Month: January 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Belle greets Marlena at home and asks how Julie’s Book Club was yesterday. Marlena responds that it was rough, surprising Belle.

At the Horton House, Jennifer asks Chad if there’s any word on Jeremy. Chad says not yet but he hoped they would have some news before having to tell Thomas what’s going on. Jennifer says there’s no harm in holding off for now since Jeremy is Thomas’s favorite teacher and his cousin. Chad points out that Stephanie is his cousin too which makes the whole thing weird, trying to figure out how to tell him that one cousin is stalking another.

Alex and Stephanie are at home together. Stephanie doesn’t know how she will get any work done while Alex says he barely slept either. Stephanie can’t believe Jeremy made the website about her. Stephanie admits she was worried Jeremy might cause some trouble, but never thought he’d go this far. Alex declares that Jeremy has been caught now, so they can hope this nightmare is finally behind them.

Melinda Trask joins Jeremy in the interrogation room to represent him. Jeremy thanks her for representing him and says he’s heard a lot about her. Melinda says considering his family, she’s surprised he reached out. Jeremy admits that his go to is generally Justin, but considering he’s being accused of threatening to kill his son, that was out of the question so Julie suggested Melinda and said she’s a shark which is exactly what he needs right now.

At the police station, Julie tells Jada that she knows that she wants to keep Stephanie safe, but she’s harassing an innocent man. Jada knows she’s upset but suggests she go home and get some rest after being there all night. Julie says she is not one to take a nap while her family is in trouble, so she’s not going anywhere.

Marlena explains to Belle that she was there with Maggie and Julie but when it came time to share her feelings, she couldn’t find the words. Belle is sure they understood. Marlena calls it still embarrassing. Belle questions why when she just lost her husband not long ago. Belle asks what Marlena would tell herself if she was her own patient. Marlena responds that everyone grieves in their own way in their own time which Belle says includes her.

Chad asks if Jennifer believes that Jeremy did what they are saying. Jennifer says she doesn’t want to, but doesn’t know what to believe and argues that the idea that Jeremy was living in their house while secretly stalking Stephanie doesn’t even make sense. Chad agrees and points out that Jeremy is great with the kids and seems like a good guy. Chad hopes Jeremy is just being falsely accused and this is all just a giant mistake. Jennifer hopes he’s right.

Steve gets up and greets Alex and Stephanie, saying he hopes they didn’t sleep as bad as he did since he was really wound up. Stephanie points out that now Steve can finally go home but Steve says he can’t. Alex asks why not since Jeremy is in custody but Steve reveals he isn’t because Jada didn’t arrest him, she only brought him in for questioning and can only hold him for 24 hours unless he confesses. Steve declares they are stuck with him for now because he’s not letting his guard down yet and is not going anywhere.

Melinda asks Jeremy to go over why he’s at the police station. Jeremy explains that Jada asked him to come down for questioning because someone has been stalking his ex Stephanie Johnson and they think it’s him because someone made a creepy website about Stephanie and the company who sold the URL said he paid for it, but he swears he did not. Melinda questions why the company says he did. Jeremy insists he’s being setup and she’s got to believe him.

Julie asks Jada to at least have JJ or Shawn question Jeremy if she’s going to hold him. Jada says they are his cousins so that would be a conflict of interest. Julie remarks that’s never been a problem for the Salem police department. Julie argues that if they had this great evidence against him, they would’ve arrested him by now but that proves he didn’t do it. Jada hopes she’s right but if it turns out that Jeremy is the crazed fan, he will be brought to justice.

Chad tells Jennifer that he wanted to talk to her about the custody situation since Julie said Thomas wasn’t on board with what they figured out yesterday. Jennifer says that he is, but he just still has concerns about the promise Chad made to keep Cat out of his life, since he’s broken it before so he’s afraid he won’t be able to keep it now either. Chad insists that he will if that’s what is best for the kids. Jennifer knows that’s his intention but she thinks Thomas needs more than just his word.

Marlena thanks Belle for reminding her what she tells her clients about grief, that they have to be patient with themselves. Belle encourages that the mystery book club meeting will be a lot more low key so she might have a good time.

Steve says they are really lucky to have Jada on their side as she will do everything within the boundaries of the law to keep Jeremy away and now that they know he’s behind the website, he’s filed a restraining order to force him to keep his distance from Stephanie and Alex. Steve adds that even though all the evidence points towards Jeremy, they haven’t proved that he’s the stalker, so until they do, he’s still a threat.

Melinda states that the police have nothing but circumstantial evidence and that creating a website is not a crime, so the odds of charging him with anything are low. Jeremy questions why they are holding him then. Melinda guesses they want to strongarm him in to a confession. Jeremy says he has nothing to confess so Melinda says they will wait it out. Melinda says even if he did, she could get it down to a lesser offense. Jeremy refuses to confess because he’s innocent and saying otherwise would tank his career. Melinda says losing his career pales in comparison to losing his freedom. Jeremy worries that any confession would mean he would never work as a teacher again or be near kids, so his life would basically be over.

Julie tells Jada that she truly believes Jeremy is not guilty. Jada understands that she wants to think the best of her family. Julie explains that a little while ago, Jeremy told her that he was planning to leave Salem because he didn’t think he could ever get a fair shake here since too many people seem unable to forgive and forget the mistakes he made when he was younger. Julie believes that alone should close her case against him. Jada asks why it would do that. Julie calls it obvious that if Jeremy was ready to leave Salem on his own, then he’s not a threat to Stephanie or Alex. Jada responds that she doesn’t see it that way at all.

