Month: March 2025

Days of Our Lives Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

[pensive music]

[eerie sting]

Roman!

It’s Marlena.

Yes.

Oh, God. It’s–it’s you. Oh, my God. It’s you. Oh, my–oh, my God.

Oh, John, where are you? [sighs] And what am I gonna tell the children?

Oh, good. You got my message.

Yeah, it sounded important.

It is. Um, I want to help you prepare your official statement about your kidnapping. You know, it really needs to be ironclad. We–we have to make sure there’s no room for EJ or Kristen to wiggle their way out of this.

Well, they always find a way, don’t they?

Ah, not with me in your corner, they won’t. I plan to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law, along with Rachel Blake. These are the notes from your initial interview. You take a look and let me know if anything’s missing.

Um, listen, Belle, it would bring me endless joy to see Kristen and EJ join the White Witch behind bars. But I’m afraid that I won’t be able to help you do that. [melancholy music]

Oh, great. Listen, I am sorry that I called you back. But, you know, I don’t know if it’s my computer or if it’s the flash drive you gave me, but when I put it in, nothing’s popping up.

Huh? Uh, oh, right, the flash drive. Um, sorry, could you explain the problem again?

Are you OK? You seem a million miles away.

Yes, I’m OK. I mean, it’s not–it’s not like anyone’s not OK. I mean, nobody’s hurt or anything.

Stephanie, what’s going on?

Joy Wesley might be pregnant. [mysterious music]

You want a job at Titan?

Is that a problem?

I’m just surprised you’d want to work for me after the way things ended between me and Chloe. 6

Look, I had to give you a hard time at first. It’s part of the sister code. But I said my piece at New Year’s, so I have fulfilled my sisterly duties. But I promise you, we will have a perfectly friendly working relationship.

But wouldn’t working for your sister’s ex go against the sister code?

I don’t think the code extends that far. I need to make a living. 7

Maybe you should talk to Chloe first.

Seriously? It’s not like I’m asking you on a date. I’m asking you for a job. So what do you say?

So what do you say?

You want to come back to Titan?

Yeah. Unless, of course, you have a problem with that. [soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

Do you have any corporate experience?

Well, my character on “Body & Soul” was heir apparent to Holloway Enterprises. [laughs] I’m kidding. Um, yeah, I did do some temping when I lived in New York. I did only work at each place for a few days at a time, so I wouldn’t say I have a ton of corporate experience. I am a really quick learner. Just ask your mom. I had never really acted professionally before. She gave me a chance, and she seemed to be pretty happy with my work on the show.

I guess I can’t ask for a better reference than my mom.

And I would be more than happy to start off as an assistant. Honestly, it would give me a chance to learn the ins and outs of the business world.

Well, I’d have to talk to Xander first. We’re co-CEOs. I don’t want him to think I’m trying to make an end run.

Of course.

Why don’t we circle back next week?

Oh, um, actually, I was kind of hoping you could talk to him, like today. See, it’s just I would really rather have this job sooner than later. Time is kind of, um, of the essence.

What do you mean Joy might be pregnant?

Well, I don’t know for sure. But I happened to overhear Sarah on the phone earlier. She said that she was on her way to the lab and she needed them to run a pregnancy test for her patient, Joy Wesley.

Sarah said that right in front of you? 12

Well, she didn’t know I was there.

But still, I mean, Sarah’s usually way more careful than that.

It’s not like she was yelling it or anything. And I’m not trying to get her in trouble. I just– I’m kind of shocked.

Because you’re thinking if Joy is pregnant, then–

The baby must be Alex’s. [tense music] 13

Why would I have a problem with you working at Titan?

Oh, I mean, not that long ago, I was running the place. I had the job that was rightfully yours.

Ah, that.

Yeah. So I could see why it might make you uncomfortable if I came back to the family business, that you might think I was gonna try and usurp your position. And it’s hard to work with somebody you can’t trust, so if you feel that way, that it’s a bad idea, you say the word and I’ll be on my way.

What do you mean? Are you not pressing charges against EJ and Kristen?

I cannot believe I’m saying this, but no. No, I’m not.

OK. I don’t understand. I mean, unless I’m missing something, those two are just as guilty as Rachel Blake. Don’t you want to see them pay for what they did to you?

Yeah, of course I do. Both of them found me strapped to a chair by a creepy old woman, and they left me there to rot.

OK, so then why don’t you want to testify against them?

Because of Brady.

This is a nice surprise, honey. What are you– what are you doing here?

Well, I had to drop Rachel off at a therapy appointment. And I was hoping I could get your advice on this Ava situation. A– are you OK? [melancholy music]

No, I’m not.

What’s–what’s going on?

I’m afraid I’ve got some bad news. Brady, your dad is missing.

17

Dad’s missing? What–what do you mean?

I just spoke to Shane. John has been in the field for so long that he– he promised he would try to set up a–a phone call between the two of us. But when– when John’s handler was contacted to facilitate that– that call, he couldn’t locate John. 18

All right. First of all, when was the last time his handler heard from him? And how often is he supposed to check in?

I don’t know exactly, but they don’t risk contact very often. Plus, John is–is trained to respond immediately whenever his handler contacts him.

Are there any leads? What else did Shane say? 19

Just that he’s using all his resources to try to track– track John down. And essentially, he doesn’t know any more than we know.

Well, that mean– that means–

That means we don’t know if John is alive or–

Oh, God.

I’m not following. Why would Brady be the reason that you’re not pressing charges against EJ and Kristen?

Because he asked me not to testify about my kidnapping.

What? That doesn’t even make any sense. Brady was furious when he found out what happened to you.

Yeah, well, that was before he talked to Kristen about it. Look, she pointed out that if I tell how I was kidnapped, that their daughter’s involvement in it would come to light. Rachel’s the one who lured me to the house in the first place.

Oh. Well, if that’s what Brady’s worried about, he should have talked to me. I have no intention of prosecuting a nine-year-old for something her grandmother told her to do.

Yeah, actually, I think he’s more concerned about Child Protective Services. After Rachel ran away, they opened a case against Kristen and Brady. They said if there was one more incident involving Rachel, they could take her away.

Yeah. Well–yeah. I mean, I guess I just assumed that Brady would regain custody if Kristen went to prison. I mean, clearly, that’s in Rachel’s best interest. But yeah, if CPS gets involved, that complicates things. 23

Yeah, it sure does. And even though Brady had nothing to do with what happened to me, he could lose his daughter because of it.

Alex, I appreciate your regret at taking my rightful place at the company, but that was hardly your fault. Theresa and Konstantin were the ones that fabricated your mother’s signature on that letter. As far as you knew, you were Victor’s son. It was his wish for you to run the company. Those two had us all duped. You can’t honestly think that I’d hold that against you.

I’m glad to hear there’s no bad blood between us.

Of course not. So if you want to rejoin the family business, I’m sure Titan will be all the better for it.

Thank you, Xander. Now, let’s just hope that Philip feels the same way.

You need me to talk to Xander today? I mean, sure, I guess, if it’s that urgent.

Thank you. I don’t mean to sound desperate or anything. I just–I just received my final paycheck from “Body & Soul,” so I’m eager to find new work.

I get it. Oh, I’m sorry about the show, by the way. I know my mom and Abe hated shutting down the Salem reboot. Hang on, I thought production was gonna continue in Los Angeles. You’re not moving with the show?

I considered it, but I just got news that they recast my character, so.

Ah, that’s too bad.

Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I was just starting to get excited about LA. I’ve always considered myself more of a big city girl, so.

Well, what about New York? I’m sure your family would be happy to have you close by again. 27

Yeah. Yeah, my mom would love to hear about what a mess I’ve made of my life since I moved to Salem.

You know what? Let’s not jump to conclusions. I mean, do you know? Has she been seeing somebody else maybe?

Not that I know of. But Mom, Alex just ran into her, and she seemed sort of OK about us getting together.

Well, that’s good news, right? 28

It is. But, I mean, obviously, I was– I was relieved that she wasn’t holding a grudge, at least not outwardly. And it made Alex and I feel that we could finally put this drama behind us. But now, it seems like it’s suddenly looming ahead.

Look, I know it’s a lot for you to process, but we’re getting ahead of ourselves. We don’t even know that Joy is pregnant. 29

True. I guess you probably couldn’t go check the lab?

[sighs]

Sorry. Of course not. I shouldn’t have even asked. [sighs] I just don’t know if I’m gonna get any peace of mind until I know one way or the other. [tense music] God knows what I’m gonna say to Alex.

