeah? Brady looks at Theresa and smiles. BRADY: Yeah. I wanted to surprise you. I was gonna rent out the biggest suite at that hotel across the street you loved so much. You know, you said it was so glamourous, and you just...you wish you could spend one night there. THERESA: You...you would do that for me? BRADY: Yes. Yes, I would. And I almost did too. But I couldn't find you...or my credit card. So I ended up going back to Salem where I find out that my company credit card, there's this...$200-plus cab fare on it. And it's funny because, the charge was made around the same time I went looking for you at the club. THERESA: Look, Brady, I-- Brady's anger is starting to creep into his voice, his motions becoming ever more staccato, as his foot presses harder on the gas. The car enters the highway leaving Salem. BRADY: You know, then this video is online of me...doing cocaine. And it's like...it's so funny, it's at that same time when you were trying to take a selfie and you were too drunk to figure out your phone? Such a weird coincidence, huh? Brady's foot presses more and more on the accelerator, as the car pushes up towards 70, 75, 80mph. Theresa holds onto the grip on the door tightly. THERESA: B...Brady, slow down. Brady is looking straight ahead, barely even acknowledging Theresa's existence. BRADY: Why? THERESA: Well...well the speed limit, Brady is-- BRADY: Do you honestly think I care right now? Like...at all? Do you think what you want matters to me right now? THERESA: Brady, you're scaring me. Brady starts to pay closer attention to Theresa now, but it is mostly anger he shows her as he intermittently divides his attention between her and the road before him. BRADY: Do you think I'm scared? Huh? Do you think I can feel anything right now? THERESA: Brady, what are you talking about? BRADY: What do I have now, Theresa? Think about it for a second, yeah? I just lost my job, my reputation is ruined, the woman I thought I was getting to know and care about, she double-crosses me because she's so damned insecure about me being able to be nice to my ex-wife. Every single woman I ever get involved with betrays me. My family hates me. Tell me, Theresa. What do I have to live for now? Tell me. THERESA: Okay, okay, Okay-- BRADY:...TELL ME! Do you get it? THERESA: Okay! I'm sorry, Brady, would you PLEASE slow down. Brady takes his eyes off the road now entirely, and begins to lean in closer and closer to Theresa. His speed is now reaching 85mph. BRADY: Ohhhh no. You don't get it, do you? I want you to listen to me for once. No distractions. No one around to watch you to see the glamourous life you're living off my back. Just you, finally facing the person you are. The despicable, self-absorbed piece of street trash you really are-- Theresa looks away from Brady. 90mph. Theresa looks up and sees a sharp turn in the road ahead, she panicks and screams out. THERESA: BRADY, LOOK OUT! Brady looks up and tries to steer into the turn while slamming on the brakes. Theresa, in a moment of quick thinking, pulls her door open and leaps from the vehicle, but due to the speed the car is travelling at, she is knocked unconscious and severely injured immediately upon impacting the ground. Brady's car skids off the road and drives through the barrier, off the side of the embankment, into the lake below. ---

DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 33 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Billie looks over at Daniel, who has stopped her at Horton Town Square, concerned with the company she's keeping. Billie is not impressed. BILLIE: I'm sorry? DANIEL: What were you doing talking with Theresa Donovan? Billie leans back, arms folded, floored by Daniel's audacity. BILLIE: She happens to be a very good friend of mine, thank you. DANIEL: Well, I guess you're not quite the person I thought you were then. BILLIE: Excuse me? Daniel approaches Billie, a bit of menace in his walk. Billie still stares him down, unblinking. DANIEL: Oh yeah. I went there. You remember your friend Jenn? Yeah, that girl you just were speaking to put her through a living hell these past few months. And me. And JJ. BILLIE: Oh, I'm aware of all of that. I'm also aware of the hell that girl's gone through before she ever met you or Jennifer or JJ. So you can spare me your holier-than-thou attitude about things you know nothing about, Daniel. Daniel's