Month: January 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Stephanie has a dream about Alex, then wakes up in bed with Philip, who wishes her a happy New Year.

Alex and Joy wake up in bed together. They comment on it being a little awkward while Joy jokes that at least he’s not married.

Johnny goes to the Body and Soul studio and finds Abe there. Johnny wasn’t expecting to see anyone there on New Year’s Day. Abe says a producer’s day is never done and questions Johnny not being at home with his wife. Johnny responds that the problem is Chanel is gone.

Chanel surprises Paulina at home and tells her that she came from the guest room as she figured Paulina wouldn’t mind if she crashed there. Paulina questions her not being home with her husband. Chanel reveals that she left him. Paulina asks why she would do that and what happened. Paulina acknowledges their rough patch when Johnny thought Chanel was sleeping with Alex, but she thought they got past that. Chanel responds that she forgave Johnny for thinking that she cheated on him, only to find out that he cheated on her.

Johnny reveals to Abe that he cheated on Chanel and he feels awful about it. Johnny adds that Abe will be even more upset with him when he tells him who he cheated on her with.

Alex tells Joy that she doesn’t have to feel guilty since he’s not married. Joy asks if he’s sure about that as she’s wondering if there’s still something going on between he and Stephanie.

Stephanie wishes Philip a happy New Year as well and asks if he slept okay. Philip confirms he did after all the champagne, but guesses it didn’t work for her as she was tossing and turning just now. Philip guesses she was having a pretty intense dream. Stephanie claims not to remember what it was about. Philip wonders if she does remember, but doesn’t want to hurt his feelings by admitting that it was about Alex.

JJ and Gabi wake up in bed together. They both say they are glad JJ stayed and they kiss until they heard the sound of a plate crashing which Gabi questions what that was.

Paulina questions Chanel as to when Johnny cheated on her. Chanel explains that it was when Johnny thought she cheated on him with Alex and he thought he was getting revenge on her for something she didn’t even do, so she pretty much grabbed the first girl he saw and reveals that it was Joy Wesley.

Abe questions Johnny cheating on Chanel with Joy, an actress from their show. Johnny explains that Joy wasn’t on the show yet and hadn’t even auditioned yet as she was a complete stranger and he had no idea she would have any connection with Body and Soul. Johnny knows it’s no better but assures he did not use his position to take advantage of a cast member as it was a terrible coincidence, but he thought it was important that Abe know as executive producer. Abe appreciates his honesty and doesn’t think it will be an issue for HR. Johnny assures that it is completely over, but he’s just worried that his marriage is over too.

Alex assures Joy that she’s not stepping on anything between he and Stephanie. Alex comments that there hasn’t been anything between he and Stephanie in a long time. Joy points out that wasn’t really their choice after everything that happened on set. Alex says there’s a lot of other things that went down between them but that doesn’t matter anymore because Stephanie is actually seeing his cousin, Philip.

Stephanie questions Philip thinking she was dreaming about Alex. Philip calls it just a hunch. Stephanie then admits he was right that she was dreaming about Alex. Philip then declares that he made a huge mistake staying over. Philip thought he could help her get over Alex, but guesses that he was wrong and he failed. Philip gets out of bed while Stephanie asks if they can talk about this. Philip says there’s nothing to talk about as it’s obvious she’s not over Alex. Philip says he can tell by the look on her face when his name comes up. Philip says he’s realizing more and more that he was genuinely interested in her but he needs to get over that. Philip declares that he wants a relationship with Stephanie, so if she doesn’t want the same thing, they should just cut their losses and end this before it’s too late.

Joy senses that Alex is not too thrilled with Stephanie dating Philip. Alex claims that he’s fine with it and says it’s not surprising since they dated before and were even engaged at one point. Alex says that Philip is trying his best to get things back where they were before. Alex encourages Stephanie for whatever she wants. Joy questions what Alex wants.

Abe tells Johnny that Chanel must be furious about what happened but questions their marriage being over. Johnny talks about how hurt Chanel was, so he doesn’t think Chanel will ever be able to look at him the same or be able to forgive him. Abe says he’s so sorry for both of them. Johnny admits he was so stupid as he had himself convinced that Chanel and Alex were sleeping together and he was so focused on his anger and how betrayed he felt. Johnny says he was too cowardly to just confront Chanel like an adult or else he would’ve known nothing happened between them and he instead acted on his anger, but by the time he found out the truth, it was too late. Abe questions Johnny and Joy having already slept together by that point but Johnny clarifies that they didn’t sleep together.

Paulina questions Chanel about Johnny cheating on her with Joy. Chanel explains that it was before Joy was cast on Body and Soul, so they didn’t know who each other were at the time. Paulina can’t believe Johnny jumped in bed with a total stranger. Chanel explains that Johnny was mad because he thought she was sleeping with Alex, so they met at the bar and went back to her room at the Salem Inn. Chanel notes that Johnny said they didn’t sleep together. Paulina questions going back to her hotel room and not having sex. Chanel confirms that’s what Johnny said, so Paulina asks why she’s so upset then.

JJ and Gabi go to investigate the crash sound in the living room, only to find that it was Gabi’s cousin Javi. Gabi tells Javi that he scared them. Javi blames the mixing bowl being on the highest shelf and declares that he’s making his special New Year’s pancakes with champagne. Javi then introduces himself to JJ and says he’s seen his pictures. Javi jokes that JJ is even hotter in person. JJ thanks him. Javi thinks Gabi should be thanking him and remarks that it looks like they had fun last night. Javi suggests they all sit down and get to know each other better.

Chanel tells Paulina that she’s upset because Johnny did fool around with Joy. Paulina asks what exactly he did. Chanel guesses they started making out and took off all their clothes, then hopped in bed but basically stopped right before the point of no return. Chanel feels that’s still cheating and asks if Paulina doesn’t agree. Paulina assures that she does agree that Johnny never should’ve gotten himself in to that situation, but points out that Johnny did this because he thought Chanel was cheating on him. Chanel questions that making it all fair and that he was just evening out the score because Paulina was just upset as she was at first. Chanel feels it’s even worse that Johnny didn’t sleep with Joy because that means he knew what he was doing the whole time and he had such little faith in her that instead of just asking her about Alex, he goes to the bar and picks up a total stranger and comes this close to going all the way with her. Chanel declares that she is not going to forgive Johnny, he does not get another chance, and that she is done with him.

Johnny informs Abe that he stopped himself from sleeping with Joy at the last possible second. Abe suggests he was more clear headed than he thought then. Johnny responds that all he knows was that in that moment, he realized how much he loved Chanel and couldn’t bring himself to betray her. Johnny admits that he betrayed Chanel the second he walked in to Joy’s hotel room and now that Chanel knows what he did, she’s obviously disappointed in him, hurt, and angry. Johnny declares that he honestly doesn’t think Chanel even loves him anymore.

Stephanie tells Philip that she won’t deny she has some residual feelings for Alex, just like Philip does for Chloe. Stephanie points out that they talked last night about how they both want to move on with their lives, but it’s not like they can just forget the people who once meant something to them ever existed. Philip supposes that’s true. Stephanie declares that no matter how she felt or feels about Alex, he’s the past and Philip is the present. Stephanie tells Philip that she likes him, she likes talking to him, laughing with him, and just being around him, noting that she wouldn’t have asked him to stay over if she didn’t. Stephanie assures that last night really did mean something to her too. Stephanie promises to try to stop dreaming about Alex and asks if they can just have breakfast together which Philip agrees to.

Alex tells Joy that he and Stephanie had a lot of good times together, but when they hooked up on set, it really screwed things up for them. Alex adds that even if they weren’t working together, he highly doubts they’d ever be able to get back to where they were because of the basic incompatibility between them. Alex thinks Stephanie feels the exact same way, so maybe the policy that Kate put in effect is for the best as it makes sure that he and Stephanie move on which is what he’s trying to do. Alex questions if Joy doesn’t believe him but she says she does. Alex knows it’s extremely weird for her to lay in bed with someone talking about another woman. Joy decides they won’t talk about the other girl since he’s moving on, so they continue kissing instead.

Philip makes breakfast for he and Stephanie. Stephanie encourages Philip about being co-CEO of Titan and tells him that she believes in him. Philip thanks her and admits that he had doubts he could still do this, so it means a lot that she fully supports him.

Javi asks Gabi to tell him about last night. Gabi says if he wants to hear the details of their night, he has to cough up his first. Gabi asks if Javi went out with his new friend Kerry. Javi responds that Kerry is out of town with his family, so he spent the evening alone. Gabi says she’s sorry but points out that Javi wasn’t home when they got back. Javi says he went out by himself and admits it wasn’t fun, calling the whole night a bust but Gabi notes the look on his face. Gabi guesses that Javi is thinking about going back to Leo Stark. Javi insists that he’s not and that it’s over after Leo accused him of being Lady Whistleblower. Javi decides he’s going to change and go to the gym. Javi tells JJ it was great meeting him and reminds Gabi that she owes him details. Javi adds that maybe by the time he gets back, they’ll have more details.