Well, I would hope that you wouldn’t say anything.

Philip and I were both interested in Stephanie. Things got a little tense between us now that I’m with her and–

You’re thinking he might have a problem working with you.

Well, I know he’s not the most gracious loser.

I got that sense when he sued me for control of the company.

OK, see, this might be a bad idea.

Maybe, maybe not. Look, there’s no denying Philip’s, uh, competitive spirit. But he also has a surprising ability to bury the hatchet, especially where the good of the company is concerned.

Wow. I’ve just never heard you speak so highly of him. You two get along now?

Actually, we are, which is exactly my point. I mean, clearly, it’s no secret that Philip and I were at each other’s throats. But since we’ve been running the company together, we’ve managed to put all that behind us. Daresay we even like each other. So let me talk to Philip about bringing you back on board, yeah?

What do you mean your life’s a mess? What’s going on?

No, no, I only meant, um, well, uh, Alex just dumped me to be with Stephanie. So there’s that. Then there’s the fact that I nearly destroyed Johnny and Chanel’s marriage. I don’t know if you heard about that one.

Yeah, my mom may have mentioned it.

Yeah.

Sounded like it was more Johnny’s fault than yours.

Yeah. Yeah, that may be true. But it still only proves my mom’s point. She thinks I have a talent for finding drama.

Hah!

What?

Sorry. It’s just my mom said something like that about me, too.

Really?

Oh, yeah. I mean, she’s my biggest supporter always, but she’s also my harshest critic.

Same with my mom. When I lived in New York, I felt like I was always explaining my life choices to her, which I guess is a big reason why I’d really like to stay in Salem. If I could just find a new job.

Like I said, I have to check with Xander, but honestly, I don’t think he’ll have a problem with you working at the company. So barring any unforeseen circumstances… welcome to Titan. 36

[sighs]

Xander, I appreciate you going to bat for me with Philip like that. I really do. But it’s just starting to feel like more trouble than it may even be worth. You know, if you guys are getting along so well right now, I’d hate to show up and ruin that by stirring the pot.

Don’t worry about all that. I’m sure you two can work it out. Besides, Philip and I have some really big plans for Titan. And we could use the help of another Kiriakis to see them through.

What kind of big plans?

Well, it’s all a little confidential right now, but as soon as you’re officially on board, you’ll be the first to know. Suffice to say, if all goes according to plan, this will be a very big deal. 38

I am so sorry to worry you.

Ah, don’t–don’t say sorry. I’m grateful that we have each other right now. All right, what do we do? What are the steps? How do we find him?

Well, I don’t know that we have anything we can do. Shane has reassured me that they are–are trying to retrace John’s steps. They’re trying to reach out to all of his latest contacts. They–they will only say the ISA is doing all they can to try to find him.

Does Paul know about this?

No. I need to tell Paul. I should also tell Belle.

This puts Brady in an impossible position. I get that. But Ava, a serious crime was committed here. And I have a moral obligation to prosecute this case. 40

Even knowing how it’s gonna affect your niece?

Well, what’s the alternative? Kristen walks and Rachel’s still under her care. I mean, I get why Brady’s worried about CPS, but maybe their intervention is warranted here.

Wait, you think that CPS should take Rachel away?

Well, not from Brady, no. But if they had all the facts about everything that happened in Aremid, then I’m sure they would see that Rachel is better off with her father. 41

Or they would take her away from him like they said they would if there was another incident. Look, Belle, I am a mother, OK? And I know what it is like to have your child taken away from you. And I am not gonna be the reason that happens to Brady.

But you are my only witness. Without your testimony, my entire case falls apart and–and three morally bankrupt criminals go free. 42

Yeah, I know. Believe me, it–it is the last thing that I want to happen. And it infuriates me. It makes me sick even thinking about it. OK. Brady should not be the one who suffers for their crimes, OK? It is not his fault that he is in this position. It is Kristen’s.

Story of my brother’s life, unfortunately.

Yeah. Rachel runs away on Kristen’s watch after Kristen poisons her against me. And who do you think it is that taught her that hostage-taking is an appropriate way to deal with family conflict? I can’t believe that when Kristen saw me there, I thought she would actually help me. I swear to you, if I ever see her again, I am going to tear her limb from limb.

Well, hmm, here’s your chance. [tense music]

So judging by the threat of bodily harm you just made against me, should I assume you talked to Brady?

Yeah, I did.

Great. And I am sorry that you won’t be giving that statement. But I am glad that you understand the priorities of this situation. 45

You bitch.

Oh, I knew you’d do the right thing. And for the record, I’m protecting my daughter from some people’s selfish interests.

Selfish?

Yeah. Oh, you’re obviously not happy that this will bring down your conviction rate.

Oh, please. I know this is a foreign concept to you, but there are people out there who actually care about justice and respect for the law.

Oh, well, so if following the law is so important to you, don’t you have some paperwork to, uh, file?

Oh, tell me, whatever do you mean?

Well, uh, the arraignment this morning, uh, you managed to convince the judge, uh, to hold my mother without bail. And as I recall, it was predicated on a so-called, um, ironclad case you had against her, which, seeing now as you have zero witnesses– ah, so it’s starting to look less and less ironclad. So I suggest that you call the judge and tell her what a grievous error you have made and that you want my mother released right now.

I can talk to Belle if that would help you.

No, thank you. I should talk to her.

Are you sure? 48

I am.

Sure? OK. OK. Well, at least let me talk to Paul. OK, you shouldn’t have to be the sole bearer of this kind of news.

OK, good. Thank you. And please tell him that I love him.

I will.

I’m so glad you’re here with me today.

Me too. Let’s stay positive, OK? We’re gonna–we’re gonna– we’re gonna– we’re gonna find Dad.

We will. Oh, I know we will.

Yeah. I should, uh– I should go get Rachel.

Oh, yes. Yes, of course. You go ahead.

I love you.

I love you. [solemn music]

Mom, why wouldn’t I tell Alex? I mean, this is his baby we’re talking about.

We don’t even know if there is a baby. And if you hadn’t overheard Sarah on the phone, you wouldn’t even think that there could be one.

Honestly, I wish I hadn’t overheard. But it’s not like I can unhear it. If I keep this from Alex, I would be keeping a really big secret from him.

But, honey, this is not your secret to tell. This is Joy’s personal medical information.

And I realize that. And I totally understand that you take it seriously because you’re a doctor. You have to. But I–I’m not. I mean, I wouldn’t be breaking any laws by telling Alex, right? 52

It’s not that it’s illegal. It’s just highly unethical. And you heard that information here, so the hospital could be liable for HIPAA violation. And listen, after everything that we’re going through right now, it’s just too much. So if you want to protect the hospital and honor Joy’s privacy, you need to keep this to yourself. [tense music] 53

Oh, Philip. I thought you went to the office.

I was heading there, but then I ran into Chloe’s little sister, Joy, and she asked me for a job. She seemed pretty anxious about it, but I told her I’d have to talk to you first.

Feel free to hire her.

Really?

Yeah, it’s not like I have to do a background check on her. She’s Chloe’s little sister.

Fair enough.

Oh, and there’s something I need to talk to you about.

Just a sec. I want to text Joy the good news. [beep] [tranquil music]

Joy, hey. Twice in one day? What are the odds of that?

I know. What, are you stalking me?

Uh-huh.

Sorry. Bad joke.

No, no, no, no. It’s–it’s OK. Listen, I’m really glad that we had that talk earlier.

Yeah.

Really. Because you were so cool about Stephanie and I being together. And honestly, I really like you. And I just–I don’t want there to be any weirdness between us.

Me neither. Um, which is why, um, there’s something that you should know.

What do I need to know?

Um, well, there are a couple of things. Um, I guess number one would be that it looks like I’m gonna stay here in Salem. So you and I will probably keep running into each other. 57

True. But at least now that we’ve cleared the air, shouldn’t be too hard, right?

Right.

Good. And what’s the second thing?

Um–

So what do you want to talk to me about?

Well, Alex just stopped by. He told me he, uh, wanted to come back to Titan. 58

Ah. That might be an issue.

Right, but before you just nix the idea, hold on. Think about how you and I were at each other’s throats before we became partners.

Yeah. Well, thank God we’re past that.

Yeah, so you see, you know, if we could put that behind us, I’m sure you and Alex could work things out. And remember, we’re about to wage all-out war on the DiMeras. We could use another Kiriakis on board, yeah?