taken aback by Billie's impassioned defense of Theresa. --- Sheryl and Jordan are sitting at Club TBD in a corner booth. Sheryl is on her laptop, attempting to access a file. Jordan looks over to her, looking occasionally to the laptop, and to the door. A certain tension is across Jordan's face, and she appears jumpy. Sheryl is focused on the work ahead of her. Finally, Jordan's fidgeting and twitches gets to Sheryl. SHERYL: Would you stop fidgeting? JORDAN: I'm sorry. I just...you know this is crazy. I mean....anyone could catch us here. SHERYL: Well, yes. If you keep acting like a complete nut, yes, they might. JORDAN: (sighs) I'm sorry. I just...I'm really concerned that you're going too far again, Sheryl. Sheryl turns abruptly to face Jordan. Jordan's words set her off like a switch had been flipped. She speaks with a quiet rage, not unlike a hot pressure cooker. SHERYL: Again, hm? Like I did in Canada? Are you seriously gonna say that now? That operation was neccessary, Jordan. We have absolutely no choice but to do that. And if you think this is any different, then you need to go back to Birmingham, and never come back. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- EJ approaches Sami's office desk, still reeling from her decision to move out. Sami draws herself up and back with every step EJ takes towards her. EJ: Samantha, I-- SAMI: EJ. Please. Please don't...come any closer. EJ fights the anger he feels from the sting of Sami's sudden fear of him. He fights the urge to lash out. EJ: Samantha, I...I don't...I don't think this is a good idea. SAMI: EJ, I can't. There is no other option. EJ: What do you mean, Samantha? I can't...I don't know how much more space I can give you. You're already at the opposite end of the house as it is. And you know father's conditions for your freedom were that the entire family live under one roof. SAMI: EJ, I never said I was taking Sydney, and Johnny away from you. EJ: (sigh) You don't get it, do you, Samantha? YOU are my family as well. You are as much my family as my brothers, my sister, my children and my father. SAMI: Look, I...I do love you. But I...EJ, this feeling, this fear I have in me...I buried it for so long. I tried to hide it and allowed myself to forget that that....side of you existed. I gave myself a sort of....selective amnesia. Our fight last night, it...I need to take some time on my own, away from everyone to just...heal. It's not about not loving you or not seeing you as a part of my life or...or...family. I just need time to truly move past what you did to me. EJ closes his eyes as Sami speaks. He doesn't look up. The shame he feels washes over him, and he stands solemnly, feeling the gravity of the effect he's had on the woman he loves. He takes a deep breath before speaking. EJ: Okay. You take the time you need. But remember something. I love you. More than anything in this world. You NEVER lose sight of that for one moment. Who I was then and who I am now are...galaxies apart. Sami smiles, trying to look at EJ, but she can't, and looks away. SAMI: I won't. Because I love you too. But I don't know if I'll ever be able to see the man I wanted to marry, without seeing the man who raped me. And I wish I could. EJ's heart sinks, as does his head, as he fights back tears. --- Victor slams his briefcase on the conference table at Titan. Around him sit Brady, and Tyler. All three men are in foul moods after the disaster that was the press conference. Victor opens his briefcase, sorting paperwork as he speaks to the other two men. VICTOR: Well, that was quite possibly the most spectacular disaster since the Hindenburg. I'm sorry your introduction to the Titan board had to be this mess, Tyler. I expect the rest of your time on the Titan board of directors goes somewhat more smoothly. BRADY: What I can't figure out is how Nicole, who was supposed to be helping promote the project, managed to be working to demonize this whole project to the public. TYLER: It's obvious. And I think it should be obvious to all of you that there is a lack of editorial control at Titan TV. And it has become a complete liability to you. VICTOR: If you're suggesting we divest ourselves of Titan TV, you can save your breath. We need that TV station, particularly if we want to see this project accepted by the public. BRADY: Grandad's right. But...I also think we need some changes if we are to