Marlena tells Belle that she has a talent for saying the right things in the right moment when someone is upset. Marlena jokes that she could’ve been a therapist but says she’s doing very well on her own path and she’s proud of her. Marlena adds that John was proud of her, Paul, and Brady too. Belle asks if she’s heard from Brady and wonders what he will do now that he’s been fired from Basic Black. Marlena says she hasn’t heard from him but she knows he’s trying hard to find his own path. Marlena mentions suggesting to him that this time could be a gift to spend with Rachel. Marlena thinks sometimes Brady is a lot like John in putting other people’s needs before his own and worrying about the rest of the staff at Basic Black while realizing it’s John’s legacy. Belle agrees that someone from the family should carry on John’s legacy and reveals she has a suggestion on who that might be. Belle then suggests Marlena herself.

Chad asks if Jennifer is saying that she doesn’t trust his word and if she and Jack are going to take this back to court. Jennifer says no and just thinks they can revisit the terms to find something Thomas is okay with. Chad argues that Thomas is 10 years old and doesn’t get to dictate their terms. Jennifer worries that Thomas could cause a problem if he feels he’s not being heard and says that all he wants is for Chad to reassure him that Cat will never be a part of his life. Jennifer says it’s not that Thomas doesn’t want Chad to find someone to love again and adds that he just told her he was sad things didn’t work out between Chad and Stephanie. Chad says that ship has sailed.

Stephanie questions if Steve doesn’t think Jeremy is the one who was terrorizing them. Steve says he just thinks it’s safer not to take anything for granted, but adds that it is possible that someone created the website to make Jeremy look guilty. Alex asks why anyone would want to do that. Steve suggests Jeremy could have enemies out there that want to set him up and repeats that it’s unlikely, but they have to consider the possibility.

Jada joins Jeremy and Melinda in the interrogation room and asks if he’s ready to talk. Jeremy responds that he hasn’t been following Stephanie, taking pictures of her, writing about her on the internet, or buy that website domain. Jeremy adds that he has no idea who did any of those things. Jada mocks that not being helpful. Melinda guesses they are done here unless there’s anything else she needs from Jeremy. Jada states that the one thing she needs from him is the truth.

Marlena tells Belle that she can’t run a company as she has no experience doing that and a a few weeks ago, she was about to retire. Belle clarifies that she’s not saying Marlena should run Basic Black, but oversee it while someone from Titan manages the line and she provides input on behalf of the family. Marlena guesses that wouldn’t be too difficult and she could run her practice at the same time. Marlena admits that John’s legacy is terribly important to her. Belle says it is to all of them and asks if Marlena will do it. Marlena agrees to think about it.

Chad tells Jennifer that his kids’ happiness is the most important thing to him but he’s drawing the line at allowing her and Thomas to dictate who he can or cannot be in a relationship with. Jennifer argues that there’s one person they don’t want him with. Chad responds that he’s not involved with that person anymore. Jennifer repeats that Thomas just needs more reassurance. Chad asks if he’s supposed to write it in blood or move to Antarctica to make sure he never runs into her again. Jennifer responds that it’s not even about Cat anymore, it’s about Thomas and being able to trust his father again.

Alex says there’s a lot of evidence pointing to Jeremy, not just buying the domain name. Steve agrees and brings up when Jeremy came back to Salem and his history with Stephanie. Steve says it all fits their theory but it’s not hard proof so there’s still a lot of blanks to fill in. Alex feels it can’t be a coincidence and that they’ve given Jeremy the benefit of the doubt long enough. Stephanie can’t believe Jeremy has this fantasy after all these years. Stephanie states that if Jeremy comes anywhere near her again, he will be sorry.

Jeremy tells Jada that he’s telling her the truth even if she doesn’t want to believe him. Jada says she does want to believe him as it would make her life a lot easier, but she doesn’t believe him. Melinda tells Jada to either press charges or let him go. Jada argues that they can legally hold him for 12 more hours which Melinda says would be a waste of time and money. Melinda says there is no way Belle will press charges against Jeremy with circumstantial evidence and suggests letting him go. Jada warns Jeremy not to leave town. Jeremy points out that he was going to move but Jada repeats for him not to leave town as she exits the room.

Chad tells Jennifer that he will talk to Thomas and do his best to make sure he understands he will keep the promise. Chad adds that Jennifer and Jack can’t be a part of the conversation as it has to be between he and his son. Chad warns that if they are going to weigh in on every decision he makes, he will see them in court. Chad asks if that’s understood but Thomas comes in so they greet him. Thomas thought Jeremy was taking him to school today but he can’t find him. Chad informs him that Jeremy is going to be absent today, so Thomas asks if he’s sick. Chad says he just had some stuff to take care of. Chad brings up that Jennifer told him that he had some worries about their custody agreement and asks if he wants to talk about it before they hit the road. Jennifer decides to give them some privacy and exits as Chad sits with Thomas. Chad asks Thomas exactly what he’s worried about and how he can make him feel better. Thomas responds that he doesn’t know as he was so mad at him but then he was so scared when he was missing and now he just wishes things could be back to the way they were. Chad responds that he does too.

Marlena looks at a photo of her and John as Belle finishes a call and tells Marlena that she has to get to work as apparently Jeremy has been brought in for questioning. Belle says it apparently has to do with Stephanie and he’s already been released, but he’s still a suspect. Marlena worries that Julie must be beside herself.

Julie hugs Jeremy and asks how he’s feeling. Jeremy says he’s exhausted but fine. Julie can’t believe they kept him all night. Jeremy questions if she’s been there all night. Julie says she wasn’t going to leave him. Jeremy thanks her as it means a lot and knows it can’t be easy for her if most of her friends and most of Salem think he’s guilty. Julie responds that she doesn’t as she knows he has a good heart and she believes in him. Jeremy says she may be the only one as he hugs her.