Yes, but–

So keep that in mind and just maybe put your personal issues to the side and try and work together as cousins.

I’m sorry, personal issues?

Alex told me you and he had a bit of a row over Stephanie? That’s what this is about, no? 60

You’re totally right. I wasn’t thinking. You know I would never do anything to jeopardize the hospital. So… I won’t say anything to Alex.

Thank you.

I’m sorry, Mom. I just–I got so fixated on what this meant for Alex that I wasn’t thinking about Joy. I mean, this is a really personal thing for her. And I do respect that.

I understand. This is a difficult position for you to be in.

I just feel strange, having this information that could potentially affect the rest of Alex’s life and keeping it from him.

Well, maybe you won’t have to. There is a possibility that she’ll tell him herself. 62

You said there were two things I needed to know.

Yeah. Um, the other thing is, um– um, the reason that I’m– I’m planning on staying in town–

Yeah.

Is, um, because I got a job.

You got a job? That’s great.

Yeah.

Joy, that’s great. Where?

Um, at Titan. Yeah, I actually– um, I talked to Philip about coming to work there. And he just texted me saying that I’m hired. So.

Mm.

OK. It’s true Alex and I were locking horns for a minute there. But at the end of the day, Stephanie and I didn’t work out. And I only have myself to blame for that. So, no, my issue isn’t about Alex and Stephanie.

Oh. Then?

It’s about Alex and Joy. I don’t know how she’ll feel about working with him. They were together for a while. They recently split up, and I got the sense Joy’s still not too happy about that. [tense music]

You are gonna be working at Titan.

Looks like it.

Hmm.

Why? Is that a problem?

No. I mean, I don’t think so. I actually just spoke with Xander as well about my coming back to Titan, too.

Well, aren’t you gonna get on that? I don’t want my mother spending one more night in jail.

Well, tough luck. The courts are closed for the night, so I guess your mom’s gonna have to wait until tomorrow to enjoy her wholly undeserved freedom.

Well, you can get the ball rolling, can’t you? I wouldn’t wanna sue the city for wrongful imprisonment. 67

This isn’t over, Kristen.

Hmm. Oh, and how about you? You’re just gonna stand there? Or do you have something to say to me?

I got nothing to say to you.

OK, great. Then we’re done here.

Not quite.

[gasps] 68

Ah. I wasn’t aware of the history there. But to be quite frank, if Joy doesn’t want to work with Alex, then she’s free to quit. I’m sure she’d be a wonderful employee, but she doesn’t have the history of the company or the Kiriakis last name, for that matter. I mean, Alex is a former CEO of Titan. I’m sure he’d have some insights that could help us take on DiMera. 69

You’re right. We need Alex on board.

Then it’s settled. I’ll text him the good news. [pensive music]

[serene music]

And now it is official. Xander just hired me back at Titan. 70

Wow. I guess, um, congrats.

I–thank you. Congrats to you. Hmm.

Yeah.

I guess we’ll be working there together.

Yeah. Yeah, I guess we will.

Hmm.

That’s–that’s so crazy.

What’s crazy? 71

Steph, hey. Hey, I–I got some– some big news.

OK.

Well, I took your suggestion, and I reached out to Xander about getting my job back over at Titan. And he hired me.

Oh. Congratulations. 72

Thank you. Yeah.

That’s–that’s not so crazy. I mean, you did work there before.

Well, that’s not the crazy part.

I talked to Philip earlier. And, uh, yeah, he gave me a job there, too. So.

Oh. Oh. That–that is big news. 73

Hi. I got your message. What’s going on?

Um, why don’t you sit down?

OK. Sounds serious.

Well, it is. It’s about your dad. [tense music]

74

And hey, at least we know he’s in good hands. The ISA is gonna use every resource to try to find him. Yeah, of course, I’ll stay in touch. All right, Paul. I love you, man. Bye.

Oh. Hey, Brady. How was Rachel’s therapy appointment?

Uh, it was–it was– it was good, I believe. She–she was in a good mood afterwards, so I think it went well.

Oh, good. I’m glad to hear that. Oh, I ran into Ava. And thank you. Thank you for getting her to agree not to press charges against me.

Mm-hmm. Well, I did it for the sake of our daughter. What happened to your face?

Oh, my face? Oh? Ava assaulted me. Yeah, she’s lucky I’m not pressing charges against her. [melancholy music]

[phone ringing]

Hello.

Ava. Hey, it’s me. I–I just spoke to Kristen. She told me that you agreed to drop the charges against her.

Yeah, well, I didn’t really have a choice, did I?

Well, I–um, I don’t know how to thank you.

Well, you could start by, uh, driving Kristen to a remote location, tying her to a chair, and then leaving her for dead.

Ava, I– I’m really sorry about all this, OK?

Yeah. I’m sorry, too, Brady.

[beep]

[solemn music]

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Days of Our Lives Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

[gentle music]

Come home soon, my love. I miss you so. [knocking] [clears throat] Come in.

Dr. Evans, your next appointment just called and canceled.

Roz? I hope everything’s all right.

Oh, yeah. She, um–she just said it was something about childcare.

Oh, yes. Well, I understand that. Please make sure we find the time for her this week.

Of course. You have the next hour free. Would you like me to pick you up something for lunch?

Uh, no. No, think I’ll just go to the cafeteria. Thanks. 2

OK. Well, if you change your mind, let me know.

I will. Oh, Cat. You never told me how things went with you and Chad. [solemn music]

No, you can tell the people at Basic Black that goodwill is only going to get them so far. Yeah, if they want a full-page advertorial on their new collection, then it’s going to cost them. No, tell them exactly what I said.

[clears throat]

Sorry, Leo. I didn’t see you there.

No, you were too busy going all William Randolph Hearst on your staff.

Can I help you with something?

Very much so. First off, I wanted to thank you again for hiring me back at “The Spectator,” as a legitimate reporter this time. Your faith in me means the world.

Why does it feel like you’re buttering me up?

[laughs] I can’t get anything past you, Chadwick. I need your approval on a story I’m working on that is going to make our next issue fly off the newsstands.

Oh, I can’t wait to hear the pitch.

Mm, you say that now, but this might hit a little close to home. [mellow music]

Hey.

Hey, yourself.

Mm. It’s been a while. Haven’t seen you since, uh–

Since you dumped me to go be with Stephanie?

6

Oh, hello, you.

Hey.

Here to have lunch with your mom?

I’m here for business, actually. I’m helping to raise awareness about the hospital’s financial situation. So I just came to drop off the presentation deck so that my mom could help court more donors.

Well, we are definitely lucky to have your expertise. I can’t even believe that the hospital shutting down is a possibility. 7

I know, I know. I mean, I get that everything is about money at the end of the day.

Yeah, but this is–this is so much more than a business. I mean, what about the patients, or all of the people that work here who are going to lose their jobs?

Don’t tell me you’re already looking for a new gig. We need you to be here and stay positive for everyone else.

No. No, no, no. I’m not job-hunting. I mean, I’m– I’m one of the lucky ones. Xander said that, um, he would, uh, “take care of me” if the hospital goes under.

Oh. Somehow I doubt you liked the sound of that.

Don’t even get me started. As if I went to eight years of medical school to be a kept woman.

[laughs] Well, I’m sure he meant well. He just–he didn’t want you to worry about money.

Yeah, yeah. It’s one of the advantages to being married to a CEO. Or should I say co-CEO.

Speaking of, how has Xander been getting along with Philip since you decided not to tell him that Victor’s letter was a forgery? [pensive music]

I come bearing great news, bro. Our CFO confirms we have the cash reserves for a major acquisition.

Great.

[sighs] Wow. Your excitement is palpable. Come on, this is fantastic. We’re one step closer to taking over DiMera.

I’m afraid it might not matter unless we get answers.

About?

Why Victor’s letter named you as his heir.

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

I thought that you were– I thought you were fine with keeping the secret about the forgery. Did you change your mind?

No, no. Philip and I aren’t together anymore. His lying and scheming aren’t my problem.

OK. So what is this about?

[exhales]

I guess I’m still pissed that he made Belle and me complicit in his fraud. I’m mad at him, not you.

Um, does that mean that you still won’t say anything?

[sighs] Philip’s done enough damage. It would–it would blow up too many lives if I did, to say nothing of your marriage. How would Xander feel if he found out that you knew that he was conned out of half his birthright?

You’re reading Dad’s letter again. Why?

Clarity, I suppose. Why did he tell you he wanted you to run the company, but then never bothered to change his will?

