Days Short Recap Friday, February 6, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Theo told Abe that he didn’t want him at Stefano’s memorial if he was going to be celebrating. Chanel told Johnny that she and Trey weren’t going to the memorial. She said she didn’t get any sleep worry about the memorial. Paulina showed up to see Chanel. She told Paulina that she wasn’t going to the memorial. Chanel said she wanted Theo to get better soon so Johnny could be home more. Paulina brought up Chanel’s pregnancy which led to them talking about EJ finding out about it. Marlena told Roman that she was going to Stefano’s memorial. Roman told Marlena that she was never alone and hugged her. Kate watched them hugging and was upset. She said she was going to the memorial by herself. Chad and Kristen showed up at the memorial. Kristen told EJ that Rafe was looking for him and said she hoped they locked him up. Chad stop them from arguing. EJ and Kristen stopped arguing. She told them that Stefan was dead. The rest of the guests arrived at the memorial. Roman apologized to Kate for being insensitive to her feelings. He said she wouldn’t have to deal with anything alone. Kate went to talk to Stefano and let him know that she was looking into the future. After Kate finished talking to Stefano, Johnny talked to him. He told Stefano that Chanel was pregnant. EJ confronted Johnny and told him he heard him say Chanel was pregnant. He told Johnny that he was happy that the baby was going to be a DiMera. Johnny was furious with EJ and told him to stay away from him. Everyone else went to see Stefano. Johnny told Chanel that EJ found out about the baby. When everyone else left the room, EJ said they would honor Stefano’s legacy. Marlena talked to Stefano and was glad they would be rid of him forever. While she was talking to him, a candle blew out.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, February 5, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Kristen and Brady were in Rachel’s room waiting for Dr. Gregory to come in. She wanted the doctor to release Rachel. Kristen showed Brady Sophia’s note. Kristen was upset that the doctor encouraged Brady and Sarah’s relationship. Brady told Dr. Gregory that he wanted there to be boundaries when it comes to Sophia. When Rachel came in her room, she asked if they were there to take her home. Dr. Gregory left the room. Brady and Kristen got into an argument which led to Rachel yelling at them to stop. Kristen told Rachel that she had to stay at the hospital before she left the room. Sophia looked at Holly’s social media. While she was watching Holly’s social media, she formulated a plan to get revenge on her. Dr. Gregory showed up in Sophia’s room. Sophia gave her a note saying she wanted to apologize to Holly. Dr. Gregory called Holly so she could see Sophia. Holly and Tate went to the hospital. Tate went to see Rachel while she was yelling at Brady about him not letting her mother take her home. Holly went to see Sophia. Rachel was upset that she wouldn’t be able to see Sophia. Tate promised to bring Holly with him when he visited her again.

Holly was upset when she saw Sophia. Sophia gave Holly a note saying she apologized to her and asked for forgiveness. Holly said she forgave her. Things took a turn when Holly read in the letter that Sophia blamed her for being with Tate and for making her think she had a shot with him. Holly apologized to Sophia. When Sophia made Holly knock over her bag, she put supplements in it. Rafe said the DNA tests proved that Stefan was dead. He told her that Stefan didn’t want to leave her. Rafe said Vivian kidnapped Stefan to keep Gabi away from him. Gabi was shaken over the idea that Stefan probably didn’t sign the divorce papers. Rafe wanted to get the divorce papers analyzed. He went to the DiMera mansion. He said Kristen toasting to Stefano’s urn. Rafe asked if Dimitri or EJ were there. Kristen asked if he wanted to work together. Rafe said he wanted to see EJ’s get well card from Stefan. When Rafe told her that Stefan was dead, Kristen couldn’t care less. Sophia took out Holly’s supplements and replaced them with hers.

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Days Update Friday, January 30, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Gwen enters the living room of the DiMera Mansion, but sees Dimitri and says she will take her tea elsewhere. Dimitri mocks that she can’t go out for tea without his money and then remarks that EJ is feeding her while he wouldn’t. Dimitri comments on Stefano’s memorial and says at least now his Grandfather is back with his family. Gwen wishes she could’ve met Stefano and wonders what he’d say about their situation. Dimitri remarks that he probably wouldn’t like someone screwing his grandson. Gwen responds that he probably wouldn’t like Leo much either.

Leo sits alone in his room at the Salem Inn. Leo tries calling Javi and leaves a message, saying he hopes his dad is out of surgery and doing better. Leo says he knows he’s busy but to give him a call if he gets a chance because he’d love to hear his voice. Leo says he loves him and hangs up.

Kristen visits Rachel at Bayview. Kristen says they need to talk about the upcoming hearing to make sure they are prepared. Rachel responds that she’s going to tell the judge that she shot EJ, not Kristen. Kristen reminds her that it’s not too late to change her mind as she would do anything to protect her. Rachel doesn’t want Kristen to go back to prison for something she did. Rachel adds that Dr. Gregory says she needs to tell the truth. Kristen argues that Dr. Gregory doesn’t need to be involved in this.

Brady and Belle sit together in the town square. Brady tells Belle this has been fun but he understands if she needs to go. Belle says she has a few minutes before meeting Kristen and Rachel. Brady thanks her for going above and beyond for them. Belle says she loves Rachel too. Belle adds that she’s glad that Brady and Marlena worked things out as it’s done wonders for her. Brady says everyone deserves forgiveness, especially Marlena. Brady mentions planning to visit her when they are done but Belle suggests not doing that because Marlena said that Xander was coming by.

Xander goes to see Marlena at home. Marlena notes that they do have an appointment but she won’t be seeing him here anymore.

Brady tells Belle that he knows Xander is in therapy with Marlena. Belle questions him being okay with that. Brady can’t think of anyone who needs their head shrunk more and admits he’s glad that Xander is getting help because it could only be good for Sarah and Victoria. Belle jokes that she’s impressed. Brady says Marlena is the one who always believes people can change their lives around. Belle guesses if anyone’s capable of a miracle, it’s Marlena.

Xander tells Marlena that if this is about him firing Brady, he can’t blame her. Marlena admits she was very upset about that. Xander says he’s very sorry and understands why she won’t see him anymore. Marlena says that she thought about it a great deal and she realized that referring him out to another therapist would be someone who doesn’t know his history and that could set him back, so she’s decided to continue seeing him as his therapist. Xander thanks her and says she has no idea how much that means to him. Marlena clarifies that she will be returning to her practice at the hospital so she won’t be seeing him here anymore. Marlena adds that if Xander ever does anything that malicious to hurt a member of her family again, she will no longer see him as his therapist or refer him to anyone else at the hospital.

Sarah comes by with Victoria as Brady and Belle are saying their goodbyes. Belle then exits, so Brady offers to get Sarah a coffee. Sarah thanks him but says she shouldn’t, so Brady asks if something is wrong.

Rachel asks Kristen not to be mad at Dr. Gregory. Kristen responds that she’s not mad, but she thinks Dr. Gregory overstepped and she doesn’t agree with her advice. Kristen questions if Bayview is the right place for Rachel. Rachel notes that she’s not allowed to spend time with Sophia anymore which Kristen thinks is for the best, encouraging that she can make more friends closer to her age. Rachel complains that they are weird while Sophia is cool and makes her feel like she’s not crazy. Kristen argues that she’s not crazy, so Rachel questions why she needs to be here then. Rachel complains that she wants to go home so badly more than ever and to be with her. Kristen says she wants that too and promises Rachel will be home soon as they hug.

Dimitri tells Gwen that she can be on her way. Gwen mocks him giving her permission. Gwen wonders if the ISA suspects anyone else in being Peter’s accomplice. Dimitri says they both know he would be impossible since Gwen had him on ice. Gwen insists having nothing to do with his made up kidnapping. Dimitri says whoever it is, is on borrowed time since the camera in the crypt had a direct feed to Alamainia so they were watching live. Gwen brings up only knowing Vivian there and meeting her while she was there. Gwen asks if Dimitri saw her while he was there. Dimitri responds that she knows he didn’t because she had him held captive elsewhere. Dimitri talks about Vivian hating him and his family. Gwen remarks that she and Vivian get along so well because they have a common enemy.

Leo calls Marlena but it goes to voicemail. Leo then sees he has a missed call from Dimitri and wishes he would stop pestering him. Leo has a flashback to visiting Dimitri in prison, then looks back at his phone.

Xander tells Marlena that he is very sorry for the way he behaved when he fired Brady, admitting he lost his temper and snapped, then he stupidly got drunk at the Pub which he knows is never a smart way to cope. Marlena says they will continue to work on his anger issues. Xander wonders if there’s any point since he’s obviously not doing any better and likely never will be.

Brady asks what Sarah isn’t telling him. Sarah says she wasn’t going to bring it up, but she had a conversation with Kristen earlier and she made it very clear that she wants her to stay away from Brady and Rachel. Brady argues that she has no right to do that at all. Sarah doesn’t want Brady going off on Kristen because she thinks she might have a point.

Belle joins Kristen and Rachel at Bayview. Kristen thanks her for coming as she appreciates her help in sorting all of this out, joking that it helps to have the district attorney in the family. Rachel asks if Belle came by because of the hearing. Belle says she just wanted to see her, but she does think they should talk through how everything will happen so there’s hopefully no surprises. Rachel asks if she’s going to have to testify like Johnny’s trial. Belle assures it won’t be anything like that as they will be in the judges’ chambers with just a few people. Rachel asks about EJ.

Dimitri tells Gwen that he is not her enemy and says she’s the one who unleashed all of this hatred on him. Gwen says that’s because he was sleeping with her best friend behind her back. Gwen states that her husband humiliating her made her angry. Dimitri says so angry that she had him kidnapped so she could control his trust. Gwen says they can hash it out in court. Dimitri says he looks forward to it and having her carted off to prison. Dimitri mentions hiring a lawyer and looks forward to filing. Gwen says not if she beats him to it. Leo then walks in and asks what he’s interrupting here. Dimitri is surprised to see him while Gwen questions what he’s doing there. Leo declares that he came on a mission to get Dimitri out of his system. Gwen questions how he plans to do that. Dimitri suggests Gwen leave but she refuses, so he suggests he and Leo go upstairs. Leo says no since the rooms upstairs have beds. Leo repeats that he wants Dimitri out of his system, to rid himself of him and purge him permanently right here. Gwen laughs and says this is going to be a bloody good show.

Marlena tells Xander that she’s reluctant to give up on him now after the progress he’s made. Xander asks what if he’s beyond repair and if she wants to waste her time on him. Marlena says it was really one incident and thinks they should talk about what made him snap at Brady. Xander responds that he’s been under an enormous amount of pressure at Titan, stress, tension with Maggie, and shareholders breathing down his neck constantly. Marlena questions if Xander snapped because of stress at work. Xander then admits he had just got his divorce finalized. Xander notes that it didn’t surprise him because he knew it was coming, but what did surprise him was how hard it hit him and he took it out on Brady. Xander declares that he really is sorry for that. Marlena thinks he might be apologizing to the wrong person.

Brady tells Sarah that he is not going to allow Kristen to dictate whether she’s allowed in his life. Sarah explains that Kristen made it clear that she thinks it’s best for Rachel’s mental health and she can’t entirely disagree. Sarah says she is on board with Rachel not controlling his life, but it’s going to be a long process and they have to be mindful of that. Brady says he gets that but they also have to be mindful of Kristen’s motives. Brady doesn’t buy that Kristen’s concerns are solely about her daughter. Brady asks what Sarah is thinking. Sarah responds that it’s not just Kristen who is concerned about them being a thing, but Marlena, Maggie, and Xander. Brady questions what business this is of Xander’s.

Rachel asks if EJ will be in the judge’s chambers. Kristen says no but Belle says maybe. Belle says they don’t know but Kristen states that he will not be. Belle decides they will just talk about what will be at the hearing. Belle tells Rachel that Kristen will tell the judge that she didn’t shoot EJ and then Rachel will tell the judge what really happened, that it was an accident, and that she remembered a long time later. Kristen says then she will be free and Rachel won’t be punished. Belle says that’s what they think will happen, it’s what she’s fighting for, and it’s what EJ told the judge he wants to happen. Rachel thought this was over. Kristen assures it is and she has nothing to worry about. Rachel points out that Belle said the judge still has to decide. Belle assures that she’s very confident but the judge does still have to make a decision and she can’t promise what that decision is going to be. Rachel asks if she’s saying she could go to prison. Belle promises she’s not going to prison no matter what. Rachel questions what wll happen to her then. Belle says there are other possibilities but repeats that she’s very confident it will go how she thinks. Kristen sends Rachel out of the room to get her painting to show Belle. Kristen then questions what the hell Belle was thinking and why she would say such horrible things to a child. Belle argues that she was telling her the truth while Kristen complains that she terrified her. Belle asks if she would rather Rachel just be blindsided in the hearing. Kristen complains that this was a mistake and she should’ve just stuck to her plan to go back to prison. Belle says she knows it’s hard but she can’t just tell Rachel there’s no consequences for confessing to attempted murder. Kristen argues that it was an accident. Kristen questions what Belle was thinking by saying EJ would be at the hearing and argues that Rachel does not need to see him. Belle argues that EJ is the victim and might need to reiterate to the judge that he does not want Rachel in the juvenile justice system. Kristen demands that EJ will not be there. Belle insists that EJ would never hurt Rachel. Belle says everyone wants to come away with the best possible outcome for Rachel and she’s on her side. Kristen remarks that she’s not so sure she is.

Xander guesses Marlena thinks he needs to apologize to Brady. Xander says he could but he doesn’t think Brady would accept his apology. Marlena says what’s important is that Brady knows he’s sorry for what he did. Xander points out that Brady’s not sorry and admitted he did him a favor. Marlena says that doesn’t let him off the hook since he lost his temper. Marlena asks if there’s another reason he fired Brady. Xander says he’s not sure what she’s getting at, so Marlena asks if it’s possible he fired Brady because he’s interested in Sarah.

Sarah says she shouldn’t have brought Xander in to this. Brady says she did so he asks what Xander says about them. Sarah responds that Xander thinks they are seeing each other just to get back at him. Brady assumes she told him that wasn’t true. Sarah confirms she did, but he might be kind of right.

Gwen tells Leo to purge away. Leo decides there’s nothing he can’t say to Dimitri in front of Gwen. Dimitri tells Leo to ignore Gwen and asks how he plans to get him out of his system. Leo responds that he started by blocking him from his phone. Dimitri says that only goes so far and argues that he can’t block him from his dreams and fantasies. Dimitri insists that the whole time he was held captive, his only focus was getting home to him. Dimitri argues that Leo can’t deny they are meant to be together. Leo says he can’t. Dimitri says the only thing holding him back is fear of feeling guilty. Dimitri complains that they did nothing wrong and they are both victims of Gwen’s and she will be out of their lives soon. Dimitri points out that Javi is not here while he is and he loves Leo with all his heart. Dimitri declares he never stopped loving him and he never ever will.

Xander asks Marlena if she thinks Brady has feelings for Sarah. Marlena says it’s not her place to comment, but he could. Xander thinks they’ve been spending so much time together and leaning on each other to get through tough times that they started to develop an attraction based, driven, and fueled by the fact that they both hate him. Marlena questions thinking they are motivated to get together to punish him. Xander admits he doesn’t think they sat down and decided to start dating to stick it to him, but he thinks it’s in the mix subconsciously.

Sarah tells Brady that she knows it’s petty to want revenge on Xander and assures that she’s not seeing Brady to hurt Xander. Brady admits he wouldn’t mind if a fringe benefit happens to be payback against Xander. Brady insists that what he feels for Sarah has nothing to do with Xander. Brady calls Sarah amazing and praises her as a mom, a doctor, and beautiful. Brady tells Sarah that he likes her. Sarah responds that she’s so flattered and she really likes spending time with him too. Brady adds that he loves seeing her every day at the Kiriakis Mansion. Sarah brings up that Marlena suggested it might be good for Brady to find his own place soon. Brady asks if anyone in town isn’t all up in their business. Sarah explains that Marlena is just thinking about Rachel and when it’s time for her to come home, it probably shouldn’t be the same home that she and Victoria are in. Brady agrees and decides he will step up his apartment hunting and make sure he doesn’t overstay his welcome.