Alex tells Stephanie that if Jeremy is stupid enough to come near her again, all three of them will make sure he’s sorry. Stephanie says she will hold him to that. Jada shows up at their door. Stephanie asks how it went with Jeremy. Jada responds that she’s sorry but she had to let him go because there wasn’t enough evidence. Jada adds that Jeremy claims the website isn’t his and even if it was, it’s not a crime. Alex questions what the hell to do now and if they are just supposed to wait for him to commit another crime and hope to catch him in the act. Steve says they aren’t waiting for him to do anything as there are other ways to force him out. Jada is not sure she wants to know, but first points out that there’s a box outside the door. Stephanie assures she didn’t order anything as she’s been too afraid to have any stranger anywhere near her place. Steve decides he will check it out so he grabs gloves and brings in the box from Ornaments on the Square. Steve opens the card to see who it’s from.

Chad tells Thomas that nothing is more important to him than he and Charlotte as they are his world. Chad states that he can’t be happy unless they are happy and it kills him that Thomas feels he can’t trust him. Thomas says he wants to, so maybe he’ll stay for awhile and move to Jack and Jennifer’s if it doesn’t work out. Chad tells him that’s not an option. Chad wants to find a way to move forward but he can’t threaten to move away every time he makes a decision he doesn’t like. Thomas admits that makes sense. Chad says he’s willing to prove to him that he can trust him. Chad acknowledges that Cat lied when she pretended to be Abigail and he knows she didn’t just hurt him, but Jack and Jennifer and he and Charlotte. Chad calls it fair if Thomas doesn’t want Cat in his life, so maybe there’s a way to give him more than just his word. Chad informs him that he promised Jack and Jennifer that he would never get involved with Cat when they agreed to drop the custody suit. Chad decides he can call Melinda to put it in writing as part of their agreement, so it would be legally binding and the courts could get involved if he goes back on his word. Thomas asks if he could go to jail. Chad says it’s nothing like that, but Jack and Jennifer would be able to petition for custody again and would have a much stronger argument if he didn’t hold up his end. Chad asks if putting it in writing would help Thomas trust him again. Thomas admits that it would a lot.

Julie goes to see Marlena and Belle. Julie tells Marlena that she’s glad she’s feeling better but she’s still sorry about yesterday. Julie says she’s sure that Belle has heard Jeremy has been released. Belle confirms she heard and they aren’t filing charges today but she can’t promise about the future and that’s probably all she’s allowed to say. Julie believes very deeply that Jeremy is not guilty of these shocking things he’s been accused of by people rushing to say he’s guilty. Julie reveals to Belle that Jeremy was planning to leave Salem because everyone with their pitchforks was getting to be too much but Jada told him he can’t leave town and now he’s in limbo. Belle questions if Jada said he couldn’t leave town and doesn’t think it was an order, but a strong suggestion, as there’s no law keeping him in town when he hasn’t been charged with anything. Belle thinks Jada was trying to say that Jeremy would look suspicious if he left Salem. Belle thinks that if Jeremy is innocent, he should stay put and prove it.

Chad calls Melinda to make an adjustment to the mediation agreement and put in formal writing that if he pursues a relationship with Cat Green, then Jack and Jennifer can revisit the custody agreement with Thomas’s permission. Melinda doesn’t think it’s a good idea to give away leverage. Chad explains that he’s not doing it to protect himself but to build trust with his son. Melinda agrees to write something up and e-mail it to him. Chad thanks her and says he’ll be in touch as he hangs up. Chad asks Thomas if he’s happy. Thomas says that he is. Chad says he’s happy if he’s happy. Chad adds that Thomas will have to meet him in the middle because Salem is a very small town so they will run in to Cat from time to time, so he doesn’t want him to jump to conclusions every time he says hello to her or helps her with a heavy bag of groceries. Chad says that they can’t pretend Cat doesn’t exist, but if Thomas doesn’t want her in his life then she won’t be. Thomas thinks he can live with that. Chad sends Thomas to go get Charlotte so he can take them to school.

Steve reveals the package was an engagement congratulations from EJ. Stephanie is surprised while Alex questions how EJ even knew. Stephanie guesses he saw their blurb in the Spectator and had Rita send something. Steve remarks that at least their planted announcement got someone to take action, just not the someone they wanted.

Unbeknownst to Stephanie, Alex, Steve, and Jada, the delivered package was bugged with a recording device. The mystery stalker is sitting at a desk wearing a leather jacket and black gloves as they listen in to the conversation where Stephanie asks Steve about drawing the stalker out. Steve responds that the good thing about Jeremy being cut loose is now they can set a trap for him.

Stephanie says if they need to use her as bait, she’s all in but Alex says no way. Alex brings up that the message board post said he wanted to get rid of him to have Stephanie all too himself, so he will be the bait.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Gabi sits at Theo’s side in the hospital as Theo tells her jokes and they laugh until JJ walks in.

Julie goes home while on the phone with Marlena, apologizing again for joking at the Book Club but Marlena assures there’s no hard feelings. Julie says she’ll check back with her soon as they hang up. Julie then heads in to the living room and greets Jeremy, who is working on his laptop. Jeremy asks how the Book Club went. Julie says it went and asks where everybody is since it’s so quiet. Jeremy informs her that Jack and Jennifer took the kids out for pizza as they thought it would cheer Thomas up. Julie questions Thomas needing cheering up. Jeremy responds that Thomas apparently was not too happy with the details that Jack, Jennifer, and Chad agreed to at mediation.

Stephanie and Jada sit together in the town square. Stephanie says it’s been a blast wedding shopping with her even if it is part of their plan to bait the stalker. Jada agrees that she’s having a lot of fun too. Jada hopes that creep reveals his identity too so she can actually do her maid of honor duties rather than constantly looking over their shoulder. Jada adds that they did have plain clothes officers with them on the lookout which shocks Stephanie as she had no idea anyone was following them. Stephanie worries about how much that’s costing the police department but Jada reveals it’s actually not costing a cent.