retain controlling interest in the TV station. Victor furrows his brow at Brady's suggestion. VICTOR: What in the hell do you think I was going to suggest? Let that lazy sleaze Miles lay back and light Cuban cigars with my money in his office? TYLER: Well, with all due respect, that's essentially what he's done by allowing Ms. Walker's report to go public. If Miles is gone and Ms. Walker goes with him, I support retaining Titan TV. Otherwise, it's too big a liability, and it would also be a major conflict of interest. BRADY: I second that. Nicole had no right to go ahead with a line of questioning like that. VICTOR: She had no right being unleashed on this planet. If she isn't ousted, I'll personally drop kick her from the building. Now, if the rest of the board agrees to this-- BRADY: ...I talked to Kate after the press conference and she supports us. VICTOR: Then that's four. BRADY: If her little lap dog of a son follows mummy's lead as he usually does, that'd be five. TYLER: Which would put us over the top. VICTOR: So then it's settled. We'll put it to a vote Monday. I'll round up the troops and we'll get this sorted. BRADY: Sounds like a plan. TYLER: Good work, men. The three men, exchange handshakes, standing up from the table in a subdued happiness at their damage control. --- Nicole looks directly at Nick, clearly unsure of her decision, but she breathes deeply and chokes out her answer. NICOLE: Alright. I'm in. I'll do it. Nick smiles widely with his trademark sinister smirk. NICK: 'Atta girl. I always knew you were smart. Nicole grimaces, knowing she's made a mistake, but fearing the consequences too much to go back on her word. She folds her arms and shakes her head. NICOLE: So how are you going to make this work. NICK: Oh I'll find a way. And don't worry about moving your stuff out of your office. It's not going anywhere. I can guarantee it. --- Daniel approaches an enraged Billie, whose back is turned him as she reaches for her phone in her purse. His demeanour is one of a sudden calm. DANIEL: Look, I didn't realize that Theresa's past was so rough. But she had no right to treat Jenn, JJ, and I like that. BILLIE: I know that. I'm sure she knows that too. Look, I...I shouldn't have even said as much as I did to you. But know that Theresa isn't the bad person you think she is. She's hurting inside, and she's doing the best she can with that pain in her heart. DANIEL: (sigh) I'm sorry. I didn't mean to come down so hard on you. Billie pulls herself together quickly, looking at her phone quickly and noticing a missed call. She looks over to Daniel with a sudden smile on her face. BILLIE: Don't mention it. I won't hold it against you, as long as you don't do it again. Got it. Billie pinches Daniel's cheek before stepping away, leaving Daniel puzzled by her wildly changing emotions, but also intrigued. Once Billie steps away, she calls back the missed call. She whispers loudly in the phone. BILLIE: Mom? It's me. Sorry I didn't call sooner, but I think I got something big that could help us. Billie holds the tiny flash drive in the palm of her hand, looking it over as she speaks. --- Jordan looks taken aback by Sheryl's reaction. She tries to motion to Sheryl to calm down as she's drawing attention to herself. Sheryl looks around and appears to relax, though she's still visibly upset. Sheryl returns her attentions to her laptop screen. She doesn't look up at Jordan at all from here on out. JORDAN: Look, maybe I should choose my words more carefully next time. SHERYL: Ya think? JORDAN: Look, just...tell me what you're trying to do. SHERYL: Okay, you remember that computer we were on at work? JORDAN: You mean the one Nick Fallon caught us at? Sheryl rolls her eyes, but continues to focus squarely at the screen. SHERYL: Well, I snuck a little device on it that allows us unrestricted access to the Titan executive database, and no one can trace it. Jordan's skepticism begins to melt as Sheryl explains. Jordan looks over Sheryl's shoulder in sudden interest. JORDAN: You're kidding! SHERYL: Nope! Just about to get us into the frameworks now. Sheryl hits enter on her keyboard with a flourish. The login fails. Sheryl's face drops in shock. SHERYL: Oh God. JORDAN: What? Sheryl finally breaks her gaze with the monitor and looks at Jordan, a look of panic across her face. SHERYL: The key's not hooked up to the system. Someone found it. ---