Month: July 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Alex sits at home with Stephanie, who is working on her laptop. Alex talks about planning to stay at the office but Xander’s daughter Victoria was screaming loudly. Alex notes Stephanie being distracted and comments that he hasn’t seen her so focused on something in awhile, so he asks what’s going on. Stephanie informs him that she’s working on notes for her meeting with EJ tomorrow about being hired to do PR for the hospital. Stephanie explains that she’s lost clients recently and could use the work. Alex reminds Stephanie that she could just quit the PR business and write full time but Stephanie remains unsure. Alex then shows her a cover art for her novel, “One Stormy Night” under the pseudonym of being written by Anastasia Sands and tells her that once it hits the stands, she may never have to work for someone else again.

Xander is in his office with Victoria and talks on the phone until Victoria wakes up crying. Xander decides to take her for a walk.

Rafe is at home when he gets a text from a Kelly Jones that they will see him in twenty. Rafe goes to leave as Gabi comes home and says she has a meeting but forgot her notes. Gabi then asks where Rafe is headed off to.

Chad brings his son Thomas to the park where they run in to Cat. Thomas questions what she is doing there.

EJ has a drink in the living room of the DiMera Mansion until Gwen walks in and talks about how she always couldn’t decide on a room in the mansion. Gwen tells EJ that Kristen was making her up a corner suite, so she’s going to gather her belongings from the Salem Inn and move right in, but EJ says no she won’t. Gwen questions what he means. EJ says she won’t be moving in today because Kristen forgot the entire east wing is scheduled to be painted, so she will have to wait a few days. Gwen decides she will wait until it’s all finished the. EJ sarcastically says they want her to be happy at her stay. Gwen says she plans to be quite comfortable. EJ repeats that it will be a few days. Gwen says she has the luxury of making her decision from the Salem Inn since she has Dimitri’s money.

Cat says she was just taking a stroll before sunset. Chad says they were taking advantage of the weather too. Thomas invites Cat to join them in playing catch but Chad says they only have two gloves, so maybe another time. Thomas then tells Cat that she can use his glove.

Rafe tells Gabi that he has a meeting. Gabi questions who with, then guesses he’s being a secret agent. Gabi says now that Rafe is back in the FBI, it will be like it used to be with him sneaking around. Gabi continues to ask who Rafe is meeting, pointing out that she won’t tell anyone. Rafe tells Gabi that she knows the drill, so she apologizes for pushing. Gabi advises Rafe to be careful. Rafe asks if Arianna made it to the lake safely. Gabi responds that she’s not sure. Rafe questions Gabi not freaking out over not hearing from her. Gabi says she will be if she doesn’t hear from her by tonight, but Arianna must be caught up and forgot to text her. Gabi guesses Arianna is having the time of her life..

Stephanie tells Alex that it’s amazing. Alex explains that it’s a mock up from the art department if she wants to make any change. Stephanie assures that she loves it. They talk about using her Grandmother’s romance novels to come up with the alias of Anastasia Sands. Alex calls it a nice tribute. Stephanie agrees that it’s perfect and says she can’t believe the book she wrote in her spare time for fun is going to be out in the world. Alex says it will be soon as Kate says she’s making it top priority to get it to press, which means she believes strongly that One Stormy Night is going to put their publishing division back on track. Alex tells Stephanie that she’s about to be a published author as they kiss and begin to undress until there’s a knock at the door. Stephanie gets up to answer the door and is surprised to see Kayla, who asks if it’s a bad time.

Cat thanks Thomas and says it’s really sweet of him but she can’t play catch right now because she has some place to be. Chad thinks back to the last time they were together and he saw her phone have a text from a James Smith, asking to meet tomorrow. Cat tells them to have fun and walks away. Thomas tells Chad that Cat is nice and questions why he was trying to get rid of her which Chad denies. Chad says he just wanted a little father-son time which Thomas decides is cool with him as they play catch.

Xander brings Victoria back to the office and says taking a walk wasn’t the answer, so he wonders what the problem is. Victoria continues crying as Xander wonders what else he can do for her. Gabi then arrives and offers to try.

Cat meets Rafe in his office and talk about getting used to their aliases of Kelly Jones and James Smith. Rafe says they will probably be texting each other a lot to meet like this. Cat says she has him saved in her phone as James Smith so no one will ever know which Rafe says is smart. Rafe asks what she’s got. Cat presents him a flash drive with EJ’s financial information. Rafe wants to go over their briefing before they get started. Rafe says the FBI and ISA have set up this new inter-agency task force that they will be working with and the objective is to take down the DiMeras. Cat confirms that Shane said the agency have been trying to do this for years with no success but with the recent Titan takeover, the DiMeras are off their game. Rafe agrees that it’s the best time to strike. Cat says the best way to track illegal activity is to follow the money. They talk about the most recent purchase being EJ buying the hospital. Rafe is sure it was nefarious and questions where EJ got the money, who chipped in, and why. Cat agrees that a failing hospital is hardly a good investment. Rafe adds that it could be years until the miracle drug comes to market. Cat wonders what EJ could be planning in the meantime. Rafe says nothing good, so the sooner they nail him, the better. Cat asks about this being personal for Rafe since he and EJ have history, so she’s curious about what went down to better understand how EJ operates. Rafe tells her to get comfortable because this could take awhile.

EJ comments on Gwen’s necklace and then realizes it’s the necklace stolen from Julie and sold to Melinda Trask. EJ asks if she stole it as well. Gwen informs him that she bought it from a broker with Dimitri’s money, though she wasn’t aware of it’s prominence. EJ assumes she will return it to it’s rightful owner but Gwen says she is the rightful owner now. Gwen declares that she will return it to Julie when Hell freezes over.

Stephanie invites Kayla in and asks what brings her by. Kayla says she did some stress baking with all the hospital business, so she decided to share some of her blueberry pie. Stephanie suggests they all have a slice. Alex decides he’s going to shower at his place and he’ll be right back so he hurries out. Kayla guesses it was a bad time but Stephanie says not at all and that she’s glad she’s there because there’s something important that she wants to talk to her about.

Xander thanks Gabi for her offer but says it’s not like he can’t soothe his own daughter. Gabi argues that she’s not saying he can’t and that sometimes it’s good to let someone else try. Gabi acknowledges that sometimes it seems nothing works and points out that he’s down a parent so Xander allows her to try.

Stephanie explains to Kayla that she didn’t turn down EJ’s offer to hire her for PR at the hospital and mentions that she could use the work. Stephanie adds that she knows what a jerk EJ is, but she wouldn’t be working for him, she’d be working for the hospital and Kayla. Stephanie doesn’t think EJ would bother to sit down with her unless he was prepared to make an offer, so the question is should she accept it. Kayla agrees that she would be a tremendous asset to the hospital and praises her, saying the hospital would be lucky to have her. Stephanie asks if she should take the job then. Kayla responds that she actually thinks she shouldn’t and that she should run the other way.

EJ questions Gwen still having problems with the Hortons. Gwen blames Laura for sending her packing before she was even born and complains that they treated her like rubbish when she first moved to Salem, so she doesn’t have a very high opinion of the Hortons. EJ remarks on there being two sides of every story. Gwen believes EJ should be on her sie after being villified by the Hortons. Chad then arrives with Thomas and greets Gwen.

Rafe informs Cat about EJ replacing him with a lookalike again and reinstating him as police commissioner. Cat doesn’t understand how EJ isn’t behind bars or how he does these terrible things and comes off normal. Rafe calls EJ a sociopath who only cares about himself and says he’ll do anything no matter how wrong it is, to get what he wants. Cat says EJ running the hospital is scary which Rafe says is why they need to stop him now. Cat admits she had zero interest in returning to the ISA but Shane told her how much was at stake. Cat adds that it’s personal for her since the hospital saved her sister’s life so she has no interest in letting someone mess with that place. Rafe is glad she’s on board. Cat says she told Shane that it’s a one and done as she knew they would be investigating EJ but she had no idea the super villain he was. Cat then mentions EJ also being Chad’s brother.