Come on. Are we really dredging this up again? I thought we were in a good place, or at least a better one.

I’m not jockeying for power. Don’t worry. I’ve made peace with the fact that this is what our father wanted. It’s just if we’re successful in acquiring DiMera, there could be regulatory hurdles. We might have to explain why we chose to share power. And to do that, we need to get inside Victor’s headspace.

Regulatory hurdles? That’s a long way away, don’t you think?

I wouldn’t be so sure. I have a feeling that our plans are about to gain some major traction.

Why is that?

Well, I have a special guest visiting us today. One that could be instrumental in our efforts to take everything the DiMeras hold dear.

“Children of the Phoenix– Fall of Haus DiMera”?

Intriguing title, no? I originally went with “Demigods, Dalliances, and DiMeras,” but the alliteration failed to convey the proper gravitas.

Leo, this isn’t a first pitch. It’s a–it’s a first draft on a hit piece about my family.

A hit piece? After what they did to Jeremy Strong, I would never. Think of it as an in-depth exposé on the DiMeras.

You want to know what? You want to write a book, be my guest. But this–this isn’t relevant to my paper.

It’s extremely relevant, and timely. My source at the Salem PD says that EJ and Kristen are both up to their necks in Ava’s kidnapping.

OK, then one of– one of our court reporters will cover it if it goes to trial.

Please! The former DA and the CEO of a multinational company both facing federal charges? You don’t bury that story next to coupons for canned goods. That is a splashy, multifaceted feature that practically writes itself.

OK, well, if it writes itself, what the hell do I need you for?

I said practically. And I didn’t even get to the part yet about Rachel’s disappearance, or Kristen’s kooky mother hiding out in that gothic mansion. [inhales sharply] Chadwick, we print this story and you can bet every hair on that perfectly coiffed head of yours that “Dateline” is going to option this. We are talking a full-length episode, a companion podcast. I could promote this on “Maddow.”

OK, just–just stop.

You’re killing it, aren’t you?

No. No, I’ll publish it. On the front page. [dramatic music]

So it was really cool that, you know, Chad and I were able to get on the same page with everything. The fancy gala, it just felt wrong for this type of fundraiser.

Well, as much as I enjoy getting all dressed up and sipping champagne, I think I agree. Yeah, galas are expensive. And we want every dime to go right to the hospital.

Precisely. That is what Chad totally understood, and he said that we could do another brainstorming session this afternoon. And he has agreed to put the full weight of “The Spectator” behind spreading the word, so it’s amazing.

Mm. Heartwarming to see everybody come together this way, willing to help the hospital. But I think we do have to acknowledge our limits.

Well, what do you mean? 22

I don’t want to make you uncomfortable by having you and Chad work so closely together. Especially after you’ve, you know, told him how you feel.

Oh. Thank you, Dr. Evans. I really appreciate that. But I–I realized I’m over Chad. And I told him as much, so it’s all good.

Oh, OK. So wait, were you lying to him or to yourself?

23

You’re going to print my story?

Yeah, that’s what I said, isn’t it?

This is fantastic!

Hey, look, listen to me. If you think this is going to be a ticket just to get back into screenwriting, forget it, OK? You’re a journalist now, which means you need to adhere to the standards of this newspaper. Do you understand me?

Yes, of course. What are they? 24

Fact-checking, triple-sourcing, vetting every single statement that is made in this thing, all right? I don’t want you to forget that my brother is a lawyer, and he is not afraid of litigation.

OK, I will steer clear of anything libelous.

Good. I want you to run it by legal. And I have one more condition.

What’s that?

Rachel Black, my niece. She’s a minor. Leave her out of it. Are we clear?

Crystal. Thank you for trusting my instincts, Chadwick.

You’re welcome. Don’t make me regret it.

Don’t leave me in suspense. Who’s this special guest of yours?

Well, I’ve been thinking more about that conversation we had the other day.

Care to be more specific?

About which DiMera board members we could sway to join our side.

But we determined the DiMeras and Peter could never be flipped. So that’d just leave…

Me. [tense music]

27

I hate lying to Xander, but it is for the greater good.

You do keep saying that. Do you really believe that, though?

Yes. Yes, I do. Look, I love my husband more than anything, but Xander is the personification of “absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

Sounds like Philip, too.

Oh, yes. Both of Victor’s sons got that ruthless trait from him. But if they are forced to share Titan and play nice, it’ll curb each other’s most reckless impulses.

If they don’t kill each other first.

But that’s the thing. They’re actually acting like brothers. Xander even asked Philip to move back into the mansion.

He did?

OK, yes, so it was to make it seem like they were a united front. But still, everything is working out the way I’d hoped.

That’s great, Sarah. I just hope nothing happens to change that, for your sake and mine. Things are going really well with Alex. I doubt that he would be too happy to know that I kept quiet about all this.

So then we’re in agreement. For the greater good. 30

Yeah, for the greater good. [mellow music]

Look, Joy, about what you said earlier.

Just forget about it.

No. You’re absolutely right. I acted like a total jackass, and… I’m sorry. I handled that entire situation in the worst way possible, and you didn’t deserve that.

It was just a fling. I’ll get over it. [laughs]

You’re giving me a lot more grace than I deserve. Thank you. You’ve barely touched your food.

Yeah. Yeah, I don’t really, um– don’t really have much of an appetite lately. I think I’m just a little stressed figuring out my next move now that “Body and Soul” is no longer an option.

Mm. 32

Did you hear they recast our roles?

What? No, actually, I didn’t.

Well, we didn’t really give him much of a choice.

[laughs] True. But I mean, it’s going to be weird watching some new guy play Arrow.

Yeah. Yeah, tell me about it. They asked me to move with them to LA, but I kept them waiting for too long, and the show must go on. 33

I guess so. Well, there will be other roles.

In Salem?

Eh.

Doubtful.

Yeah.

I’m not even really sure acting is my next step anyways, so… But I digress. You should go. You don’t want to keep Stephanie waiting too long.

[laughs] How would you even know–

I saw them put two sets of utensils in your bag. 34

Good eye. Take care of yourself, Joy.

You too.

[door clicks close] I guess I shouldn’t be wasting any food now that I’m unemployed. [jazzy music]

Oh, God. Ugh! [tense music]

Ah, delicious. [chuckles]

That’s is vintage pu-erh tea. I understand it’s your favorite.

Indeed it is.

Well, I had Henderson prepare it for you especially. The least you deserve after your long flight from Hong Kong.

Well, the Titan jet made the trip much more comfortable, as well as the luxury car service you sent to pick me up from your family airfield.

We aim to please.

You are aware I could have arranged my own travel. So clearly, you want something.

Well, that is the nature of business, I’m afraid. But as for the travel arrangements, we just needed as few people as possible to know that you were visiting us in Salem today.

Well, let’s stop this cloak and dagger routine. Why go through all this trouble to have an audience with me? 37

My brother and I have a proposition for you.

Hmm.

[knocking on door] – * It’s me *

* Come in *

* Mm, I come bearing food *

Ooh, you read my mind.

I figured my hard-working, beautiful girlfriend could use a little burger break. 38

Mm, I could kiss you.

Ah.

In fact, I will.

Ah. Mm.

Mm.

Mm. [smooching]

[chuckles] Yes!

Dig in.

Mm.

[sighs] So… [clears throat] Full transparency. I ran into Joy at the pub. 39

Oh. Oh, and the chowder made it home and wasn’t dumped on your head?

Yeah. Yeah, it was a little awkward at first, but I just apologized, and she got some things off her chest, and we got to an OK place.

Really?

Yeah. She even wished us well. 40

[exhales] That’s a relief.

Yeah.

I was still feeling bad about the way that all of that went down.

Me too. You know, in the end, Joy and I weren’t really all that serious, but– [sighs] She just wants to put it behind her, which means we should too.

Sounds like a plan. [soft music]

Joy. You feeling all right?

I’m, uh–no, I’m not feeling so great.

Nausea?

Yeah. Yeah, I wasn’t very hungry and then I had one bite of my lunch and I, uh–well, I–

Oh, OK. Well, um, how long has your appetite been off?

Um, a few days. You don’t think this has anything to do with me getting poisoned, do you?

Oh, gosh. Uh, well, given how long ago that was, I sincerely doubt it. But you know, let’s get you an exam room because there’s a stomach flu going around, so it could probably be that or–

Morning sickness? Could I be pregnant? – Wow. Guest you managed to fill that time slot after all.