Alex joins Philip at Titan and questions that he just found out Xander sacked Brady and argues against not being included on major decisions. Philip says he would’ve liked to have been included too but it wasn’t exactly a pre-meditated firing. Alex asks if he’s saying this was just a Xander temper tantrum right in the middle of an all hands on deck crisis for the company. Alex argues that Titan doesn’t need more bad press but Philip clarifies that it’s not being presented as a firing, but as a mutual decision. Steve comes in behind Alex, so Philip asks if he can help him with something but Alex says he’s with him as he introduces Steve as his future father-in-law and personal bodyguard.

Julie tells Jeremy that she just saw Chad and he said the mediation went well, so she asks if Thomas is unhappy to stay in Salem and live with his father. Jeremy explains that from what Jennifer said, Thomas is still having difficulty because of the whole Cat Green situation and trusting Chad. Julie calls it a mess for a child to have to deal with all these unresolved issues. Julie asks if he thinks this will affect the outcome of the agreement. Jeremy says her guess is as good as his.

JJ apologizes for interrupting and says he can come back later but Gabi says it’s okay and Theo says the more the merrier. JJ brought burgers from the Brady Pub. Gabi then announces she can’t stay long because she has a date with Philip.

Philip remembers seeing Alex and Stephanie’s engagement announcement and says he’s really happy for them, but questions why Alex needs a bodyguard when he thought they were worried about Stephanie. Alex responds that there’s been recent developments which Philip questions. Steve reveals that the stalker threatened to kill Alex which in his crazy mind means having Stephanie all to himself.

Stephanie questions how having police officers follow them around isn’t costing the department anything. Jada reveals that Alex is paying for her to have around the clock protection. Stephanie notes that Alex didn’t say anything to her about it, meanwhile he’s the one with a target on his back after the stalker posted on the message board that he wanted to murder Alex. Stephanie is starting to wish she never wrote her book.

Theo tells Gabi to enjoy her date with Philip and thanks her for coming to see him again. Gabi hopes next time she sees him, he’ll be out of the bed and running. Gabi says bye to JJ and exits. Theo tells JJ that he couldn’t help but notice his reaction when Gabi said she had a date with Philip and asks if there’s any reason for that.

Julie tells Jeremy that Thomas needs to trust his father again and asks Jeremy to talk to him. Jeremy says he will if Chad thinks it’s a good idea. Julie asks how Thomas is doing in school. Jeremy says he’s doing good and always does his homework. Julie asks how Jeremy is doing now. Jeremy reveals that he turned down continuing to be a substitute teacher in the district and announces he’s leaving Salem for good.

Jada questions Stephanie wishing she never wrote One Stormy Night even after her success. Stephanie admits at first it felt like a dream come true and she got caught up in the glamour and attention of it all, but if that started all this then it wasn’t worth it. Stephanie worries about something happening to Alex. Jada assures that nothing will happen to either of them on her watch or Steve’s.

Philip says he’s sorry to hear this guy isn’t just a nutty fan but apparently homicidal and asks if there’s anything Titan can do to help. Steve says he’s got it covered. Philip asks who is watching Stephanie. Steve responds that she’s with the police commissioner today while Alex adds that she also has plain clothes police officers watching her. Philip asks how long they think this will go on and if there’s a plan in place. Alex assures they have a plan which Steve notes it’s confidential. Philip argues that he needs to hear it since Alex and Stephanie are very important to Titan and to him, so if they are in danger because of a book his company published, he needs to know what’s being done to rectify the situation. Steve agrees and explains that they think the guy will be eager to act now that the engagement announcement is out, so they hope to lure him in to a trap. Philip worries that it’s dangerous considering the guy is poised to kill. Steve responds that he doesn’t like provoking the guy but doing nothing could be a lot more dangerous.

JJ claims to Theo that he didn’t realize he had a reaction to Gabi having a date and guesses he was just disappointed she had to leave so soon. Theo is impressed that JJ remembered his burger order and says it’s really good to see him. JJ responds that it’s really good to see him awake and admits he was really worried and that seeing him unconscious brought back a lot of tough memories. JJ says he was pacing the halls and praying that Theo would come back to them. Theo appreciates his prayers and says he’s sorry for how he came after JJ when he decided to go back to the police department. JJ thanks him but says he has nothing to be sorry for because he was right that he shouldn’t have gone back without talking to him first. JJ reiterates that he took his concerns seriously and has been continuing his training that emphasizes de-escalation. JJ hopes he’ll never have to reach for his service weapon again.

Alex and Steve eat together at the Brady Pub and talk sports. Alex wishes they could’ve bonded like this under less trying circumstances and he hates that Steve had to put his life on hold to protect him and Stephanie. Steve assures that nothing is more important to him than them. Steve adds that he has been doing other work like helping Rafe with the Peter Blake case. Alex didn’t know that Black Patch worked with the FBI. Steve calls this more personal and says in his line of work, trust is everything. Steve knows that Rafe, Bo, and Hope trust him. Alex asks if they have any leads. Steve says he can’t say much but reveals that Bo and Hope are heading to Alamainia to do some leg work which is a big help because there’s no way he’s leaving town when Alex and Stephanie are his first priority.

Julie tells Jeremy that she tried to talk him out of leaving Salem but she sees now that he’s made his decision and he’s determined. Julie says she’s going to miss him terribly and she’s sure the children will too, if they even stay in Salem after Thomas’s reaction to the mediation. Jeremy knows there’s a lot up in the air but he doubts the kids will move to Boston. Jeremy says Thomas is dealing with complicated feelings but he loves his dad, has his friends here, and they adore Julie. Julie says they’ve been a great comfort to her. Jeremy encourages that Thomas will come around in time. Julie asks where Jeremy will be moving on to. Jeremy responds that he hasn’t decided yet, so he might just leave town and see where the wind takes him.