Gwen tells Chad and Thomas that it’s lovely to see them. Chad admits that he wasn’t expecting to see her here. EJ asks what brings Chad by. Chad says Thomas left some of his action figures so EJ says not to let them keep him. Thomas stops to question why Gwen has Julie’s necklace and why she won’t give it back.

Rafe appreciates Cat’s concern for Chad, but says that Chad knows very well about his family’s history and even published an expose’ on the front page of the Spectator, laying it all out. Cat remembers Chad thinking that was the reason EJ got shot and says he cares a great deal about his brother. Rafe says Chad also cares about justice as he’s the good DiMera. Rafe states that when the DiMeras aren’t stabbing each other in the back, they are busy making their legal problems go away, but not Chad. Rafe assures that if they find the goods on EJ, Chad won’t stand in the way or hold it against her. Cat says she’s not concerned about herself but brings up her two younger siblings being through a lot so she worries about anything happening to them because she got roped back in to the ISA. Rafe relates to being the oldest sibling as well and says he’s very protective of them. Cat bets they don’t love him doing this dangerous work. Rafe thinks they know that he chose this career to make the world a safer place. Cat guesses he enjoys the job. Rafe confirms that he does and he doesn’t even know if he would call it a job, but more of a calling and something he feels compelled to do. Rafe figures Cat is the same way.

Gabi gets Victoria to go to sleep. Xander is impressed and questions how she did that. Gabi says she didn’t really do anything as Victoria cried herself tired. Xander feels he couldn’t do anything while she goes out like a light as soon as Gabi picked her up. Gabi tells him not to overthink it. Xander worries that his own daughter forgot who he was. Gabi encourages that she was away from him for a month, so they just need to get reacquainted. Xander hopes she’s right as he didn’t think it would be this difficult.

Stephanie questions Kayla thinking she shouldn’t take a job at her hospital. Kayla argues that it’s not her hospital, it’s EJ’s while Stephanie argues that Kayla is chief of staff so she has a huge say over everything there. Kayla says if EJ’s budget proposal is any indication, he wants to make some big changes. Stephanie asks if she thinks he’s going to try to get her fired. Stephanie says in that case, she will definitely take the job to keep EJ in check. Kayla says she can handle EJ, but a PR person for EJ would be tricky because EJ would want her to make him look good and demand she put a rosy spin on anything he does for the hospital and turn away from anything illegal he does. Kayla brings up all the fires she will have to put out and says she would hate to see Stephanie compromise her morals for a paycheck. Stephanie says she would quit before it came to that and she thinks the hospital is in desperate need of positive press. Kayla admits there’s been a shadow over everything since the financial crisis started. Stephanie feels she can put the focus back on the incredible work the hospital does to make people’s lives better. Alex returns and asks who is ready for some pie. Kayla says she will let them get back to whatever they were doing, but then she comes across Alex’s table with the mock cover of Stephanie’s novel and questions what this is.

Chad tells Thomas that’s a good question and asks Gwen why she isn’t giving the necklace back to Julie. Gwen responds that there’s been a disagreement over who actually owns the necklace. EJ says he’s sure it will be sorted very soon while Chad warns that it better be.

Cat repeats to Rafe that she does really care about the hospital, so she guesses she did feel called to this particular mission but she’s not sure she’s ready for it. Rafe argues that Shane said she was one of the best analysts he ever worked with. Cat says this might cause them to be out in the field and she was not trained for that at all. Rafe is sure she’s more prepared for that than she thinks and assures that he has her back. Rafe offers to show her some basic self defense moves which Cat agrees would be great.

Gabi tells Xander that she’s getting reacquainted with her daughter as well. Xander suggests they can do a little work while Victoria is quiet. Gabi says she has the latest numbers for the Gabi Chic spring collection. Xander points out that it’d be better if they had a marketing reel but Johnny hasn’t gotten around to it. Xander adds that he told Johnny to come back after lunch but he’s nowhere to be found. Gabi mentions hearing that he had a personal emergency. Xander wonders if it has to do with being charged with shooting his own father. Xander adds that he’s behind anyone trying to get rid of EJ but thinks maybe Johnny wasn’t the right choice to handle rehabilitating the company’s image. Gabi points out Xander also being recently charged with attempted murder, so maybe he can cut Johnny some slack. Xander complains that the shareholders won’t cut him slack if the stock price drops so they need that video done. Gabi encourages him to relax. Xander questions Gabi being so calm. Gabi jokes that maybe it’s because he’s stressed enough for the both of them.

Alex tells Kayla that it’s just the cover of a book that Titan is publishing. Kayla calls it fabulous. Alex questions her reading it. Kayla says there was a manuscript going around the hospital so she thinks the entire staff read it and jokes that it should be called One Steamy Night. Alex asks if Kayla liked it though. Kayla confirms she did, calling it engaging and a real page turner. Kayla says she thinks Anastasia Sands and Titan will make a mint. Kayla asks if Stephanie has read it. Stephanie says not exactly so Kayla suggests making sure that Alex gives her a sneak peak as she thinks it will be a best seller. Kayla then says goodnight and tells them to enjoy the pie as she exits, leaving Stephanie horrified that her mom read her novel.

Chad sends Thomas upstairs to get his action figures and then tells Gwen that he had to be nice to her in front of his son, but the way she treated Julie last night made him sick and now he has the displeasure of seeing her again. Gwen calls him rude. Chad wants Gwen gone and tells her to wrap up whatever she’s doing in Salem. Gwen responds that she’s afraid she can’t do that as she has a few loose ends to tie up. Chad doesn’t know or care what that means. Chad warns that he’s watching her and to stay away from his family. Gwen reminds him that she is Thomas’s aunt so she’s part of his family on both sides, because she’s still Dimitri’s wife which makes her a DiMera. Gwen remarks that she’s going to really embrace that and soak it in. Gwen then announces to Chad that she’s moving in to the family home.

Xander remarks that he’s glad his total frustration is bringing out the zen in Gabi. Gabi jokes that she’s sure it won’t be long before she’s flipping out over something. Xander says they know it won’t be a crying baby and thanks Gabi for her help. Gabi acknowledges how many people helped her with Arianna over the years and says co-parenting is hard but worth it. Gabi remembers when Arianna was Victoria’s age and says time just flew by. Gabi talks about how she used to tell herself she’d have another baby and get to do it all over again, but she can’t. Gabi then tells Xander to be grateful for what he has. Xander responds that he’s trying. Gabi asks how hard can it be, pointing out that he has everything he ever wanted. Xander says everything except Sarah.

Rafe and Cat go over EJ’s financial information. Rafe says it definitely raises some flags. Cat talks about EJ not having the funds to purchase the hospital on his own, so he must have had a silent partner. Rafe declares that they have to find out who that silent partner is and why they want to remain silent.

Stephanie freaks out over Kayla reading her novel and says she’s mortified. Alex thinks she’s overreacting and says it doesn’t matter since Kayla doesn’t know that Stephanie wrote the book. Stephanie complains that her parents are the two people in the world that she wouldn’t want to read her book. Stephanie then points out that her parents aren’t here now, so she suggests picking up where they left off as she kisses Alex. Alex hugs her while Stephanie remains looking worried.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

EJ and Belle lay in bed together after having sex which EJ calls a perfect morning. They call it time well spent but Belle says now she has to get back to work. EJ asks her to stay a little while longer so Belle agrees as they continue kissing.