Only asking as a colleague.

Mm-hmm. Yeah, a colleague who also happens to be a world-renowned psychiatrist. I really don’t know why I thought I was going to be able to pull one over on you.

I don’t either.

[laughs] 44

So you do have feelings for Chad?

Yes, but it doesn’t matter. It’s–nothing can ever come of it, right? And it’s so much better that Chad doesn’t know. Because that way, it doesn’t get in the way of us planning the fundraiser. [phone rings]

Oh, I’m sorry. I’ve got to take this. Do you mind?

Oh, no, of course. 45

Shane, thank you so much for checking in. Do you have anything on John’s information, and his whereabouts that– what do you mean? I don’t understand. What is happening here? OK, OK. OK. Just let me know as soon as you hear anything, please. Please. [soft dramatic music]

Dr. Evans, I did not mean to eavesdrop, but is everything OK?

No, everything is not OK. My husband is missing.

[sighs] I just sent my draft off to legal, and I have no doubt they will deem my story is fit to print.

Let’s hope. [curious music] Is there something else, Leo?

Actually, I have some other story ideas I would love to run past you.

Great. It’s going to have to wait. Cat Greene’s coming over. We have a meeting that I need to prep.

Cat Greene? Why would you be taking a meeting with the woman who pretended to be your dead wife?

Missing? What do you mean?

John… John is missing in action. [sighs] Most people that are close to us are aware… that John does undercover work, but he has gone radio silent for a very long time. I reached out and got special permission to talk to him.

But that didn’t happen?

No. It seems that even his handler has lost contact with him, which means either he– he has gone rogue, which he is wont to do, or that– or that something terrible has happened to him. [somber music]

Well, um, pregnancy could be a possibility.

I’m late, but that’s not uncommon for me. I was really trying not to think about it, but after I got sick today, I…

Um, when was the last time that you were sexually active?

A month ago, when I was still with Alex Kiriakis. I’m sure he and his new girlfriend would be thrilled if I’m knocked up.

Hey, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, all right? Let’s just, uh, find out if you really are pregnant, OK? Come on.

Here you go.

Thank you.

Mm.

Mm. So in addition to my awkward run-in with Joy, I got some more upsetting news. [scoffs] “Body and Soul” recast my role.

[sighs] I’m sorry. Does this mean that you’re regretting your decision not to follow the show to LA?

No. Absolutely not. I think that whole acting thing was, like, some weird detour for me. Besides, I have a hard enough time staying away from you and I live across the hall. How the hell would I manage across the country?

[laughs] Well, why do you still seem bummed about this? 53

Mm, I don’t know. I think now I’m just finally realizing that now that I don’t have the show to fall back on, it’s just driving home how… directionless I am right now.

Directionless?

I just need to find my purpose again. Or at the very least, a job.

Well, I know of one place you could look for one. 54

Yeah? Are you hiring an assistant? Because I can make this food delivery happen every single day.

[laughs] No, that’s not what I meant.

Oh.

What do you think about going back to Titan? [tense music]

What if I told you that Titan Industries is interested in acquiring DiMera Enterprises?

Then I would tell you, you wasted your time, not to mention an egregious amount of jet fuel. DiMera is not for sale.

No, but with enough shareholders on our side, we could gain majority control.

[scoffs] A hostile takeover? The family will not side with you. At a minimum, you would need my vote, which I assure you, you will not get. Have a good day, gentlemen.

Wait, Mr. Shin, please. [clears throat] What if we give you a position of power in the new regime? Look, DiMera is in a crisis, thanks to Kristen. Your CEO is a sociopath.

So was your father, but he was good for the bottom line.

But can you say the same for Kristen? Or EJ and Tony’s recent stints as head of the company? I–I mean, if they had delivered, we’d be having a different conversation. But time and time again, they’ve proven themselves liabilities to you and the other shareholders. I mean, I can barely keep track of all their scandals.

Kristen was just accused of kidnapping a woman. Plus there’s the rumors of EJ’s involvement.

Did you fly me all this way to deal with idle gossip?

It’s more than gossip. What’s going to happen to the share price if the CEO is tried and convicted, and the only other family member waiting in the wings is also implicated?

What makes you believe that Titan would be any less chaotic? It’s not even clear which of you Victor truly wanted to be his successor.

That’s true, isn’t it? His will and the letter he left, they completely contradict each other. It doesn’t make any sense. But when faced with that fact, Philip and I put aside our differences for the good of the company and its shareholders. Can you really say that Stefano’s heirs would be capable of doing the same? So Mr. Shin, are you in or are you out?

It’s the not knowing that’s the worst part, isn’t it?

Yes, it is. [soft dramatic music]

You know, when I didn’t know if my mom was alive or dead…

It was agony. It was like a constant barrage of just worst-case scenarios consuming my every thought. But I did find my mom. And if a miracle can happen for us, why can’t it happen for you and John?

We have faced and survived greater odds than this. But I guess there is a time when… people’s luck just runs out, even John’s. I don’t know what I will do if anything happens to him. [breathes deeply] Whew. Sorry for being unprofessional.

Unprofessional? We talk about my love life on a regular basis. I would hardly call our relationship a professional one. [chuckles] And you’ve been there for me through some of the worst of my moments. If you think for a second that I’m not going to return the favor, then you don’t know me at all, Dr. Evans. [gentle music]

Look, not that it’s any of your business, but Cat and I, we’re working together on a fundraiser to save the hospital.

Aw. So she’s gone from grifter to philanthropist?

I’m sorry, what’s that saying about the grifters that live in glass houses?

Fair enough. I just don’t want this woman hurting you again. Are we sure we can trust her?

[laughs] OK, look, I appreciate your concern. But, uh–but you know what? We’re just doing our best to get past everything, OK? Well, she was being manipulated by Clyde, Leo.

I get that. But a decent person wouldn’t then plant roots here in Salem, and they certainly wouldn’t play party planner with the guy they conned into marrying.

The marriage was annulled.

Because she was lying about her identity!

OK, you know what? She doesn’t have feelings for me, OK? 65

Why do you not seem thrilled about that?

What are you talking about, not seem thrilled? I’m–I’m relieved, OK? Cat and I, we could never work. OK, you know what? Just stop. [stammers] She doesn’t have feelings for me. And this–that– it’s strictly professional.

If you say so, Chadwick. [shudders]

I must say, you put forth a very tantalizing offer.

I fear there’s a but coming.

I’m a firm believer in honesty. I’ve been on the board of DiMera since Stefano himself ran the company, and I’m not comfortable about going behind his daughter’s back this way.

Well, business is rarely comfortable.

And your loyalty is not being returned in kind. EJ sat on evidence that could have brought your son’s killer to justice for months.

To say nothing of the way Gabi treated him before that, and how Kristen protected her.

Gabi broke Li’s heart into a million pieces. I often wonder if he’d still be alive if he hadn’t had the misfortune of being involved with her.

If you ask me, the DiMeras have been taking your loyalty for granted.

And just to be clear, Mr. Shin, regarding our proposal– while my brother and I would remain co-CEOs of the combined enterprise, you and you alone, sir, would oversee the DiMera holdings.

I would need my position guaranteed in writing.

Is that a yes?

I’m in.

This is fantastic news, Mr. Shin.

I need to pitch this to my associates. And if we want to keep this secret, I should do this in person.

Our driver will take you to the airstrip right now. The jet should be refueled by now.

I’ll get back to you. I must say, I’m impressed.

Phil, you knocked that out of the park.

You were pretty damn awe- inspiring yourself there, Xan.

I know that. But seriously, we couldn’t have made that happen without you. Maybe we make a good team after all.

I should get back to the office.

What for? Let’s celebrate.

You go on ahead. There’s a whole new set of numbers to crunch now. Our CFO’s head is going to spin.

Well, don’t work too hard. [soft music]

This is what you wanted all along, isn’t it? Your two sons bringing out the best in each other. The DiMeras won’t know what hit them.

Titan?

Uh-huh. You liked working there last year. You were happy, weren’t you?

Hmm. Yeah. [phone beeps]

Oh.

That work?

Mm. Yeah, my mom’s having trouble editing the deck I made. 72

Oh, no. Can you just talk her through it?

Uh, no. Trust me, it’ll be quicker if I just do it myself.

OK.

But we’ll talk more about this later.

Yeah.

And think about it. Maybe your passion has always been with the family business.

Yeah. Thank you. 73

Yeah.

[sighs] Tell Mom I said hi.