Leo tells Dimitri to stop talking and let him say what he came to say. Leo admits he consulted AI on how to get an ex out of your system. Leo says it’s first suggestion was making a list of all of his ex’s bad qualities. Gwen complains that they’ll be there all night. Leo tells her to shut up. Leo starts by saying that Dimitri posts way too many shirtless selfies on social media, so he unfollowed him. They argue about what music to make love to. Leo continues that his ex makes him do things to hurt other people and makes him long for him after shattering his heart, which he wouldn’t wish on anyone. Leo then declares he’s done reading and done with Dimitri. Dimitri responds that it sounds like his bad qualities and Leo’s are the same. Leo stops him and tells him not to try to convince him they are cut from the same cloth. Dimitri responds that they are two peas in a pod.

Belle assures Kristen that she’s on Rachel’s side and she feels for her because she also had a daughter in Bayview. Kristen argues that Rachel is a ten year old child that made a mistake while Claire was a teenager, deliberately trying to kill her aunt. Belle asks if they are really going to do this, but Rachel comes back in and asks if they are fighting. Kristen says they are not but Belle was just leaving. Belle tells Rachel that she loves her and will see her very soon as she exits. Rachel questions if Kristen made Belle leave. Kristen says of course not. Kristen then finds a paper on the chair and questions what it is.

Marlena tells Xander that in therapy, they like to distinguish between things they can control and cannot control. Marlena points out that Xander cannot control Brady and Sarah and it’s none of his business. Xander argues that Brady could end up being Victoria’s stepfather. Marlena thinks he’s getting ahead of himself and tells him to focus on being the best father he can to Victoria. Xander worries that he’s a lost cause. Marlena thinks he needs to find a way to separate himself from Sarah. Marlena asks if he has any activities he enjoys. Xander remarks that he always enjoyed punching things, so Marlena suggests he take a boxing course. Xander asks how long she thinks it will take to figure out who he is separate from Xander. Marlena believes he can do it if he does the work. Xander vows that he wants to and he will. Marlena says she’ll see him next week then in her office at the hospital.

Sarah tells Brady that she’s not kicking him out of the house and it’s not that she doesn’t want him there. Brady says he gets it and the thing with them is odd while everyone has their opinion about it. Brady guesses it’s not a good idea. Brady says he has to check in with Kristen to see how things went with Belle. Brady says he will see her and quickly walks away, leaving Sarah frustrated.

Kristen questions Rachel as to who wrote the note to her that says “wait until you hear from me”. Kristen realizes it’s from Sophia and tells Rachel that this is unacceptable and she won’t let it go on.

Leo agrees with Dimitri that they do have the same bad qualities and he hates that Dimitri brings it out in him while Javi makes him a better person. Dimitri argues that he doesn’t want Leo to change as he loves him just the way he is. Dimitri says they are kindred spirits who belong together. Leo tells him he’s wrong and storms out of the mansion despite Dimitri trying to stop him. Gwen mocks Dimitri fighting his way out of captivity for that. Dimitri complains that it’s all her fault and warns Gwen that her days here are numbered. Dimitri threatens that he can make Gwen disappear just like she made him disappear as he exits the mansion. Gwen remarks that she’s going to get rid of him first. Gwen pulls out her phone and calls Vivian Alamain. Vivian recalls liking her but questions why she’s calling out of the blue. Gwen asks if Vivian still hates the Von Leuschners as much as she used to. Vivian says even more, so Gwen thinks she has a plan to benefit both of them.

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Days Update Thursday, January 29, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Holly and Arianna talk about school in their dorm room. Holly talks about how freaked out she is over rushing a sorority. Arianna questions why, encouraging that all the other girls love her and she’s the best. Holly says to tell that to Sophia Choi.

Chanel goes to visit Sophia in her room at Bayview. Chanel says she wanted to see how she’s doing and she wanted to tell her how grateful she is.

Johnny goes to the Kiriakis Mansion to see Bonnie. Johnny informs her that his friends at Titan told him that she’s written a novel. Bonnie remarks tha they never read the novel. Johnny explains that he’s interested in revitalizing the publishing division at DiMera, so he’d very much like to read it. Bonnie can’t believe and excitedly hugs him as she thanks him.

Justin and Melinda sit with Chad and Jennifer at the Horton house. Justin notes that Jack already signed the custody agreement so he just needs Jennifer and Chad’s signatures. Jennifer signs while Melinda says she needs a moment to confer with her client alone. Justin says to take as much time as they’d like. Chad steps aside with Melinda and says he thought they were all good. Melinda warns that she still doesn’t think it’s a good idea as the agreement does nothing but tie him to the demands of a 10 year old. Melinda warns that in her opinion, signing this would be a big mistake.

Chanel acknowledges that Sophia made a huge sacrifice in giving her baby up and calls it incredibly brave of her. Chanel says she and Johnny can’t thank her enough but they also feel for her as they can’t imagine how hard it must have been for her. Chanel assures that they are committed to giving Trey the best life that any child could hope for. Chanel asks if she’d like to see pictures of him and shows her pictures on her phone.

Arianna tells Holly that she knows it was traumatic for her to see Sophia yesterday. Holly still can’t believe Sophia tried to slap her. Arianna says she’s not trying to defend Sophia, but she’s in Bayview for a reason because she’s not really in her right mind. Holly argues that Arianna wasn’t there and didn’t see it, insisting that she wanted to slap her. Gabi then arrives to bring them sorority dresses from Gabi Chic which excites them.

Bonnie can’t believe Johnny is going to publish her book and calls it the best day ever. Johnny clarifies that he still has to read it, but he knows her track record and DiMera needs something they can put in the pipeline immediately so her book is a good fit. Bonnie presents a pair of handcuffs as a marketing tool to go with the book. Johnny asks if she’s given away many copies. Bonnie says she has and she’s waiting to hear back from one as they speak.

Chad tells Melinda that he’s signing the paper as it’s what he wants to do and what his son wants, so there’s no talking him out of it. Melinda reluctantly accepts as Chad tells Justin that all is good. Justin says he will follow up with the court as Chad signs the paper. After Justin and Melinda leave, Jennifer sits with Chad and tells him that she never wanted it to come to this. Jennifer feels it’s damaged their relationship but she doesn’t think it can’t be repaired. Jennifer says in spite of all of their differences, they have their love for Thomas and Charlotte in common. Jennifer adds that she does hope Chad finds love and happiness again as she knows Abigail would want that and he deserves it. Chad thanks her for saying that but doesn’t think it’s in the cards for him and he’s fine with that. Chad calls Abigail his one true love and he thinks that’s enough for him.

Arianna asks if Gabi really came all this way to give them free clothes or if there’s news about their uncle Gabriel. Gabi says he’s still in the hospital and that Javi promised to call if there’s updates. Arianna feels bad for Javi and says it makes the whole sorority rushing feel silly. Gabi encourages that it’s not and it’s an important part of the college experience which uncle Gabriel and Javi wouldn’t want her to miss it. Holly notes that Tate feels it’s silly too and that it’s going to take up a lot of her time, but it’s something she wants to do, so Gabi encourages to do it.

Justin goes home, where Bonnie excitedly tells him that Johnny is going to publish her novel. Johnny starts to clarify but Bonnie insists that the minute he reads it, he will be chomping at the bit to publish it.

Chanel shows Sophia pictures of Trey and tells her about giving him his first bath. When Chanel steps away to grab a peppermint from her purse, Sophia seems to notice that Chanel is pregnant.

Chad tells Jennifer that when he first got out of the crypt, there was a moment where he thought those bones could’ve been Abigail’s but Theo was quick to tell him they belonged to a man.

Johnny tells Justin and Bonnie that he has to get going but he’ll be in touch soon. Bonnie thanks him as he exits. Bonnie tells Justin that it pays to know people in high places even though the Kiriakis family didn’t want to help her aspirations. Justin insists that Titan turning her down wasn’t personal and points out that DiMera could be a stronger company to publish her book. Justin jokes that then maybe he’ll finally get a chance to read it. Bonnie explains that she just didn’t want him to read it until it was a real book at Julie’s book store on the best seller’s shelf. Justin says he can’t wait as he hugs her.

Chanel asks Sophia if she wants to look at the rest of the pictures but Sophia looks away and hands her phone back. Chanel brings up Dr. Gregory communicating through writing notes and asks if there’s anything she’d like to say to her, Johnny, or Trey. Sophia remains silent, so Chanel tells her to let Dr. Gregory know if she changes her mind. Chanel knows she wasn’t happy when she found out that she and Johnny were going to be raising her son and she understands why. Chanel says she’s so sorry for all the trouble caused when they backed out of the adoption as they weren’t thinking about how it would affect her when they should’ve been. Chanel assures Sophia that Trey is loved by so many people and when Sophia gets out, they’d love for her to be a part of his life if that’s what she wants.

Gabi asks Arianna if there’s anything to report in regards to relationship or if she has her eye on anyone. Arianna says no and feels college boys are so immature. Gabi then questions if that’s why Arianna has a fake ID.

Bonnie asks how the mediation went between Chad and the Hortons. Justin says it went pretty well and they were able to work out an agreement. Bonnie says that’s great if everyone’s happy then. Justin says it helped that everyone was reasonable and willing to compromise, which isn’t always the case.

Jennifer tells Chad that she’s sorry he had to go through it. Chad says he was relieved but there was a moment he wishes it had been Abigail’s bones, so they would know where she was. Jennifer insists they will find her someday. Chad mentions the closure on the bones. Jennifer says that Julie told her it was Stefano. Chad says he knew there was no way he’d still be alive somewhere but the Phoenix was always in the back of their minds. Chad guesses that knowing Stefano is truly gone means they don’t have to picture him out there somewhere, disappointed, criticizing and judging him which Chad calls truly liberating.

Arianna tries to deny the fake ID but Gabi reveals it fell out of her jacket pocket while she was tidying up her room. Arianna questions her just now telling her about it. Gabi says she wanted to have it out with her right then and was about to cut the ID in half and ground her for the rest of her life, but then she remembered she’s in college now so grounding her isn’t an option and she’d just go out and get a new fake ID. Arianna asks if that means she’s off the hook. Gabi admits when she was her age, she did a lot of the same things. Gabi assures that she’s not condoning or promoting those actions, but she’s not going to be a hypocrite either. Gabi asks Arianna to just promise to be smart and careful which she agrees to do as they hug.

Chanel and Johnny go home where Johnny asks how things went with Sophia. Chanel responds that it was strange seeing her stuck in that place as she felt so sorry for her. Chanel says she tried to talk to Sophia and comfort her with pictures of Trey, but there’s only so much you can do when a person doesn’t talk back.

Melinda goes to see Sophia and says she got her text that she wanted to see her. Melinda asks how she managed to contact her as she thought she didn’t have access to a phone. Melinda guesses she figured out a way to get one. Sophia responds that she did. Melinda is shocked that Sophia is speaking and says she can’t believe it. Melinda calls it amazing and a breakthrough. Sophia reveals that she’s been able to talk for awhile now, but nobody knows that. Melinda questions why she hasn’t told anyone. Sophia says she likes them not knowing as it helps them underestimate her. Melinda asks why she would want that. Sophia responds that it’s so nobody knows how clever she is or what she’s planning to do.

Gabi suggests a fashion show for Holly and Arianna to put on their dresses.

Jennifer encourages Chad that it has to be positive to have closure on knowing Stefano isn’t out there. Chad says he always felt bad or guilty that his kids’ grandfather wasn’t some kind of standup citizen, but now that he’s gone, he hopes it’s liberating for Thomas and Charlotte so they can distance themselves from him. Chad says it worries him that Thomas will be a teenager soon, so he shudders to think how stubborn he will be when hormones kick in while Abigail was endlessly patient, so he doesn’t know what he’s going to do. Jennifer says he’ll never have to worry about she and Jack undermining him since he is the parent and they will fully support him. Jennifer promises that Thomas and Charlotte will never hear them say anything negative about Chad ever. Chad thanks her and promises the exact same. Jennifer thanks him and jokes that JJ was a horrible teenager who made their lives miserable by acting out while now he’s an incredible police officer. Chad says there’s hope but they will have to buckle up.

Bonnie wonders what it will be like to be a world famous author. Justin feels they might be jumping the gun. Bonnie says a girl can dream of all the first class travel to book signings. Justin jokes that she could be incognito like Anastasia Sands but Bonnie assures that she wants to be famous. Bonnie then asks what happens if she gets a stalker like Stephanie and Alex, worrying that it’s a possibility. Justin says he’d rather not think about that. Bonnie says it’s the one thing about being famous she hopes to avoid and hopes that Alex and Stephanie catch that creepy stalker soon.

Johnny asks Chanel if Sophia tried to communicate in any way. Chanel says she didn’t even after telling her they were grateful which Johnny questions since Sophia almost cost them the chance to adopt. Chanel points out that Sophia is the reason Trey exists. Chanel adds that when Sophia is released, they are going to be living in the same small town which is part of the reason she told Sophia that she could be in Trey’s life if she wants. Johnny adds that would include very close supervision. Chanel understands he’s paranoid that something could happen and she doesn’t blame him since Sophia is not in her right mind now and shouldn’t be trusted, but Trey is a permanent part of their family now and no one can change that.

Melinda asks what Sophia is planning to do. Sophia responds that Johnny and Chanel have custody of her baby which is the last thing she wanted. Melinda feels it should be a comfort that Trey is safe, happy, and healthy as they are giving him a healthy life. Sophia remarks that she sounds just like Chanel and she’s pretty sure Chanel is pregnant. Melinda asks what makes her say that. Sophia says she knows the signs and that Chanel was popping peppermints like her mother used to. Melinda guesses she will have to congratulate her then. Sophia argues that they will have their own baby and completely forget about the one they stole from her. Melinda argues that stealing is not adoption. Sophia remarks that maybe they didn’t steal her baby, but they are not his parents and now that they will have their own kid, they don’t deserve him. Melinda asks if this is why Sophia wanted to see her. Sophia responds that it was because Melinda has experience with this, so she must know a way that they can take her baby back from them and place him in a different home. Melinda asks if she means through legal channels. Sophia states that she means through any channels, whatever it takes.

Jennifer is glad that she and Chad had this talk as they all wanted the same thing and just had different ideas on how to get there. Jennifer calls Chad a great father and assures they never doubted that. Jennifer acknowledges that being a single parent is hard and relates to the years when Jack wasn’t around, but she’s grateful that she and Chad are back in this together. Chad says he is too as they hug.

Justin gets a reminder on his phone to file the mediation agreement with the court. Bonnie says he has plenty of time to do that later while she thinks they should celebrate. Bonnie suggests putting her handcuffs to good use so they don’t go to waste.

Gabi tells Arianna and Holly to enjoy rush week and encourages them to save some of the outfits for their internships. Arianna is excited to start at DiMera tomorrow. Gabi says she just knows that they will both take the world by storm. Arianna reminds her that she’s just working in the mail room. Gabi encourages that great things have small beginnings.

Chanel decides that’s enough about Sophia and asks about Johnny’s day. Johnny calls his day interesting as he’s working on acquiring a new project but he’d rather not talk about it yet in case it doesn’t go through, but it could be part of a whole new chapter in their publishing division. Chanel asks if this mysterious project took up his entire morning. Johnny informs her that he also found out that the remains from the crypt belonged to Stefano. Chanel says she’s so sorry. Johnny says it’s fine and he’s sure EJ has to be broken up about it. Johnny admits part of him wants to reach out but Chanel asks him not to, because no good can come from that.