Kristen goes to see Brady and asks about him having good news about Rachel. Brady informs her that according to Belle, there’s a new suspect in EJ’s shooting and it’s Chanel.

Johnny is at home and calls Philip to tell him that he won’t be able to make it back in to work because a personal emergency popped up. Johnny promises to get the statement recorded first thing tomorrow and asks him to let Xander know as well. Johnny thanks him and hangs up. Chanel tells Johnny that she doesn’t know how he acts like everything is normal when their entire world is falling apart.

Tate goes to the lake and texts Holly that he’s still waiting, asking where she is.

The loan shark brings Holly and Arianna to a warehouse. They want to know who he is and why he wants to kill them. He explains that they just need a mutual friend to cough up the money he owes. Holly asks what if the mutual friend doesn’t have the money. He responds that then things are going to get complicated.

Doug III dresses up as room service at the Salem Inn and knocks on Gwen’s door but there’s no answer. He prepares to use a card to sneak in but Gwen arrives and catches him, asking what he thinks he’s doing.

Kristen questions the police thinking Chanel shot EJ and asks if Brady knows what this means. Brady believes it would mean Chanel let Johnny take the fall for a crime that she committed. Kristen points out that it would also mean the charges against Johnny would be dropped and Rachel won’t have to testify. Brady says that Belle couldn’t tell him much but that’s certainly a possibility. Kristen complains that she was convinced Johnny was guilty but she hoped she was wrong. Brady calls it a no-win situation for Johnny either way because if Chanel did this, his world will be turned upside down.

Johnny tells Chanel that he knows things look kind of bleak right now. Chanel panics that it won’t be long before all of Salem thinks she or Johnny shot EJ. Johnny asks who cares what people think and says they both know they are innocent, so all they have to do is prove that which means they need to figure out who shot EJ.

Tate tries calling Holly and leaves a message that he texted her and Arianna but they haven’t been read. Tate says he thinks he’s at the right meeting spot but he doesn’t see them anywhere so he’s going to do another lap around the lake and hope to run in to them. Tate says to call him when she gets this and hopes she’s okay.

Holly asks the loan shark if they are going to die if he doesn’t get his money. He says not necessarily as he knows her family is loaded so they can go to a ransom. Arianna intervenes to say that her family has money too and that if he gives her back her phone, she can call Gabi to work something out. The loan shark says that could get messy so he will just deal with their little friend. He tells them to sit tight and hope that he comes through for them as he exits.

Doug III claims to Gwen that he was just delivering her room service. Gwen says she didn’t order any. Doug III notices Gwen is wearing the necklace. Gwen says she did order breakfast earlier but she already had it. Doug III says he’s sorry to bother her and walks away.

EJ tells Belle that he can’t get enough of her as they kiss in bed. EJ says he’d like to spend the entire day in bed with her but he wants to prepare breakfast for her, so he gets up to head downstairs.

Chanel tells Johnny that she wants to clear their names but thinks they should leave the investigating to the police. Johnny argues that the police didn’t seem interested in any other suspects once they had him, until that video ended up in Belle’s lap. Chanel says she was horrified and swears she does not remember threatening EJ in that way. Johnny says it doesn’t matter what she said, only what she did. Chanel assures that she walked out and drove home. Johnny knows she didn’t shoot his dad and that she wouldn’t do something like that, no matter how angry she was. Johnny adds that he knows if she did, she wouldn’t let him take the fall for it. Chanel thanks him for believing in her as they hug.

Kristen tells Brady that if Chanel was going to let Johnny take the fall then she deserves whatever she gets. Brady feels that’s a little harsh. Brady says if Chanel did it, she did it because of all the pain and suffering EJ inflicted on Johnny over the years. Brady tells Kristen not to pretend she wouldn’t do the same thing in her shoes. Kristen admits she has been driven to that extreme. but says she would never stand back and watch the man she loves get arrested for it. Brady says they don’t know what’s going to happen yet. Kristen guesses they can hope for the best for Rachel. Kristen thanks Brady for keeping her in the loop as she’s been worried about Rachel testifying, especially after her run-in with EJ yesterday. Brady questions what happened. Kristen informs him that EJ wanted her to coach Rachel in to lying on the stand if she had to testify against Johnny but she refused. Brady gets upset and wants to confront EJ, feeling he needs to be put in his place. Kristen stops him and says that EJ is just desperate to save his son and liable to do anything to make that happen which means he’s a very dangerous man, so she will not let Brady confront him because the last thing she wants is to see Brady get hurt.

Doug III watches around the corner as Gwen exits her hotel room and walks away. Doug III notes that she’s still wearing the necklace.

Arianna and Holly try to escape but the door won’t move. They worry about what they are going to do. Holly blames herself for Arianna being in this mess which she questions. Holly explains that she had been involved with a guy who was in debt to some loan sharks. Arianna then reveals that she had been with the same guy, Doug Williams III, leaving them both in disbelief.

Chanel tells Johnny that since EJ most likely will never remember who shot him, they should come up with a list of possible suspects. Johnny says they talked about Gabi and Ava, but EJ seemed to really zero in on Kristen. Chanel says Kristen is certainly capable. Johnny decides they should write it down and goes to get paper, but is shocked to find another paper revealing that Chanel put up Sweet Bits Bakery as collateral for his bail bond and questions why she would do this.

EJ and Belle have breakfast in bed. Belle says it’s perfect as EJ says it’s his goal to satisfy her in every way. Belle is glad to spend time with him since she knows things are going to get chaotic during Johnny’s trial while they are on opposing sides. EJ says the same goal is to prove Johnny’s innocent. Belle reminds him that she believes Johnny is innocent but she still has to do her job and prosecute. Belle hopes that EJ didn’t get her back on the case because he thought she’d give Johnny a pass. EJ assures that he knows she would never do that and that he respects her integrity. Belle doesn’t get why the judge thinks so but decides she’s better off not knowing how EJ got her back on the case. EJ swears he just made a persuasive argument while Belle admits that she wishes he hadn’t.

Brady tells Kristen that he appreciates her concern but he can handle her brother. Kristen says there’s just no reason to get in to it and points out that Rachel might not even have to testify. Brady agrees to let it go for now. Tate comes home and greets them, saying he’s sorry to interrupt but Kristen says she was just leaving. Kristen tells Brady they can pick up later as she exits. Brady questions Tate not spending the day at the lake with Holly. Tate says he thought he would be too. Brady asks why he’s not with Holly. Tate responds that Holly never showed up.

Arianna confirms to Holly that Doug III was the guy that she slept with. Holly explains that Doug III said he had feelings for her while she was with Tate. Holly admits that she thought something might happen between them after but says she’s glad nothing did. Arianna gets upset and argues that it makes her sound like a slut for sleeping with him. Holly clarifies that she just meant because she still had feelings for Tate. Arianna apologizes for lashing out and says she’s not mad at her, but at herself. She blames Doug III for them being trapped her and the reason they might die.

Doug III goes outside the Brady Pub and grabs the loan shark, questioning what is wrong with him and screams that Holly and Arianna have nothing to do with this. He responds that if Doug III wants them to go free, he better back off. Doug III assures he will repay his debt as soon as possible but he has to let them go. The loan shark says he heard that so many times before, so he needed added incentive to do this. Doug III says he tried to get the necklace but it didn’t work. The loan shark says cash will do just fine. Doug III admits he doesn’t have that either so the loan shark says the girls are going to have to pay the price.

Johnny tells Chanel that he can’t let her risk losing her business, arguing that there was no need to do that since EJ could’ve put up the money. Chanel argues that it had to come from her because she needs him to know that she supports him and is here for him. Johnny says he’s really grateful. Chanel tells him that she loves him as they hug.