Abe tells Johnny that he knows Chanel is upset with him right now, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t love him and that she just needs time to deal with what happened. Johnny questions her just needing time. Abe encourages that time will help. Johnny insists that he’s willing to do whatever it takes. Johnny thanks Abe and admits that he wasn’t expecting him to be so charitable towards him. Abe acknowledges Johnny as his son in law and family. Abe assures that he doesn’t hate him, but notes that Paulina might be a tougher nut to crack.

Paulina tells Chanel that she could just kill Johnny for hurting her like this. Chanel asks if she gets it now. Paulina says she got it, but was just trying to give Johnny the benefit of the doubt. Paulina agrees with Chanel that there is no excuse for what Johnny did. Chanel appreciates her seeing it her way now. Chanel adds that the worst part is that after everything with Alex, she thought she and Johnny had gotten past that and their marriage was in a really good place but now she can’t even look at him. Paulina cries that she’s so sorry she has to go through this. Paulina declares that Johnny and Joy did her wrong. Paulina suggests Chanel take a shower and get dressed since it’s the first day of the new year and she will feel better after. Chanel agrees to go do that, but doubts she will feel any better.

Alex asks if Joy wants to go downstairs for breakfast. Joy says she needs to start learning her lines. Alex insists she needs a quick breakfast break but Joy worries that she has a ton of scenes tomorrow with Chanel and that Chanel has to know everything by now. Joy can’t imagine what’s going to happen when they see each other. Alex says it will be super uncomfortable, but reminds her that Johnny was married, not her, and he made her keep the secret from his wife. Alex feels that no matter what Joy did, she was in a no-win situation. Joy doesn’t think Chanel will want to hear it from her. Alex says Chanel is tough, but he’s not worried because Joy is too.

Gabi and JJ have breakfast while Gabi congratulates JJ on surviving Javi. JJ decides he should get going and get dressed as he’s sure she has things to do today. Gabi informs him that her staff forced her to take the week off, so she actually doesn’t. JJ notes that he doesn’t start at the police department until tomorrow, so they agree to spend the day together.

Philip tells Stephanie that he looks forward to more opportunities to cook for her in the future, but he needs to get to the office and bets Xander is already there, looking for any excuse to point out that he’s not working. Stephanie says she should get to work as well and catch up on what she missed over the holidays. They agree to having dinner later. Stephanie walks Philip out and they kiss right as Alex begins coming home and stops around the corner. Stephanie and Philip both say they had a great time last night. Philip then turns around and greets Alex. Philip hopes he enjoyed his New Year’s Eve. Alex says he did and thanks him. Philip and Stephanie say they did too. Philip tells Stephanie that he will see her later and walks away. Stephanie and Alex wish each other a happy New Year.

Abe goes home. Paulina thought he’d be in the office all day. Abe says he intended to but he needed to talk to her after he saw Johnny. Paulina informs him that she knows everything as Chanel snuck in last night and slept in the guest room, so she gave her every detail about what happened between Johnny and Joy. Abe notes that Johnny does feel horrible about what happened. Paulina responds that he should and that she doesn’t see Chanel forgiving him anytime soon.

Johnny remains at the studio and looks at his wedding ring. Johnny pulls out his phone and calls Chanel.

Chanel walks through the town square and answers the call. Johnny wasn’t sure she would answer. Chanel responds that she has nothing to say to him and hangs up. Chanel then turns around and sees Joy sitting in the town square, so she confronts her.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

JJ and Gabi talk about having fun at the DiMera Mansion. JJ notes that Gabi has been keeping her distance from EJ. Gabi says she plans to let EJ know what a colossal loser he is at midnight. Gabi and JJ talk about having a crappy year. JJ says he’s grateful for everything Gabi did to try to help them find Abigail. Gabi says he doesn’t have to keep saying that. JJ tells Gabi that he’s really glad he gets to start the new year with her. Philip and Belle have champagne. Philip asks Belle how she’s doing. Belle says she’s alright but it’s hard not to be thinking about Shawn since it’s the first New Year’s she has spent as a single woman in a long time. Philip encourages her and they toast to the good old days and even better new ones. Alex asks Stephanie where her date is since it’s almost midnight. Stephanie points out Philip and asks where Alex is. Alex responds that Joy seems to have disappeared. Stephanie mentions not seeing Johnny or Chanel either. Gabi calls everyone’s attention for the countdown to the ball dropping. Arnold kisses Jada and JJ kisses Gabi at midnight. Alex wishes Stephanie a happy new year and walks away as Philip comes over and apologizes for missing the big moment. Philip asks for a do over as he and Stephanie kiss while Alex watches uncomfortably. EJ angrily shakes his head at Arnold kissing Jada and drinks his champagne. EJ looks over at JJ and Gabi kissing. Belle comes over and wishes EJ a happy new year. Belle jokes that aside from Alex’s date missing, they are the odd ones out. EJ suggests they could change that but Belle thinks that wouldn’t be a good idea based on their history. EJ argues that he was just going to give her a respectful friendly kiss, which Belle allows on the cheek. Alex looks around for Joy, wondering where the hell she is.

Johnny brings Joy to his room. Joy asks what he wants when it’s going to be midnight soon. Johnny questions why Joy came tonight. Joy argues that his wife invited them and she’s not easy to say no to. Johnny complains that they have to figure something out because it’s very stressful having her there. Joy argues that it’s stressful for her to have to pretend to be having fun and worries about if Chanel knew what happened between them, right as Chanel appears in the doorway and backs out after hearing her. Chanel then walks in and tells Joy to spill the tea and tell her what happened between her and her husband.

Alex watches on as Stephanie and Philip continue kissing. Alex then interrupts and suggests they get a room. Stephanie apologizes and Philip guesses they forgot where they were. Belle pours more champagne while EJ declines a refill. Belle walks away while EJ complains about Arnold. EJ approaches them and says he needs to tear “Rafe” away since Johnny and Chanel have disappeared, while he needs help bringing out the rest of the food. Arnold kisses Jada and says he’ll be right back as EJ takes him to the kitchen. Philip questions Alex standing all alone and what happened to Joy.

Johnny tells Chanel that he thought she was downstairs. Chanel explains that it was almost midnight and she couldn’t find him, so she guesses he lost track of time. Johnny says they should get back downstairs to the party but Chanel tells him that he already missed the countdown. Chanel declares that she’s not going anywhere until they tell her what the hell they were talking about. Joy claims that there was misunderstanding and she was just talking about one of the scripts and her character. Chanel tells Joy not to insult her intelligence and have the decency to tell her the truth. Johnny tells Joy that he needs to speak to Chanel alone, so Joy exits. Chanel then demands Johnny start talking and asks what is going on. Johnny explains that this whole thing started when he thought she was cheating on him with Alex, but he was wrong and so jealous, angry, and hurt. Johnny admits that he went to drown his sorrows at the Small Bar which is the night he met Joy. Chanel argues that she was there when they met on set. Johnny clarifies that they just acted like they didn’t know each other. Johnny tells her that when Joy walked in to the bar, he had no idea who she was, why she was in Salem, or how long she would be there and they just started talking, so he confided in her that his wife was cheating on him. Chanel questions him telling that to a complete stranger. Johnny says she was going on about her horrible day, so he just blurted it out and then it all came out. Johnny adds that Joy was sympathetic to his story but couldn’t understand why he hadn’t confronted Chanel. Johnny knows he should’ve talked to Chanel and wishes he had, so he wouldn’t have made the biggest mistake of his life.

Alex tells Philip that he has no idea what happened to Joy as she disappeared on him. Joy then returns to the room in a rush. Alex asks if everything is alright. Joy claims she’s just peachy. Philip tells Joy it’s great to see her and asks how her sister Chloe is. Joy questions why he cares when he dumped her ass. Joy then goes to get a refill of champagne. Stephanie guesses Joy is not Philip’s biggest fan. Philip notes that Joy and Chloe don’t always get along, but they are very protective of each other. Philip guesses that even though he and Chloe agreed it wasn’t working between them, he did the actual breaking up. JJ and Gabi come over as JJ wishes Stephanie a happy new year. Gabi comments on Philip worming his way back in to Titan and congratulates him. Philip asks if he doesn’t have to worry about her stealing it out from under him again. Gabi remarks that he’ll have to look a little closer to home for that and she’s quite happy at Gabi Chic. Gabi brings up when Philip tried to blackmail her out of her company. JJ suggests they go, so he and Gabi go to get their things while Philip tells Stephanie that he was just making conversation. Alex asks Joy where she was. Joy informs him that she was upstairs with Johnny and Chanel. Alex asks what happened. Joy responds that she will tell him all about it, but asks him to take her home first, so they exit together. Philip guesses they can’t wait to ring in the new year in private. Stephanie tells Philip that she wouldn’t mind leaving and suggests they call it a night, so they exit as well. Belle and Jada talk about Paulina’s generous offer. Jada tells Belle that everyone will be thrilled to find out that she’s the new district attorney. Belle says except EJ as she hasn’t had a chance to tell him yet and she feels he is going to be livid.