Stephanie tells Jada that she’s glad the town square is quiet right now. Jada knows this situation must be bringing up scary memories for her. Stephanie says she wants to be brave which is why she’s putting herself out there as bait. Stephanie adds that she could never admit it to Alex or Steve, but she is terrified.

Philip and Gabi meet in the park. Philip wishes he could do more for Stephanie and Alex but says it sounds like Steve and Jada have it covered, so he suggests that he and Gabi just try to stay in the moment tonight. Gabi says that sounds like a plan. They come across a game of Cornhole with an ad for Saxton’s spring campaign. Gabi worries about Gabi Chic not being ready for their spring campaign. Philip points out that she can compete in the bean bag toss or he wins by default. Philip jokes that he loves that she hates losing as they kiss.

Steve tells Alex that he’s sorry to say he struck out on tracking the IP address of the psycho stalker from the message board. Alex feels that means he’s going to great lengths to hide his identity which Steve calls another red flag. Alex asks if he still thinks it could be Jeremy Horton. Steve says he’s not ruling it out and hopes to be proven wrong. Steve then gets a text from Hope, revealing she found another website which he shows to Alex. Alex remarks that it’s like a virtual shrine to Stephanie and that they even posted their engagement pictures. Steve says they just need to find the name of the person who purchased the URL domain, so thanks to Bo and Hope, they may not have to wait for the guy to make a move after all.

Jada tells Stephanie that she’s sorry this is so hard on her and reminds her that she doesn’t have to put herself at risk but Stephanie says she does. Stephanie complains that the stalker has taken her sense of safety, so she’s taking it all back. Stephanie wishes the guy would make his move. Jada feels it won’t be long now.

Theo tells JJ that he’s glad he’s taking classes but questions it being realistic that JJ thinks he’ll never use his gun again. JJ states that most officers go their whole career without firing their weapon, outside of the shooting range. Theo says he doesn’t need to hear how difficult the idea of using his weapon again is, but that he’s prepared for high stakes situation and making the split second decisions. JJ promises to do the work and not let fear compromise his brain. Theo is glad they talked about this as he knows how traumatized JJ was after his shooting, so much that he tried to take his own life. Theo admits he’s been hard on him lately, but no matter how angry he got, he never stopped believing that the world is a better place with JJ in it. JJ thanks him and says it means a lot as he’s grateful for his friendship and for Gabi’s since she talked him out of it. Theo asks if JJ’s sure he wasn’t upset when Gabi said she had a date with Philip. JJ admits that Theo knows him well and he wishes it didn’t but it did bother him. JJ explains that when he got back to Salem, he and Gabi started seeing each other again and he was really hoping it would work out this time. JJ wonders if they would still be together if he hadn’t gone back to the police force.

Philip asks how Gabi is doing with the whole Stefan thing. Gabi says she’s doing as good as can be, so she’s okay one minute and then not the next. Gabi explains that Rafe is heading to Alamainia to question Vivian and find out if Stefan is really dead. Philip asks if Stefan is alive, would Gabi want him back? Gabi assures that she would not as she wanted nothing to do with Stefan before, so this wouldn’t change anything. Philip remembers Gabi being surprised by how the news affected her. Gabi admits she loved Stefan, but he broke her heart and shattered the illusion of what she thought they had. Gabi adds that one of the last things she said about him was that she wished he were dead which haunts her. Gabi hopes he isn’t dead, but that doesn’t mean she wants him back.

Julie knows Jeremy had a hard time with people accepting he was a changed man, so she hopes he’s not being run out of town. Jeremy admits his reputation played a factor but he knows it’s the right decision for him. Jeremy assures that he’ll miss teaching, the kids, and being here with Julie but he should’ve known he has too much baggage. Julie then asks if his decision was influenced by Stephanie’s engagement to Alex. Jeremy insists that it doesn’t and that he didn’t come back to Salem to win Stephanie back. Julie believed there might have been a sliver of hope that they would reconcile. Jeremy admits when he read Stephanie’s book, it crossed his mind that maybe she was trying to communicate something to him, but as soon as he found out she had a long term boyfriend, he backed off. Julie asks if his feelings backed off. Jeremy admits that no matter where he is, he will always feel like Stephanie was the one who got away or the one he pushed away with his own bad behavior. Jeremy says he tried to make amends with Stephanie but at some point he has to respect people’s boundaries. Julie tells him that she’s so sorry. Jeremy says he’s just glad Stephanie is happy because she deserves it.

Alex tells Steve that he will be so relieved when this is over. Stephanie and Jada come in and join them. Steve gets another text and asks to speak to Jada in private so they step aside. Stephanie sits with Alex and tells him that Jada just told her about Alex paying for 24 hour security for her out of his own pocket and asks why he didn’t tell her. Alex responds that he didn’t want her to worry about the cost because peace of mind does not have a price tag. Stephanie is glad Jada told her so that she can tell him how grateful she is. Alex is surprised she’s not mad at him because she said she didn’t like people making the decisions for her. Stephanie says she can make an exception in this case and admits it was really sweet of him. Stephanie adds that knowing how protective he is of her means more than he knows. To the side, Steve asks Jada if this is enough. Jada responds that since Hope confirmed who owns the URL, it’s more than enough and she’ll take it from here. Jada then exits the Pub as Steve looks worried back at Stephanie and Alex.

Theo tells JJ that he did not know he and Gabi got back together again after he came back to Salem. JJ says it wasn’t for long since Gabi didn’t take too kindly to him bringing her in for questioning during the who shot EJ investigation. JJ remarks that it seems like Gabi and Philip are happy. Theo doesn’t think it’s going to last. JJ asks why he says that.