Belle thinks it would’ve been better for everyone if one of her assistants was put on the case. EJ feels it wouldn’t have been better for Johnny. Belle argues that if Johnny is found innocent, the public might think she went easy on him and it was rigged. EJ doesn’t care as long as Johnny is free. Belle worries about her reputation. EJ apologizes for putting her in a difficult position, but points out that she may not even have to prosecute Johnny with the video of Chanel and no physical evidence against Johnny. EJ feels there’s reasonable doubt and she could consider dropping the charges against Johnny altogether.

Gwen goes to the DiMera Mansion and walks around the living room, asking if anyone is home. Kristen then comes in and they embrace. Kristen calls her the last person she expected to find in her living room. Kristen adds that last she heard, Gwen was in Alamania, staking her claim on Dimitri’s fortune. Gwen confirms it took awhile but as Dimitri’s wife, she is entitled to his inheritance, so she is now filthy rich. They laugh together as Kristen congratulates her. Kristen questions why Gwen would be slumming it in Salem with all that money.

Tate tells Brady that he asked every person at the lake if they had seen Holly or Arianna but none of them have. Brady encourages that they could’ve just been late or stuck in traffic. Tate doesn’t think so and says he waited a really long time. Tate guesses it’s possible he missed them, but that doesn’t explain why Holly hasn’t called or texted him. Brady suggests it could be the signal but Tate says he had no issue. Tate brings up that he and Holly just patched things up, so he wonders if she had a change of heart and decided she wasn’t ready to get back together.

Arianna tells Holly that she feels like a fool while Holly insists that she and Doug III weren’t together. Arianna says she always knew Doug III was holding something back and even asked him if he had a girlfriend. Arianna says now she can’t help but think that he was only with her because he couldn’t be with Holly. Holly hopes they’ll just get their money and let them go, but points out that Doug III doesn’t actually have the money which is why he’s in this position in the first place. Arianna encourages that Doug III will figure something out because if not, they are screwed.

The loan shark warns Doug III that he’s going to have one of his co-workers set the whole thing in motion. Doug III pleads with him not to hurt Holly or Arianna and promises to get him the necklace or the money. He agrees to give Doug III one more day or that’s it with no more chances, adding that if anything happens to the girls, it’s on him. He reminds Doug III not to involve the cops and walks away.

Holly and Arianna try banging on the door and screaming for help to no avail. Arianna cries that it’s hopeless while Holly encourages that someone could still come rescue them. Arianna points out that their phones taken so they can’t be tracked. Holly mentions that she dropped her class ring in the alley. Arianna questions how anyone would know where to look. Holly calls it a start while Arianna says they just have to hope someone realizes they are missing. Holly brings up Tate.

Brady encourages that if Holly was really having second thoughts, she would just talk to Tate about it. Tate agrees since she had been so excited about them spending time together and things were perfectly fine a couple hours ago, so there’s no way she could’ve changed her mind that quickly. Brady asks if he can think of anyone else who would know where Holly is. Tate admits there is someone he could ask.

Johnny still can’t believe Chanel put the Bakery on the line for him when he knows much it means to her. Chanel responds that she would put everything on the line for him. Johnny appreciates that and is grateful but wishes he was more deserving of her love and support. Chanel insists that he is. Johnny feels horrible for keeping this from her and knows he should’ve told her from the start that he went to the DiMera Mansion to shoot EJ. Chanel understands why he kept it from her. Johnny feels he made a mess of everything and talks about how angry he was at EJ which affected her too. Johnny says his anger made Chanel hate EJ and he knows she still does. Chanel says that doesn’t have anything to do with Johnny and is entirely on EJ.

Belle argues that EJ cannot be serious about wanting her to drop the charges against Johnny, insisting that he has to be exonerated in court or this accusation will be hanging over his head for the rest of his life. EJ asks if that’s her real concern. Belle thinks he’s trying to manipulate her in to doing what he wants and that he was just trying to seduce her. EJ argues that she’s jumping to conclusions. Belle remarks that she is not his puppet and will not be doing his bidding. Belle gets upset and storms out, leaving EJ frustrated.

Gwen tells Kristen that Salem has a place in her heart and all her friends and family are here. Kristen understands that Gwen’s family hates her and that she’s probably her only friend. Kristen brings up Leo but Gwen says she will never forgive him for sleeping around with her husband. Kristen asks if that means she’s still married to Dimitri as she assumed he would’ve divorced her after he got out of prison. Gwen says she never heard from him and no one knows where he is which Kristen finds strange. Gwen says she’s still a Von Leuschner and a DiMera which is why she’s here. Gwen tells Kristen that they will have lots of time to catch up as she reveals she wants to move in to the DiMera Mansion.

Chanel asks Johnny if they can stop talking about EJ and who shot him which Johnny agrees to. Chanel asks him to just hold her which he does. Chanel wishes they could stay like this and forget about the rest of the world with no investigation or annoying family.

Doug III pours himself a drink at the Pub and then approaches the cash register but Tate arrives and asks if he’s got a minute. Tate says he wants to talk about Holly so Doug III asks what about her. Tate explains that they were supposed to meet at the lake today but Holly hasn’t returned any of his texts or calls and asks if he knows anything about that. Doug III claims not to and asks why he would. Tate points out that they are friends and he even wanted to be more than friends at point. Doug III assures that Holly is not with him, he hasn’t heard from her, and swears that he has no idea where she is.

Arianna remembers they were supposed to meet Tate hours ago so he has to realize something happened. Holly worries that he might think she ghosted him but hopes not. Arianna encourages that Tate will start asking around and get their families involved so that they will then be found.

Kristen questions Gwen wanting to live in the DiMera Mansion. Gwen points out that she is a DiMera and this is the DiMera family home. Kristen doesn’t know about that. Gwen encourages the idea of them living together. Kristen is unsure because things have been tense lately. Gwen jokes about not being shocked. Kristen knows there’s always drama here but lately it’s not the normal. Kristen says it’s been like a powder keg ready to explode. Belle comes in from downstairs. Kristen says she didn’t know she was there. Belle responds that she’s leaving now. EJ comes in to try to stop Belle but Belle tells him to get out of her way and storms out. Kristen asks EJ if there’s trouble in paradise. EJ is then shocked to see Gwen is there. Gwen and Kristen laugh as Gwen declares it’s going to be so much fun living there.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Tate and Holly kiss in the town square and talk about how they can’t wait to do that on the beach with the upcoming senior lake trip. Holly mentions packing sunscreen and a bikini that Tate will have to wait to see. They go over how Holly is driving with Arianna and then Tate will meet them there. Holly asks if Brady is okay with Tate going. Tate confirms that he is since it’s only for a day. Holly asks about Sophia. Tate admits he hasn’t told her yet, but he’s about to.

Sophia is at home, writing a letter for her son to one day read about why she gave him up and how it was the hardest thing she’s ever done.

At the Hernandez house, Gabi checks with Arianna to make sure she packs sunscreen and bug spray for her lake trip. Arianna gets annoyed which amuses Javi, who is taking care of Tesoro. Gabi wants to make sure Arianna has ear plugs and advises her that there is to be no drugs or drinking at the lake. Arianna tells her to back off. Gabi says she has to go get something to give her for the trip anyway and exits the room. Arianna complains to Javi about Gabi being in her face. Javi assures that Gabi just loves her and wants her to be safe. Arianna says she’s just going to the lake, not a war zone. Javi says as a paramedic, he’s gone to his fair share of calls involving teenagers and bodies of water. Arianna says she gets it and promises not to do anything stupid.

Doug III serves Leo breakfast at the Brady Pub and joins him on his break. Doug III asks if Leo knows if Julie ever got her necklace back. Leo responds that he’s sorry to report she did not. Doug III mentions that Julie told him it was on it’s way back to her but guesses it never made it back to Salem after all. Leo informs him that it did along with the woman who bought it. Doug III asks when Julie will get it back but Leo informs him that the woman brought it back just to rub it in Julie’s face.