Melinda tells Sophia that her animosity towards Johnny and Chanel is becoming an unhealthy obsession. Melinda encourages her to put this all behind her and get back to her old life. Sophia responds that she wants a new and better life. Melinda says that requires working with her therapist, being honest about the fact that she can talk, taking her meds, and getting out of Bayview, but it doesn’t mean sabotaging other people’s lives for revenge. Melinda adds that Johnny and Chanel never meant to hurt her and are just trying to be loving parents to a little boy they adopted. Sophia responds that she understands. Melinda says she hopes so. Sophia assures that Melinda is right and she gets what she’s saying. Melinda says if she needs anything else, she’s there for her. Melinda brings up when Sophia got found out about faking the adoption and thanks her for keeping her name out of it, as she appreciates her discretion. Sophia responds that she will continue that because she can’t tell anyone as long as no one knows she can talk. Melinda says she’ll be in touch and then exits. Sophia then opens her drawer where her meds are hidden.

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Days Update Wednesday, January 28, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Stephanie and Alex try working on their laptops at home but complain they can’t get anything done. Stephanie feels Steve and Jada must have come up with something by now, so she calls them in to the room and asks if they have a plan. Jada says maybe, if Alex is still okay with being used as bait. Alex agrees to anything to stop Jeremy. Steve says that unfortunately might not be as easy as it sounds because Marlena told him that Jeremy plans to leave town, against Jada’s advice. Alex questions if there’s nothing they can do to stop him. Jada says there’s no legal recourse to force him to stay. Steve assures they won’t let their guard down and goes over the evidence. Jada adds that skipping town raises suspicion, so she assigned JJ to follow him. Alex asks what happens if he leaves the jurisdiction. Jada says they would lose the ability to keep eyes on him. Steve declares that they can’t let that happen so they have a narrow window of opportunity to set their trap and put Jeremy behind bars before anyone gets hurt.

Kayla sits with Marlena and Roman at the Brady Pub, talking about a city council meeting. Johnny arrives and greets them. Johnny says he’s glad they are all here because there is some news that he thinks they should hear from him. Roman asks what’s going on. Johnny responds that it might be music to their ears that the FBI definitively identified that the bones found in the crypt belonged to Stefano. Roman guesses The Phoenix is finally and truly dead. Kate comes over and asks what’s going on. Johnny informs her that he was just telling them about the bones found in the DiMera crypt and that the DNA matched Stefano’s. Roman calls for drinks on the house. Kayla reminds him that it’s Johnny’s Grandfather. Johnny says it’s okay as it’s not really news, just confirmation of something they already knew. Kayla calls it hard to fully believe. Roman brings up when Stefano returned on a microchip in Steve. Marlena comments that Stefano always thought he was immortal and at times they might’ve believed it. Johnny brings up Susan recently thinking Stefano was still alive as recently as a year ago. Kate asks to be excused and steps away, so Roman follows after her.

Abe is at Rafe’s house and they talk about Stefano’s remains being found in the crypt. Abe calls it not really a shock that Stefano is dead. Rafe says it’s still kind of jarring and he’s sure Theo will likely be affected since he was pretty close to Stefano. Abe agrees since the DiMeras are Theo’s only link to his mother. Rafe thanks Abe for coming by since Theo just got out of the hospital. Abe thanks Rafe for telling him about Stefano. Rafe adds that there is something else he wanted to talk to him about. Rafe then shows Abe a photo on his phone of Liam and asks what he knows about him.

Jada says the evidence they had is purely circumstantial and it’s not an open and shut case. Alex asks why not since Jeremy’s name is on the domain. Jada says his lawyers would likely argue that someone else put his name on it. Stephanie asks if they figured out a way to catch him in the act. Jada explains that she and Steve thought they could put Stephanie’s PR skills to use by putting a wedding website together for her and Alex. Steve adds that they would broadcast on the webpage that Stephanie and Alex have decided to elope.

Roman asks if Kate is okay and says she can talk to him. Kate responds that she can’t because it’s wrong for her to shed a tear for an ex-husband in front of her current husband whose life was almost destroyed by the ex-husband. Roman admits he despised Stefano, but he cares about Kate and gets how this could all bring back a lot of memories and emotion so he wants to be there for her. Kate thanks him and says she’s just embarrassed to have any emotion about it since Stefano was a cruel and dangerous man, except when he wasn’t. Marlena thinks this must be hard for Johnny to process which he admits since he loved Stefano. Johnny talks about all the things he learned about Stefano as he got older and how he hurt so many other people he loved. Marlena states that in spite of all that, Stefano was still Johnny’s Grandfather so he’s allowed to be sad. Marlena admits she’s a little sad herself which surprises Johnny. Marlena knows that sounds strange coming from her but the truth is the terrible things Stefano did to her led her to John. Kayla agrees that if not for Stefano, John would’ve never came in to their lives and they are so blessed that he did. Marlena adds that they survived all the things Stefano did to them and were stronger for it. Marlena declares that it proves that love wins.

Steve and Jada explain that the stalker would do anything to be with Stephanie so they want a wedding site that looks legit. Jada adds that they can get their marriage license at the courthouse, so Steve explains that they would send Alex with an undercover lookalike of Stephanie since they know the stalker has been following Stephanie all over town, so he would definitely show up for this. They are unaware that the picture frame that was gifted to them which was bugged is nearby, allowing the stalker to listen in on their conversation as Steve says they’ll make sure there’s an opportunity while Jada says that Stephanie will be as far as possible from the scene of the crime.

Abe tells Rafe that he’s tutoring Liam in reading and asks if he’s in trouble. Rafe brings up Liam’s record and how participating in the literacy program was part of his plea deal to avoid prison time. Abe tells Rafe that Liam has turned his life around but Rafe reveals that according to the FBI’s investigation, it looks like Liam was working with Peter Blake and doing his dirty work which shocks Abe. Rafe says he’s sorry to have to tell him this but it looks like the man Abe is tutoring may have helped kidnap his son. Abe argues that Liam is a petty criminal and asks why he’d be involved with the DiMeras. Rafe isn’t sure how petty grand theft auto is and adds that the money transfers directly went to Liam, from the kidnappings right before the disappearances started and right around the time they would’ve worked on the crypt. Abe asks how much money they’re talking about. Rafe says it’s not much actually so they are thinking Liam was a low level guy or the lookout. Abe declares that Liam is not going to get away with this.

Kate tells Roman that she’ll take him up on a mimosa but Roman says she already toasted to Stefano’s death. Roman promises to tone down his celebratory mood. Johnny tells Marlena and Kayla that he does have good news but now he’s wondering if he should wait and let everybody process this first but Marlena and Kayla say they are always eager for good news, so Johnny announces Chanel is pregnant which they say is wonderful and congratulate him. Johnny says it is a high risk pregnancy but they did have their six week ultrasound and so far everything is looking great. Johnny adds that they are waiting until further along to share with anyone not closest to them. Kayla and Marlena promise their lips are sealed until further notice. Johnny guesses he should go tell Roman.

Alex says it sounds like the best possible plan they have, so he’s in. Steve says he will get to work on the logistics. Jada asks Stephanie what’s wrong. Stephanie can’t believe Jeremy is still doing this to her and wishes she never got involved with him. Jada encourages that she didn’t know and says she’s kicking herself too as she should’ve sensed his whole changed man act was just an act. Stephanie says he can be very convincing while Jada feels she should’ve seen through it as a cop so she’s sorry. Stephanie says she’s the one who should be sorry for sounding ungrateful and bringing up the past. Stephanie calls Jada and Steve her heroes as they might be saving Alex’s life. Steve then finds a new post from “SandsFan69” who says he not only threatened to kill Alex, but that he already tried.

Johnny announces the pregnancy to Roman and Kate. Roman hugs him and congratulates him. Kate calls it wonderful news. Roman guesses Sami is over the moon which Johnny confirms. Johnny says he tried to get a hold of his sister Allie but missed her so he will try again later. Johnny shows them the picture from the ultrasound. Kayla and Marlena talk about Johnny and Chanel having two babies in under a year. Marlena says it will be a lot of work but a blessing. Marlena wishes John was here with them. Kayla feels John’s presence and says she can hear him now. Marlena states that John was very fond of Johnny and Chanel. Marlena congratulates Kayla on Stephanie getting engaged to Alex. Kayla wishes they could be celebrating it without worrying about the whole stalker issue.

Stephanie and Alex question the stalker saying he already tried to kill Alex as Steve shows them the post. Alex reads the rest of the post, saying it’s hard to believe the stuck up bitch with Stephanie is still alive and reveals he almost gutted him in the town square before the flying pumpkin interrupted. Stephanie remembers that Jeremy was in the town square that night with his class, so Rachel and Thomas may have saved Alex’s life with the pumpkin catapult. Jada knows this is all very unsettling, but since Jeremy was there that night, it’s possible he witnessed the pumpkin incident and wrote that just to freak him out. Stephanie then remembers the hole in Alex’s shirt on the morning after and they couldn’t figure out how it got there. Jada says they will reveal the CCTV footage and track Jeremy’s movements. Steve reads further that the stalker wrote that he tried to poison Alex’s drink. Alex remembers how they got takeout and finding his drink tasted funny, then got sick. Jada asks when this happened. Alex says it was months ago. Stephanie remarks that her psychotic ex-boyfriend has been trying to kill Alex for months and it’s only been sheer luck that he didn’t succeed.

Rafe questions Abe knowing Liam was desperate for money. Abe informs Rafe that a few weeks ago, he caught Liam trying to steal Cat Green’s purse but they let him go. Abe adds that he saw Liam today with a cut on his hand that he claimed was from cutting vegetables. Rafe wonders if he actually got in a fight. Abe talks about Liam presenting himself as a devoted dad. Rafe points out that Liam knew Abe was desperate to find Theo. Abe declares that if Liam was involved in Theo’s kidnapping, he never wants to see him again.

Marlena talks to Kayla about thinking Jeremy had turned his life around and having no idea he’d be involved with something like this. Kayla says she hoped he wouldn’t be involved since Julie really cares about Jeremy. Marlena notes that Julie is convinced he’s innocent. Kayla feels she will be disappointed. Kayla is mad at herself for not seeing this sooner. Kayla says she didn’t know how bad Jeremy was with Stephanie until she opened up about it later. Marlena encourages that they are doing everything they can to make sure this nightmare comes to an end. Kayla worries about what if it doesn’t. Kayla knows Jada and Steve are coming up with a plan, so she hopes it puts an end to all of this and no one gets hurt. Roman tells Johnny that he’s so happy for him and then goes to check on a delivery. Johnny tells Kate that he hoped they could talk about a business matter in regards to Bonnie’s novel. Kate asks how he knows about it. Johnny explains that he asked Xander about it and he said Titan isn’t interested in publishing right now which Kate confirms, saying it’s just not the right timing. Kate asks if Johnny is interested. Johnny says he’d have to read it first, but Bonnie’s last book sold well and romance novels turn a nice profit, so if it’s halfway decent, he’d love to give DiMera Publishing a leg up before he hands it back to Theo. Kate says as long as it’s not too big of a leg up. Johnny knows he’s in a weird spot and he’s grateful to Kate for getting Philip and Xander to let him play for the other team while Theo is out. Johnny talks about Kate turning Titan Publishing in to a behemoth that DiMera can’t compete with. Kate says she hates that Titan can’t publish right now but if DiMera wants to take a crack at Bonnie’s new book, they should go for it.

Abe advises Rafe not to fall for whatever yarn Liam spins as he’s obviously a consummate liar. Rafe thanks Abe for sharing what he knows as Abe then exits.

Kayla asks Marlena about coming back to her practice at the hospital. Marlena says maybe part-time although right now, she feels she’s being pulled in different directions. Marlena brings up Brady leaving Basic Black but wanting to keep the company in the family, so Belle suggested maybe she step in and oversee things. Marlena adds that she wasn’t considering it but then she thought it might be a lovely way to honor John’s legacy. Kayla thinks he would be proud of her and would be touched that she’s doing it for him. Marlena worries that she couldn’t do it alone as she doesn’t know anything about being a CEO, but she thinks she knows someone who does.

Stephanie says it boggles her mind that Jeremy could be a textbook sociopath and confessing his sick aspirations on the message board. Steve questions if the guy is brazen or stupid. Jada worries that her interrogation may have backfired since Jeremy knew that they didn’t have anything to hold him. Alex says they will have to catch him dead to rights. Stephanie asks how they know their plan is foolproof since Jeremy could have a knife or a gun and is clearly not in his right mind. Stephanie worries that using Alex as bait seems so dangerous when he’s already been a direct target. Alex assures that he has to do this. Alex honestly thinks it’s the best plan they have to save their lives.

Kayla hopes Marlena isn’t suggesting she help with Basic Black when she knows everything with running a hospital but she couldn’t run a spreadsheet. Marlena understands Kayla has too much on her plate and reveals she was actually thinking of Kate which Kayla calls a good idea. Marlena points out that Kate helped found the company with John and knows her way around a boardroom. Marlena says she would be more of a consultant. Kayla calls it a great idea and says Kate may not be family but she and John were good friends and he trusted her, so she thinks it would be a good fit. Marlena decides to think about it a little longer before discussing it with Kate. Johnny talks with Kate about being a black sheep at Titan as a DiMera, so it means a lot that Kate welcomed him with open arms and he’d never want to jeopardize the professional connections made there. Kate calls him a total asset and says they should be thanking him for saving them money with the IRS. Kate brings up divided loyalty and how she was married to Stefano. Johnny appreciates her understanding and empathy. Kate acknowledges his quickly growing family and says she only wants the best for him. Roman comes back and asks what they have their heads together about. Kate calls it just business chat. Roman asks if that’s DiMera business or Titan. Johnny guesses it’s both. Roman can’t wait until Johnny’s sentence is up at DiMera as he worries that after enough time, that could be where he ends up. Johnny assures that the last thing he intends to do is get wrapped up in any misconduct and calls it a really good learning experience. Roman says that’s putting a positive spin on it. Johnny adds that none of it would be possible without Kate’s support.

Jada agrees with Alex that it’s their only option and feels it’s riskier to do nothing. Jada promises to do everything possible to protect Alex and says they wouldn’t have proposed the plan without believing it was safe. Stephanie then reluctantly agrees to do it. Jada says she and Steve will head to her place to set everything up. Steve reminds them to set up their webpage and assures Stephanie that it will be okay as he and Jada exit. Stephanie tells Alex that he’s so brave to be doing this. Alex tells her that they are not going to live in fear and the way he sees it, he has no other choice but she can’t blame herself. Alex declares the only person to blame for any of this is Jeremy Horton. Stephanie trusts that Steve and Jada will do everything in their power to ensure his safety. Stephanie tells Alex that she needs him to know how much he means to her. Alex assures that he knows but he’s glad to hear her tell him more. Stephanie tells Alex that he’s everything to her and all she ever wanted. Stephanie calls him the best thing to ever happen to her. Alex feels the same way and says they are so damn lucky. They say I love you to each other as they kiss. The stalker remains listening in from the bugged picture frame and shows frustration as he listens in.

Johnny says he should get going to work. Marlena and Roman congratulate each other on their upcoming great grandchild. Johnny adds that he and Chad have discussed doing a memorial for Stefano if anyone would like to attend. Kate agrees to think about it and walks away. Johnny then exits the Pub. Roman turns back to Marlena and Kayla and says he finally has the chance to dance on Stefano’s grave, so they can definitely count him in.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, February 3, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Rafe and Eli went to Vivian’s place in Alamania and walked inside. Vivian showed up. She said she was grieving the loss of Jake, Stefan, and Stefano. Vivian talked about Stefan’s death and told them she couldn’t stop them from exhuming Stefan’s body. She said she wanted to be done with the questions. When she turned her back to them, she wasn’t distraught or grieving. Rafe said they would get to the bottom of it once they got the results of Stefan’s body came in. They asked Vivian about Peter and the DiMeras. Vivian only focused on her son. She said whatever Peter wanted to do was on him. They told her about the hidden camera and how it was connected to Alamania. Vivian told them to knock themselves out searching the house because she had nothing to hide. Cat went to the DiMera mansion with Stefano’s urn. Their hands touched when she gave EJ the urn. EJ said the plan for the memorial was to let people come in the house to pay respect. Susan showed up and wondered why Cat was there. EJ stopped Susan from talking to Cat the way she was. When Susan mentioned their kiss, EJ made her apologize. After Cat left, she told EJ to get rid of the urn and put it in the crypt.