I will.

So what happens now?

Well, my nurse is bringing down your sample.

God, please let it come back negative. The last thing I need right now is a baby.

Let’s just– let’s try to stay calm until we know what you’re dealing with, OK? Just remember that you have options. You are in charge of what happens to you and your body. Never forget that.

Yeah. Thank you. I’m–I’m just–I’m scared.

I understand. I’m here for you, OK? No matter what the test says.

[knocking]

Hey, there you are. 75

Sorry. I, um–I got caught up with Dr. Evans. That’s why I’m late.

Is everything OK?

Um, no. No, it’s not OK. I don’t want to speak out of turn, but I know that you and Dr. Evans are close friends.

Yeah, more than friends. She’s family. Especially after– after her being there for me and my kids after we lost Abby.

OK, well, um, you may need to return the favor.

What’s wrong?

Dr. Evans just got really bad news about her– about her husband. [soft dramatic music]

Roman. [water sloshing, bell clanging]

It’s Marlena.

Yes.

Oh, Doc, it’s– it’s you. Oh, my God, it’s you. Oh, my–oh, my God. Oh, my God.

I can’t count the number of times our love has brought us back together. I hope we get to have it again. 78

Report back the second Mr. Shin is wheels down in Hong Kong. We need to time everything just right. Keep me posted. Alex, long time no see. I’m afraid your father isn’t home yet.

Well, that’s OK. I actually came by to see you.

Hmm.

I want to come back to Titan. [curious music] 79

Cookie?

What?

They’re supposed to be a peace offering for my CFO. But you look like you could use one.

Oh. Thank you, Philip, but I’m– I’m not hungry.

Look, I know I’m not your favorite person because of how things ended with Chloe. But I’ve known you since you were a kid, so if you need to talk or you need anything, I’m here.

Um, there is one thing that you could do for me.

Name it.

Are you hiring at Titan?

Hi, this is Dr. Kiriakis. I was wondering if you could do a personal favor for me and put a rush on a blood test for a patient of mine. Thank you so much. Yeah, it was just dropped off. A pregnancy test. Patient name: Wesley, Joy. [tense music]

Joy?

Back to the Days Transcripts Page

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Days of Our Lives Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

[soft dramatic music]

Holly, what are you doing here?

We need to talk… about what happened at the cabin.

Oh.

You said you had feelings for me.

Yeah, I did. But like I also said, I was hoping we could forget all about that.

And like I said, I couldn’t. And then Tate showed up, and we didn’t get to unpack all this.

Do we need to? I mean, I’m not sure if I have anything left to say.

Well, maybe you don’t, but I do.

Tate and I are both really excited that you’re interested in adopting our baby.

Well, we’re really excited as well.

Yes, yes. Very.

So we told Sophia’s mother about you, and she really wants to meet you. So are you free for lunch? I know it’s short notice.

Yeah, you know, as it turns out, we live in a mansion with cooks and servants, so we can handle short notice.

Yeah, and we’re really eager to meet her too.

Um, so there’s just one or two things that you should probably know beforehand.

Okay. Yeah, yeah, we’re– we’re listening.

Uh, so–so, um– do you remember how I told you that Mrs. Choi is searching for a couple with good Christian values?

Yeah.

Oh, I remember.

Well, uh, Sophia might have oversold you guys a little bit.

Oh. Uh, how much is a little bit? [quirky music]

Let’s just say we’re gonna need all the prayers we can get.

Well, I wish I could have been there for your mother’s arraignment, Kristen, but it just didn’t seem wise given the Ava of it all. I hope you’re right that she keeps quiet about all this for Brady and Rachel’s sake. Rafe? Don’t worry about him. Rolf’s serum worked a little too well. Total amnesia. As long as she keeps it to herself, we should be in the clear. [chuckles] Good luck. [phone beeps] [exhales] [chuckles] Oh, I couldn’t have planned this better myself. The police think that Rafe is Arnold pulling some kind of con. Not even Rafe knows he’s himself. [knocks at door] Okay. [clears throat] [suspenseful music]

Paulina.

It’s Mayor Price to you.

[distant sirens wailing]

Gabi, you’re back already.

Yeah, and with the lab report. Thought you’d want to be here when I opened it. [soft tense music] Ready?

Well?

It’s not a match. Whoever I plucked that hair from isn’t related to me. Which means the guy who left you at the altar, the one who helped EJ frame you–

Isn’t Rafe.

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

So the man I almost married was some imposter?

I can’t believe that any of this is real. It all sounds completely insane.

But Steph was right. I mean, this all happened before. Rafe was replaced by a double who fooled everyone around him, even his own wife. I–

Oh, God, did he–

No. Whoever that man is, we haven’t shared a bed in months. Not since New Year’s.

Oh, thank God. That’s around the time EJ hired Rafe. The switch must have happened around then, right?

I don’t know. I don’t know what to think. I don’t know. All I know is that if I slow down and really process what’s happened to Rafe, to me, to all of us, I’ll break. And I can’t break. Not yet. Not until we find Rafe.

And bring Arnold Feniger to justice. 11

I mean, I know it makes the most sense that it’s him. But all those DNA results confirm is that the man I almost married is a stranger. It doesn’t prove that it’s Arnold.

But after the way Steph said he treated her, it’s the only thing about this that does make sense, especially since he was working for EJ. [tense music]

If you’re here to see Johnny and Chanel–

Mm, I’m here to see you, EJ. I’ve given a lot of thought to the pitch you made to me on Valentine’s Day to hire you as DA. You made a pretty persuasive argument.

Did I?

Mm. As you pointed out, Jada Hunter championed Belle Black as the new district attorney. But, um, since Jada’s corruption has been exposed–

Belle could be compromised as well. 13

Oh, I believe Belle to be a person of integrity. But the optics here aren’t good.

Does that mean you’re giving me my job back?

No, that doesn’t make a– a lick of sense, does it? I mean, why would I ever appoint a DA whose ass is going straight to prison? [tense music]

A woman’s bible study group? 14

That you lead.

Ah.

But you could just think of it as, uh, exaggerating your resume.

Yeah.

[laughs]

Look, Tate, it– it’s one thing to bend the truth, okay? Chanel and I do go to church, sometimes. But this is a full-on lie.

I know. And I–I get it. So if you wanted to back out now, we would understand. [gentle acoustic music]

What do you think?

I mean, I– I don’t love the idea of lying to Mrs. Choi.

No.

I know. I’m sorry.

But, uh, Johnny and I are ready to be parents, and I’ve looked at how long the wait lists are for adoption and surrogacy. And, well, when you said that you were willing to let us raise your baby, it just– it kind of felt like it was meant to be.

Wait, so you’re– you’re saying–

I’m–I’m saying that I will go along with your story, if Johnny agrees.

I’m in if you are. 17

That’s so awesome. Thank you.

Yes, thank you. Great. Uh, so– so I’ll just tell Mrs. Choi to meet us at your place. Does that still work?

Yeah. Yeah, let’s just, uh– let’s get this over with.

[laughs] Yeah. And that gives us just enough time, if we head home now, so that we can set up and we can get our story straight, huh?

God willing.

[laughs]

Was that too–too soon? [both laugh]

All right.

So I’ve been running through everything we said to each other at the cabin, and I’m just worried I left you with the wrong impression.

How so? 19

Well, you said you want me to forget your feelings towards me, and I said I couldn’t. But that doesn’t mean I share them.

Right.

Like, I’m flattered. Really, Doug, I am. But I have a boyfriend who I love so much.

Well, I’m really sorry that I put you in a weird position and that I made things awkward between us. And look, I totally get it if you think that we can’t be friends anymore.

Doug, stop. We are friends. And I’m not saying I want anything to change, just as long as you know friends is all we can ever be. [somber music]

Your friendship means the world to me. Of course I want to stay friends. Just friends. 21

Good. I’m glad.

And if it helps, I’ve already started to move on. Julie was very adamant about that.

Wait, you told Julie about me?

Don’t worry, don’t worry. Not by name. But even without knowing all the players, she still gives the best advice.

[laughs] Damn. Straight to the point, no filter. 22

Something like that.

Well, it’s nice to see that you and Julie have gotten so close.

Yeah, we have. Which makes me feel even worse about stealing your grandmother’s necklace. Especially because, well, Julie was just here telling me that her brother Steven sent her a letter swearing that he didn’t take it.

Did she believe him? 23

Yeah, she did. And now, she’s thinking about going to the police to find the real culprit, meaning I need to get that necklace back to her ASAP.