Sarah can’t believe Xander took their daughter. Maggie says she told him it was a bad idea but he wouldn’t listen. Sarah complains that Xander went in to a rage when she told him they were taking Victoria out of the country so she should’ve known he would come here. Sarah blames herself. Maggie encourages that she has every right to go on a vacation with her child. Sarah says Xander thought her real plan was to run off with Victoria and never come back which Maggie calls absurd. Sarah declares that she’s not going to let Xander control them like this. Maggie asks what she’s going to do. Sarah tells Maggie to stay and get ready for the trip. Maggie advises her to be careful. Sarah tells her not to worry as Xander’s the one who needs to watch out.

Xander brings Victoria to his office and calls Melinda to inform her that Victoria is with him because Sarah was trying to fly her out of the country. Xander complains that Sarah is trying to take his daughter from him and he refuses to let that happen so there will be no more talk of compromise or co-parenting. Xander declares they are going to make sure that he never has to part with his little girl again.

Doug III tells Leo that sucks because he thought Julie would be so happy to get her necklace back and hate him a little less for stealing it. Leo talks about his search for the necklace and wondering who may have bought it, but he never would’ve imagined it would’ve been Gwen. Leo says it now makes perfect sense. Doug III asks if he knows her. Leo confirms they go way back and are ex-BFFs. Doug III encourages him to talk to Gwen about returning the necklace then. Leo says that he tried but Gwen refused and since Julie has no proof of ownership, she can’t do anything about it. Doug III begs Leo to talk to Gwen again since they were close. Leo tells him that Gwen can hold a grudge like nobody’s business and she hates his guts rightfully so. Doug III asks what he did to her. Leo says his break isn’t long enough for that but everyone in town from the Hortons to DiMeras have screwed Gwen over in some way, so she’s using this as revenge on Julie. Leo bets that Gwen is sitting in her hotel room now, thrilled that she’s making Julie and her family so miserable.

Gabi gives Arianna a paper bag and talks about knowing there will be cute boys around. Gabi says she hopes Arianna doesn’t have sex with them, but if she does, she needs to be protected. Javi asks Arianna if she’s ready to go. Arianna responds that she is now.

Holly goes to the Kiriakis Mansion and talks with Maggie about her excitement to go to the lake. Maggie says she’s worked so hard this year and deserves to have fun. Holly thanks her and asks if Maggie is excited for Bermuda. Maggie says she’s getting there. Holly asks if Sarah and Victoria are around to say goodbye but Maggie says they aren’t. Maggie says she will tell them for her but Holly stops her and asks if something is wrong.

Xander finishes a call at the office, saying to get the deal done or he’ll find someone who will. Xander then goes to Victoria and talks about how Titan will one day belong to her. Xander says they have their whole day in front of them and asks what she wants to do. Sarah appears and suggests giving her back to her mother.

Tate shows up and knocks on Sophia’s door. Sophia begins to panic, wondering what he’s doing there as Tate calls out that he’s coming in.

Doug III tells Leo that he should get back to work and asks if he wants a refill. Leo comments that he could use a double shot of espresso. Doug III questions him being tired. Leo explains that he and his boyfriend have been looking after an infant. Leo asks what’s the latest on Doug III’s problem with the loan shark. Doug III admits it’s really bad and he’s working overtime, trying to save his tips but he’s barely made a dent in what he owes. Leo says he’s sorry and that he would help if he could but he doesn’t have it. Doug III says he’s gone above and beyond so he’ll figure it out and adds that he already has an idea.

Gabi asks Arianna to text her when she gets to the lake. Gabi knows she can be extra but says it’s only because she loves her so much. Arianna says she knows and she loves her too. Gabi then gets a work text and steps out to respond. Arianna tells Javi that she will miss him and Tesoro. Arianna wonders if Tesoro will still be there when she gets back. Javi says probably since the mother has 14 days to reclaim him before being put up for adoption. Javi admits he’s getting attached and can’t imagine how hard it was for his mother to say goodbye.

Sophia jumps in bed and gets under the blankets as Tate enters and says he knocked a couple times but she didn’t answer. Sophia claims she just had her ear buds in. Tate notes that she seems a little tense and asks if everything is okay. Sophia says he was just there yesterday so she just wasn’t expecting him back so soon and asks what’s up. Tate says he just wanted to check on her, adding that he called her a few times but she didn’t pick up. Sophia says she’s been sleeping a lot. Tate asks if he can get her anything. Sophia declines and says she just wants to chill. Tate informs her that he is planning on going to the lake later but just for the day. Sophia guesses he’s going to be with Holly.

Holly asks Maggie if everything is okay. Maggie responds that it will be soon and asks if she’s all packed for her trip. Holly confirms that she is and that she just got sunblock and a bathing suit. Maggie points out that she’s going to be gone for a week with a lot of kids and not much supervision, so she wants to make sure she will be responsible. Holly knows how much her overdose scared her and promises to never do anything like that again. Maggie says to call her if she needs anything. Holly says she doesn’t want to bother her while she’s in Bermuda. Maggie assures that she’s no bother while Holly assures that there will be nothing to worry about as she will be very safe. Maggie says that’s all she can hope for and hugs Holly.

Xander tells Sarah that Victoria is sleeping. Sarah argues that Victoria shouldn’t be stuck in an office all day during the summer. Xander argues that he’s just as much of a parent as she is and accuses Sarah of trying to abscond with his little girl. Sarah argues that she was trying to take her on vacation with her mother for a few days. Xander says he knows what her goal is and he’s not going to let her steal his little girl as Victoria then wakes up crying.

Tate admits to Sophia that Holly will be there with Arianna and pretty much their whole graduating class, but apologizes for coming off like he’s rubbing it in. Sophia says it’s okay as she had no expectation of being able to go. Tate feels bad that she missed the party and fireworks last night. Sophia admits it’s been hard missing so much of senior year because of pregnancy but she has no desire to waddle around on the beach. Tate says he’ll be back later and offers to stay but Sophia says he would just sit around and watch her sleep, so she tells him to go and adds that it would be a nice break after losing his Grandfather. Tate points out that the lake is like an hour away and he can come back fast if she goes in to labor. Sophia says he’ll be the first person she calls if she does. Sophia adds that first labors can go on for hours and assures that she’ll be fine. Tate thanks her for being cool about this and says he’ll see her tomorrow as he then exits.

Doug III comes out of the Salem Inn and gets a call from the loan shark, who says he knows why he’s calling. Doug III responds that he doesn’t have his money yet but asks if he would be interested in a necklace worth way more than what he owes. He says that does interest him and asks if he has it on him. Doug III says no but he thinks he can get it soon. He remarks that thinking won’t pay his debt. He tells Doug III to keep him posted and warns him not to take too long because he knows what will happen if he does as they hang up. Doug III walks in to the town square where Arianna finds him and asks if he’s not working today. He says he just dropped off a takeout order at the Salem Inn. She asks who he was on the phone with. He claims it was no one important but she says it seemed serious. Doug III then tells her that there is something he needs to tell her.

Javi puts Tesoro down for a nap while Gabi wishes she could take a nap but says she has a situation at work to deal with in person. Javi hoped she could join he and Leo for lunch. Gabi says she’s starting to hate working at Titan-DiMera as it’s miserable. Gabi asks if Javi wants to quit his paramedic job and come back to Gabi Chic. Javi declines and says he does not miss that place at all. Gabi laments that she’s stuck there for another two years. Javi encourages that if anyone can tough it out, it’s her. Gabi says normally she would agree but this merger is killing her. Javi asks if it’s really that bad. Gabi asks what could be worse than having to answer to Xander Kiriakis.