At the pub, Gwen had trouble paying for her order. Leo showed up and noticed that she was having cash problems and told her to reconsider his offer. Gwen said she couldn’t get rid of Dimitri without her money. She said his urges weren’t her problem. Leo walked away from her. Cat showed up and offered to pay Gwen’s bill. They talked about the way people treat them. Gwen said she was happy to have a friend. When Gwen mentioned the DiMeras, Cat defended EJ and his grief over Stefano. Gwen told Cat about how close she was getting to EJ. She told Cat that she kept catching them together. Dimitri ran into Leo. He told Leo that he hadn’t changed and couldn’t trust himself alone with him. Leo brought Dimitri to his room. Dimitri took his clothes off. Leo walked out of the room. Cat asked Gwen about Dimitri. Gwen told her she had a plan to get rid of Dimitri and win the divorce. She told Cat that Dimitri was going to go away forever. Vivian called and told Gwen the plan was going according to plan. Rafe and Eli searched through Vivian’s place and found a tablet with a camera. The signal led to Rafe’s office.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, February 4, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Dimitri was waiting for Leo in his bed. He got tired of waiting for him and spotted a wedding photo of Leo and Javi. Dimitri slammed the picture down. Gwen served divorce papers when Dimitri returned home. He had his papers served too. They argued over how much he hurt her. He admitted that he felt guilty for hurting her, but he didn’t anymore. They argued again until Gwen informed him that no one believed that she kidnapped him. She ripped up his divorce papers. Dimitri vowed to go back to Alamania to prove what she did to him. He warned her that her life would be over. Rafe and Eli confronted Vivian about the tablet they found from the guest room. She said no one was there since Dimitri arrived. Vivian told them how he was there, and she was too weak to protest since Stefan was dying at the time. She became tired of him and wanted him to leave. Her staff and Nicholas confirmed Vivian’s story. When Rafe and Eli went outside he said that he was suspicious of Vivian’s story. They wanted to talk to Vivian’s former employee, Lydia Bower.

Lydia met with Rafe and Eli. She didn’t want Vivian to find out about their meeting. Lydia told them that she was fired over a year ago, but Dimitri wasn’t staying with Vivian at the time. She said that Stefan was there. Liam went to see Abe to apologize for his role in the kidnappings. Abe didn’t care about is apology. He said that Liam didn’t say anything when he knew what was going on. Abe wanted him to give the description of who hired him. Liam was at the station and gave the description of the person who approached him. Vivian was talking to a guy who looked like the description Liam gave of the guy, Vivian and the henchman Liam described celebrated getting away with their lie. Rafe and Eli believed that Dimitri was behind the kidnappings. They realized that Stefan was held in the room and not Dimitri. He was free to move around, but he was watched the entire time. Rafe realized that Vivian pulled Stefan against his will.

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Days Short Recap Monday, February 2, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Rafe took Liam to the park to get information from him about the DiMera kidnappings. Liam told Rafe what happened. A man approached him at a bar and asked him if he wanted to make extra money, All he had to do was supply food and water in the crypt. He also had to take the sarcophagus out of the crypt. While he was moving the sarcophagus, bones fell out of it. Liam buried them. Liam got upset when he realized that he buried Stefano’s bones. The man told him that the crypt was being prepared for a disaster. Rafe wanted a description of the guy who approached him at the bar. He would set up a meeting with the sketch artist. JJ tailed Jeremy while he was out. Jeremy didn’t know he was following him. Julie put it together when they returned to the Horton house. She didn’t want him to disturb the peace in their home.

EJ ripped into Gwen about Dimitri until she told him about her plan with Vivian to make him look guilty for the kidnappings. EJ thought Vivian was involved with the kidnappings if she could make Dimitri look guilty. He liked the plan because they could find the real kidnapper. Gwen let him know that Dimitri blocked her accounts so she wanted to hire EJ as her attorney. EJ wouldn’t do it because Dimitri was his nephew. He would find someone else to help her and work with her behind the scenes. Kristen met with Brady to let him know that they needed to get Rachel out of Bayview. Sophia was still a problem for them. Kristen felt like Dr, Gregory was giving bad advice, She didn’t like the doctor telling him about dating Sarah. Brady let Kristen know that she ruined things by threatening Sarah. Kristen reminded him that she had custody of Rachel now that she’s out of jail. She wanted to take Rachel out of Bayview, Brady became upset with her. She said she would let Rachel live with him if he got his own place. He wanted to talk to Dr. Gregory first. Julie threatened to sue the police department if JJ and Jada didn’t stop harassing Jeremy. JJ thought Julie had a blind side when it concerned their family. He reminded her about her loyalty to Nick. Julie threatened to throw him out.

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Days Update Tuesday, January 27, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Chanel and Johnny go to the hospital and greet Paulina. Johnny mentions they were about to go see Theo and asks how he’s doing. Paulina says he’s better and will be happy to see them. Paulina then remembers they had a doctor’s appointment this morning. Chanel confirms they had their six week checkup with the ultrasound and she was going to call after visiting Theo, but she’s glad to tell her the news in person that everything looked perfect. Chanel confirms the baby is healthy and so is she. Paulina is thankful as they hug.

Chad visits Theo in his hospital room. Chad comments that Theo had a smile on his face so he must have been having a good dream.

Cat sits with EJ in the living room and says she hopes they didn’t run Gwen off. EJ says they have a lot to catch up on and asks what he missed. Cat says not much and jokes about Rita breathing down her neck. Rafe arrives and greets them. EJ jokingly asks if Rafe is here to welcome him back to Salem. Rafe asks how Sydney is. EJ responds that spending time with her father seemed to help her considerably. Rafe remarks that she did sound better after he spoke to her on the phone. EJ asks what Rafe has to talk about. Rafe responds that they should talk in private but EJ states that Cat is his trusted assistant and can hear whatever it is. Rafe then reveals that he thought EJ should know that they got a positive match on the bones found in the DiMera Crypt and that the FBI and ISA ran multiple tests to make sure there was no error. EJ asks who was the poor soul buried in the dirt then. Rafe reveals that the bones belonged to EJ’s father, Stefano DiMera, leaving EJ shocked.

Abe meets Liam at the Book Club. Abe apologizes for missing their last session. Liam says it’s okay as he heard about what happened to his son and he’s sorry. Abe says he’s doing remarkably better and should be discharged from the hospital soon.

Chad tells Theo that he looks better. Theo talks about getting discharged soon and he can’t wait. Theo asks about the kids. Chad says they are good. Theo asks about the custody situation with Jack and Jennifer. Chad says it took some negotiating but the kids are going to stay with him. Theo calls that great news and hopes the negotiations worked out to his satisfaction. Chad responds that he’s no longer in danger of losing his kids and that’s all that matters.

Cat tells EJ that she’s sorry. EJ says it’s not that he didn’t believe his father was dead but he was The Phoenix so you could never rule out that he would rise from the ashes. Kristen then walks in and asks if she missed something. EJ reveals to her that the bones in the crypt were Stefano’s. Kristen can’t believe she killed Peter by using one of Stefano’s bones as she breaks down crying. Cat brings Kristen a water as Kristen calls it fitting that Stefano was the one who did Peter in. Kristen calls it a long slow death starting from when Stefano took her and Peter in as children. Kristen argues that Stefano has been gone long enough that she could see the damages he did, so the love that she had for him is completely gone. Kristen declares that she now detests Stefano and EJ with every fiber of her body. Kristen tells EJ that she hates him and feels sickened being in his presence, so she’s going to pack her stuff and get the hell out. Kristen then heads upstairs. EJ guesses he should inform the rest of his siblings about this latest discovery. Rafe asks if EJ has any idea how the bones ended up in the crypt. EJ says no, but he suspects Rafe does since he was the last one to see Stefano alive.

Paulina tells Chanel and Johnny that she’s so happy for them and asks what else Sarah said. Chanel says just that everything looked great and they heard the baby’s heartbeat for the first time which was very exciting. Chanel states that things are right on track. Johnny adds that the best news is that Sarah believes the risk of Chanel’s cancer recurring is very low. Paulina asks if this means they can start sharing the good news. Chanel assures that they are okay with telling family and close friends which excites Paulina as she wonders where to start.

EJ talks about Rafe and Hope covering up Stefano’s murder but he wasn’t actually dead since according to Dr. Rolf, Stefano didn’t die until years later. Cat says she’s not following. EJ argues that when it came to Stefano, Rafe turned deranged. Rafe calls Stefano an evil son of a bitch who didn’t give a damn about whose lives he ruined. Rafe says Stefano didn’t have a heart or a conscience. EJ questions Rafe speaking ill of his father when they just confirmed his death. Rafe admits he shouldn’t speak ill of the dead, even if the world is so much better without them. EJ tells Rafe to go to Hell and walks out of the room.

Theo knows Chad’s kids are more important to him than anything, but he knows things have been difficult for him in his personal life because of things with Cat, so he’s hoping things are all good. Chad assures that he got what he want and is beyond grateful. Chad then gets a call from EJ, who informs him that he is back home. EJ asks if Chad has a few minutes. Chad says he’s just visiting Theo and asks what’s up. EJ responds that he’s not sure Theo is ready to hear this but Rafe was just there with the results from the lab, confirming the bones from the crypt were Stefano’s. EJ says he knows it’s no surprise that Stefano is dead but he thought he should know. Chad says he’ll check back on him later and hangs up. Theo asks if everything is okay with EJ. Chad says he just wanted to tell him he was home and send his well wishes. Theo hopes to see him soon. Chad decides to let him rest and tells Theo to text him when he’s discharged. Theo thanks him for stopping by as Chad then exits.

Paulina asks when the next doctor’s appointment is. Chanel says she’s not sure and adds that she and Johnny might prefer to be surprised by the sex of the baby. Paulina jokes about not knowing what color clothes to get. Johnny says they can figure that out while he goes to visit Theo and Chanel can meet him in the room. Johnny heads to Theo’s room while Paulina comments that Johnny seems more positive about the pregnancy now. Chanel agrees that this was the first time she saw Johnny be happy about it and reiterates that Johnny was never not happy about the baby, he was just scared. Paulina is glad he’s letting himself feel the joy now.

Abe tutors Liam and compliments him on his reading improving. Liam admits when they first started, he thought it was total BS but the other night, he was reading to his kid and didn’t stumble over words, so it made him want to keep getting better. Abe encourages that he will soon. Liam jokes that his son is smarter than him and will be reading to him soon. Abe asks about his son’s mother. Liam reveals that she overdosed a couple of years ago. Abe says he’s sorry to hear that. Liam says it’s been hard but his son Gage is getting better now and spends time with his parents. Liam says he’s trying to spend more time with him and take care of him. Liam adds that he will never forget Abe’s kindness in giving him money so he could buy his son food and promises to pay him back one day. Abe responds that he’s already paying him back by showing up and being a good dad to his son. Abe declares that he’s very proud of him.

Johnny visits Theo in his hospital room and brings him scones from the bakery. Theo questions Johnny not being at work. Johnny responds that he is working as he came to pick his brain. Johnny explains that he was sent a manuscript for a book and he hears it was pitched to Titan but they don’t have the resources to take it on at the moment. They talk about Titan’s publishing department being the one place they are out performing DiMera. Theo asks what the book is about. Johnny says he hasn’t read it yet but understands it’s a steamy romance novel which Theo notes is very marketable right now. Johnny says especially after the success of One Stormy Night. Theo says if Johnny thinks the book will sell and the editors like it, he says go for it.

Cat comments to Rafe that EJ seemed genuinely upset about his father. Rafe laughs it off and calls it no big shock that Stefano is actually dead. Rafe adds that Stefano and his children had a relationship as toxic as it gets. Cat guesses EJ still loved the guy. Rafe says that depends on your version of love. Rafe assumes that EJ thought The Phoenix would again rise from the ashes. Rafe asks Cat not to start feeling sorry for EJ. Cat says that EJ is human and this might be a vulnerability they can use to their advantage. Rafe says they’ll see. Rafe decides he should get back to the office. Cat says she’ll walk out with him but then Chad arrives and enters the room.

Johnny imagines Theo is anxious to get out of the hospital. Theo hopes it’s soon but admits he’s still a little weak. Johnny tells him not to rush out since he’s got things covered until he’s ready to dive back in at DiMera. Theo promises to be back as soon as he’s up for it since he knows Johnny never wanted the CEO job. Johnny assures that he’s handling it so Theo can focus on recovering. Johnny decides he’ll head back to the office and look at that manuscript. Johnny tells Theo it’s good to see him. Theo thanks him for stopping by as Johnny exits.

EJ goes to see Dr. Rolf in the lab and questions what the hell he did to his father.

Johnny comes out from Theo’s room and tells Chanel and Paulina that his visit was brief but good and now he’s heading back to the office. Chanel says she will visit Theo and see Johnny at home. They kiss as Johnny then exits. Paulina comments to Chanel that they seem good. Chanel calls it a relief to be back on track. Paulina asks if she’s sure she will be able to manage a baby, a business, and a pregnancy. Chanel says they can afford to hire help while Johnny is CEO of DiMera until Theo is ready to step back in. Paulina reminds her that she and Abe are always there to help too. Chanel appreciates that but notes she has a whole city to run. Paulina remarks that it’s always solve one problem and another pops up. Chanel then asks Paulina why Kristen DiMera is not locked up.

Chad tells Rafe and Cat that EJ called him about the bones. Kristen comes back downstairs with her bags packed. Kristen comes in to greet Chad. Chad asks if they are sure it’s true this time. Rafe confirms they quadruple checked and it matched Stefano’s DNA along with EJ’s and Chad’s. Cat says she’s sorry. Kristen questions why she’s still there. Cat explains that she was catching EJ up on what he missed while he was gone but she should get going. Chad decides to walk her out, so they exit together after Chad takes one last look back at the room. Rafe then tells Kristen that he has a few questions.

Chad and Cat exit the DiMera Mansion together. Chad says it was nice seeing her. Cat says it was nice seeing him too and she hopes the custody mediation went well. Chad confirms they came to an agreement. Cat asks if he’s happy. Chad admits there were concessions but he gets to keep his kids. Cat calls that amazing. Chad adds that the kids will spend summers in Boston with Jack and Jennifer along with some holidays. Cat asks if those are the only concessions. Chad admits that he also had to put in writing that he and Cat can never be together. Cat tells him that she knows and she should go as she walks away.

EJ informs Dr. Rolf that Rafe says the bones in the crypt were conclusively determined to belong to Stefano. Dr. Rolf says thank God as he heard Peter Blake removed the bones from the sarcophagus, so he’s greatly relieved to hear Stefano’s remains are in the crypt where they belong. EJ questions how they ended up there in the first place. Dr. Rolf reveals that when he told EJ that Stefano had died, he didn’t tell him everything.

Abe asks Liam when they should meet again. Liam says same time next week is good for him. Abe notices the cut on Liam’s hand and asks about it. Liam says he was cutting some vegetables and the knife slipped. Abe tells Liam that he understands how hard it can be. Liam assures that he’s really trying. Abe advises him to be safe. Liam says he’ll be fine.

Paulina tells Chanel that Kristen was granted bail because the district attorney’s office realized she was kidnapped and didn’t escape from prison. Chanel argues that she still shot EJ. Paulina is sure it will get worked out. Chanel calls Kristen a menace and complains that she almost let Johnny go to prison so she doesn’t deserve to be out on the streets. Paulina encourages her to trust that everyone is working hard to ensure justice is served.

Kristen pours a drink and toasts to Stefano’s portrait. Rafe says he feels for her as she’s been through Hell the past couple of weeks with a lot of loss in a short time. Kristen cries that her daughter is still locked up. Kristen asks what Rafe wanted to ask her. Rafe asks if she has any idea where Dr. Rolf is. Kristen says she hasn’t seen him in awhile and asks if he asked EJ. Rafe says that EJ said he had no idea either.