Okay. Well, how’s the search going?

Well, Leo was supposed to put me in touch with the guy who’s fencing it, but I haven’t heard back from him.

Have you figured out how you’re going to pay for it yet? 24

I’m hoping maybe he’ll let me pay in installments.

Mm.

I know, I know. It’s not a student loan, but it’s the only plan I have. That’s if this guy ever gets back to Leo.

Okay. Well, why don’t we go find Leo in person and give him a little nudge?

We?

Yes, we. We’re friends, right? 25

Yeah, I hope so.

Good.

But I just– I figured you had better things to do, like hang out with your boyfriend.

Tate has his hands full today. He found a couple that wants to adopt his and Sophia’s baby.

Damn. I was just hoping that I could get lunch with Holly. I was going to surprise her, given how much I’ve been flaking on her lately. 26

Well, I can run interference without you. I know this was my lie, after all.

No. No, this–this is way more important.

But won’t Holly be upset?

No. I mean, it’s not like we had firm plans anyway, and she’s been really amazing about the whole situation.

Must be nice to have someone you can lean on.

You know you do too. You have me. No matter what happens, Sophia, we’re in this together.

Thanks. That means a lot. [laughs] [sentimental music] So I’m–I’m going to go round up my mom, and I’ll see you at the DiMeras’.

Okay.

28

There must be a misunderstanding. My rear isn’t heading anywhere near a jail cell.

Please. You’re named in the highest-profile case in years. Ava Vitali accused you of aiding and abetting Rachel Blake in her kidnapping.

[chuckles] Ava has a long-standing grudge against me. She’ll say anything to get revenge.

Speaking of revenge, what about what you’ve done to Jada Hunter?

I haven’t done anything to her.

Oh, but there’s a theory floating around that you replaced her fiancé with an imposter.

That’s absurd.

Oh, is it? Am I supposed to believe that it was just a coincidence that you hired Fake Rafe to dig up dirt on Jada? And didn’t you, uh, try this scheme once before with Arnold Feniger?

Arnold Feniger is dead, or so I’m told. And even if I had an axe to grind against Jada, it wouldn’t have mattered if there was no therethere. Except there was. Concrete evidence that the former commissioner is just as dirty as the felons she put behind bars.

We’ll see about that.

Yes, we will. And the public will see that your administration has been in absolute freefall since you made the ill-advised decision to cut ties with me, a quantifiably successful DA, for personal reasons.

Personal reasons? Oh, hardly.

You didn’t have to like me. You just had to let me do my job. And instead, you have jeopardized your entire reelection. Mark my words, if Jada Hunter is convicted– and I suspect she will be– you will beg me to come back as your district attorney.

So do you really think that we can pull this off?

Well, that depends. How up are you on your bible verses?

Mm, pretty rusty.

Well, don’t worry about it, okay? Because we are just going to focus as much as we can on the truth, which is that we are good, decent people, Chanel. And this baby is going to grow up surrounded by love. All right? The most important thing is that Mrs. Choi sees that we’re all one big, happy family.

You arrogant son of a bitch! [tense music]

[exhales] I feel like such an idiot. I’m a detective. How did I not realize that my own fiancé was replaced by a different person?

Yeah, how do you think I feel? He’s my brother. I’ve known him my entire life.

Except I kept ignoring all the red flags. Ugh. That Arnold guy kissed me. You’d think that I would notice the difference then. [somber music] Rafe needs our help. We need to find him.

What?

If this has been going on for months, how do we know if Rafe is still alive? I mean, what if–

No. I would know if he were gone, and you would too. Listen to your heart. What is it telling you?

That he’s still out there, somewhere.

And we’re gonna find him together.

Well, that was disappointing.

Is it crazy that I was still holding out hope for the necklace still not to be sold?

No, not crazy at all. And there still is hope. I mean, Leo said he had tracked down who bought it, so– we’re gonna find Julie’s necklace, okay? I promise. [mellow acoustic music]

What’s going on here? [tense music]

You think I’m going to give you your job back? You led a recall petition against me, DiMera, so you can go straight to hell.

Mama, what is going on?

Your father-in-law is thirsty for his old job back. I was kindly explaining I wouldn’t rehire him in a million years.

Well, it didn’t sound very kind to me.

I, myself, have been nothing but cordial.

Yeah, sure you were, Elvis.

Okay, you know what? You guys, we do not have time for this right now. Amy Choi is on her way over here to have lunch with us.

And who is that?

You remember how I told you that we want to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby? Well, Mrs. Choi is the grandmother of that baby.

Yes, and she gets the final say in all of this, so we need to make a good impression.

Oh, well, in that case, I’ll just get out of your hair, and you can get ready.

No, no, actually, please. It’s–it’s actually kind of perfect that you’re here because we need to show Mrs. Choi that we have strong family values.

Oh.

Yes, yes, yes. And having you and EJ here could help us, you know, prove that idea.

Oh. Huh, EJ and strong family values?

Hey, I never dumped my child on my sister to raise. How is Lani, by the way?

You keep my daughter’s name out of your mouth.

Okay, enough, both of you, all right? This is really, really important to us, all right? And so if you two cannot act civilly for just one lunch, then you both should leave.

Uh, I’m sorry, Chanel. I’ll be on my best behavior.

As will I.

Okay. Uh, good. So Chanel and I, we should probably go get changed. Uh, we’ll head upstairs. I trust you two are not going to kill each other?

You can count on us.

Well, thank you. [soft music]

For the record, I am so over you right now.

Yeah, well, you’re not exactly my favorite person either, but let’s try and keep it in check, shall we? We need to make a good impression for Mrs. Choi’s sake. [door clicks]

And our children.

Yeah.

I hope we’re not interrupting. [tense music]

44

Tate, hi. Uh, Doug and I were just talking.

About?

Nothing, really.

Well, it–it didn’t look like nothing. You were holding hands just now.

No, no, I was just supporting him as a friend.

What are you talking about?

Well, it’s not really my place to say.

Holly, it’s okay. We need to tell him the truth about everything. [tense music]

You don’t have to say anything.

It’s cool, really. Holly was just trying to make me feel better. I did something pretty awful, and the guilt was practically killing me.

Guilt about what? What did you do? 46

Doug–

I stole a necklace, a really expensive one.

So you’re a thief?

No. No, he’s not. He just–he made a mistake, and he’s trying to make it right.

And Holly’s been helping me do that.

Helping you? Wow. Helping you how? 47

Well, you see, the necklace was fenced, so we’re trying to track down who bought it. That way, he can return it to its rightful owner.

The rightful owner? You mean the person that he stole it from? Holly, did–you– are you sure that you want to get wrapped up in this? Like, you could really get in trouble here.

Tate, I know what I’m doing. I’m fine, okay? 48

Look, I have to go. Sophia and her mother are meeting Johnny and Chanel, and I feel like I should be there. But I really want to talk to you about this later. Alone.

Okay.

Oh, in the meantime, watch your purse. [tense music]

Why did you do that? Why did you just tell Tate you stole Julie’s necklace?

You’re not interrupting a thing. We’re just a little embarrassed, that’s all. You just caught us talking about how we wanted to make a good first impression.

Oh, I understand. This is all a little nerve-racking.

Your butler let us in. I hope that’s okay. 50

More than okay.

Johnny and Chanel, they’re upstairs getting ready. I’m Paulina Price, Chanel’s mother.

Of course. I know who you are, Madam Mayor.

Oh, please. Call me Paulina.

Amy Choi. And this is my daughter, Sophia.

And I’m EJ, Johnny’s father.

Uh, we haven’t officially met, but I used to hang here with Holly sometimes.

And I’ve been friendly with your wife for some time.

His wife?

Yes, Nicole and I are both pretty active in our daughters’ lives. Lots of carpooling and PTA meetings. I haven’t seen her in ages, though. Will she be joining us?

Yes, EJ, will she be joining us?

No, I’m afraid not. 52

Uh, Holly’s mom and Mr. DiMera got a divorce last year.

Nicole lives in Paris now.

I see. I’m sorry.

Oh, no, no. No need to be sorry. No, no. I hear she– she’s really happy. Thriving, even.

[chuckles] While I do wish Nicole the best, we would still be married if it were up to me. The sanctity of marriage is very, very important to me. But alas, there was nothing I could do. She left me for another man.

How terrible.

Mm. A defrocked priest, if you can imagine.

Look, EJ, please, let’s not bore Mrs. Choi with the details of your divorce. Let’s talk about more cheerful topics.