Outside of the living room. EJ complains to Arnold about him kissing Jada. Arnold calls EJ an idiot and asks what it would look like if he’s not kissing her on New Year’s Eve. EJ declares that’s as far as it goes and that he is not to sleep with Jada. Arnold asks why it matters. EJ argues that she cannot give consent, just like Arnold did with Sami. Arnold says that didn’t bother him then. EJ says his anger towards Sami clouded his judgment, the world has changed and his views have evolved. EJ calls Arnold the same disgusting pig he’s always been and warns that if Arnold continues to defy him, things will not end well for him. Gabi and JJ then come over to ask what is going on here.

Jada and Belle laugh together and then realize that everyone’s already gone home just after midnight. Belle guesses they are the only fun ones. Jada admits she wants to go home as her feet are killing her. Belle suggests they make a break for it but Jada says she has to wait for “Rafe” and wonders what is taking he and EJ so long.

Gabi questions why EJ is ripping in to “Rafe” while JJ says he heard something about things not ending well for him. EJ claims he was merely pointing out that Jada screwed Rafe out of a job and now came for his as she convinced Paulina to fire him earlier today. Gabi and JJ celebrate that but Gabi questions how it’s Rafe’s fault. Arnold says it’s okay as he can handle EJ. Gabi says she and JJ are going home and to tell Johnny and Chanel that they had a lovely evening as they exit. Arnold guesses that’s his cue to go as well since Jada wants to go home. EJ warns that he is not to go home with her so Arnold asks where he’s supposed to go. Jada then comes out and asks “Rafe” if he’s ready to go, but EJ says she can’t go home with him so Jada questions why the hell not.

Philip brings Stephanie home. She asks if he wants to watch TV or put on some music. She then offers to heat up dessert that her mom gave her. Philip stops her and asks her why she’s acting so weird. Stephanie questions how she’s acting weird, pointing out that it’s the new year and she wants them to have a good time. Philip asks if that’s all it is or if it’s also about Alex.

Alex brings Joy home, where Joy tells him that she assumes Chanel now knows the truth. Alex wonders if Johnny could have talked his way out of it but Joy says Chanel was determined to get answers, so she doesn’t think Johnny had any choice but to tell her everything.

Chanel asks Johnny what his big mistake was or if she should start guessing. Johnny admits that eventually, he and Joy went back to her hotel room where they kept talking and drinking as he flashes back to that night. Johnny then claims that they kissed and that’s all that happened but Chanel says he’s not getting off that easy as she wants every last detail, no matter how painful it is. Chanel tells Johnny to keep going, guessing they are just getting to the good part. Johnny reminds her that he honestly thought their marriage was over and he was desperately trying to get away from the pain and hurt he was feeling. Chanel feels he was trying to get back at her for her supposed betrayal. Johnny guesses that had something to do with it too. Johnny then admits that after they kissed, things went a little further. Johnny says that he stopped before it went all the way and left her room. Chanel questions him expecting her to believe they were half naked on her bed and didn’t have sex. Johnny says that’s the truth and hopes she will believe him. Chanel responds that she believes him so Johnny breathes a sigh of relief, but Chanel then slaps him.

Alex tells Joy that in a way, this is probably for the best that it’s all coming out. Joy says that’s easy for him to say since he won’t be receiving Chanel’s wrath. Alex points out that he kept the truth from her too. Joy knows that Alex just didn’t want her to get hurt. Alex says it’s too late for that but at least there’s no more secrets. Joy talks about how much she hated it and how nice Chanel was to her, but the days of Chanel liking her are certainly over. Alex feels she doesn’t know that for sure and suggests maybe it won’t get as ugly as they think since Joy and Johnny didn’t actually do the deed. Joy says they didn’t, but if she was Chanel, she’d still be super pissed.

Stephanie asks Philip why she would be acting weird because of Alex. Philip feels that Stephanie has been bothered ever since finding out Alex and Joy were going to the party together, like she still has a thing for him. Stephanie admits that maybe he’s right that she’s not entirely over Alex, but she wants to be. Philip calls that a start. Stephanie explains that they were together once and it ended badly, then eventually they started hanging out again but she could never figure out what either of them wanted from the relationship. Stephanie adds that they aren’t allowed to see each other anyway because of work. Philip asks if it wasn’t for work. Stephanie still doesn’t think they are right for each other. Stephanie admits that they had a connection, but ultimately they are not compatible so she should be happy that Alex is moving on with Joy and she wishes she could find a way to move on too.

Jada questions EJ as to why she can’t go home with Rafe. EJ claims that he just got a call from Steve to take a big job for Black Patch. Jada questions that being on New Year’s Eve and he has to leave now. Arnold says it’s top secret stuff and he apparently has no choice. Jada calls it very disappointing to not be able to spend the new year together. Jada asks how long he’ll be gone. Arnold admits he has no idea. Jada reminds him they are getting married at the end of the month and if he’ll be back before then. Arnold promises he wouldn’t miss that and he’ll be there, but for now, he better hit the road. Jada tells him to be careful out there and she loves him. Arnold hugs Jada and says he’ll see her soon as he then exits the mansion.

JJ brings Gabi home where they decide on leftover pizza. JJ can’t believe they ran out of food at the party while the hosts disappeared and EJ was acting stranger than usual. Gabi calls it bizarre but a DiMera affair, so it’s to be expected. JJ guesses she must be sorry that she agreed to go out with him tonight. Gabi says no way and that EJ was having a worse night, so that’s a win. Gabi adds that she also got an amazing kiss at midnight. JJ knows she’s just coming off a divorce and he doesn’t want to make things complicated so they can just call it a new year’s kiss between friends that doesn’t have to mean anything more than that. Gabi asks what if she wants it to mean more.

Joy tells Alex that she knows it’s selfish but she can’t stop thinking about how this is going to affect her and worries that she could get fired since Abe is Chanel’s stepfather. Alex reminds her that she’s on contract. Joy hopes Chanel won’t hold a grudge but Alex assures that she will from personal experience. Joy says she should’ve just taken the money when EJ offered it while now she could end up with nothing and go back to New York, proving her mother right that all she ever does is screw things up. Alex encourage that it’s not Joy’s fault. Joy points out that she somehow destroyed a marriage, so even if she keeps her job, everyone will hate her. Alex assures that he won’t hate her and thinks she’s very kind, funny, and hot. Joy doesn’t believe him, so Alex then kisses her.

Johnny thought Chanel said she believed him. Chanel says she believes he didn’t go all the way with Joy but infidelity can mean a lot of things and he was half naked with another woman, making out with her on her bed, so that’s still cheating. Johnny agrees that he totally betrayed her but insists that nothing like that ever happened again between he and Joy. Johnny adds that once Joy gave him back his wedding ring, he thought he would never see her again and then she got cast in Body and Soul which he assures he had nothing to do with. Johnny calls it a horrible coincidence and says he almost had a heart attack when Kate brought her on set. Johnny says Joy had no idea he worked on the show and they both agreed to keep their mouths shut. Chanel complains that all this time, she was working with the woman he almost slept with and he allowed her to make a fool of herself by trying to be her friend. Johnny apologizes and says he hated deceiving her but things got complicated and Joy was terrified of losing her job. Chanel asks who cares about Joy and argues that Johnny should’ve been honest with her. Chanel then realizes that Joy implied she was mistaken about her and Alex which means they didn’t sleep together and complains that Alex was in on it too. Johnny explains that Joy told Alex, so Alex got angry and came over to give him hell about it which is what they were arguing about when Chanel came home that day. Chanel then realizes that Johnny was covering his own ass by saying that Alex was the one who slept with Joy and just completely threw Alex under the bus. Johnny admits that he did. Chanel questions why Alex would agree to that. Johnny says Alex didn’t want her to get hurt and neither did he. Chanel complains that he just lied to her for months. Johnny argues that he wanted to tell her the truth so many times but he couldn’t bring himself to do it as their marriage was hanging on by a thread and he was terrified of losing her. Johnny tells Chanel that he is so sorry and knows that he messed up. Johnny cries that he’ll do whatever it takes to make it up to her if there is a way they can move past this. Chanel tells Johnny that there is no way that she can ever forgive him.

JJ asks if Gabi is saying she wants something more than just friendship. Gabi says she’s not necessarily looking to start a relationship, but she’s ready to explore the possibility. Gabi doesn’t know where this is going, but feels that old spark between them and asks if it’s just her. JJ assures that he feels it too, so Gabi asks JJ if he wants to spend the night which he accepts. JJ then takes Gabi’s hand and they head to her room.

Belle points out that it’s down to three while Jada says she should head out as she has a really busy day ahead. EJ remarks that he’s sure she’ll have to get her new district attorney up to speed and wishes best of luck to that unfortunate son of a bitch. Belle then informs EJ that she’s been trying to tell him that the unfortunate son of a bitch is her.

Philip tells Stephanie that he knows how she feels since he and Chloe are totally over, but he still thinks about her and what might have been. Stephanie says it can be hard letting go. Philip suggests they can help each other with that. Stephanie likes that idea. Philip then tells her that ever since their amazing midnight kiss, he’s been dying to kiss her again, so they begin kissing again and then they get up to head to the bedroom.

Alex apologizes to Joy for kissing her and says he shouldn’t have done that because she’s in a vulnerable place right now and he doesn’t want to take advantage of that, so he will see her at work. Joy stops him and asks him not to go, so they continue kissing. Alex begins removing his shirt as they kiss onto her bed.