Johnny finishes a call in the DiMera Enterprises office as Chad walks in. Chad comments on Johnny looking comfortable in that chair but Johnny assures he’s just keeping the seat warm until Theo gets back. Johnny asks what brings him by. Chad informs him that EJ is back in town. Johnny asks if he said how Sydney is doing. Chad confirms she’s doing better so Johnny says he’ll call her later. Chad hoped EJ would have called Johnny to tell him himself but they aren’t talking to each other. Johnny asks what’s going on. Chad then reveals to Johnny that the bones found in the crypt were Stefano’s.

EJ questions what Dr. Rolf was not telling him about Stefano’s death. Dr. Rolf responds that when the world only thought Stefano was dead, they went far off the grid to a private island that Stefano owned. Dr. Rolf explains that Stefano ordered him to find a way to reverse his declining health, but his research took him six months and when he returned, he found Stefano was truly dead. EJ asks how long he had been deceased. Dr. Rolf estimated that Stefano passed shortly after he left, so even if he could’ve revived him, there was sadly nothing left to revive. EJ asks what he did with his body. Dr. Rolf responds that he initially buried him on the island, but it ate away at him that he wasn’t with his family where he belonged, so he brought him home. EJ questions why he didn’t tell anyone. Dr. Rolf says he worried that he would be desecrated so he placed him in the sarcophagus and that was the last he saw of him. EJ questions how the hell he ended up with his bones buried in the dirt under the crypt then. Dr. Rolf responds that he has no idea. EJ states that part of him wishes it could be Stefano in the tube in the room while a part of him is glad he’ll never see him again.

Cat works on her laptop in her room and then calls Andrew Donovan, telling him that she has some good news. Cat says it took her forever but she finally got something. Cat reveals that the money trail was convoluted but she traced a couple accounts back to Peter Blake and she just found a transfer from one of them to another account in Salem, so now they know who Peter hired to do his dirty work..

Paulina and Chanel visit Theo in his hospital room. Theo asks Chanel how she’s feeling today. Chanel assures she won’t throw up again and asks how he is. Theo says he’s pretty good. Paulina reveals that they just ran in to his neurologist outside, so she thinks he’s going to feel even better.

Cat informs Andrew that she does know the guy that the accounts belongs to as she had a run-in with him before. She reveals he’s a local named Liam Selejko…

Liam and Abe walk through the town square together. Liam thanks Abe again and says he was always bored in school but this feels different. Abe encourages that he’s doing very well, so he sees good things in his future. Abe then gets a call from Paulina so Liam says he’ll see him next time and walks away. Paulina tells Abe that she’s with someone who has something to share. Paulina then gives the phone to Theo, so he can announce to Abe that he’s being released from the hospital today.

Kristen tells Rafe that she needs to get out before EJ comes back and asks if he’s thought any more about working together to bring EJ down. Rafe confirms he has thought about it quite a lot, but he’s not sure how she can help him if she ends up back in prison. Kristen says not to fast forward to a negative outcome. Kristen points out that she’s free now and ready to team up with him, so she asks what he says.

Johnny tells Chad that they all knew Stefano was gone, but to have it confirmed like this. Chad knows he was close to him as a kid. Johnny admits he thought he was a God then. Johnny points out that he was Chad’s dad, so he’s really sorry. Chad thanks him. Chad says sometimes he thinks of all of Stefano’s heinous crimes and he’s ashamed that he was his father, but other times he thinks about how much he loved them all and how funny and charming he was. Johnny calls Stefano a complicated man and formidable. Johnny feels like it was an undignified end for him. Chad agrees. Johnny suggests they have to do something about that.

EJ tells Dr. Rolf that it’s sadly too late for Stefano, but Dr. Rolf said he’s ready to prepare for human trial. Dr. Rolf says it will require 24 hour monitoring from this point forward and he had planned on this from the beginning as he has someone fully trained and in place. EJ asks if he really thinks this is going to work. Dr. Rolf believes he finally has the correct formula, so he’s very optimistic that she will open her eyes again soon. EJ smiles as they stand next to the tube in the room.

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Days Update Monday, January 26, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Chanel sits at home with Trey, saying they will be back soon but they are going to see her baby for the first time and soon will be coming home with a new brother or sister for him. Johnny looks on with a look of concern but then joins her and agrees on what a wonderful day that will be as they hug.

Sarah is surprised to see Kristen at the hospital, noting she wasn’t on her schedule and isn’t due for a checkup. Kristen responds that she asked the hospital to squeeze her in so she could see her regarding an urgent matter.

Gwen is with Dr. Rolf in the lab. Gwen complains that she’s put a lot of money in to this and it should be done. Dr. Rolf tells her to be patient as they are on the cusp of greatness. Dr. Rolf talks about the effects of Versavix while Gwen urges him to get it done before the next ice age.

Cat goes to see Rafe at his home. Rafe informs her that Javi and Leo have moved out, Gabi is at work, and Arianna is at school. Rafe jokes that the quiet is kind of great. Rafe asks if she got Mark to let her in to the lab. Cat says unfortunately no and Mark insisted on looking for EJ’s binder himself but it never existed. Cat complains that she has to find her way in to the lab because EJ is coming home any day now.

EJ returns home to the DiMera Mansion where he is shocked to find Dimitri seated inside. EJ questions what the hell he’s doing there. Dimitri respond that it is the family mansion and he lives there.

Kristen informs Sarah that she wants to talk to her about her relationship with Rachel. Kristen says she’s very grateful that Sarah was there for her when she couldn’t be, but she’s here now and her daughter doesn’t need two mothers. Sarah says she would never try to replace her. Kristen brings up Sarah tried to when Rachel was an infant. Sarah argues that there was far more nuance to it than that and she knows it. Kristen complains that Rachel just found out about Sarah trying to kidnap her and believes that has sent her over the edge along with the sight of Sarah clinging to Brady.

Rafe agrees with Cat that EJ might be back any day now which means getting in to the lab could be a big risk. Cat worries that this could be their only chance and says the ISA has had long enough to crack the keycode since she had the first three numbers. Rafe reminds her of EJ’s other set of eyes, Rita. Cat complains of getting her marching orders from Rita since EJ left and how she stonewalled her when she mentioned someone staying in the secret room or tried to get answers about Leo calling about a delivery. Rafe asks what Cat thinks about Leo’s video. Cat says that even if Gwen’s not involved in the free clinic, it confirms that Gwen and EJ are in some sort of silent partnership conspiring together.

EJ asks Dimitri where the hell he has been all this time since no one has heard from him or seen him in years and now he comes home to him in the living room. EJ asks what happened to him and if he wasn’t with his mother. Dimitri responds that he was kidnapped by Gwen and asks if EJ would know anything about that.

Gwen tells Dr. Rolf that she’s sorry if she’s a bit pushy and admits that she’s in a bit of a rush and impatient. Dr. Rolf gets that Gwen is greedy for the financial reward. Gwen complains that his work is getting them nowhere even though she’s thrown a fortune at him. Dr. Rolf yells at her to close her mouth and listen for a change. Dr. Rolf then shows Gwen that he has used Versavix to bring a rat back to life.

Sarah asks Kristen if she really pulled her away from her patients to pick a fight with her. Kristen says she wanted doctor-patient confidentiality. Kristen tells Sarah that she can’t tell her to stay away from Brady but she can tell her to stay away from Rachel because that’s what’s best for her. Sarah tells Kristen to find another doctor because she will no longer be treating her. Kristen says that is fine by her as she walks out of the room. Kristen goes on to run in to Johnny and Chanel as they arrive at the hospital. Chanel questions why Kristen isn’t behind bars where she belongs. Kristen responds that she’s really sorry and leaves the hospital. Johnny encourages Chanel to let it go while Chanel complains that Kristen is the whole reason that Johnny had to go through the trial. Johnny reminds her what Sarah said about stress and to think about the baby. Chanel felt she had to say something and argues that Kristen almost destroyed their lives. Chanel asks again why Kristen isn’t in prison. Johnny says there’s apparently some type of hearing coming up, so he’s sure they will find out.

EJ asks Dimitri why he would know anything about his alleged kidnapping. Dimitri responds that EJ and Gwen were here living it up in the mansion while he was held against his will. EJ says he’s hardly been living it up. Dimitri questions why Gwen has been in the house and what she told him. EJ says that Gwen told him nothing and just showed up at his door, claiming to be family and that the Hortons and Deverauxs didn’t want her, so he figured they had room so why not. Dimitri questions Gwen being in his home while he was stuck in captivity. EJ says it couldn’t have been too bad since he seems healthy and managed to escape. Dimitri says he didn’t escape but he was put on a plane and dumped here, just in time to ruin Leo’s wedding. EJ guesses he doesn’t have any proof that Gwen did it. Dimitri says he doesn’t yet, but he will get it. Dimitri adds that he has transferred all of his assets back to his name, frozen all of Gwen’s credit, and plans to find out what exactly she’s been doing with his money. EJ thinks he’s going a bit too far but Dimitri says it’s not far enough. Dimitri declares that as soon as his divorce is finalized, he expects EJ to throw Gwen out. Dimitri tells EJ that it’s so good to see him and welcomes him home as he then exits the room. EJ then pulls out his phone.

Cat tells Rafe that she has another dinner date when EJ gets back and she will learn more then, but promises not to do anything crazy. Cat adds that she has to figure a way to get back in the secret room to see if they missed any clues. Rafe advises her to play it safe this time. Cat asks if Rafe and Eli are playing it safe by going to Alamainia without a posse. Rafe explains that they won’t be alone because Steve already sent Bo and Hope there to deal with Stefan’s remains and making sure the body matches the headstone. Cat wonders how Vivian took that. Rafe says not great but she did agree to questioning. Rafe says the camera in the crypt was transmitting a signal to Alamainia and that’s what the focus will be on. Cat says she will focus on the lab. Rafe hopes she will have better luck with Mark.

Gwen can’t believe Dr. Rolf successfully brought the rats back to life and says that EJ will be thrilled. Dr. Rolf says it took a great deal of trial and error to get the dosage right and so far, there have been no side effects. Dr. Rolf declares that soon they can begin experimenting on humans. Gwen then gets a call from EJ. Gwen tells EJ that she’s with Dr. Rolf while EJ informs her that he’s been with Dimitri, who told him all about her. Gwen is surprised to learn that EJ is home. EJ then angrily asks Gwen to get her ass there now.

Sarah joins Johnny and Chanel in a hospital room and asks how Chanel is feeling. Chanel says she still has morning sickness but no cramps. Sarah says that’s great and asks if they are ready to take a peek at the baby.

Cat asks Rafe who is on the top of his list to be Peter’s accomplice. Rafe responds that there’s no definitive list yet. Rafe talks about how Vivian makes sense if Stefan was alive because she would want the inheritance money but the timing doesn’t line up with Tony’s abduction and she would’ve had to have been planning the whole thing before Stefan was dead. Cat brings up Dimitri returning at an odd time while Rafe comments on his crazy story about being held hostage by Gwen while Cat notes Gwen saying she was cut out of his financial situation. Rafe points out that Dimitri isn’t even a direct heir so he’d have to go through his mother Megan or make a deal with Peter. Cat feels Dimitri wouldn’t have much to gain. Rafe brings up Stefano’s estate never being settled since his body was never found while the seven year waiting period is almost up so the DiMeras can claim the inheritance.

Kristen enters the living room of the DiMera Mansion and tells EJ that she has nothing to say to him. EJ asks what happened with Peter. Kristen tells EJ that Peter said he would see her in Hell before he died. EJ says he’s so sorry but Kristen doesn’t believe him and argues that EJ is itching to dance on Peter’s grave just like she is itching to dance on EJ’s as she storms out.

Gwen tells Dr. Rolf that she has to go face EJ, but at least she will have good news to share with him. Gwen stops and asks Dr. Rolf if he’s sure there are people willing to pay millions for this drug. Dr. Rolf responds that he thought she was sure as well since she threw her fortune at him. Gwen says she will see him later then. Gwen then asks Dr. Rolf if he can bring her back to life if EJ murders her which he laughs at as she exits the lab.

Sarah encourages Chanel not to worry if they don’t hear a heartbeat of the baby because it’s very early in the pregnancy and they can do another ultrasound. Sarah then tells her that it looks great as they see the embryo with a tiny heartbeat. Johnny declares it’s their baby.

Cat and Rafe talk about Peter going after the family because he knew the seven years were almost up and he wanted to eliminate the competition to get the money. They joke about Susan’s belief that Stefano is still alive while Rafe informs Cat that Stefano’s essence was once put on a microchip that was planted in Steve’s head. Rafe calls that a long story and says he’ll send her the file on it. Rafe says considering Stefano’s age, it’s very unlikely that he’s alive and well but when it comes to the DiMeras, nothing surprises him anymore. Rafe then admits he was surprised by one thing DiMera related the other day as he reveals that Kristen offered to help bring EJ down which surprises Cat. Rafe explains that for some reason, Kristen blames EJ for Rachel being in Bayview, so she wants revenge. Cat asks if Rafe is going to team up with Kristen. Rafe admits it seems a little risky because one outburst from her could blow the whole operation. Cat suggests maybe Kristen could show some restraint and give them what they need to put EJ away.

Kristen confronts Dimitri in the town square. Dimitri remarks that the sight of her at breakfast would cause him to lose his appetite. Kristen calls him an ungrateful brat after the chaos his mother caused their family. Dimitri compares it to Peter. Kristen warns him not to speak of Peter. Dimitri didn’t realize it was a sensitive topic. Kristen tells Dimitri that he owes her money. Dimitri says the blackmail ship has sailed since he’s out and proud as well as extremely rich. Dimitri tells Kristen to go home and take a bath to soak off the stench of prison and death. Kristen remarks that she wouldn’t live under the same roof as him and moved out of the DiMera Mansion. Dimitri jokes that she won’t get any more free breakfasts. Kristen warns that after what he did to Gwen, she’ll see to it that he’ll be departing the mansion soon.

Gwen goes to the DiMera Mansion to see EJ in the living room. EJ questions her bringing Dimitri back without consulting him first. Gwen points out that she left him a message and said she would explain when he got home. EJ argues that if he knew what she was up to, he would’ve done everything in his power to stop it. EJ asks if Gwen has a death wish. EJ says he knows she wanted revenge in her own way but he didn’t realize that meant jeopardizing everything they’ve worked for so she could watch Dimitri and Leo squirm. Gwen argues that it wasn’t her fault because she didn’t know Dimitri could divorce her and take her money, so she didn’t know she wouldn’t be safe. Gwen says that her understanding of Dimitri’s inheritance and terms was misguided. EJ calls it dead wrong. Gwen admits she made a mistake. EJ blames her ego and reminds Gwen that her contribution to their special project was her husband’s cash. Gwen asks if EJ doesn’t have his own cash. EJ says his cash is wrapped up in other things and Dimitri’s was their biggest supporter, so until they start making money, they need his cushion to stay afloat. Gwen informs EJ that they will be making money sooner than he thinks. EJ asks what she means. Gwen then reveals that Dr. Rolf brought the rats back to life and says the drug is ready to be tested on humans which shocks EJ.

Sarah tells Chanel and Johnny that Chanel and the baby are doing very well and she will set her up for a follow up. Sarah adds that the chances of her cancer recurring are low. Chanel asks Johnny if he’s comfortable with telling family and close friends. Johnny says he wants to shout it from the rooftops. Johnny asks what the next steps are and if Chanel needs to take it easy. Sarah says there are no restrictions other than the usual as long as she’s not experiencing cramping or bleeding. Sarah tells Chanel that the best thing to do is rest and enjoy being pregnant. Sarah tells them that she’s so happy for them as she knows how much they wanted this. Chanel responds that they have a beautiful baby boy but she feels so blessed to be adding to their family.

Rafe tells Cat that he’s going to take his offer from Kristen to his higher ups at the FBI to let them decide if she’s viable. Rafe asks Cat how Chad’s custody mediation is going. Cat responds that she wishes she knew but she can’t ask him or reach out for obvious reasons. Cat then gets a text from Rita, informing her that EJ is back in town. Cat then says she has to go. Rafe tells her to be safe as she quickly exits.