Oh, he’s not boring me. And I appreciate your honesty, EJ. [light suspenseful music]

Mrs. Choi. Hi, Johnny DiMera. Pleasure to meet you.

Likewise.

I assume that you’ve all met?

Yes, we have. And your father was just telling us about his divorce from Nicole. 55

Oh, he was? Yeah, uh–yes, that was very unfortunate. But I can assure you that Chanel and I are not headed for the same fate. We are in this for the long haul. In fact, we’re hoping that, um, Tate and Sophia’s baby could be our first step towards growing our family.

I’m happy to hear that. But choosing the right adoptive parents for my grandchild is no small matter to me. Before I make any decisions, we should all get to know each other better.

Oh, Chanel and I couldn’t agree any more. In fact, I’m sure my wife will be joining us shortly.

Here I am. Sorry to keep you all waiting.

We need to play this right. We need to prove that the man in custody is Arnold, then we can use it as leverage. 57

And force him to tell us where Rafe is. So what are we waiting for? I’ll drive us to the station.

No, he’ll–he’ll just stick to his amnesia story, to say nothing of the fact that he’s lawyered up.

Give me ten minutes alone with him. He’ll beg for mercy and cop to everything.

That’s a one-way ticket to getting all the charges tossed. Going through Arnold is a dead end. [pensive music] 58

Then we don’t go through Arnold. There’s one other person that can lead us to Rafe.

EJ.

Mm-hmm.

He’s worked with Arnold before. And if he knows anything about this, he’ll know where Rafe is.

But where? It’s not like he’d keep my brother in the mansion. There’s too many people living there. Any one of them could stumble upon him. – Jada. – Here you are. I knew I was right.

That would be a first. What are you doing down here?

Looking for you.

Fine. You’ve found me. Now tell me why.

You know why. I know exactly what you’re up to, EJ. [clattering] What was that noise? [tense music]

Jada.

EJ might not keep him in the mansion, but he might be keeping him under it.

[quirky tense music]

Would you care for another? 61

Oh, don’t mind if I do. Dare I ask for the recipe?

Oh, I couldn’t possibly take credit. We have a, uh–a staff full of people in the kitchen.

[chuckles]

Isn’t that great, Mom? The baby would have gourmet cooking every day.

Hey, hey. I’m sorry I’m late, everyone. Hope I didn’t miss– Anything.

Well, that’s okay, Tate. I told my mom that you were picking up the dessert.

Right. Yes. Yeah, yeah. And that’s what I did. I wanted to show off the amazing cookies that Chanel has at her bakery.

You own your own bakery?

Oh, uh, yes, I do. A lovely little space in the square. Maybe you’ve heard of it– Sweet Bits?

Oh. I always thought that name was a bit inappropriate. I’m not a fan of double entendres.

Oh. Oh, wow. You know, it never even crossed my mind.

[laughs nervously] Yeah. Yeah, I guess, uh, sometimes we’re just– we’re just too innocent for our own good, you know.

[chuckles]

Mrs. Choi, may I interest you in a drink?

Water, please.

Coming up.

Oh, Chanel, uh, that’s quite a lovely necklace.

Oh, well, thank you. My mother got it for me for my first communion.

[chuckles]

And what about you, EJ?

My mother is quite devout.

And your father?

[inhales sharply] Nothing was more important to him than eternal life.

How wonderful. And how lucky that Chanel and Johnny found partners whose families share similar values.

[laughs] Almost too good to be true. [chuckles]

Where the hell is my brother, you sick son of a bitch? [tense dramatic music]

Okay, for starters, I never said it was Julie’s necklace that I took. Tate has no idea that it has anything to do with the Hortons. And look, Tate clearly had the wrong idea about us, so I figured it would be better to just tell him the truth. Or at least part of it.

Still, that was really risky.

Yeah, maybe. But I’m not gonna ask you to lie to him.

Well, I don’t know what to say. Thank you.

Now, the only question is, is Tate gonna rat me out before I can make this right?

[tense music]

What’s happening?

No clue, but it cannot be good.

Maybe we can all discuss this at another time.

Or perhaps never. You both have a lot of nerve just barging in here.

We want answers, EJ. Where’s Rafe? 69

Dad, what are they talking about?

You haven’t heard? Your father kidnapped Rafe and replaced him with Arnold Feniger. Again.

I did no such thing.

Arnold Feniger is dead.

Yeah, that’s what we thought. But we just tested his DNA from the man in custody right now.

The guy who almost married Jada, who was working for your father, isn’t my brother.

Yeah, we think someone may have swapped him out months ago.

Dad…

please tell me you didn’t have anything to do with this. Not after what that guy did to Mom.

Of course I didn’t.

Then I guess you won’t mind if I take a look around in the tunnels.

[scoffs] This is absurd.

Johnny, would you show me to the tunnels?

Good heavens. What is going on here?

You can’t just come storming in here and snoop around– without a warrant, no less.

Who needs a warrant? I’m not a cop anymore, thanks to you. 72

If you have nothing to hide, you’ll let her go down there.

Johnny, would you show me to the tunnels?

Son, please.

Thank you, Johnny.

You know, uh, maybe we should just reschedule.

No. No need. Jada and Gabi will be leaving very soon, and I’ll expect an apology before they go. 73

[chuckles] I swear, if you hurt my brother–

I do not know anything about Rafe or Arnold Feniger.

You better be telling the truth. Because I swear to God, if I find out you had anything to do with the man who raped my mother, there will be hell to pay. [dramatic music]

[soft tense music]

Uh, she’s been down there a while. Maybe I should go check on her. [footsteps approaching]

Well, did you find Rafe?

No sign of him.

Ah, shucks. That’s because he was never there. Now, please, get the hell out of my house.

This isn’t over, EJ. We know you had something to do with this.

And once we find Rafe, you are gonna go to prison for the rest of your life.

[door clicks]

[clears throat]

More, uh, cookies, anyone? [chuckles]

You can trust Tate. He can keep a secret.

If he wants to.

What’s that supposed to mean?

It’s just–look, it’s very obvious that I’m not Tate’s favorite person, okay? He doesn’t know anything about me, except that he keeps catching me alone with you. Why would he keep it quiet for me?

You’re right. He wouldn’t. But he would for me. 77

Well, not if he thinks I’m gonna get you in trouble.

Let me just worry about Tate, okay? I’ll make him understand why this is so important. Besides, I doubt he’s giving it much thought today. He’s too busy focusing on making sure Mrs. Choi doesn’t run for the hills when she meets the DiMeras.

Come along, Sophia.

We haven’t even finished lunch yet.

I’ve lost my appetite. 78

Oh. Whatever is going on with Johnny’s father, that is no reflection on his son or my daughter. Now, you–you’ve got to believe that.

I don’t know what to believe. But what I do know is that the three of us need to have a long chat so we can reevaluate this situation. Now, let’s go. [soft dramatic music]

79

I’ll be in touch, I guess.

[sighs] There’s no way they’re gonna let us adopt that baby now, is there?

Mom, just please give Mr. DiMera a chance to explain himself.

She’s right, Mrs. Choi. It sounds like Gabi and Jada have got this totally wrong. 80

And Commissioner Hunter was the one all over the news, remember? So was Gabi a while back.

Even if they were wrong this time, Johnny admitted that his father was once mixed up with that horrible man. I’m sorry, but I am not stepping one foot back in that house of horrors. And I am certainly not giving Johnny and Chanel DiMera my grandchild. [tense music]

Well, thanks a lot, Dad. Pretty sure you just blew any chance we had of adopting Tate and Sophia’s baby.

How are you blaming me? Jada and Gabi were the ones who came storming in here with their baseless accusations.

Were they baseless?

Look at me, son. Hand to God, I’m not holding Rafe hostage. 82

[exhales] Really? Then why did I see you hanging out with Rafe around the holidays in this very room?

[sighs] Because I hired Rafe to investigate Jada. Obviously I couldn’t just come right out and tell you.

Except Rafe acted like he didn’t even know me. Was it Feniger the whole time? Hmm?

[scoffs] It must have been. No wonder he was so willing to uncover his fiancée’s corruption. [sighs]

So that’s your story, huh? You had no idea that Rafe was ever replaced?

That’s the truth.

Well, I hope to God it is. Because if I find out that you lied to me again about the man who violated my mother, you will never see me, you will never see Chanel, you will never see our family ever again. And I will never forgive you.

[tense music]

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