Johnny tells Chanel that he knows he doesn’t deserve her forgiveness but begs for her forgiveness, swearing that he can fix this. Chanel says it’s too late and maybe if he told her from the beginning but he kept lying to her and even called her a cheating slut. Johnny wishes he could take all of this back. Chanel says he can’t and that he betrayed her in the worst possible way. Chanel declares that her heart is completely broken and she just needs to get away from him. Johnny asks her not to leave and says she can yell at him or hit him, but pleads with her to stay. Chanel tells Johnny to get out of her way. Johnny cries that he can’t lose her because he loves her too much. Chanel screams at him to get out of her way as she storms out.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Gabi and JJ bump in to each other in the town square. They talk and then JJ asks if she would like to ring in the new year together.

At the Body and Soul studio, Stephanie finishes a call as Philip arrives and says he knew she’d be working on New Year’s Eve. Stephanie responds that the soap world never rests. Philip says he just wanted to confirm their plans for New Year’s Eve as he made reservations at the Bistro. Stephanie says that sounds amazing, but she can’t go.

At the hospital, Joy and Alex talk about how intense their scenes were. Alex praises Joy for nailing it while Joy remarks that it helps that she’s no stranger to breaking up a happy couple. Chanel then joins them and asks what they are talking about.

Arnold goes to the Brady Pub to meet Jada and pretend to be Rafe. He asks about her big news. Jada starts to talk about the district attorney situation but stops to question him changing his clothes since Rafe was wearing something different when she went to work, so she asks why he changed.

EJ declares that the last day of the year has gone from bad to worse, so he hopes Arnold doesn’t screw things up worse than he already has as EJ prepares to drag Rafe’s body in to the underground tunnels and says they’ll see what happens to him after that.

Alex tells Chanel that they were just talking about the scenes they shot together. They talk about Joy’s character Reagan being pregnant. Chanel asks if they have plans tonight because Johnny wanted to do something just the two of them, but she convinced him that throwing a party would be more fun. Chanel says they are going to order food and watch the ball drop. Chanel asks if Joy is going to come up with some excuse, but she convinces Joy to come as long as Alex comes too. Chanel thought they were a one time thing. Joy says it was, but they are still on good terms. Chanel says she will see them both there then.

Gabi tells JJ that she would love to spend New Year’s with him and asks what he had in mind. JJ admits he hadn’t gotten that far, so Gabi decides they’ll figure it out together and says maybe there’s a party they can crash. Johnny then approaches and says they are welcome to crash their party.

Arnold claims to Jada that he changed clothes because he spilled coffee on himself. Jada says she hasn’t seen these clothes before. Arnold claims they are new since he didn’t have time to go back home, so he went to the mall. Arnold asks Jada about her big news again. Jada then informs him that EJ is out as district attorney. Arnold asks what happened. Jada responds that he got fired and it was kind of her idea.

EJ re-emerges from the tunnels, surprised to find Belle waiting in the living room. EJ questions how she got in. Belle tells him that Harold let her in and she was hoping they could talk. Belle asks if everything is okay since he’s out of breath and looked like he could’ve jumped out of his skin when he saw her, so she questions what he was doing down in the tunnels.

Chanel tells Joy and Alex that she will see them both later and exits the hospital. Joy tells Alex that it looks like they are both going to a New Year’s Eve party, but she wishes Chanel would stop inviting her to things. Alex wishes Johnny never told Chanel that they were together and admitted that he was the one that Joy hooked up with.

Gabi didn’t know Johnny was throwing a party. Johnny says they weren’t but Chanel wanted people over. Johnny hopes they can make it and says they miss having Gabi around the house, or he does anyway. Johnny adds that Gabi could bring Arianna too but Gabi says she stayed in Arizona with Will and Sonny. JJ hopes Arianna will be back home next year. Johnny knows Gabi has complicated feelings about the DiMera Mansion and some of the people who live in it, but he would love to see them tonight. Gabi says they will talk about it, but if they don’t see him later, they wish a Happy New Year. Johnny then walks off. JJ gets the vibe that Gabi doesn’t want to go to this party. Gabi says it’d be fun to party with the TV stars who were just ordinary Salemites a few months ago, but she doesn’t know if she ever wants to go to the DiMera Mansion again because it’s haunted.

Philip tells Stephanie that he thought they had plans tonight. Stephanie explains that she can’t go to the Bistro, but she still wants to spend the evening with him and guesses he didn’t get her message which he confirms. Stephanie tells him that Johnny and Chanel are throwing an impromptu party with the cast of Body and Soul, so she felt like she needed to be there to kind of chaperone. Stephanie talks about still trying to figure out who the new Lady Whistleblower is and if they show up looking for gossip, she needs to prevent another scandal. Stephanie adds that she didn’t know that Philip already made plans. Philip says it doesn’t matter and understands she has to work, so maybe they can meet up after. Stephanie responds that she was hoping he would come to the party with her. Philip questions going to the DiMera Mansion when EJ hates his guts. Stephanie understands if he’s uncomfortable, but admits she would love it if he would be her date.

Arnold questions it being Jada’s idea to give EJ the axe. Jada confirms she pitched it to Paulina and she went for it. Arnold asks who, so Jada says Paulina Price, the mayor. Arnold claims he just didn’t hear her right and says it is big news that she got EJ fired. Arnold asks how EJ took it. Jada says not well. Arnold laughs and says he had it coming. Jada didn’t expect him to be so giddy about it. Arnold says EJ had it coming since he’s a pompous ass. Arnold then asks who she found to replace him with. Jada responds that it’s someone very qualified, who EJ knows quite well actually.

EJ claims to Belle that he was just overseeing construction in the tunnels. Belle questions having construction workers down there on New Year’s Eve. EJ says if you pay them enough, they will work and claims he’s just having damage fixed from when Connie tried to blow up Gabi and Melinda. Belle jokes that then the DiMeras can hold more people captive down there which EJ laughs off. EJ tells her not to bother if she came all this way to gloat about getting Hattie released, because he was just fired. Belle says that she heard. EJ guesses good news travels fast and asks how she found out. Belle says that’s what she wanted to talk to him about.

Philip tells Stephanie that he would love to be her date. Stephanie asks if he’s sure about the DiMera Mansion. Philip says as long as she’s sure. Stephanie confirms that Chanel said she’s welcome to bring a plus one and asks about the money he spent reserving the Bistro. Philip suggests he’ll let his assistant take it. Stephanie asks if he really doesn’t mind. Philip says he’ll take a date with her instead of overpriced food. Philip tells her that it’s really great to be spending time with her again. Stephanie feels the same and decides she should get going to get changed for the party. Philip says to text him and he will come pick her up. Philip kisses her on the cheek and then exits.

Joy tells Alex that she’s really sorry that she and Johnny dragged him in to their mess. Alex says it’s fine. Joy offers to set the record straight but Alex says he doesn’t want to cause any more drama and he doesn’t want to hurt Chanel or Joy. Joy thanks him and admits that she hates lying like this too, but things would be so awkward at work if Chanel found out what happened between her and her husband. Joy ads that she would die if Chanel found out what happened.

JJ questions Gabi saying the DiMera Mansion is haunted. Gabi says for her, it’s haunted by the people who lived there like Stefan who left without saying goodbye or EJ who said horrible things about her character. JJ points out that he’s not EJ’s favorite person either and suggests they just go somewhere else. Gabi thanks him for understanding but says for them to just go to the damn party because she doesn’t want to run scared. Gabi adds that going back to the DiMera Mansion might help her exorcise the ghosts of her marriage and might stick it to EJ too.

Arnold tells Jada that it sounds like Paulina made a great decision as Belle would be an improvement over that oaf EJ, right as Johnny walks in to the Pub. Johnny comes over and questions calling EJ an oaf. Jada apologizes and says they didn’t see him. Johnny asks if it would’ve mattered if they did. Arnold says he won’t insult EJ in front of his son. Johnny says it’s okay and brings up Rafe doing private investigator work for EJ. Jada questions him working for EJ and says he didn’t mention that. Arnold claims he didn’t have the chance since it just happened but it probably won’t work out anyway. Johnny suggests maybe if they break bread together tonight, it might help smooth things over a bit. Johnny explains that he and Chanel are throwing a New Year’s Eve party tonight, so they’d love it if they would join them. Jada starts to decline but Arnold says they would love to. Jada questions that but Arnold says he loves parties. Johnny says he has to grab some food from the kitchen and will see them soon as he walks away. Jada asks if he’s out of his mind. Arnold points out it’s free food and booze. Jada reminds him that she can’t go to EJ’s house after she just got him fired.

Belle tells EJ that they’ve had their court room clashes, but she’s not here to gloat over his misfortune. Chanel interrupts and tells EJ that she needs to talk to him, revealing that she and Johnny decided to throw an impromptu New Year’s Eve party tonight. EJ says he would have liked to have been consulted first. Chanel asks if it will be a problem. EJ says it’s been a taxing day and he’s already sent the staff home. Chanel says they won’t need staff as it will just be a few people from work watching the ball drop and it will be no big deal. EJ asks about food. Chanel says Johnny already got Roman to cater from the Pub. Chanel offers to go down to the wine cellar but EJ stops her and says she can’t do that.