EJ calls Dr. Rolf to confirm what Gwen told him. EJ congratulates him and hangs up. Gwen jokes about EJ being skeptical as she pours him a drink. Gwen toasts to their success while EJ warns that he’s still furious with her. Gwen suggests they just celebrate the good news a bit. EJ asks if he should just forgive her for bringing back Dimitri. EJ complains that having him back in Salem is potentially life changing. Gwen swears she can make it right and if all goes according to plan, she can take care of Dimitri and save her fortune. EJ questions how since Dimitri seems to have made himself quite at home. Gwen informs EJ that the ISA is looking at Dimitri as Peter’s possible accomplice. EJ calls that rich considering where he’s actually been. Gwen says they know it’s not true but Rafe doesn’t and that Rafe said he doesn’t believe Dimitri’s kidnapping story. Gwen points out that he has no proof. Gwen explains to EJ that she wants to frame Dimitri for the kidnapping and then his story will blow up in his face, he’ll go to prison and she’ll be off to the bank.

Johnny and Chanel go home. Chanel excitedly thinks she felt the baby but guesses she must be imagining it because she wants it to feel real. Johnny assures her that it is real and now that they know the odds are in their favor, he feels so bad that he was ever a downer about her being pregnant. Johnny insists it’s only because he loves her so much. Chanel decides no more feeling bad, only excited and grateful because soon they will have a healthy baby as a little brother or sister to Trey and a person they created out of their love as they hug.

Dimitri questions Kristen giving a damn about Gwen, arguing that the Kristen he knows only cares about herself. Kristen mocks him stealing the money from Gwen while Dimitri says he simply took back what’s his and soon, Gwen will pay for the bad things she did to him. Kristen remarks that it sounds like Dimitri is becoming a true DiMera which in their family means it’s survival of the fittest and to Hell with everyone else. Dimitri supposes he’ll feel right at home then. Dimitri says his mother was no wilting violet and neither is he. Dimitri tells Kristen to brace herself for a lot of turbulence because he’s here to stay.

EJ comments that Gwen talks a big game but offers very few details, so he’s going to need to know exactly how she plans to frame Dimitri and how she thinks it’s going to work which he highly doubts considering the royal mess she made in bringing Dimitri back. Cat then arrives and greets them. Cat tells EJ that she’s so glad he’s back and asks how Sydney is. EJ says she’s much better and thanks her for asking. Cat hopes she’s not interrupting. EJ says of course not as they were merely toasting to his return.

Rafe gets a call from Shane Donovan, revealing the identity of the bones from the DiMera Crypt.

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Days Short Recap Friday, January 30, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Leo tried calling Javi, but Javi didn’t answer the phone. He found himself thinking of Dimitri. Dimitri put something together for Stefano’s memorial. He and Gwen ended up arguing. Gwen asked him if he was Peter’s accomplish. Dimitri said it wasn’t him. They realized Vivian was the only one they knew in Alamain was Vivian. Dimitri said Vivian hated the Von Leuschners and him. Leo showed up at the mansion. He said he was determined to get Dimitri out of his system. Gwen showed up and enjoyed the argument. Dimitri said they were both Gwen’s victims. He said he never stopped loving him. Leo stopped him from talking so he could tell him what was wrong with Dimitiri. Sarah ran into Brady and Belle. She told Brady that Kristen wanted her to stay away from him and Rachel. Sarah said everyone was concerned about them. When she included Xander, Brady wondered why it was Xander’s apartment. Kristen wanted to talk to talk to Rachel before she spoke to the judge. Rachel said she liked Dr. Gregory. Kristen told her what to expect from the judge, her lawyer, Belle, her parents, etc. Kristen said once she and Rachel gave their testimony, the judge would drop the charges. Belle said she couldn’t promise what the judge would drop the case. Rachel thought she would go to prison. Belle said that wouldn’t happen. She was certain things would work out. Kristen sent Rachel out of the room so she could yell at Belle. When Rachel came back, Belle left. Xander went to see Marlena She told him that she couldn’t see him anymore. Marlena said she wasn’t getting rid of him. She said she was going back to the hospital. Marlena warned him that she would drop him if he hurt anyone in her family. Xander apologized for hurting Brady. Marlena asked what made him snap. Xander said the divorce got to him. Marlena said he was upset over Brady and Sarah being together. Xander thought they were together to stick it to him. Marlena advised him to focus on Victoria and to stay out of Brady and Sarah’s business. Xander said he would  do the wok. Dimitri let Leo know that he had bad qualities. Leo said he brought out the bad qualities in him. He said Javi made him better. After they talked, Leo left. Dimitri blamed Gwen for what happened and said he would make her pay. Gwen said she had a plan. When Dimitri left, Gwen calked Vivian.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, January 29, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Chad, Melinda, Jennifer, and Justin finished signing the custody agreement. Melinda pulled Chad to the side to tell him it was a bad idea. Chad let her know that he was doing it. When they finished everything, Jennifer said they could repair their relationship. While they were talking, Jennifer and Chad talked about not knowing where Abby’s remains were, but thought it was good that Stefano’s bones were found. Chad felt that knowing that Stefano’s bones were found was liberating. Johnny went to the Kiriakis mansion to talk to Bonnie about her book. When Johnny said he wanted to read it, Bonnie was excited. She thought she would make a lot of money. Justin came home and found out Bonnie’s good news. After Johnny left, they realized that DiMera was the better option for publishing. Chanel went to see Sophia to thank her for giving her baby up. She wanted to show Sophia the pictures. Sophia noticed Chanel holding her stomach as if she were pregnant. She disconnected from Chanel. Chanel apologized to her for all the trouble they caused during the adoption. She told Sophia that she wanted her to be a part of the baby’s life. After Chanel finished talking, she left. When Chanel was home, she told Johnny about her visit with Sophia. Johnny didn’t think too kindly of Sophia. Chanel said that despite everything, Sophia was still Trey’s mother and would be out soon. Sophia sent a text to Melinda telling her to come to Bayview. She told Melinda that she was faking being mute. Sophia said she wanted everyone to underestimate her because she had plans. While Sophia was talking, she told Melinda that Chanel was pregnant and that she and Johnny was going to have their own child. She told Melinda that they didn’t deserve to have a kid. Sophia wanted Chanel’s baby to be taken away and given to someone else. Melinda asked if she wanted it done legally, but Sophia didn’t care if it was done legally or not. She tried to reason with Sophia, but she didn’t want to listen. She said she wanted a better life. Melinda said she didn’t want anything to do with the plan. Before Melinda left, she thanked Sophia for keeping her name out of the adoption.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, January 27, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

While EJ and Cat were about to talk, Rafe showed up and told him the bones were Stefano’s. EJ was shocked that the bones wee Stefano’s. Kristen walked in and heard about the bones. She was upset that she killed Peter with her father’s femur. Kristen said no matter what Stefano did, she used to love him. Now she doesn’t love him anymore. She said she hated Stefano and EJ. Kristen walked out of the room. EJ accused Rafe of being the last person to see Stefano alive when Hope killed him. EJ left the room leaving Cat and Rafe alone. Chad went to see Theo at the hospital. He told Theo that he would be discharged soon. EJ called Chad to tell him that the bones were Stefano’s. Chad didn’t tell Theo the news. Rafe and Cat tried to figure out EJ’s reaction to the news. Chad showed up at the house when Cat and Rafe were about to leave. Kristen had her suitcases with her. Chad walked Cat out. He told her that he got to keep his kids if he stayed away from her.

Rafe asked Kristen if she knew where Rolf was. Kristen said she didn’t know where he was and asked if he thought about her offer. EJ went to see Rolf while he was working. He asked Rolf what he did with Stefano. Rolf said he was worried that Peter got rid of them. He told EJ that Stefano didn’t die when everyone thought he did. Rolf said Stefano went to a private island while he sent him out to keep him alive. He said he was gone for six months and when he returned, Stefano was dead for real. Rolf said he didn’t know how Stefano’s bones got there when he put them under the crypt. Cat called Andrew to tell him she found the money trail on the person Peter hired to kidnap the DiMeras. The person turned out to be Liam. Rolf told EJ that he had the correct formula. He said he was positive that she would open her eyes again soon.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, January 28, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Stephanie and Alex couldn’t focus on anything until Steve and Jada informed them about the plan to get Jeremy before he left town. They talked about the evidence they had against him. Jada informed them that JJ was going to watch him. Steve and Jada talked to them about the plan. They were going to set up a website announcing the wedding. The site was going to mention them eloping. They were going to send Alex to the courthouse with a fake Stephanie. Jeremy would arrive at the courthouse, and they would catch him. They didn’t know that the stalker was listening to their plan. Alex wanted to do the plan, but Jada was upset that she didn’t see through Jeremy’s act. Steve noticed a new message from the stalker. The stalker admitted that he already tried to kill Alex. They remembered what happened when Alex was attacked during Halloween. Steve and company wanted to review the footage from the town square. Alex’s drink was poisoned months ago, Stephanie realized that her ex-boyfriend tried to kill Alex for months. She was afraid for Alex’s safety.

Rafe called Abe over to talk about Stefano being dead. He wanted to know what he knew about Liam. Rafe told Abe that Liam seemed to be the one who kidnapped the DiMeras. Abe believed that Liam turned his life around, but he was desperate for money. Liam seemed like a good person who loved his son. If he turned out to be the one who kidnapped Theo, Leo was dead to him. Rafe promised to keep Abe informed about Liam. Jada assured Stephanie that they would do what they could to protect Alex. They didn’t have any other options to keep him safe. Everyone got started on the plan. Stephanie had to hold back tears. Alex told her that Jeremy was the one to blame. The stalker was listening to everything they were saying.

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Days Short Recap Monday, January 26, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

EJ returned to town and realized that Dimitri was staying at the mansion. Dimitri thought he was involved with Gwen, and his kidnapping. He let EJ know that he hired someone to find out what Gwen did with his money. Rafe and Cat talked about the investigation about the exhumation. They talked about Bo and Hope finding out about Stefano’s body. Stefano was dead for seven years, so the family could declare him legally dead. Gwen wanted answers from Rolf about the project their working on. He said that there has been progress. EJ called Gwen to let her know that he was home. Before she left, Gwen wanted to know if people would pay millions for their research. She asked Rolf if he could revive her if EJ murdered her. Gwen returned to the DiMera mansion to an angry EJ. He was ballistic that she released Dimitri without telling him. EJ exploded on her because they needed Dimitri’s money to fund their project until it made money. Gwen explained that she released Dimitri so they could frame him for the DiMera kidnappings. She was about to explain the plan, but Cat walked in the room.

Kristen warned Sarah that her daughter didn’t need two mothers. She wanted Sarah to step aside. While she was at the hospital, she ran into Johnny and Chanel. Chanel snapped at her because of what happened during Johnny’s trial. After their confrontation with Kristen, Johnny and Chanel got the ultrasound. Sarah told them that things were progressing smoothly. She informed Chanel that the chances of her cancer returning were low. Kristen wasn’t thrilled to see EJ at the mansion. She let him know that she planned to dance on his grave. Later she went to the town square and ran into Dimitri. She reminded him that he owed her money. He reminded her that she couldn’t blackmail him anymore. Kristen felt like Gwen would drive him out of the mansion. Dimitri planned to make Gwen pay for what she did to him. Kristen felt like he was a true DiMera. Dimitri wanted her to prepare for major turbulence. Shane called Rafe to let him know that the bones were identified.

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Days Update Friday, January 23, 2026

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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 Update Thursday, January 22, 2026

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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 Opinion For The Week Of January 19, 2026

Opinion Article

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Gwen from days

The writers are going overboard manipulating the audience into thinking Gwen is the villain when it comes to Dimitri and Leo. Were we supposed to forget that Dimitri was the one who used Gwen to get an inheritance? He was also the same one who cheated on her with her best friend. Now that she wants to make Dimitri pay for what he did, she is suddenly the villain? Don’t get us wrong. Gwen is a villain. She’s just not one in this storyline. No matter how annoying the writers make Gwen, she is not the bad guy. Dimitri deserves everything Gwen does to him and more. We don’t sympathize with him just because he fell in love with Leo and can’t be with him. It serves him right that he can’t be with Leo after what he did to Gwen. 

Trey’s christening was missing some people. Johnny didn’t have any of his relatives at the christening. It’s not like he doesn’t have family in Salem yet none of them were there. The writers came up with a way to explain some of his family being missing, but didn’t explain why the rest of them weren’t there. Roman, in particular, should have been at the christening. There was no mention of him being out of town the way Marlena and Belle conveniently were. The christening may have been short notice but that doesn’t justify why people weren’t there. 

Javi showed that he has a bitter side. He refused to listen to Leo when he tried to save their marriage. Javi must have forgotten that he was the one who told Leo to go to Dimitri. Leo did what he wanted him to do. He chose Javi but it wasn’t enough for him. We know the writers had to come up with a reason to write Javi’s character off the show, but they could have done a better job than that. Javi could have left town to be with his father and still stayed married to Leo. We read that Javi’s character was getting recasted so there was no reason to have him break up with Leo. 

Is anyone else sick of watching Stephanie play the victim in the stalker story? We know she’s being targeted, but we find ourselves rooting for the stalker. She doesn’t seem to care much about her life being on the line. All she’s worried about is having sex with Alex. She doesn’t even appreciate the efforts Steve is doing to protect. He put his life on hold to make sure she was safe, but all she whines about is wanting to be alone with Alex. Steve should leave the apartment and let the stalker get Stephanie. We know he wouldn’t do that because he loves her, but it would serve her right if the stalker got her. The stalker story isn’t a bad story, but they put someone in the story that we don’t care about. We like how Steve is involved in the story, but he’s not in it enough. 

We were proud of Chad for standing up to Jennifer when she told him to stay away from Cat. Jennifer had a lot of nerve expecting him to follow her orders in order for him to keep his children. We understand that she has issues with Cat, but she didn’t have the right to tell him who he should see. Chad shouldn’t be with Cat after what she did to him but it should be his decision whether or not he wants to be around her. Jennifer is lucky he hasn’t tried to keep the kids from her. If he wants to be petty, he could take the kids on a private island and keep them from her. He chose to let Jack and Jennifer be in the kids’ lives yet that’s not enough for Jennifer. She wants to control him as if she has more of a say with the kids than he does. We enjoyed watching tell her that he would fight her for the kids if she didn’t agree to his terms. 

 

Chad from Days

The opinions in these articles are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of TVMEG.COM or its other volunteers.

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Days Short Recap Friday, January 23, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Belle asked Marlena about the book club. Marlena said she couldn’t talk about her feelings and was embarrassed. Belle told her to give herself a break. Marlena understood what she was saying. When they finished talking about book club, they talked about Brady and Basic Black. Belle said Marlena could provide input on behalf of the family. Marlena said she would think about it. When Belle checked her messages, she heard about what was going on with Jeremy. Jennifer and Chad talked about Thomas. She said she needed more than his word that he would do the right thing. Jennifer said they had to revisit the terms to make Thomas feel better. She said it wasn’t about Cat. It was about helping Thomas trust him again. Chad said he would talk to Thomas, but he wanted them to stay out of it or he would take them to court. Thomas came in the room. Chad wanted to talk to Thomas. Thomas said he wanted things to be the way they were. Chad said he would do whatever it took to gain his trust. He promised to stay away from Cat and was willing to put the promise in writing.