Philip tells Gabi that he knows relationships can be complicated, but if Stefan didn’t want her, he was out of his mind. Philip says he’s sorry that Stefan hurt her so badly. Gabi thanks him and says she’s sorry for going on about her reportedly dead ex. Philip says he’s the one who brought it up. Gabi understands it affects him too. Gabi adds that speaking of breaking hearts, she could kill Leo for breaking Javi’s. Philip asks what she thinks is going to happen there. Gabi responds that Javi is in Texas and she’s talked to him every day, but he’s shattered. Philip says they were so close to happiness before Dimitri showed up, comparing it to the film The Graduate which Gabi calls one of her favorites. Gabi guesses Philip will connect that to Stefan but assures that even if Stefan were alive, she would not ride off into the sunset with him. Gabi tells Philip that if she had to choose, she would choose him in a heartbeat as they kiss. Philip jokes that he may come across as full of himself at times, but it’s to mask his deep insecurities. Philip calls it a very welcome ego boost to hear someone as special as her would choose him. Gabi declares that Philip is the only man she has eyes for and she only wants him. They kiss until Philip suggests taking it back to his room but first they agree to one more game of Cornhole.

JJ asks Theo again why he doesn’t think Gabi and Philip are going to last. Theo thinks back to Gabi admitting to him that she planted the bug in Xander’s office to help Tony get DiMera back and agreeing to keep it between them. Theo calls it just a feeling but says nevermind.

Steve reveals to Stephanie and Alex that Jada just took off to bring in a suspect for questioning in Stephanie’s stalker case. Stephanie calls that great while Alex asks if he’s going to tell them who it is.

Julie and Jeremy eat pizza together until Jada shows up at the door, demanding they open up. Julie is shocked while Jeremy says he will handle it and answers the door. Jada informs Jeremy that she needs him to come down to the police station. Jeremy asks what for. Jada thinks he knows. Jeremy says he doesn’t and asks if he’s under arrest. Jada asks if he would like to be because they can make that happen if he refuses to come. Julie says it must be a misunderstanding. Jada responds that she’s sure it’s not as someone has been stalking and threatening Stephanie and Alex online and they have evidence that person is Jeremy.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Julie and Foster prepare for the bereavement book club meeting. Julie talks about being anxious. Foster says there’s no need to be as it’s just a trial run with her close friends. Julie clarifies that it’s not just that but her family is in a custody dispute that has her on edge which Foster says is understandable. Foster asks if she wants to postpone but Julie thinks it will be a good distraction and says she just has to pray the mediation is going well.

Jack finishes a call at home with Justin and informs Jennifer that the mediator suggested they meet without lawyers. Chad arrives and says he heard the same from Melinda. Chad and Jennifer both say they think it’s a terrible idea.

Marlena walks through the town square and finds Cat seated at a table. Cat asks how she is. Marlena says she’s doing well. Cat says she’s really glad to hear that. Marlena asks if she’s here alone. Cat says she’s waiting for her sister Felicity. Cat adds that she would usually be at work but her schedule is more flexible with EJ out of town with Sydney. Cat asks how Sydney is. Marlena says by all reports, she’s doing well. Cat is glad to hear and asks if that means EJ will be coming home soon. Marlena responds that she hopes not.

Maggie joins Julie and Foster at the Book Club. Maggie admits she hadn’t finished the section they are going to be discussing today in the book but she got halfway through. Foster asks what she thought. Maggie says the author’s experience hit close to home as she’s also been widowed twice, so she could relate to that. Julie suggests waiting for the discussion until Marlena gets there and wonders what’s keeping her.

Cat tells Marlena that she knows everyone hates EJ but he’s been kind enough to her. Marlena warns that it’s only a matter of time before that kindness turns in to something else. Marlena reveals that’s why she has a proposition for her. Marlena informs Cat that she’s thinking of going back to work at the hospital, so she wondered if Cat wanted her old job back.

Jack remarks that Jennifer and Chad already agreed on something while Jennifer points out that Jack doesn’t agree since he thinks they should meet without lawyers. Jack says it’s worth a try and nothing is official in writing while all they are doing today is talking. Jack thinks they would be less constrained and more free to express themselves without lawyers. Jack adds that they all have the same goal here. Jennifer and Chad decide they are okay with it then.

Cat tells Marlena that she was so kind to hire her to begin with and she loved working with her. Marlena guesses she’s afraid that EJ would be upset. Cat confirms that EJ did a lovely favor in hiring her and he’s come to rely on her so she wouldn’t feel right about leaving him. Marlena admires her loyalty. Felicity joins them and greets them. Cat invites Marlena to join them for ice cream but Marlena says she promised a friend a favor.

Maggie is surprised Marlena is late. Julie mentions texting her but there was no reply. Foster says he’d like to wait for her, but they only have an hour so he suggests they get started.

At the mediation, Chad talks on the phone with Melinda and gets that she doesn’t want him to go to the meeting without her but no decisions will be made today. Chad hangs up as Jack and Jennifer enter the meeting room followed by the mediator, Agnes, who introduces herself to them. Agnes says the purpose of this is for them to reach an agreement that best serves the interests of Thomas and Charlotte. She says she is a neutral party to help them and hopefully guide them to a workable resolution. She recognizes it’s a sensitive matter and emotions can run high but says there is greater success if they remain civil and respectful. They decide they are ready to begin.

Jeremy sits at home with Thomas, going over his math work. Thomas complains that he can’t concentrate. Jeremy asks if he wants to talk about it. Thomas doesn’t know what to say as he just feels like everyone is mad at everyone else and it’s all his fault.