JJ goes to pick up Gabi and tells her it’s her last chance to bail on the DiMera Mansion since there’s plenty of places to go downtown. Gabi thanks him but says the more she thinks about it, the more she wants to do it as she can’t wait to walk in and see EJ squirm.

Chanel asks EJ why she can’t go in to the tunnels. EJ claims that because of the construction, it’s not safe. Belle points out that he was just down there. EJ says he got a stern talking to from the construction workers. Chanel asks how else to get the champagne. EJ says he’ll take care of it and will call the contractor. EJ tells Chanel to go get ready and he will have the champagne waiting. Chanel then invites Belle to stay and hang out for the party but Belle declines. Chanel asks if she has other plans. Belle says it’s late and she’s not dressed for a party. Chanel says she can borrow something from her and pleads with her to stay as they really want her to which EJ agrees with. Chanel tells Belle that she will pick out somethin from her closet and she can come up when she’s ready. Belle asks EJ why Chanel makes it so hard to say no to her. EJ says she has a talent for that. Belle tries again to tell EJ about her job but EJ stops her and says he would first like to clear the air between them. Belle says that’s not necessary but EJ feels it is. EJ says he’s not a fan of her as a work rival but that’s now over and he’s still fond of her as a person. EJ tells Belle that after her divorce from Shawn, she deserves to start anew on the new year. Belle says that’s very nice of him to say and she knows he went through a very painful divorce this past year too. EJ suggests since they are both recently single, they should go as each others’ dates for New Year’s Eve and jokes about not telling Sami.

Jada questions what “Rafe” was thinking as he had to know it would be a nightmare for her to go to the DiMera’s party. Arnold says he was just thinking it’d be a good way to extend an olive branch or rub it in EJ’s face a little bit. Jada worries about it being tense and awkward to start the new year. Arnold says he wants to go to the party to show her off and he knows they will have a good time. Arnold promises if she’s miserable, they will leave before midnight. Jada guesses they already told Johnny they would go. Arnold promises it will be fun. Jada highly doubts that but decides they should get going and get ready, so they exit the Pub.

Stephanie gets dressed at home until Philip shows up to pick her up. Philip tells her that she looks great but Stephanie complains that she can’t find her shoes. Philip asks if he’s early. Stephanie says she just texted him soon, thinking she could get ready quicker. She then finds her shoes and they exit together. They run in to Alex entering his apartment. Alex wishes them a happy new year and congratulates Philip on it all working out. Alex brings up that Philip just told him the other day that he hoped things would progress between them and it looks like they have. Stephanie tells Alex that they are going to Johnny and Chanel’s party. Alex says he is too, so Philip offers a ride but Alex says he still has to pick up Joy which Stephanie questions. Alex says he and Joy are going together and says he’ll see them there as he walks away.

Johnny joins Chanel in their room and tells her the food is all ready. Johnny tells her that he invited Gabi, JJ, Jada, and Rafe while Chanel informs him that she also invited Belle, Alex, and Joy. Johnny is surprised and says he assumed Joy would have had other plans tonight. Chanel says she didn’t mention any. Johnny thought it was weird between Joy and Alex but Chanel says it was a one time thing and they are fine now. Johnny says he’s happy to hear that. Chanel tells Johnny to take a shower because people will be there soon. Johnny removes his shirt and points out that they have a few minutes. Chanel points out that she already showered but Johnny says she can take another with him as they begin kissing.

Arnold and Jada go to the DiMera Mansion. Jada stops outside and asks him to remind her why they are there. Arnold assures that everything will be fine and says he’ll go in, check it out, and bring her some champagne. Arnold then heads inside. Stephanie and Philip arrive and greet Jada. Jada asks about them coming together which Stephanie confirms. Stephanie asks where Rafe is. Jada says he just went inside to grab them some champagne.

Arnold enters the living room where EJ is waiting. EJ questions where the hell he’s been. Arnold reminds him that he told him to go see Jada and then he went home to change. EJ questions him going home with Jada. Arnold says nothing happened yet but she did tell him that she got the mayor to fire EJ’s ass. EJ reminds Arnold that he’s the one person between him and a prison cell. Arnold warns that if he goes away, EJ does too. EJ says he can’t have him here. Arnold asks what he’s supposed to do since Jada is right outside the door. EJ calls this a nightmare. Jada then comes in with Stephanie and Philip. Jada greets EJ. EJ excitedly welcomes Stephanie and Philip. EJ then asks Arnold to help him with the champagne so they step aside. Jada comments on EJ’s look when he saw her. Jada still doesn’t know why Rafe told Johnny they would come. EJ questions what Arnold is doing. Arnold responds that he’s enjoying the New Year’s Eve party with Jada. EJ wants him to stay the hell away from her. Arnold points out that Rafe and Jada have a wedding to plan. EJ wants Arnold to plan his return to Argentina. Arnold question what EJ did with Rafe. EJ says he’s downstairs on ice so to speak. Arnold guesses EJ will have to deal with them after, but for now he’s going to enjoy the party. Gabi arrives and greets “Rafe”, noting that she didn’t know he would be there. Arnold tells her that he was invited by Johnny. Gabi guesses she just missed them at home as EJ comes over and questions who invited Gabi. Gabi responds that she was invited by Johnny, who has much better manners than him which Arnold laughs at. EJ sends Arnold to bring Jada her champagne. EJ tells Gabi that he’s surprised that she would want to attend a party here as he’s sure it would bring back awful memories of Stefan abandoning her. Gabi responds that she and her date are determined to enjoy the party and make new memories. JJ then joins Gabi and greets EJ. EJ asks if he needs to worry about JJ assaulting him again. JJ calls it water under the bridge and promises to keep his hands to himself tonight. Gabi jokes about not being hasty with that promise as they go to get a drink. Belle returns in a pink dress which impresses EJ, who says she looks radiant.

Johnny and Chanel come downstairs together. Johnny jokes that they could go back upstairs and spend the night under the covers. Chanel says EJ would kill them, especially since he didn’t seem too happy about the party in the first place. Johnny feels EJ needs to get used to interacting with people who make him uncomfortable. The doorbell then rings so Johnny answers the door to see Alex and Joy. Chanel invites them in and says the party is just getting started.

Belle tells Jada that she’s surprised to see her here. Belle notes that EJ doesn’t know that Paulina gave her his job and she tried to tell him but they kept getting interrupted. Belle assures that she is going to tell him, but she’s just waiting for the right time.

Alex steps out of the living room and asks if Joy is hiding out. Joy says she just needed some air. Alex offers to get her a drink. Joy gets a phone call from her mom and accepts Alex’s offer, so he goes to get her some champagne. Joy answers the call and wishes her mom a happy New Year, mentioning that she’s at a party at the DiMera Mansion so she will call her tomorrow. Joy hangs up and then Johnny comes over to ask if he can talk to her in private. Joy notes that Alex will be back soon but Johnny says it will just take a second, so they go upstairs together. Alex returns with champagne and wonders where Joy went. Chanel comes out and asks if he saw Johnny but Alex says he hasn’t. Chanel thought she saw him come this way and wonders where he could be since it’s almost midnight. Chanel decides to go check outside while Alex hopes that Johnny is not with Joy.

Stephanie and Jada talk about being done with new year’s resolutions. Jada sees that it’s almost midnight and goes to check on “Rafe”. Stephanie then bumps in to Alex, who accidentally spills champagne on her dress. JJ and Gabi talk about having fun. JJ notes that Gabi has been keeping her distance from EJ. Gabi says she plans to let EJ know what a colossal loser he is at midnight. Gabi and JJ talk about having a crappy year. JJ says he’s grateful for everything Gabi did to try to help them find Abigail. Gabi says he doesn’t have to keep saying that. JJ tells Gabi that he’s really glad he gets to start the new year with her. Philip and Belle have champagne. Philip asks Belle how she’s doing. Belle says she’s alright but it’s hard not to be thinking about Shawn since it’s the first New Year’s she has spent as a single woman in a long time. Philip encourages her and they toast to the good old days and even better new ones. Alex asks Stephanie where her date is since it’s almost midnight. Stephanie points out Philip and asks where Alex is. Alex responds that Joy seems to have disappeared. Stephanie mentions not seeing Johnny or Chanel either. Gabi calls everyone’s attention for the countdown to the ball dropping. Arnold kisses Jada and JJ kisses Gabi at midnight. Alex wishes Stephanie a happy new year and walks away as Philip comes over and apologizes for missing the big moment. Philip asks for a do over as he and Stephanie kiss while Alex watches uncomfortably. EJ angrily shakes his head at Arnold kissing Jada and drinks his champagne.

Johnny brings Joy to his room. Joy asks what he wants when it’s going to be midnight soon. Johnny questions why Joy came tonight. Joy argues that his wife invited them and she’s not easy to say no to. Johnny complains that they have to figure something out because it’s very stressful having her there. Joy argues that it’s stressful for her to have to pretend to be having fun and worries about if Chanel knew what happened between them, right as Chanel appears in the doorway and backs out after hearing her.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Doug III is at home with the money Leo got him for selling the necklace. He complains that it’s still not enough to get him out of the hole he’s in. Holly then arrives at the door. Doug III asks if her boyfriend had a problem with her going to the concert with him. Holly responds that he has his own problems to deal with.