At the police station, Julie demanded that Jeremy be released, but Jada refused to listen. She told Julie about the conflict of interest having Jeremy’s cousins interrogate him. Jada said Jeremy would be brought to justice if he was a danger to Stephanie. Julie said Jeremy wasn’t a threat to Stephanie since he was leaving town. Jada said that made him a bigger threat. Melinda showed up to represent Jeremy. Jeremy told Melinda what was going on and said he was innocent. Melinda told him to wait it out because the police had nothing on him and just wanted to confession. Jeremy said he had nothing to confess. Jada came back. Jeremy gave his statement and said he didn’t stalk Stephanie or threaten Alex. Jada wanted him to tell the truth. She said he did it and wanted him to confess. Melinda called her bluff. Jada warned Jeremy not to leave town. Stephanie and Alex were shocked that Jeremy made the website about her. Steve said he wasn’t going anywhere because Jada couldn’t arrest Jeremy yet. He said Jada could only question him. Steve said there was still threat until they could prove who was the stalker. He said Jeremy could have been framed. Jada showed up and told them they had to let Jeremy go because they didn’t have enough evidence. She noticed a box outside the door. Steve checked the box. The note said it was a gift from EJ. It was a picture frame. Someone was shown listening to their conversation and heard Alex say he was going to be bait.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, January 22, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

JJ went to see Theo at the hospital. They apologized to each other for what happened. JJ told Theo about his training and only using his gun as a last resort. Theo was happy about the news but wanted to make sure he was prepared for high-risk situations. Jeremy told Julie he was leaving town. Julie thought he was leaving town because of Stephanie’s engagement. Jeremy said he wanted to make up with her, but he respected her boundaries. Jada and Stephanie pretended to shop for the wedding to lure the stalker out. Stephanie started to regret writing the book. She was scared of playing the bait, but she wanted to end this for Alex and her father. Alex went to Philip’s office to talk about Brady’s firing. Philip saw Steve in the hall. Alex and Steve told him about the stalker. Philip wanted to know about the secret plan. Steve told Philip how they were trapping the stalker.  Later on, Alex and Steve went to the pub. They talked about who could be stalking Stephanie. Hope texted Steve with website full of pictures. Stephanie and Jada showed up. Steve told Jada about the website. Jada said she would take it from there. Later on, Steve let Stephanie and Alex know that Jada was bringing in a suspect. Jada went to the Horton house. She told Jeremy that she wanted him to go to the police station. Jada let him know that the evidence pointed to him.

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Days Update Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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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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Days Update Tuesday, January 20, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Sarah sees Marlena at the hospital and tells her how good it felt to give her a clean bill of health. Marlena calls it a great relief to feel like herself again because there were times she felt that was never going to happen. Marlena tells Sarah that life is so different now without John, so she sometimes feels disoriented, like she doesn’t feel like herself sometimes. Sarah can’t imagine how much she must be missing John. Marlena can’t believe he’s not going to come walking through the door after one of his missions and she’s never going to see his face or hear his voice. Marlena cries that she dreams about John all the time and guesses the best way to honor him is to live the best life she can and take good care of their family.

Brady goes to see Kristen at the DiMera Mansion. Kristen talks about never knowing how much you miss life’s pleasures until being deprived of them. Kristen adds that she would go back to prison if she had to for Rachel. Brady responds that Rachel is why he’s here because she needs to know something before they go see her. Brady then informs Kristen that Rachel got in to some trouble last night.

Gwen goes to Book Club and greets Julie. Julie responds that they reserve the right to refuse service to anyone. Gwen argues that they can surely get over a misunderstanding over her necklace. Gwen remarks that it looks like Julie can use all the business she can get. Gwen is buying the book “The Art of Getting Away With It” which Julie jokes that Gwen wrote. Gwen tries to purchase the book but her card is declined.

Dimitri sits at the Brady Pub and gets an alert on his phone about Gwen’s card being declined which makes him laugh.

In the town square, Javi says Leo wanted to talk so they have to make it quick as he has a plane to catch and he’s terrible at goodbyes. Leo responds that he has no intention of saying goodbye. Javi says he has to go because his dad needs him. Leo says he loves him for being a caring and devoted son. Javi tells Leo to stop being selfish and let him go.

Brady explains to Kristen that Rachel was found in Sophia’s bed, covering for her during bed checks because Sophia apparently snuck out. Kristen questions why Rachel would do this. Brady says he doesn’t know but he also thinks Rachel stole money from his wallet. Kristen asks if Sophia put her up to it. Brady says that’s what he’s thinking. Brady says he confronted Rachel and she denied it, then Sophia just showed up but was still not speaking. Brady adds that Sophia is apparently writing notes to Rachel and claimed to have snuck out to go to the library but he didn’t believe it. Brady says he didn’t tell Dr. Gregory about the money because he didn’t want to get Rachel in more trouble, especially when he wasn’t sure. Kristen feels that they have to do something. Brady says the staff have taken steps to separate Rachel and Sophia. Kristen suggests taking a step by getting Rachel out of Bayview now.

Gwen tries another card but it’s declined too. Gwen says that makes no sense. Julie asks if she’s having financial difficulties. Gwen insists she’s fine and tells Julie to just keep the book as she storms out. Foster comes over and asks Julie what that was all about. Julie calls it karma.

Leo asks Javi not to lash out at him. Javi apologizes and reminds him that he’s not good at goodbyes. Leo tells Javi that he’s not saying goodbye without knowing that Javi is coming back when his father is doing better. Leo declares that his life will be on hold until then. Javi questions if it will. Leo assures that it will and asks why he would even ask him that. Javi then informs Leo that he ran in to Dimitri yesterday. Leo guesses that Dimitri told Javi that he kissed him. Javi adds that he said they both felt something and if Leo respects him, he will show him the courtesy of not lying. Javi asks if what Dimitri said is true. Gwen then walks by and stops when she sees them. Leo then admits to Javi that it’s true.

Marlena tells Sarah that she owes her recovery to her because she never gave up on finding the right diagnosis. Sarah says she was just doing her job and praises Marlena being patient through it all. Sarah tells Marlena that they all loved seeing her back at the hospital for Christmas and the story reading as they’ve missed her a lot. Sarah adds they all hope she reconsiders coming back to her practice and asks if there’s any chance of that.

Julie tells Foster that she really enjoyed seeing Gwen’s credit card get refused and asks if that’s wrong. Foster calls it human. Julie says usually she doesn’t want to see anyone’s feelings hurt but Gwen came back to Salem, flaunting her wealth. Julie asks Foster if he’d like to sit down and relax for a few minutes. Foster says he will if Julie does the same. Julie says she’d be glad to. They sit together as Julie asks Foster what it’s like working part time at a business he used to own. Foster says he loves it, joking that he gets all the perks and good books while leaving all the stressful parts to her. Julie admits she’s enjoying the challenge but she’s very glad he is back with her. Julie mentions having a trial run of the bereavement book club with Marlena and Maggie. Julie asks him for some advice. Foster advises her to not do it.

Gwen walks away as Leo sits with Javi and tells him that he loves him and wants to spend his life with him. Leo admits there are some unresolved things with Dimitri. Javi says that’s just it. Javi declares that Leo may want to be with him, but he doesn’t want to be with Leo if he’s not 100% committed to them. Leo argues that he didn’t say he wasn’t committed. Javi reminds Leo to be honest. Leo then admits that Javi’s right that he’s a fickle, unsubstantial person because if he was 100% committed to Jav, he wouldn’t have kissed another man. Leo says he hates himself for it and has been beating himself up since it happened, but he can’t change the fact that it did happen. Leo decides it’s time to stop deluding himself and declares that he doesn’t deserve to be with Javi.

Brady tells Kristen that taking Rachel out of Bayview was his first instinct too but Marlena pointed out that Bayview is close, so putting her somewhere else would mean they wouldn’t see her as much. Kristen clarifies that she wants to bring Rachel home. Brady brings up Rachel shooting EJ and poisoning Sarah which are big issues. Brady says they’ve tried to deal with her issues and it’s done nothing. Kristen questions if the solution is to lock her away and have her corrupted by Sophia. Kristen argues that Rachel doesn’t need more doctors, she needs her mother while Brady argues that she needs structure and boundaries. Brady mentions talking with Dr. Gregory and declares their priority is making sure Rachel understands that there is no universe where they get back together.

Gwen goes to the Pub and confronts Dimitri over her credit cards declining. Dimitri confirms he got an alert on his phone about it. Gwen calls him a sadistic son of a bitch and says she despises him. Dimitri responds that he’s thrilled that he’s getting his life back while her revenge plot is blowing up in her face.

Julie questions Foster thinking a bereavement book club is a bad idea. Foster apologizes for overstepping but Julie wants his opinion. Foster explains that it’s based on his own experience. Foster thinks the book clubs are a great idea and would be a big success, but he tried bereavement when his wife died and he was a mess. He doesn’t want Julie to go through that but says maybe she’s in a better position and can handle it. Julie admits she hadn’t given it much thought until now.

Marlena tells Sarah that the hospital has been a second home to her for as long as she can remember. Sarah encourages that everybody would love to have her back there. Marlena says a couple weeks ago, she would’ve said no as she felt responsible for everything with Rachel and like she let her down, so it made her doubt herself. Marlena points out that now, she and Brady are in a good place while Rachel is getting the help she needs. Marlena says she likes helping people which is what she’s trained for.

Kristen questions Brady about Dr. Gregory’s advice being about their relationship. Brady explains that they need a unified message and Rachel needs to hear from them that they are over. Kristen argues that she has heard that from both of them and she made it very clear. Kristen tells Brady to stop trying to pin Rachel’s problems on her. Brady argues that he’s just trying to move forward and declares that Rachel needs to understand that her idea of them being a happy family is not going to happen. Brady says he needs her to stand with him on this.

Gwen eats Dimitri’s fries and calls him a lying, cheating bastard with no friends. He says she has no friends either which Gwen blames him for. Gwen declares that she will never forgive him for how he betrayed her. Gwen adds that more than anything, she despises him for destroying her friendship with Leo as it was the most important friendship she ever had.

Leo calls Javi the best thing to ever happen to him. Leo says he would do anything to make his feelings for Dimitri go away and he’s working on it. Leo states that Javi is the only man he’s ever truly loved, but he can’t just suddenly feel nothing for a man he once cared about. Javi takes that as Leo admitting he’s not over Dimitri. Leo argues that when he got the letter from Dimitri, his life was turned upside down only to find out that Dimitri only wrote the letter so he wouldn’t be hurt and everything he thought was true wasn’t, so he’s sorry. Javi thanks him for his honesty. Leo asks Javi to just give him time to process it. Javi argues that time won’t change anything for him. Javi declares that before he leaves, he will follow through with Marlena to not file their marriage certificate.

Marlena tells Sarah that if she does come back to her practice, it wouldn’t be full time as she has other thing she wants to do like travel and reading. Marlena mentions signing up for Julie’s book clubs. Sarah thinks that’s great. Marlena admits she does miss seeing her patients. Sarah is grateful that Marlena continued to see Xander during her hiatus and says she’s so sorry that he fired Brady after everything she did for him. Sarah adds that it’s pretty clear that it was done to get back at her which Marlena guesses is because of her relationship with Brady.

Julie tells Foster that since losing Doug, she never knows when a wave of grief will come over her and now she’s scheduled to host this meeting. Julie admits maybe she should call it off but Foster says he wasn’t suggesting that, but getting someone else to lead it. Julie asks who in this hour. Foster reveals that he would be honored to do it. Foster admits he’ll never get over the loss of his wife, but it’s not so raw anymore, so he agrees to a trial run. Julie thanks him and accepts his offer.

Kristen questions how Brady can ask her to stand by him in this, arguing that she already has. Kristen insists that she’s no longer deluding herself about a possible future with him because that ship sailed a long time ago. Kristen expects them to work together to help Rachel have a really great future. Kristen laughs off the idea of clinging to a dream of being with a man who treated her for disdain for years. Brady is glad she’s seeing they were toxic as a couple and now needs her to convince Rachel of that. Kristen asks if that’s because he thinks it will help Rachel heal or he thinks it will give him permission to be with Sarah.

Dimitri argues that Leo didn’t care enough about Gwen to not sleep with her husband. Gwen blames Dimitri for seducing Leo while Dimitri says he can’t help that they were so attracted to each other that it just happened again and again. Gwen calls him a wretched human being and questions how she ever fell in love with him. Dimitri mocks her venting about something that happened so long ago and says it doesn’t matter anymore. He begs her to let him eat in peace. Gwen tells him that he will have no peace nor will he have his happily ever after. Dimitri decides he will leave then. Gwen asks if he doesn’t want to know where Leo is now. Dimitri asks how she would know. Gwen reveals that she just Leo in the town square with the love his life, Javi Hernandez. Gwen then claims they were locked in a passionate kiss.

Leo questions Javi wanting to pretend their wedding never happened all because of a kiss. Javi argues that Leo should’ve told him instead of having to hear it from Dimitri. Leo agrees and apologizes. Javi cries that more than anything, he wanted to be Leo’s husband and start the life they dreamed of together, but that dream died. Javi then offers Leo the ring back.

Sarah asks Marlena if Xander talked to her about this at all but then apologizes, saying she knows she can’t ask her about that. Marlena says Xander didn’t have to as she was here and saw how she and Brady looked at each other at Christmas. Sarah didn’t realize it was that obvious. Sarah says it’s new and she doesn’t even know what it is. Marlena clarifies that she’s not judging. Sarah knows she must be concerned about Rachel. Marlena says she’s concerned about Brady too since it’s been a very tough year for him from losing his father, all the trauma with Rachel, and losing his job, so she doesn’t know if he can take any more heartbreak. Sarah says that makes two of them.

Brady tells Kristen that this isn’t about Sarah. Kristen argues that Rachel made sure she knew that she saw Brady and Sarah hugging and thought she would flip out, but she stayed perfectly calm, said nice things about Sarah and moved on. Kristen says he can ask Rachel if he doesn’t believe her. Kristen adds that she doesn’t care what he and Sarah do, but calls it pretty damn selfish to pick now to move on with another woman.

Gwen says she can see Dimitri is worried now and tells him to embrace his insecure nature. Dimitri responds that he doesn’t believe her. Gwen says he can see for himself while Dimitri feels she would say anything to hurt him. Gwen responds that he hasn’t even begun to hurt yet. Gwen remarks that Leo and Javi could have heated up to the bedroom already by now.

Leo tells Javi that he’s not taking his ring or taking his off. Javi says he will respect his decision and hopes Leo respects his. Leo then reluctantly takes the ring because he loves and respects him. Leo says he cannot wait for the day he puts the ring back on his finger.

Julie asks Foster if he’s sure about hosting the bereavement meeting. Foster assures that he’s a man of his word and only hopes he can do a good job. Julie encourages that he will be great. Foster knows he can be controlling and tells her to let him know if he’s ever too hands on.

Sarah promises that she and Brady are being cautious for their sake and for Rachel as they would never want to set back her recovery. Marlena is glad to hear that but admits she’s also concerned that Rachel will need stability and a place to call home which is why she’s glad Brady is looking for his own place because she doesn’t believe Rachel would find any stability living with Brady at the Kiriakis Mansion.

Brady tells Kristen that he and Sarah haven’t labeled anything yet. Brady says there’s no reason to introduce the relationship to Rachel yet when they don’t even know what it is yet. Kristen argues that he’s going to hide it from her while Brady feels if it does become something, it would be a great opportunity to show Rachel boundaries and that she can’t control or manipulate his life. Brady argues that he’s trying to handle this and figure it out. Kristen asks if Dr. Gregory prescribed how long it would take for Brady to get Sarah in to bed. Brady says he wanted to have a rational conversation while Kristen accuses him of flaunting his new girlfriend in her face. Brady says he’ll see her at Bayview and walks out while Kristen throws a glass against the wall in frustration.

Gwen offers to walk Dimitri out there to Leo and Javi so he can see what real love looks like. Dimitri remarks that it’s not like she has any idea. Gwen calls Dimitri an arrogant swine who wouldn’t have a cent if it wasn’t for him using and abusing her. Gwen vows that she will have her revenge one way or another. Gwen then dumps a drink on Dimitri’s head and his plate of fries onto his lap as she then walks out of the Pub.

Leo promises Javi that one day soon, he will get back on one knee and ask Javi to marry him again. Javi says he will hold him to that promise, but he has to go now to catch his flight. Leo tells Javi to take good care of his dad and to let him know how he’s doing when he gets a minute. Javi agrees to have Rafe give him updates. Javi tearfully says goodbye to Leo and to take care of Trey for him. Leo tells Javi that he loves him. Javi says he loves him too as they hug. Javi then exits the town square as Leo holds back tears.