Xander and Sarah continue to argue over Victoria. Sarah says he sounds like a paranoid lunatic and that this isn’t some elaborate ruse, explaining that Melissa just called Maggie this morning. Xander laughs off believing that. Sarah says that Maggie asked if she and Victoria wanted to go with her last minute, but she said she had to discuss it with Xander first. Xander accuses her of trying to entrap him last night when he was trying to reach an agreement about custody. Xander points out that Sarah was willing to agree to shared custody as long as he confessed to attempted murder. Sarah admits she’s not comfortable with him being alone with Victoria unless he says he’s sorry for nearly beating his brother to death. Xander argues that she just wants to hear him say it out loud, so she can have him arrested. Xander states that Philip said he never laid a hand on him and the charges were dropped but Sarah still wants to say when he gets to see his daughter. Sarah argues that no one believes he didn’t lay a hand on Philip. Sarah says it’s for Victoria’s own safety. Xander says Sarah couldn’t trick him in to confessing, so now she was trying to take Victoria away with Maggie. Xander promises that it will be the worst mistake Sarah makes and that her days of controlling him and their daughter are over. Xander declares that he’s in control now.

Sophia calls Melinda and says normally she would be bummed that Tate was ditching her to go hang out with Holly but the timing is perfect, so now she won’t have to worry about Tate wanting to go with her to Chicago and he won’t have to find out what she really did with their baby.

Sarah asks if Xander’s plan is to keep Victoria holed up here and never let her see her again. Xander responds that he’s not going to let her take her abroad. Sarah questions Xander thinking she’s going to run off with Victoria and says she’ll save him the trouble of bringing up her past. Sarah admits she took Rachel and everyone knows that, so if she ran off with Victoria, he would have a very strong case for full custody so she asks why she would take such a huge risk. Xander argues that Maggie would have the resources to help Sarah disappear with Victoria forever. Sarah states that she doesn’t want to disappear and she wants him a part of Victoria’s life. Xander reminds her that she said she hated him earlier. Sarah admits they both know that’s not true. Sarah pleads with Xander that it’s just for a few days. Xander says nice try and asks if she’s wearing a wire. Sarah cannot believe they went from working on an agreement to this in under 24 hours. Sarah says she just wants to go on a short trip with her mom and her daughter. Xander says he’s sorry but it’s a no, not just because of her lies, but because she’s mentally unstable. Xander says in addition to kidnapping Brady and Rachel’s daughter, she once thought she was a dead heiress and a little girl. Sarah calls that really low and says he knows that she was drugged. Xander says all he knows is that he can’t trust her anymore and now he would like to spend some more time with his daughter alone. Sarah asks if he’s just banning her from going to Bermuda. Xander says he’s not banning her from anything, but Victoria is staying with him unless she plans on removing her by physical force. Xander asks Sarah to see herself out.

Arianna gets a text that her ride is there so she has to go and tells Doug III that she’s going on the senior trip to the lake. Arianna says she’s totally over high school but she’s going with Holly so it will be fun. Doug III asks how long she’ll be gone. Arianna says it will be a week and asks if he’s going to miss her. Doug III says of course. Arianna asks what he was going to tell her. Doug III says it can wait until after her trip and tells her to have fun. He notes he should get back to the Pub and kisses her goodbye as he then walks away. Holly then comes up to Arianna and excitedly hugs her. Arianna says she’s so ready and promises not to be a third wheel when Tate gets there. Holly says he’ll only be there for a day and she texted him that they are on their way. Holly and Arianna head to their ride while the loan shark appears in the town square and follows after them.

Sarah tells Xander that she’s too tired to keep fighting for him but she’s heartbroken for Victoria as this has gotten so ugly. Xander doesn’t like where they are either but she’s had her for weeks, so it’s his turn now. Sarah says they can’t keep doing this and they have to come to an agreement. Xander says it’s clearly not going to happen now so she can go on her little trip and then when she gets back, she can see Victoria. Sarah complains that she’s not going out of town without her daughter. Gabi arrives to see Xander, then says she can come back but Sarah says it’s fine as she was just leaving. Sarah says bye to Victoria and walks out of the office.

Sophia walks through the town square and sees Leo and Javi coming through with her baby.

Arianna and Holly walk to the park until the loan shark appears in a mask with a gun, demanding their phones. He tells them not to talk and that they are going on a little trip as he rushes them off.

Gabi tells Xander that the problem is solved and they are good. Xander thanks her for coming in. Gabi apologizes for interrupting he and Sarah before as she could tell it’s been a hard time for them. Victoria wakes up crying. Gabi comments on remembering those days and that she’s still at the age where she just wants her mother.

Sarah goes home and tells Maggie that she can’t go on their trip without Victoria. Maggie asks if Xander is keeping her. Sarah confirms that he said she’s had her for the last few weeks, so it’s his turn now. Sarah says she could’ve kept arguing but at least Victoria is safe and she is so exhausted. Maggie wonders if there’s anything Justin can do. Sarah admits she called him on the way home and he’s out of town, but he advised against taking legal action because it could end up backfiring. Maggie suggests having a virtual meeting with him later today. Sarah says no and tells Maggie to go on the trip because she knows how much she was looking forward to getting out and she’s sorry for disappointing her. Maggie says they can go to Bermuda anytime but right now, she has to do what’s best for her daughter. Sarah thanks her for understanding and cries that it’s such a mess. Maggie hugs her and tells her it will be alright. Sarah cries that she already misses Victoria even though she just saw her.

Sophia approaches Leo and Javi. She introduces herself and says she’s sorry to just come up but she saw Javi’s picture in the Spectator and that he took in the baby left at the fire house. Javi says the baby is right here and introduces her to Leo, saying they are taking care of him together. Sophia calls that amazing and thanks Javi for his service. Javi and Leo says they have the baby for two weeks until he goes up for adoption. They explain temporarily naming him Tesoro. Sophia says that’s nice and asks how he is doing. Javi says they found the right formula and now he’s thriving. Leo says since the article came out, social services have been getting calls wanting to adopt him which will be tough for them because they have fallen in love with Tesoro. Javi agrees that it will be tough. Javi then notes that it looks like Sophia is going to have a little one of her own soon. Sophia says she’s due any day now and that she has to get to a doctor’s appointment. Sophia gets emotional and says it was nice to meet them as she says bye to Tesoro and rushes off.

The loan shark holds his gun on Arianna and Holly in a back alley as he orders them to get up against the wall.

Tate goes to the park and says they should’ve been here by now as he texts Holly asking where they are.

Doug III resumes working at the Brady Pub when he gets a call from the loan shark. He answers and repeats that it doesn’t haev the money and needs time to get the necklace. He reveals that he took out an insurance policy and texts him a photo of Holly and Arianna. He warns that if Doug III calls the cops, he’ll never see them again. Doug III asks him to let them go but he says not until he brings his money, the necklace, or both and warns Doug III not to keep him or the girls waiting.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Belle goes to see EJ at the DiMera Mansion and presents him with the memory stick from the camera planted in the living room. EJ asks if it clears Johnny but Belle says not exactly.

At the police station, Paulina tells Jada that she knew Chanel was upset with EJ but not enough to threaten his life. Jada says that’s why she wanted Paulina to see it first. Paulina asks what happens now. Jada responds that she’s sorry but she has no choice but to bring Chanel in for questioning.

In the town square, Johnny tells Chanel that he understands why she’s nervous about EJ representing him. Chanel remains uncertain about Johnny trusting EJ but agrees to go along with it if Johnny thinks EJ is the best choice. Johnny assures that he is, pointing out that he’d be the victim believing he’s innocent. Johnny declares that there is no way that EJ will let him get convicted of a crime he didn’t commit. Chanel acknowledges that he’s right and regardless of how she feels about EJ, she knows that EJ loves Johnny and will fight like hell for him, just like her mother would for her.