Sophia returns to Tate, who tells her that they should be able to make it in about three hours. Sophia informs him that they can’t go which Tate questions. Sophia’s mother Amy then arrives behind her and declares that it’s because of her as she introduces herself to Tate.

EJ questions Paulina replacing him. Paulina explains that it is her responsibility to appoint the district attorney and she has decided to go in a different direction. EJ questions why now. Paulina says she and Jada have been discussing recent events. EJ then questions if this was Jada’s idea.

Rafe sneaks back in to the DiMera Mansion and in to the living room. Arnold then comes downstairs and comes face to face with Rafe. Arnold reveals himself to be Arnold Feniger and asks Rafe if he remembers him. Rafe argues that he died in a prison 15 years ago after they thought he was him. Arnold calls that one big misunderstanding that never happened which Rafe questions. Arnold then reveals that EJ faked his death.

EJ accuses Jada of telling Paulina to replace him. Paulina says it doesn’t matter since it’s ultimately her decision. EJ demands a proper explanation. Paulina tells EJ that he’s been botching cases left and right, bending the laws, and using the power of his office for his own personal issues. EJ argues that he stands by every decision he’s made as district attorney. Paulina says she doesn’t and there’s no coming back. Paulina then declares that EJ is fired.

Doug III asks Holly what’s going on with her boyfriend but she’d rather not say. He notes that whatever it is, is upsetting her a lot and asks if it would help for her to talk about it. Holly agrees that it would but makes him promise not to tell anyone else. Holly then informs him that when she went to see Tate, he was on his way out with his ex, Sophia. Holly explains that she first thought he was taking Sophia on his trip, but it was all a lie as he wasn’t going to visit his grandparents but taking Sophia to get an abortion.

Tate tells Amy that it’s nice to meet her. Amy is not sure she believes him. Sophia apologizes to Tate as Amy was talking to Ava and it turned in to a big mess. Amy argues that Tate should be the one apologizing to her for sneaking around behind her back and getting Sophia pregnant.

Brady joins Ava at the Brady Pub and says he got her message, so he asks if she got another threatening text. Ava confirms that she did and shows the message to Brady which says “Stay away from Brady, or else”. Ava guesses Kristen is stepping up her warnings. Brady notes that the text came in on Christmas and he was with Kristen for a little while on Christmas. Brady explains that it was a last minute thing as she called and asked if he wanted to see Rachel which she said a friend talked her in to. Ava calls it a Christmas miracle. Brady talks about Kristen swearing not to have sent the message and he thinks she was being sincere. Ava questions Brady not thinking Kristen was sending the texts. Brady calls it too simple and innocent. Ava would like to put faith in Kristen’s sincerity, but thinks Brady is way off on this one. Ava then reveals that she hired Steve to look in to the text and he confirmed the texts were coming from the DiMera Estate. Brady tells Ava that he’s really sorry that she’s having to deal with this and promises to put an end to it. Ava then informs Brady that’s not the reason she called him here today, but she needs to tell him something about his son.

Holly explains to Doug III that she and Tate were broken up when he was seeing Sophia and they weren’t together long but it was long enough for her to get pregnant. Doug III asks why they needed to go away. Holly explains that Sophia isn’t 18 and the state doesn’t allow abortions without parental consent, so Tate tried to keep her from finding out. Doug III wonders if Tate was ever going to tell her the truth. Holly admits probably not.

Tate gets why Amy is upset and insists that they were careful. Amy guesses they have different definitions of careful. Tate assures that they did not mean for them to end up here. Amy argues that they should not have been having sex to begin with as she thought she raised Sophia better than this. Amy brings up that Sophia was about to go to college and now she’s pregnant. Tate understands she has very big plans for her future which is why they can’t have this baby. Amy declares there will be no appointment and that her daughter will have an abortion over her dead body.

EJ questions who Paulina is replacing him with. Paulina responds that he will learn with the rest of Salem when she gives a press conference to announce it. EJ asks if that’s it, arguing that they are family. Paulina complains that she doesn’t let her personal life dictate her professional life and she’s sorry it ended up this way. EJ argues that she’s making a huge mistake. Paulina says they will see. EJ accuses Jada of pushing Paulina in to this and warns that she will not get away with this. EJ then exits the office. Paulina thought that it went pretty well.

Rafe questions Arnold saying that EJ faked his death. Arnold admits he had help from Stefano since they were afraid he would testify against them for the whole stealing Rafe’s life scheme, which he admits that he would have. Arnold informs Rafe that he was sent off to Argentina, never to be heard from again, but now he’s back after being in hiding for 14 years. Rafe guesses that was a mistake since now he knows he’s here and tells Arnold that he should’ve done a better job sneaking around. Rafe declares that Arnold is going back to jail and pulls out his phone to call the cops, but Arnold says he can’t let him do that.

Doug III asks Holly what happened after she found out about the abortion. Holly explains that Tate apologized and said he didn’t mean for this to happen, but that he loves her and that they could put it all behind them like it never happened and that it doesn’t have to change anything between them. Doug III senses that Holly doesn’t feel that way.

Ava tells Brady about her run in with Sophia’s mom today and she may have implied that Sophia and Tate were having some recent drama which led Amy to believe that Sophia was seeing Tate behind her back, then Sophia showed up and admitted they had sex. Brady assumes Amy did not take that very well which Ava confirms. Brady thanks Ava for telling him so he can be prepared for an angry phone call. Ava then reveals it’s a little more complicated than that.

Sophia asks Amy if they can not have this conversation right now but Amy feels Tate isn’t aware of how she feels about abortion. Amy tells Tate that she forbids abortion and is very pro-life. Amy states that she is angry and disappointed about the pregnancy, but declares that Tate and Sophia will have the baby and raise it together.

Paulina tells Jada that she’s glad that ugliness is over. Jada questions if it is. Paulina tells her that EJ is out, so all that’s left is to extend the offer to Belle. Jada mentions that Belle did agree to take the job. Paulina asks Jada what’s wrong since this is what she wanted. Jada worries about what EJ said. Paulina is not surprised that EJ threatened her. Jada guesses she thought maybe EJ would be relieved or see it coming. Paulina laughs off EJ as being just a petulant little boy. Jada worries that EJ is dangerous. Paulina argues that when she was in real estate, she ran in to dozens of men like EJ. Paulina declares that EJ could stand to be knocked down a few pegs.

Arnold knocks out Rafe and jokes that the best Rafe won but it must be pretty humiliating to lose to himself. Arnold declares that he did what he had to do as he was not going to come back just to get thrown back in jail. EJ returns home and asks what the hell.

Paulina tells Jada not to worry about EJ as he’s all talk. Jada says she’s heard that EJ is very much about following through. Paulina questions thinking EJ will go against the police commissioner. Jada feels he seemed awfully upset. Paulina says EJ might be mad, but not stupid. Paulina adds that it was her decision to fire EJ and there’s nothing he can do about it. Paulina tells Jada to celebrate being rid of EJ and to call Rafe to share the good news. Paulina then exits the office as Jada sits down with a smile.

EJ checks Rafe and confirms he’s still alive but questions what the hell Arnold was doing. Arnold explains that he came downstairs for food but found Rafe in the living room, so he had to think quick. EJ thought he got rid of Rafe and asks if he saw him. Arnold confirms that Rafe was going to call the cops, so he smashed him over the head. EJ asks if he mentioned his name. Arnold admits that he told Rafe about EJ and Stefano faked his death. Rafe’s phone then rings, so EJ questions what they do now. Arnold says he’ll take care of it. EJ explains that Jada is Rafe’s fiancée and also the police commissioner. Arnold answers the call, so Jada says she was calling to share some news with him and invites him to the Pub if he’s not busy.

Ava informs Brady that Sophia is pregnant and the baby is Tate’s. Brady can’t believe it and questions the protection. Brady apologizes and says it’s not Ava’s problem. Ava knows it’s not but says she is really sorry. Brady worries about them being so young and going to college. Ava knows it’s tough and will upend Sophia’s life too. Brady agrees this will change everything for both of them.

Holly asks Doug III how Tate thinks this won’t change things for them when they just said they love each other but he’s already gotten another girl pregnant. Holly says even if they don’t have the baby, Tate and Sophia will always have this thing between them while she and Tate haven’t even had sex. Holly knows Tate didn’t mean to hurt her but says nothing will ever be the same so it’s hard to see how things can go back to the way things were.

Tate tells Amy that he and Sophia are not a couple anymore. Amy says that’s not up to them anymore because they made this baby together, so they are going to raise it together. Amy declares that her grandbaby is not going to be born out of wedlock and demands that Tate and Sophia get married for the sake of the child.

Brady asks Ava if Sophia said what her plans were. Ava says she didn’t get a chance since Amy yanked her off before they could get in to it. Brady states they have no idea what she’s thinking then. Brady guesses he better go find out. Brady thanks Ava for telling him and being a very good friend as he appreciates that. Ava wishes him luck as he then exits the Pub.