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Days Update Monday, January 19, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Arianna gets up at home and joins Gabi in the kitchen. Gabi questions her looking pale with bloodshot eyes and guesses she is hungover. Arianna admits she may be a little. Gabi questions where she was last night that allowed underage drinking. Arianna says it was just a party that some kids at school threw and assures she did not drive home. Arianna remarks with the way she feels now, she doesn’t want to drink ever again, but assures she’s fine. Gabi says she doesn’t have to snap at her. Rafe comes home and asks if he should be worried. Rafe then gets a call from Johnny. Rafe thanks him for the video of EJ and Gwen. Johnny asks what he thinks the delivery was. Rafe says he’s still working on that and will let him know. Johnny then announces he’s calling to invite Rafe and his family to something very important.

Holly goes to Bayview and tells Dr. Gregory that she hopes she can help with Sophia’s recovery like she said. Dr. Gregory says that Sophia is finishing therapy and she still isn’t talking, but is communicating through writing notes. Holly mentions hearing from Tate that she’s been communicating with Rachel. Dr. Gregory says she will let Sophia know she’s there. Sophia then comes in to the room seeming shocked to see Holly.

Johnny thanks Rafe and says he’ll see him soon as they hang up. Chanel asks Johnny if the Hernandez family will be able to make it. Johnny says that Rafe definitely is and he will let Arianna and Gabi know. Chanel and Johnny watch over Trey, saying he will be surrounded by people who love him today. Chanel asks if Johnny got his calendar cleared at DiMera. Johnny says there’s some advantages of being CEO. Chanel is glad they got this in before Javi left for Texas. Johnny says he was thinking it will probably be hard for Javi and Leo. Chanel says that’s if Leo shows up after everything that happened at the wedding. Johnny says despite everything, they were Trey’s parents first and now are his Godparents, so he hopes they will still come to his Christening. Chanel hopes they will remain in Trey’s life forever.

Javi shows up at Leo’s door at the Salem Inn.

Dr. Gregory tells Sophia that she was just about to let her know that Holly was there. Holly greets her and says it’s really good to see her. Dr. Gregory explains that she asked Holly to come as she believes there are things left unsaid between them that need to be said in order to move forward.

Paulina arrives at Johnny and Chanel’s. Paulina brings Chanel’s old Christening gown that she kept all these years. Chanel thanks Paulina for getting the priest on short notice and for everything. Johnny calls it a miracle that they pulled this together so fast. Chanel comments that their family has been blessed with all kinds of miracles lately.

Gabi assures Rafe that they will be at the Christening. Arianna points out that she and Holly have to be at the dorm and it’s too late to change as they didn’t get a lot of notice before the Christening. Rafe explains that they wanted to do it before Javi leaves town. Arianna questions Javi leaving and hopes it’s to get away from Leo.

Leo invites Javi in. Javi says he can’t stay long but he has good news to share. Javi informs Leo that Johnny and Chanel have moved Trey’s Christening to this afternoon and they want them both to be there. Leo assures he will be there but he’s confused that it’s today and he’s only just hearing about it now. Javi explains that it was very last minute because they wanted to do it before he leaves town. Leo is shocked and tells Javi that he can’t leave. Javi informs Leo that he has to because his dad is having heart surgery, so he’s going to Texas to be there for him. Leo feels Javi shouldn’t have to go through that alone. Javi points out that he will have family there. Leo argues that he is Javi’s family and they’ve been through so much together, falling love, taking care of Trey, and opening up about their pasts. Leo adds that they just had a wedding, said vows to each other, and were declared husband and husband as he shouts that he is Javi’s family.

Rafe tells Arianna that Javi isn’t leaving because of Leo but because his father needs heart surgery. Gabi says that’s why it’s so last minute. Arianna understands that Javi has to be there, but assumes Leo will also be there which is why she’s okay missing it. Arianna complains that she doesn’t want to be in the same room as them after Leo just broke Javi’s heart. Arianna tells them to tell Johnny and Chanel that she’s sorry and promises to come visit Trey soon. Rafe and Gabi insist that Arianna should be there. Gabi adds that she can ignore Leo the whole time. Arianna calls Leo impossible to ignore and repeats that she just doesn’t want to go. Arianna promises to buy Trey a gift and visit him tomorrow. Arianna adds that she needs to go clothes shopping anyway. Gabi brings up that she just bought her clothes for Christmas. Arianna explains that Holly wants them to rush a sorority which Gabi says might be fun. Arianna is unsure and admits she told Holly no at first but they do nice stuff like charity work too so she agreed to give it a shot. Gabi decides she will pull some things from her new line at Gabi Chic and she can pick what she likes. Arianna thanks her as they hug.

Paulina comments on Johnny volunteering for the diaper change. Chanel points out that Johnny does that and other things all the time, calling him a really hands-on dad. Paulina takes that to mean things are better between them. Chanel confirms they are and says they really talked for the first time since she got pregnant and she told him that she needs him to be positive and optimistic about the baby which he promised to do. Paulina says she’s so relieved. Chanel talks about feeling thrilled and happily declares that it’s going to be a wonderful day as they hug.

Holly tells Sophia that Tate told her she’s been writing notes to Rachel. Dr. Gregory thought it would be helpful to have Holly here because expressing her feelings towards her might help her recovery. She asks if Holly has anything to say to Sophia. Holly talks about hoping her presence to motivate Sophia to talk. Holly assumes Sophia is upset with her and wants to tell her why she’s angry. Dr. Gregory encourages Sophia to write down how she feels and not keep her feelings locked inside so that healing can begin. She urges Sophia to let Holly know what she’s feeling. Sophia responds by trying to slap Holly but Dr. Gregory blocks her and says that’s not what she meant by expressing her feelings. Holly says she is shocked that Sophia tried to hit her. Dr. Gregory says she wouldn’t have suggested this meeting if she thought that would happen. Holly wishes she hadn’t but decides she wants to say what’s on her mind. Holly tells Sophia that she only came because Dr. Gregory thought it might help her recovery and even after all the crap she pulled, she still felt bad for her. Holly acknowledges that seeing Tate behind her back hurt her. Holly yells at her to wake up because that was two years ago and Sophia’s done a lot worse since including lying to everyone about being pregnant with Tate’s baby and sexting her photos to Johnny. Holly complains that Sophia tried to ruin her life and calls her a selfish, narcissistic bitch. Holly declares that after Sophia tried to attack her, she’s done feeling sorry for her and storms out. Dr. Gregory tells Sophia that she’s sorry she was triggered like that as seeing Holly obviously did not help and she apologizes. She asks if Sophia has anything she would like to communicate to her now. Sophia responds by writing down “I HATE HER!!!”

Rafe admits he’s pretty skeptical about the whole sorority thing as he’s heard they make them do wild things at rush. Arianna assures that she can handle it and she won’t do anything crazy. Rafe gets a text from Eli which Gabi questions. Rafe then reveals they are planning a trip to Alamainia. Gabi notes that he didn’t tell her that. Rafe says they just decided so they can question Vivian about the DiMera crypt kidnappings and make sure Stefan is really dead. Arianna asks if they think Vivian was involved in the kidnappings. Rafe says they aren’t sure but they are pretty sure that Peter Blake didn’t act alone and Vivian is always a suspect. Gabi thanks him for doing this. Rafe knows she needs some closure. Gabi admits that seeing the picture of Stefan’s headstone hit her pretty hard. Gabi knows Vivian has nothing to gain by lying, but she just needs to know for sure.

Johnny, Chanel, and Paulina talk about getting Trey in to his Christening outfit. Chanel says they have to take a lot of pictures for everyone that can’t be there. Johnny notes that he spoke to Chad and he can’t make it because of his custody hearing. Johnny adds that he promised his mom and sisters that he would send lots of videos. Paulina asks if Marlena is coming. Johnny says that she unfortunately won’t since before she knew about the Christening, she had taken a day trip to Chicago with Belle. Johnny notes that they are on their way home and will be there soon but they won’t make it time. Paulina suggests a post-christening party that everyone can come to. Chanel decides they will get Trey dressed and head over to the chapel.

Javi tells Leo that he doesn’t know if they can be a family anymore. Leo asks how he can say that. Javi argues that they both know things have changed between them and they have to accept that but Leo refuses. Javi cries that he’s trying to because he knows. Javi says he’ll just have Johnny and Chanel give him the details of the Christening but he should go. Leo stops him and asks when he’s coming back from Texas. Javi responds that he might not.

Rafe and Gabi join Javi at the chapel for Trey’s Christening. Leo comes in after and greets them, noting that he’s really happy to be there for the Christening of their grandson. Chanel and Johnny then arrive with Trey. Chanel says they are so glad they were all able to make it on short notice. Rafe says they are so glad to be there to celebrate Trey and congratulates them. Gabi suggests a picture with the family. Leo fits in to the back as Javi takes the picture.

Holly is visibly upset as she meets Arianna in the town square and tells her that she just came from seeing Sophia at Bayview. Arianna questions why she would do that. Holly explains that her doctor thought it might help with her recovery and motivate her to talk, but it didn’t. Holly remarks that she doesn’t care if that bitch ever opens her mouth again.

Dr. Gregory tells Sophia that she supposes that’s progress, pointing out that Sophia has had no desire to interact with her in therapy, so she’s glad to see she can communicate with someone other than Rachel. She encourages that expressing herself is good and in order for her to heal, she has to explore her negative emotions towards Holly. She adds that she’s sure Sophia knows using Rachel was wrong, so the doctors have decided they need a break from each other but she wants Sophia to have someone she can feel comfortable with. She asks Sophia if there’s any other patient that she would like to get to know or communicate with.

The priest begins Trey’s Christening ceremony. Javi and Leo are called upon as the Godparents.

Holly tells Arianna about Sophia trying to slap her but Dr. Gregory grabbed her hand before she could. Holly says the look in Sophia’s eyes was like pure hatred, but she still didn’t speak a word. Holly admits she’s kind of scared of what Sophia might do to her if she’s ever released. Arianna then reveals that last night on her way to the bar, she could’ve sworn that she saw Sophia.

Dr. Gregory tells Sophia that she can write her a note about anything she wants to say or anyone she wants to see, but she is pleased that Sophia wants to continue her studies and pursuing her dreams. She tells Sophia that she has full access to the library but cannot sneak out. She adds that the sooner Sophia cooperates with her and the staff, the sooner she can be released.

The priest officially baptizes Trey and welcomes him in to their community as everyone applauds. Javi sits with Trey and says he’s so honored to be his Godfather. Javi thanks him for letting him be part of his family and promises to always take his responsibility very seriously. Javi declares that they are connected forever and he will always love Trey. Chanel hugs Javi and thanks him. Javi thanks her for squeezing in the ceremony before he left. Chanel assures that they wouldn’t have done it without him and that they will be praying for his father. Javi wishes them luck and says Trey is lucky to have parents like them. Rafe and Gabi call him a good man. Javi cries that he’s going to miss them. Rafe offers a ride to the airport but Javi says he hates airport goodbyes. Javi hugs Rafe and Gabi as they have a tearful goodbye. Leo asks Javi if they can talk in private before he leaves. Javi says he doesn’t have a lot of time but agrees as they step out together. Gabi and Rafe then exit together. Chanel and Johnny joke about getting enough pictures and video. Chanel calls the day perfect. They hope Trey sleeps through the night while Chanel mentions being tired so Johnny decides they should get home and they exit the chapel.

Holly tells Arianna that there’s no way she could’ve seen Sophia since she’s locked up in Bayview, unless she managed to escape for a night but argues there’s no way that would be possible. Arianna guesses she’s right and it’s crazy to think Sophia would just be wandering around Salem. Arianna says it must’ve just been someone who looked like her and that it freaked her out a bit.

Sophia retrieves her new cell phone from under her bed and texts Melinda Trask that she needs to see her.

Holly asks Arianna if anything else happened that she wants to share. Arianna says she just had too many drinks, hung out, flirted with the bartender, and then went home alone. Javi and Leo walk in to the town square so Javi asks him to give him a second as he greets Holly and Arianna. Holly exits while Javi hugs Arianna. Arianna asks about the Christening. Javi calls it bittersweet and moving. Arianna asks if he’s really leaving. Javi confirms that he is in a couple hours. Arianna says she’s really going to miss him. Javi says he wil miss her too as they hug. Arianna hopes he comes back soon but knows he can’t think about that right now. They hug as Javi tells her to be good and Arianna says she loves him. Javi says he loves her too as she walks away. Leo then rejoins Javi. Javi says Leo wanted to talk so they have to make it quick as he has a plane to catch and he’s terrible at goodbyes. Leo responds that he has no intention of saying goodbye.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, January 21, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Julie, Marlena and Maggie were getting ready for the book club meeting. They talked about how much Doug loved books, and Julie missed talking to him about things. Everyone talked about what they missed about their loved ones except for Marlena. Julie noticed that the therapist was doing the listening. Marlena wanted to leave. Jack, Jennifer, and Chad  were told to that the mediator wanted to meet without the lawyers. Jack liked the idea, but the others didn’t. He convinced them that it was a good idea. The mediator arrived, and Chad said the kids should stay with him because he’s their father. He made a speech about how much the kids meant to him. Jennifer started to cry when Chad talked about Abby. Chad began talking about his relationship with Cat and how Jack and Jennifer turned on him because of it. He mentioned Jennifer’s addiction to painkillers. Jack got upset when Chad mentioned her addiction. He didn’t think he would stoop that low. Chad apologized for what he said. He talked about Cat again. Jack told him that he didn’t want him to make another mistake like the last one that caused Thomas to run into the road. Chad said that he couldn’t promise that he wouldn’t make another mistake. Jennifer told Chad that they loved him but what happened to Thomas changed everything. Chad gave Jack and Jennifer the proposal that he and Melinda drew up. The proposal allowed them to have the kids for a month every summer. They could visit any time they liked, but he refused to give up custody. Jack and Jennifer had a compromise for him. They would drop the custody suit if he promised not to be involved with Cat again. Marlena wasn’t ready for the book club meeting so she left. Foster promised that she would be back. Chad went to tell Julie about the hearing. He believed it went well. Chad told her that they reached an agreement. Jack and Jennifer talked to Thomas about the custody agreement. They let him know that he could visit every summer as long as Chad stayed away from Cat. Thomas didn’t believe his father was telling the truth about that. He lied before and would do it again.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, January 20, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sarah let Marlena know she was better. Marlena said she wasn’t feeling like herself. Sarah was concerned but hoped that Marlena would consider coming back to the hospital. Marlena said she might consider it but not full time. Sarah told Marlena that she was glad that she was seeing Xander even if he was being a jerk to her and Brady. Marlena said she knew about her and Brady. She told Sarah that she was worried about Brady. Brady went to see Kristen and told her about what Rachel was doing. Kristen said she wanted to bring Rachel home. Brady said Rachel needed help. He told her that Rachel’s doctor said they should convince Rachel that they weren’t getting back together. Kristen felt like he was blaming her for everything. She said she wasn’t deluding herself or Rachel. They agreed they weren’t right for each other. Kristen told him she knew about Sarah. She said he was being selfish moving on with Sarah.

Leo tried to talk to Javi who pushed him away. Javi said Leo wasn’t committed enough to their relationship. He confronted Leo about kissing Dimitri. When Javi kept ripping into Leo, Leo agreed with him about being a terrible person. Javi wanted Leo to go away. He told Leo he was leaving after he told Marlena not to file the marriage certificate. Javi told Leo that he wanted to be married to him. Leo said he could make it real and handed him his ring. Gwen met up with Dimitri who rubbed it in that she didn’t have any money. They ended up arguing. Gwen said she hated that he ruined her friendship with Leo. She let him know that he wasn’t going to take her peace or her happily ever after. While she was talking, she told him that she saw Leo and Javi kissing. Sarah told Marlena that she and Brady were being cautious. Marlena said she was worried about Brady living at the mansion. Brady said he and Sarah were in the early stages of their relationship. Kristen was upset with him for rubbing his girlfriend in her face. Before Gwen left, she told Dimitri that she was getting revenge. Leo told Javi that he was going to propose again. They declared their love for each other before Javi left.

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