Paulina tells Jada that before she starts making assumptions about Chanel, she questions the memory stick just showing up now and where it’s been all this time. Jada admits there are concerns but says that’s a question for Belle. Paulina asks what else is on the video. Jada says that’s it so Paulina argues that it proves nothing because she didn’t see a gun. Paulina understands how it looks, but declares that her daughter could not possibly have shot EJ. Jada asks how she could know that. Paulina responds that Chanel was with her most of that night. Jada asks if she knows where Chanel is now because she needs her to come down to the police station. Jada says she’s sorry and understands how upsetting this is for her. Paulina asks Jada to let her be the one to call Chanel and then promises to step back and let Jada do her job.

At the Kiriakis Mansion, Maggie finishes a phone call with her daughter Melissa and tells Sarah that Melissa had a work emergency so she won’t be able to go to Bermuda with her. Sarah is sorry as she knows she was looking forward to that. Maggie says it’s just been too long since she’s spent time with her oldest daughter. Sarah encourages that maybe they can plan it for later in the year. Sarah suggests she could take some time off and go with her, adding they could invite Melanie and Holly for a girls trip. Maggie asks why wait and points out that the trip she was going to take with Melissa was already planned and paid for, so she suggests that she and Sarah take Victoria.

Xander questions Philip suggesting he quit his father’s company when he is the sole heir. Philip points out that if Xander tells anyone that, he will have to correct his story that Xander tried to beat him to death. Philip says he doesn’t like the arrangement any more than Xander does but suggests they try their best to work together unless Xander plans to try to kill him again.

Johnny tells Chanel that he should get back to the office. Chanel suggests they can meet up later and hopefully EJ will have an update on his case by then. Johnny agrees and kisses her. Chanel then gets a call from Paulina and tells her that she needs to come down to the police station and to bring Johnny with her right away.

Maggie tells Sarah that she’s sure they can spare her from the hospital for a few days. Maggie offers to call and book her flight but Sarah reminds her that she can’t take Victoria out of the country without clearing it with Xander first.

Philip comments on it really bugging Xander that Victor loved him while barely tolerating Xander. Philip remarks that Xander must lay in bed, wondering what it must have been like to be loved by Victor. Xander responds that Victor’s dead so that’s all old news. Philip argues that he was in Victor’s heart and the son he actually loved while Xander was just another bastard that Victor was too embarrassed to acknowledge while he was still alive.

Johnny and Chanel go to the police station as Johnny finishes a call to let Philip and Xander know he’ll be in as soon as he can. As they arrive, Paulina is finishing a call as well. Chanel asks her what’s going on. Paulina says that Jada has some questions but she doesn’t want her talking to her without a lawyer present, so she just left a message for Justin. Jada comes over and tells Chanel that she needs her to come with her.

Xander tells Philip to get the hell out of his office. Sarah then walks in and asks what’s going on in here.

Paulina argues that Chanel is not going anywhere without her lawyer present for questioning. Johnny asks what’s going on here. Jada asks if Chanel is willing to answer. Chanel argues that she has nothing to hide. Johnny agrees with Paulina but Chanel says it’s fine and she’ll do anything to help Johnny’s case. Paulina pleads with her but Chanel insists that she’ll be fine and back in a minute, so Jada takes Chanel in to the interrogation room.

Belle and EJ watch the footage from the memory card, showing Chanel threatening EJ. Belle asks if EJ remembers that conversation. EJ says he doesn’t. Belle thought seeing the video would jog his memory. EJ doesn’t remember Chanel saying those things or shooting him, but says the video is pretty damning. Belle doesn’t want to jump to conclusions while EJ argues that Chanel was clearly threatening his life. Belle says that doesn’t mean she shot him and adds that Jada is questioning Chanel as they speak.

Chanel asks Jada what this is about. Jada asks if she’s sure she doesn’t want to wait for her attorney. Chanel assures that she’s ready to answer any questions she has. Jada reveals that a video has surfaced showing Chanel having an intense conversation with EJ right before he was shot. Chanel says she’s never hidden that she and EJ spoke that night and admits the conversation was contentious. Jada informs her that they have her on tape, threatening EJ’s life. Jada says they know Chanel left the mansion after that conversation but questions if she returned later that night to make good on her threat.

Xander tells Sarah that he and Philip were just discussing how best to bring things up to speed in the office. Sarah remarks that it sounded like Xander was ordering Philip out. Philip claims he was just asking too many questions and Xander had enough. Philip decides he will head to the Brady Pub for breakfast and exits the office. Sarah questions why she feels like she walked in on much more than a business meeting. Xander asks what brings her by. Sarah says it’s about Victoria as she hoped they could go with Maggie to Bermuda but Xander says no. Sarah argues that they wouldn’t even be gone for a week and that it would be great for Victoria. Xander argues that Victoria is far too young and he wouldn’t let them leave the country with her. Sarah complains that he’s being unreasonable. Xander argues that Maggie despises him as much as Sarah does and has more than enough resources to help her disappear with Victoria forever. Sarah asks if she’d really be asking his permission to go if she planned to disappear forever. Xander says maybe she needed a cover story and assures she’s not taking Victoria anywhere. Xander warns that if Sarah tries, she’ll be arrested as soon as she enters the airport. Sarah calls him a mean and horrible human. Sarah tells Xander that she hates him and storms out. Xander then rushes out after her.

Belle points out to EJ that they know Johnny was there after Chanel. EJ wonders what if Chanel came back, found Roman’s gun and decided to use it. Belle says it’s possible but there’s no way to prove it. EJ feels it certainly casts reasonable doubt on Johnny’s guilt.

Johnny questions there being a video of Chanel confronting EJ. Paulina confirms she saw it herself. Johnny asks if Chanel really threatened EJ’s life. Paulina says she wouldn’t have believed it if she didn’t see it. Paulina insists that Chanel didn’t mean it but admits it looked pretty bad. Johnny argues that it doesn’t mean Chanel shot EJ as she doesn’t have it in her to hurt anyone.

Chanel sits with Jada in the interrogation room and questions her thinking that she shot EJ. Jada says she’s just asking questions. Chanel argues that Jada knows her. Jada says she does but she’s not asking as a friend, but as the police commissioner. Chanel tells Jada that she did not go back to EJ’s house and shoot him and she definitely did not threaten him. Jada asks what she meant by “I’m not going to let you live long enough to hurt Johnny or anyone else I care about ever again.” Chanel claims she never said that. Jada informs her that she saw the video. Chanel admits she was really angry about how much suffering EJ has caused Johnny and she was devastated at EJ causing them to lose their chance to adopt, but she does not remember threatening his life. Chanel says even if she said those words, she did not follow through on it and that’s the truth. Jada guesses they have reached an impasse then. Chanel asks if Jada is going to arrest her.

Johnny’s had enough and wants to go in to the interrogation room but Paulina stops him and says he can’t go barging in. Johnny argues that he has to do something and can’t just sit around and let his wife go down for a crime she didn’t commit. Johnny declares that he would confess to shooting EJ before he lets that happen. Paulina argues that he can’t be serious. Johnny says he’s the one who showed up with Roman’s gun and intended to shoot EJ. Johnny asks what kind of person does that to their own family. Johnny points out that he stood in front of his own father and told him he wanted him dead, so maybe he deserves this. Paulina realizes that Johnny really didn’t shoot EJ. Johnny says he didn’t, but neither did Chanel.

Sarah joins Philip at the Pub and tells him that she needs his help to take down Xander.