Tate gets that it’s a complicated situation but says he’s not going to marry Sophia as they aren’t even in a relationship and he has a girlfriend now. Amy accuses him of just using Sophia. Sophia says it wasn’t like that. Amy doesn’t want to talk about it anymore and declares that they need to start planning a wedding. Amy states that in the end, the child will be a blessing but they have no idea how to explain it to Sophia’s father. Amy tells Tate that he will be hearing from them soon as she then exits with Sophia. Tate looks back at Holly’s number on his phone and questions how he is going to tell her this.

Holly jokes that when she offered Doug III the concert tickets, he wasn’t expecting an episode of Teen Mom but that’s the drama of her life. Doug III suggests they just go to the concert, pointing out that it’s New Year’s Eve and Tate is going away anyways so it might be good for her not to think about him for a few hours. Holly thanks him for the offer but points out that she bought the concert tickets for Tate, so it would be hard for her not to think about how he should be there and wondering what he’s doing instead.

Arnold tells Jada that he will see her soon and hangs up. EJ questions why he answered Rafe’s phone. Arnold says he just wanted to see if he could pull it off after all these years and feels he fooled Jada completely. EJ points out that Jada is now expecting to meet Rafe and asks what he thinks is going to happen when he doesn’t show up. Arnold admits he didn’t think that far. EJ complains that Jada just got him fired and now is going to have him arrested. EJ shouts that he just wants to fix this mess. Arnold asks what he’s going to do. EJ states that Arnold may have made this disaster, but now they both have to clean it up.

Holly thanks Doug III for listening and appreciates his offer to take her to the concert but says she just can’t do it. Doug III asks what she will do instead. Holly feels she’ll just sulk in her room. He argues that it’s New Year’s Eve and that she can’t be alone when the ball drops, so he invites her to stay here with him. Holly doesn’t feel like being around a lot of people but Doug III points out that Chad took the kids to Orlando, JJ had plans and Julie went to bed early so they can order a pizza. Holly then agrees.

Brady goes home to see Tate and asks if he’s okay. Tate claims he is. Brady informs him that he just spoke to Ava, who told him that she had a run in with Sophia and her mother. Brady asks if there’s anything Tate wants to tell him. Tate guesses that Brady already knows which he confirms. Brady says he wants to hear the details from Tate.

EJ declares that the last day of the year has gone from bad to worse, so he hopes Arnold doesn’t screw things up worse than he already has as EJ prepares to drag Rafe’s body in to the underground tunnels.

Arnold goes to the Brady Pub to meet Jada and pretend to be Rafe. He asks about her big news. Jada starts to talk about the district attorney situation but stops to question him changing his clothes.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Paulina goes to see Jada in her office and asks about Jada wanting to see her. Jada responds that it’s about replacing EJ as district attorney. Paulina asks if she missed something and questions who was proposing they do that. Jada responds that she is. Paulina asks if Jada has a candidate in mind. Jada suggests Belle Black.

Belle runs in to Shawn at the police station. Shawn asks if she has a client in holding. Belle says she just had a meeting with Jada. Shawn asks if it was about a case but Belle says not really. Shawn notes that she’s anxious and asks what’s going on. Belle tells Shawn to promise not to say anything, but reveals that Jada asked if she would consider replacing EJ as district attorney.

EJ tells Arnold that if he hates Argentina so much, there’s a whole planet of places he could go. The doorbell rings so EJ warns Arnold to stay put while he gets rid of whoever is at the door. EJ then answers the door to see Rafe. Rafe informs EJ that he’s there on behalf of Ava. Arnold tries listening in from the living room door.

Ava walks through the town square after receiving the text message from an unknown number sent by Rachel, warning her to stay away from Brady or else. Someone approaches Ava, so she instinctively turns around telling Kristen to stay the hell away from her, but it turns out to be Sophia’s mom.

Tate asks Sophia if she’s sure she’s okay with this. Sophia says that’s not the point since it’s not like Tate wants to have a baby, so it’s what they have to do. Sophia and Tate go to leave together right as Holly shows up at the door. Holly questions what the hell is going on here. Tate tells her it’s nothing and tries to explain but Holly says she’s such an idiot. Holly talks about how she came to see if Tate would be okay with her going to the concert with a guy that’s new in town and she can’t believe she was worried that he’d be jealous while he’s going on a pleasure trip with Sophia.

Sophia’s mother introduces herself to Ava as Amy Choi and apologizes for startling her. Amy explains that Sophia is going with a friend to look at colleges but she forgot to pack her retainer, so she asks Ava to give it to her when she comes in to work today. Ava then informs her that Sophia doesn’t work today, leaving Amy confused.

Arnold listens in from the door as EJ tells Rafe that Ava is a menace and whatever trouble she’s gotten in to has nothing to do with him. Rafe explains that he’s come to find out who is causing trouble for Ava, noting that he’s no longer with the police department and he’s looking to find out who is sending threatening text messages to Ava. EJ assures him that he hasn’t thought about Ava in quite some time, so he’s wasting his time harassing him. EJ notes that Ava has a lot of enemies, so he suggests Rafe go bark up a different tree. Rafe then reveals that Steve has already traced the origin of the text to the DiMera Mansion, surprising EJ.

Shawn asks Belle if Paulina is firing EJ and guesses that Paulina is sick and tired of Belle whipping EJ’s ass in court. Belle says nothing is confirmed but Jada says that Paulina is open to making a change. Shawn asks if Belle would accept the job. Belle admits she was hesitant but Jada is persuasive, so she committed to Jada if it all works out. Shawn says this is huge. Belle mentions that she doesn’t want EJ to find out if it all falls apart. Shawn says he can only imagine EJ’s reaction if it does happen because of their history. Belle gets offended and says that she thought they were having a nice moment, but thanks Shawn for throwing her affair with EJ in her face again.

Paulina questions Jada being in the business of hiring district attorneys. Jada knows it may seem like she’s going out of her line and it’s ultimately Paulina’s decision, but she’s just offering her opinion because she can only keep things safe if the criminals she arrest are brought to justice. Jada adds that Hattie Adams just walked because EJ attempted to question her without her lawyer present which surprises Paulina. Jada says EJ made Belle’s job easy as she used his blunder to help her client. They conclude that Belle is the better lawyer then. Jada brings up the DiMeras ties to organized crime, so sometimes when EJ lets certain criminals run free, she can’t help but think he has an ulterior motive.

Arnold continues listening through the door as EJ tells Rafe that Ava is of no concern to him, so he wouldn’t waste his time sending text messages. Rafe tells EJ that not everything is about him as they have reason to believe the texts came from Kristen. EJ tells Rafe that Kristen is at work so he can go to DiMera Enterprises to question her there. Rafe says since he’s there, he has questions for EJ about another matter.

Amy tells Ava that she’s certain that Sophia told her she was working and asks if she’s saying her daughter is lying. Ava says she must be mixing her up with another employee and agrees to give the retainer to her. Amy apologizes for seeming overly cautious since her daughter is a teenager. Ava doesn’t think she needs to worry about Sophia and calls her a wonderful young woman. Amy asks Ava if Sophia has been acting differently recently. Ava says not that she noticed. Amy feels she’s been distant and sleeping more than usual lately while noting that she doesn’t talk to her old friends anymore. Ava says she can understand why Sophia wouldn’t talk to Holly or Tate after how they treated her, assuming that’s probably why. Ava encourages that Sophia will bounce back. Amy argues that prom was last spring and asks why she would still be upset about that. Ava guesses her old feeling resurfaced after Holly and Tate got back together. Amy feels Ava wasn’t talking about prom and asks if something happened more recently. Amy then questions if Sophia was seeing Tate behind her back.

Tate tries telling Holly that it’s not what she thinks. Holly questions how he’s going to try to spin this. Holly asks what logical reason there would be for them to be leaving together with bags in hand when Tate said he was going to visit his grandparents. Holly asks if they’ve been seeing each other this entire time. Tate assures they are not seeing each other, so Holly questions if they are just taking a platonic trip that he lied to her about for no reason. Sophia then asks if she has to be the one to say it. Sophia then reveals to Holly that they are going to get an abortion.

Ava thinks she gave Amy the wrong idea and assures that Sophia is a great kid. Amy questions what is going on that Sophia isn’t telling her. Ava suggests Amy have that conversation with Sophia. Amy begs Ava to tell her mother to mother, what happened between Sophia and Tate.

Holly is shocked to learn that Sophia is pregnant. Sophia tells Tate they need to go but Tate asks for a few minutes alone with Holly. Sophia tells Tate that when she gets back, they are leaving as she then exits. Tate apologizes to Holly. Holly questions sorry being all he has to say. Tate explains that they only had sex the one time and used a condom, so he has no idea how this happened as he thought they were careful and he was shocked when she told him. Holly questions how long he has known. Tate says it’s been a couple of days. Holly remarks that she really didn’t see this one coming. Tate repeats how sorry he is and says he thought telling her would be like salt in the wound, so he didn’t see any reason to do that to her. Holly questions it being his idea to hide this from her. Tate says he just wanted to protect her and not hurt her, but he’s worried it was the wrong call. Tate adds that Sophia didn’t want anyone to know as she’s really freaked out too. Tate explains that he and Sophia don’t want to have a baby but abortion is illegal in the state without parental consent and Sophia’s parents would freak out, so they found a clinic out of state and he figured they could go, take care of it and come back without anyone knowing. Holly says especially not her.