Agnes starts with Chad, asking how he proposes they resolve this custody dispute. Chad believes his kids should remain with him because he is their father and no one loves them more than he does. Chad says he rocked them to sleep as babies, changed their diapers, held them when they were sick, took them go games and recitals. Chad says he’s always been with them and they need him close right now because he’s the only parent they have left as his wife Abigail was murdered a few years ago. Chad asks how do you tell your kids they are never going to see their mother again and calls it the hardest thing he’s ever had to do. Chad adds that right after Abigail was killed, he was barely holding it together and one day, he snapped at Thomas and lost his temper with him. Chad says he confided in Jennifer how he messed up and how badly he felt and she said he would never forget it, noting that you just have to be there for your kids. Chad says he apologized to Thomas and they agreed they were just mad at the world for taking Abigail from them. Chad recalls not knowing what to do about it and Thomas saying they could make each other feel better. Chad talks about moving forward together and how his kids were thriving. Chad says he was very proud to see his kids happy. Agnes says it seems he’s come a long way. Chad admits it hasn’t always been perfect but they’ve come far and he’s been there every step of the way which Jennifer said was most important. Chad declares that he has to be with his kids. Agnes notes that Jack and Jennifer’s position has clearly changed and asks Chad to tell her why that is. Chad calls it a long and complicated story but explains that Cat Green impersonated Abigail and made them believe that she hadn’t really died, but they found out that Clyde Weston forced her to do it or he was going to kill Cat’s mother if she didn’t follow his orders. Agnes asks what happened when Chad found out Cat wasn’t really Abigail. Chad says they were all furious as what she did was cruel but Cat didn’t do it on her own and told him how sorry she was over and over again. Chad says he believed her and came to believe she deserved forgiveness just like the rest of them. Agnes asks him to elaborate. Chad brings up Jennifer’s addiction to painkillers which Jack argues is irrelevant and has nothing to do with this. Jack decides this was a bad idea and declares the meeting over.

Maggie talks about the book they read and relating to the character’s clashing with her second husband’s adult children. Marlena arrives and apologizes for being late. Julie says it’s okay and they are just delighted she’s there.

Felicity comments to Cat that Marlena seemed sad. Cat agrees and guesses Marlena is missing her husband. Felicity notes that Cat seems sad too. Cat asks why she would be sad. Felicity guesses she misses Chad.

Agnes asks Jack if what Chad said is untrue. Jennifer confirms it’s not. Jack remarks that they didn’t think he would stoop so low. Agnes feels Jennifer’s addiction is relevant to being fit for custody. Chad agrees it’s not and apologizes for saying anything. Chad states that Jennifer has been clean for years, so his kids are perfectly safe with her as they are with him. Agnes goes back to Cat and her part in this dispute. Agnes asks how Chad explained the impersonation to his children. Chad admits he didn’t and wasn’t going to but a friend at school told Thomas, so he told him that he and Cat were in a relationship. Chad knows it will sound strange but when Cat was pretending to be Abigail, she developed genuine feelings for him and he had feelings for her from thinking she was his wife and the feelings don’t just go away. Chad says he and Cat started spending time together, became friends and eventually more than friends. Jennifer points out that Chad kept that a secret and when Thomas asked if they were more than friends, he lied to Thomas. Jack says that’s until he couldn’t cover it up any longer and had to come to clean. Jennifer continues that Thomas was obviously upset that Chad would date his mother’s impostor. Chad assures that he broke it off the next day. Jennifer points out that Thomas was so upset that he asked to go live with her and Jack in Boston. Jennifer says they said no as Jack explains that they didn’t think Abigail would want her children taken away from their surviving parent as they thought Chad ended his relationship with Cat. Chad insists that he did. Jennifer talks about Chad giving his word that Cat would stay out of their lives and their relationship was over which turned out to be another lie. Chad asks to explain. Agnes asks why Jennifer says it was a lie. Jennifer explains that days later, she and Thomas saw Chad and Cat with their arms around each other in the town square and Thomas got so upset that he ran in to traffic and got hit by a car. Chad argues that Thomas misunderstood what he saw as Cat had just gotten bad news about her mother, so he was trying to comfort her but he realizes now that was a mistake. Jack asks how he can promise he won’t make another mistake. Chad argues that he can’t promise his kids will never get angry at him for something he did, but he can promise he loves his kids more than anything else in the world and he would do anything for them. Chad declares that he will always put them first. Agnes asks if Jack and Jennifer have a response. Jennifer responds that she doesn’t believe Chad.

Jeremy asks why Thomas thinks it’s his fault that everyone is mad at each other. Thomas goes over getting mad at Chad for being with Cat, which made Jack and Jennifer mad at Chad, and then Chad got angry at him for saying he wanted to go live with Jack and Jennifer. Jeremy asks if Thomas still wants to live with them but Thomas says not anymore. Jeremy guesses that when Chad went missing, Thomas got scared he might never see him again and that got him thinking if he really wanted to go to Boston or if he was just angry at Chad. Thomas confirms that is right but he told Jack and Jennifer that he did mean it and now they are trying to make it happen. Jeremy encourages that he still has time to tell them that he changed his mind. Thomas feels like even if he does, everyone will still be mad at each other.

Chad doesn’t know what else he can do to make Jennifer believe him. Agnes asks why Jennifer doesn’t believe that Chad will prioritize his children. Jennifer prefaces by telling Chad that we love him and know how much he loves their grandchildren and how much Abigail loved him. Jennifer says they wouldn’t consider taking Thomas and Charlotte away from him which Jack says was until the car accident. Jennifer recalls the doctor fixing Thomas’s dislocated shoulder and he wanted her there but not Chad and that’s when she changed her mind about wanting the children to live with them. Jennifer recalls telling Chad to be there for his kids and he wasn’t no matter how many promises because he was still with Cat and Thomas could’ve died. Jennifer says she told Chad that they don’t trust him so she was going to honor Thomas’s wishes and take them to Boston. Jennifer adds that if Chad tried to fight them, they would sue for custody and that’s exactly what they did.