Xander storms in to the Kiriakis Mansion, asking Maggie where the hell Sarah is. Maggie asks what has gotten in to him. Xander responds that he knows what they are up to and he’s here to put a stop to it. Maggie says she has no idea what he’s talking about. Xander accuses her of trying to run off with his daughter and says he won’t let that happen. Xander declares that Victoria is coming home with him now.

Belle tells EJ that they will just have to wait and see if Jada can get any answers out of Chanel. Belle asks how EJ is feeling about it. EJ says he wished for anything to prove Johnny didn’t shoot him, but not this. Belle says it would be terrible for both of them but would get Johnny off the hook. EJ worries about what it would do to Johnny’s marriage to learn that his wife tried to murder his father. EJ questions how they would ever survive that.

Paulina tells Johnny that she’s grateful that Chanel has a husband that loves her so much that he would confess to attempted murder to protect her. Johnny points out that Paulina did it for her while Paulina points out how that turned out. Paulina declares that she can’t let him do this. Johnny says he and Chanel are just getting back on track after overcoming way too much in their marriage to let his father’s shooting tear them apart. Johnny declares that they need to find out who did shoot EJ for all their sakes.

Jada informs Chanel that she is not arresting her at this time, but the video moves her up on the suspect list. Chanel complains about how many times she’s going to be accused of crimes she did not commit. Jada argues that this is not like what happened on the roof in England or when her sister sabotaged Chanel’s bakery. Chanel asks how it’s different. Jada says she will make sure that Chanel is treated fairly throughout her investigation and there will be no jumping to conclusions. Jada advises Chanel to talk to Justin as soon as possible and not to leave the city as Chanel then exits.

Philip asks how he’s supposed to help Sarah take down Xander. Sarah tells him to admit that Xander attacked him. Philip reiterates that it wasn’t him but Sarah doesn’t believe him. Sarah knows he’s worried that if he tells the truth, Xander might tell the world about he and Vivian’s fraud to take Titan. Sarah asks what if she gave him an out.

Maggie tells Xander that he sounds like a crazy person. Xander argues that he’s protecting his rights as a father and asks Maggie to get the nanny to pack Victoria’s things. Maggie refuses so Xander asks if she really wants to pick this fight with him. Maggie wants him to come to his senses and stop imagining issues where there are none. Xander questions if she’s not trying to take his daughter out of the country then. Maggie responds that she only asked Sarah and Victoria to come with her on the trip because Melissa backed out at the last minute. Xander calls that convenient. Maggie tells him to get out. Xander says he’ll go after he collects his daughter and walks out of the room, leaving Maggie frustrated.

Belle tells EJ that as district attorney, her responsibility is to the people of Salem and the truth, so it’s important she keeps an open mind about the investigation and Chanel. Belle remembers Johnny and Chanel going through a hard time when trying to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby. EJ points out that they blamed him for preventing that from happening. Belle asks if that’s enough for Chanel to want him dead. EJ acknowledges that she seemed awfully angry in the video and remarks that people commit all kinds of desperate acts when they feel backed in to a corner.

Chanel comes out of the interrogation room and hugs Johnny, who asks if she’s okay. Chanel cries that she doesn’t know. Johnny asks what happened in there. Chanel explains that there’s apparently some video from a hidden camera where she’s saying all sorts of crazy threatening things to EJ. Chanel adds that she doesn’t remember saying any of it. Paulina states that she saw the video. Chanel argues that she didn’t really threaten EJ like that. Johnny guesses she could’ve just forgot in the heat of the moment. Chanel assures that she didn’t shoot EJ. Paulina and Johnny say they both know she didn’t. Jada comes out of the interrogation room, so Johnny demands to see the video but Jada says she can’t do that.

Xander informs Maggie that the nanny is packing Victoria’s things and getting her ready to go. Maggie tells him that he’s making a mistake. Xander responds that the only mistake he made was thinking a woman like Maggie could look at him like a son and accuses her of conspiring to steal his daughter. Maggie responds that no one is stealing his child and argues that it’s not about her. Maggie says he and Sarah need to work this out for Victoria’s sake because if he keeps escalating this war, Victoria is the one who will get hurt. Xander argues that he’s protecting Victoria since they can’t come to terms on shared custody, it’s up to the most stable parent to step up. Maggie questions that being him. Xander says he’s the CEO of a multi million dollar company, sets his own hours, and has more than enough resources to keep Victoria safe and happy. Xander says she can tell Sarah that she will regret fighting him on this. Maggie asks what that’s supposed to mean. Xander warns that they will both find out.

Sarah asks Philip what if she talks to Stephanie, Alex, and Maggie as the only three people who know what he did and make them swear to never tell a soul about the forged letter. Philip thought they already agreed to that. Sarah calls that tenuous at best and asks what if she could guarantee that if Xander comes forward to claim he’s a pretender to the Kiriakis throne, they will call him a liar. Philip questions if she believes she can convince them to do that. Sarah assures that if Philip tells the truth about what Xander did to him, they will not support him and if Xander goes to prison, Philip will become the sole CEO like he always wanted.

Maggie tells Xander that Victor would be turning over in his grave if he knew that Xander was ripping his namesake out of this house. Xander complains that all he hears about is what Victor would want and argues that she has no idea since he’s Victor’s flesh and blood, not her or Sarah. Xander asks if Victor would want him to make peace with liars who wanna steal what is his. Maggie shouts that she was Victor’s wife so she knew him better than anyone and he wouldn’t want this. Xander argues that she’s really trying to say Victor wouldn’t want him. Maggie says it always goes back to that and that Xander is feeling unloved and wanted. Maggie asks if he’s going to burn everything down because Victor didn’t claim him before he died. Xander responds that he has to do what’s right for him. Maggie asks if that’s going back to who he he was before Salem and if he’s going to be a monster that tears Victoria away from her mother without letting her say goodbye. Xander responds that he is the monster that Victor made him. Maggie shouts that she’s calling the police. Xander tells her to go ahead, pointing out that Victoria is his daughter too, so he has every right to be with her just as much as Sarah does. Xander then walks out of the room.

Belle tells EJ that she has to get back to work to check in with Jada and reminds EJ that he has a hospital to run. EJ suggests she could help him with that and says that he’s been putting together a comprehensive plan on improving the hospital’s bedside manner. EJ jokes that he can take Belle upstairs and show her as they kiss. Belle gives in and they head upstairs together.

Philip admits that Sarah’s plan is tempting so Sarah asks what the problem is. Philip worries that there’s too many variables as Alex and Stephanie could still change their mind or Vivian could still out him. Sarah asks who would believe Vivian and argues that the forgery was vetted by experts. Philip brings up that Vivian somehow proved to Xander that it was forged so who knows what proof she has and worries that it would be gone over by a different team of experts. Sarah says she gets that he’s afraid. Philip feels he’s being realistic. Sarah argues that they could make this work and he could make Xander pay for what he did to him. Philip asks if that’s really what this is about. Sarah responds that he deserves justice and admits if it works, she would get Xander out of her and her daughter’s life for good. Sarah declares that all Philip has to do is tell the truth. Philip responds that he’s sorry but he can’t help her.

Johnny, Chanel, and Paulina sit together with coffee in the town square. Chanel questions Johnny not going back to work. Johnny says not until he knows she’s okay and that Philip and Xander can wait. Paulina agrees and says Chanel always comes first. Paulina gets a text from Justin, saying he’s out of town for the week but will check in this afternoon. Chanel says maybe she won’t need him since Jada did let her go. Paulina says it’s always a good idea to have legal representation. Chanel asks if she should be worried. Johnny encourages that Chanel is innocent and Jada will see that. Chanel hopes to God he’s right.

Sarah goes home and asks Maggie where Victoria is. Maggie responds that she’s not there. Sarah questions what is going on and where she is. Maggie then reveals that Xander took her.

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