Belle tells Shawn that what happened between her and EJ was a mistake and completely irrelevant. Shawn apologizes and insists that he wasn’t trying to be an ass and says they don’t have to discuss it. Shawn says he only brought it up because he’s worried about her and knows how vindictive EJ can be. Belle talks about not even knowing if she wanted to stay in Salem. Shawn asks why she said yes to Jada then. Belle responds that Jada pointed out that EJ has been ineffective lately and part of that is because of her defending people, so maybe she should be putting some guilty people away. Shawn remembers her wanting to make that switch awhile back. Belle thinks maybe now is the time since Claire is in South Africa and doesn’t need her while she’s starting to think maybe she’s needed here. Belle talks about Jada telling her that EJ is using the law to put away his enemies and avoid prosecuting his friends. Belle argues that she would operate from a place of integrity and uphold the law. Shawn agrees that Belle would be a huge upgrade over EJ.

Paulina questions Jada thinking EJ is letting criminals go on purpose. Jada thinks it’s possible and brings up the deal EJ made with Stefan. Paulina brings up Hattie and how she may have poisoned Johnny. Jada says she’s not saying it’s every time but that she’s noticed a pattern with EJ. Paulina talks about EJ being very particular about his image and his record, so she doubts that he’d be dumb enough to deliberately throw cases. Jada points out that in the last month, EJ declined six cases that she thinks he could’ve won in court and four of them involved DiMera family or associates. Paulina admits that doesn’t look good. Jada then asks if Paulina may be open to her idea. Paulina responds that it’s no secret that she’s had issues with EJ in the past and only a few months ago, she replaced him with Melinda but that didn’t last since EJ threatened to have her recalled. Paulina says she shouldn’t have let him get away with it but the situation is complicated by her daughter being married to his son and she didn’t want to cause any more drama in the family.

Rafe informs EJ that he has been hired by a client to find out who the new Lady Whistleblower is that has been spoiling Body and Soul storylines, which EJ laughs at. Rafe explains that they first believed it was Hattie but now have reason to believe it’s someone else. Rafe brings up Johnny being the director of Body and Soul. EJ says he is happy for Johnny but doesn’t care for soap operas himself. EJ assures Rafe that he is not a gossip columnist under the name of Lady Whistleblower. Rafe clarifies that EJ is not a suspect, so EJ asks why he is here wasting his time. Rafe explains that he intends to question all of the cast and crew of Body and Soul, so he came looking for Johnny and Chanel to see if they know anything. EJ informs Rafe that Johnny and Chanel aren’t there so he’s wasted a trip. Arnold then drops a glass while listening through the door and it breaks. Rafe questions what the sound was. EJ says he has no idea what it was. Rafe questions EJ not wanting to check since it sounded like glass. EJ says Harold will probably clean it up and mentions Rachel breaking glass the other day. Rafe feels EJ is acting strange as he went from anxious to calm even though they heard glass break in the other room. Rafe remarks that his spider sense is tingling and thinks he should go check it out. EJ says absolutely not so Rafe questions what EJ is hiding.

Jada tells Paulina that she understands if she doesn’t replace EJ. Paulina feels she would be a hypocrite to not replace EJ because he’s family. Jada knows it’s a hard decision for her but repeats that she can’t keep the streets of Salem safe alone. Paulina knows she’s been breathing down her neck about things that aren’t under her control and that she can be a tough boss, but she does hear her. Jada understands if Paulina needs time to think about this but Paulina reveals that she’s already made up her mind. Paulina declares that EJ need to go, but she doesn’t want a revolving door of replacements. Jada informs Paulina that Belle has already agreed to take the job if it was offered, pointing out that she’s already won 3 cases since being back in Salem and two of them were against EJ. Paulina trusts Jada’s instincts and agrees to extend the offer. Jada is sure that Paulina will be happy with her decision. Paulina knows that EJ will come after her, but says doing what’s right for the people of Salem is all that matters, so she will not be bullied by EJ again.

Belle thanks Shawn for the vote of confidence and says that means a lot, but points out that it means they would both be staying in Salem and working together. Belle asks if he would be okay with that. Shawn thinks they’ve been doing fine so far being around each other, so he is okay with them working together as long as she is.

Holly comments to Tate that this is really happening. Tate repeats that he is so sorry and insists that this doesn’t have to change anything with them since he and Sophia don’t have feelings for each other, she’s not going to have the baby and wants to put it all behind them. Holly talks about Sophia’s college plans and having her whole future mapped out without having a kid before she’s out of high school. Tate knows this is a lot for them to deal with, but says as long as they can go take care of it, everything will work out in the end. Tate feels like he would be a jerk to back out now and asks if Holly is okay with him taking Sophia out of state. Holly guesses she has to be.

Ava understands Amy cares about her daughter. Amy argues that she has a right to know. Sophia then approaches and asks what’s going on. Amy responds that they were just having a very interesting conversation about Sophia and Tate. Ava apologizes as Sophia questions what she said to her. Amy states that she said enough. Sophia asks if they can not do this in the middle of the town square, but Amy says they are doing this right now. Amy questions if Sophia was sneaking around with Tate and if she kissed him. Sophia is relieved that’s all she knows and guesses she should be honest. Sophia then tells her that a few weeks ago, she was at Tate’s house on a school project and he kissed her, but Tate is back with Holly now, so she doesn’t have to worry about them kissing anymore. Amy questions why she looks so smug if that’s the whole story and asks what else she has done. Sophia says nothing so Amy asks if she’s doing drugs. Sophia says no, but Amy says she doesn’t believe a word out of her mouth. Sophia then admits that she and Tate have done a lot more than kissing. Amy questions if Sophia is saying she had sex with this boy. Ava suggests they take this conversation indoors. Amy warns Sophia how her parents and God feels about sex before marriage. Sophia worries about feeling sick. Ava tries to intervene but Amy argues that she’s not her mother and tells her to go find another teenager to corrupt. After Sophia admits to having sex, Amy warns her about diseases and the fact that she could be pregnant. Amy declares that they need to take her to the gynecologist but Sophia responds that it’s way too late for that and then throws up in the nearby trash can.

Holly tells Tate that Sophia’s parents are beyond strict. Tate insists that they will never find out that she’s having an abortion. Tate states that he got Sophia pregnant, so he feels like he has to be there for her but insists this does not change anything between he and Holly, adding that Sophia doesn’t want to be with him and hates him as much as she hates Holly. Holly is unsure and feels like maybe the universe is trying to tell them they aren’t meant to be together. Tate disagrees and knows they have been through a lot but says all of that has made them stronger. Tate declares that he’d like to see the universe try to tear them apart. Tate reminds Holly that he loves her. Tate tells her that he will be home soon. Holly says she will be waiting as they hug.

EJ questions Rafe trespassing in to his home and who he thinks he is. Rafe feels he clearly has gotten under his skin. EJ remarks that Rafe doesn’t get warrants anymore since he’s no longer on the police force. EJ then tells Rafe to get the hell off his property, so he exits. EJ then goes back to the living room where Arnold was listening through the door. EJ questions what the hell happened. Arnold explains that he was trying to eavesdrop in case he needed to run, but he dropped the glass. EJ assumes he knows then that Rafe was at the door and asks if that doesn’t concern him. Arnold says it seems like Rafe did a good job getting rid of him. EJ wants Arnold gone since it would have been a total disaster if they came face to face. EJ then gets a call from Paulina and asks if she’s calling about an urgent matter. Paulina tells EJ that she needs him in Jada’s office in ten minutes. EJ tries to say it’s not a good time but Paulina hangs up. EJ tells Arnold that he has to go and will be back shortly. EJ wants the floor spotless before he returns. Arnold questions not having servants for that. EJ says they aren’t Arnold’s servants and reminds Arnold to hide so that no one sees him. EJ warns Arnold that when he returns, they will discuss him leaving the house and permanently relocating back to Argentina. After EJ exits the mansion, Rafe sneaks back around the corner and remarks that EJ is up to something and he’s going to find out what it is.

Sophia returns to Tate, who tells her that they should be able to make it in about three hours. Sophia informs him that they can’t go which Tate questions. Sophia’s mother Amy then arrives behind her and declares that it’s because of her.

Belle tells Shawn that they are both adults and can make it work, so she’s okay with this. They agree that can be proud of the marriage they had. Shawn hopes she gets the job as district attorney as she will be better than EJ and they will be very lucky. EJ then arrives and greets them. EJ congratulates Belle on her victory this morning, but says it won’t happen again as he heads to Jada’s office. Shawn remarks that it sounds like that may be happening right now.

Paulina comments to Jada that EJ sure is taking his time. EJ then arrives and asks what he can do for them. Paulina informs EJ that he will be doing nothing for her from here on out as she is replacing him as district attorney, effective immediately.

Rafe sneaks back in to the DiMera Mansion and in to the living room. Arnold then comes downstairs and comes face to face with Rafe.

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