Julie talks about how Doug would’ve loved the book they read and how they would read together. Julie recalls a discussion they had about music which Doug was passionate about and she misses those conversations. Julie gets emotional talking about Doug. Foster says his wife has been gone for 15 years and he still imagines conversations with her. Maggie relates to feeling Victor and Mickey responding to her. Foster asks if Marlena read the book. Marlena says she did but she has nothing to add and will just listen.

Cat reminds Felicity that she and Chad can’t be together because he wants to do what’s best for his kids, but admits she was thinking about Chad because she happened to find out he had a really important meeting today, so she’s really hoping it went well.

Agnes asks to hear from Jack. Jack reiterates that they never dreamed that they would need to take Thomas and Charlotte away from their father, but Chad has broken their trust again and again. Chad argues that hugging Cat was not romantic. Jennifer argues that he can’t seem to stay away from Cat which means he obviously still has feelings for her. Chad complains that they both just want him to be alone and not have feelings for anyone or be with anyone but Abigail. Jack says that’s not it all, pointing out that Cat wasn’t the first person he dated since Abigail. Jennifer says they would like nothing more for him to meet someone to spend the rest of his life with, someone kind and caring who Abigail would love to help raise their children but that person is not and will never be Cat Green.

Jeremy tells Thomas that he knows it’s hard feeling like everyone is mad at each other and will never make up. Jeremy brings up the mediation being today. Thomas says Chad tried to explain but it was confusing. Jeremy explains that they both disagree on where Thomas and Charlotte should live, so they sit down with someone to try and reach a compromise that works for everyone. Thomas asks if he thinks that’s possible. Jeremy says he really hopes so.

Julie jokes about Marlena always listening as a psychiatrist. Marlena wonders if maybe she shouldn’t be here and thinks she should go.

Cat knows Felicity wishes she and Chad could be together, but sometimes it’s just not possible. They then go to get ice cream.

Agnes pauses the mediation to take a breath. Agnes asks what made Jack and Jennifer agree to mediation after initially going to court. Jack explains that Justin suggested it and they didn’t think it was a good idea. Jennifer adds that Chad was then kidnapped and when they first heard, they worried that they needed to get Thomas and Charlotte as far away from Chad’s family as possible to keep them safe. Jack adds that their feelings changed because Thomas cried himself to sleep every night, afraid that he would never see his father again. Jennifer says miraculously and thankfully, Chad was rescued and they saw how relieved Thomas was to have his father back, so they realized they were going about the custody dilemma all wrong and they just need to find the solution to agree on. Jennifer promises they aren’t trying to punish Chad, but trying to think of every way possible to keep the kids safe. Chad says they have the exact same goal then. Chad reveals that he and Melinda have come up with a proposal which Jack questions.

Jeremy tells Thomas that in baseball, both teams want to win but Chad and Jack and Jennifer are trying to work together for what’s best. Thomas brings up that Chad still lied to him a lot, so he doesn’t know if he will ever trust him again. Jeremy says when someone breaks trust, it takes a long time to fix it, but he can’t fix it with Chad unless he gives him another chance. Thomas agrees to try.

Chad admits Jack and Jennifer are incredible grandparents and he knows his kids love spending time with them. Chad says he and Melinda thought they could go visit every summer for a month and that Jack and Jennifer can come visit anytime they want, but he retains full custody and he is not budging on that. Agnes asks if Jack and Jennifer have a plan as well. Jack responds that their plans changed as when they first brought up the lawsuit, Thomas was really upset and insisted that he did not want to stay with Chad, but after Chad was kidnapped, they realized how much Thomas loves Chad and wants to stay with him. Jennifer declares that their only sticking point in all of this is Chad’s involvement with Cat Green. Jack states that if Chad would promise to never have a relationship with Cat ever again, they would drop the suit for custody. Agnes asks if Chad agrees with that. Chad says he does and gives his word. Jack adds that they would like to have two months with the kids. Jennifer suggests revisiting the custody issue if Thomas changes his mind and didn’t want to live with Chad but Chad says no and calls that completely unreasonable. Jennifer asks why it’s unreasonable to listen to Thomas. Chad argues that Thomas is still a kid and he’s not going to allow him to hold this over his head anytime he enforces a rule he doesn’t like. Chad says Thomas also should not control where Charlotte lives. Jennifer agrees that he’s right. Agnes asks if they have an agreement. Jack, Jennifer, and Chad say that they do as they join hands.

Maggie asks Marlena not to go while Julie says she didn’t mean to upset her. Marlena says she knows that but it was difficult for her to come and she just thought she should, so she forced herself to come but now she sees she’s not ready for it. Marlena then exits. Julie worries about what she has done. Maggie insists it’s not her fault, it’s just too soon for Marlena. Foster states that Marlena just wasn’t ready to be there, but she read the book and she listened, so she will be back.

Jennifer and Jack go home. Jennifer thanks Jeremy for watching Thomas. Jeremy says it was his pleasure as he exits the room. Thomas asks how it went. Jack didn’t think they would beat Chad home, so they will wait until he gets home to talk about it. Thomas pleads with them to tell him now. Jack says the mediation went well and Jennifer says she really thinks they can to an agreement. Jennifer informs Thomas that Chad will keep custody of he and Charlotte, but they will get to visit every summer for two months and that Chad promised to never start a relationship with Cat Green ever again. Jack asks what Thomas thinks.

Chad goes to Book Club to see Julie, which she calls a nice surprise. Chad tells her that mediation went well and he’s cautiously optimistic that they reached an agreement they can all be happy about it. Julie calls that great news as she hugs Chad.

Jennifer asks what Thomas thinks about the agreement. Thomas responds that it’s not good enough. Jack asks what he means. Thomas argues that Chad lied about Cat before and asks how to know he won’t do it again.

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