Days Short Recap Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Alex was about to wrap up the press conference when Tony arrived. He made a shocking announcement. Tony planned to sue the Kiriakises for taking over DiMera. He was suing for fraud. Leo asked Tony questions about the lawsuit. Tony informed him that everything would be revealed in time. Gabi pretended to be shocked by the news. Alex called Xander and Philip to let them know about the lawsuit. Tony warned him that they better settle. Stephanie had to answer questions and noticed Tony and Gabi slinking away. Gabi chased Tony to the pub. She didn’t like how he didn’t warn her about his ambush at the press conference. Gabi liked the idea that he pulled his plan off. Tony told her that it would be over quickly. He remained coy when she asked about being the CEO of the company. Sarah tried to get Philip to admit that Xander attacked him, but he refused to help her. Xander overheard Sarah. He also heard Philip say that he saved his life. Xander walked in the room and tried to play the victim. Sarah tried to apologize to him when Alex walked in to tell the news about the press conference. Maggie finished putting Victoria down when Sarah told her about the press conference. They realized the lawsuit was why Xander and Philip tried to make their partnership legit. Sarah realized that her family was broken up because of her. She tried to blame Xander for beating up Philip. Since he didn’t beat him up, it was her fault that it happened. She realized she was wrong about what happened, but it didn’t change what happened. The Kirakises met at the company to talk about Tony’s announcement. While they were talking, they realized that Tony could have planted the bug in the office. Xander blamed Alex because he didn’t come through and find the person who had the bug. He wanted Alex to leave so they could talk.

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Days Short Recap Monday, September 15, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Xander was upset that Philip didn’t have the co-CEO document. They ended up leaving for Victoria’s birthday party. While Sarah and Maggie were getting the mansion ready for Victoria’s party. Sarah said she was nervous about Xander being there. While they were talking, Xander and Philip showed up. Xander told them that Philip was going to be the co-CEO. Sarah was suspicious about it. Xander asked Maggie how she was doing on the anniversary of Victor’s funeral. Maggie was touched that he would ask. She said she was okay. When Sarah and Philip were alone, she wanted to know what was going on. Sarah said when he was co-CEO, Xander didn’t have any leverage over him. She told Philip that he could tell everyone that Xander attacked him. Philip wouldn’t admit the truth. Xander ended up overhearing the truth. Holly saw Tate with Sophia at the bookstore. She went over to them and ruined Tate’s plan because Sophia used that opportunity to walk away. Tate apologized for snapping at Holly. He continued to snap at Holly until she yelled at him back. Holly told him it wasn’t her fault and that Sophia wanted him back. She said Sophia was just using him so she could keep her hooks into him. Holly said Tate seeing the baby wouldn’t help. Tate didn’t agree with her. She accused him of being obsessed and said she was done. He walked out. Sophia met with Arianna and told her that Tate was obsessed with the baby. She told Arianna that she wanted Tate to forget about it. Sophia said Holly was annoying and was tired of being caught between them. Arianna said she couldn’t let go of getting back together with Tate. She told Sophia that she was tired of being in the middle. Arianna said she was friends with Sophia and Holly and wasn’t taking sides.

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Days Opinions For The Week Of September 8, 2025

Opinion Article

 

by Michele & Cheryl

We decided to do things differently with this edition of our article. For this article, we are going to write some questions and talk about them.

When will the writers give up on Cat?

We know that we have mentioned this a few times, but it’s worth repeating. It’s time for the writers to cut their losses with Cat. She doesn’t fit on the show. No offense to the actress, but she’s not a soap star. They try so hard to make her seem caring by shoving her relationship with Felicity and Aaron down our throats. We’re not convinced that she needs to be on the show. They knew they were in trouble with her when they did a switcharoo with her character. The writers decided to make her a member of the ISA. Suddenly Cat is a genius who consulted with the ISA. We’re sorry, but we’re not going to buy that at all. Cat was someone who schemed to convince Chad that she was Abby to save her mother. The writers tried to save her character by giving her a bleeding-heart reason for scheming. Fast forward, and Chad fell hard for her. We don’t understand why he would want to be with her when she pretended to be his late wife. With that said, Chad falling for her didn’t change how we felt about the character. She pretends to have a heart of gold as if she didn’t scheme when she arrived in town. We’re sure her storyline won’t pick up now that she’s working with Rafe more. Rafe needs a good storyline of his own, but he didn’t need to be involved with Cat.

Why do Jack and Jennifer look bad for disliking Cat?

Why are the writers trying to make it seem like Jack and Jennifer are the bad guys for not liking Cat? They have every right to feel like Cat is a horrible person. She impersonated their daughter so they weren’t going to be her biggest fans. Chad kept making comments about the way they felt about her. He basically didn’t care how they felt about Cat. Chad was going to see her anyway. They feel the way we feel about her being around.

Did Gabi want to get caught with the bug?

Gabi struts around as if she’s “Miss Tough Girl,” but she proved that she’s not as tough as she thought. She was careless with the bug she planted in Xander’s office. Xander found the pen immediately and told Philip about it. The bug wasn’t in the office for five minutes when they found it. She clearly isn’t like her brother, Rafe at all. Rafe usually has the Salem Brain and refused to let his sister use it. She wasn’t convincing when she acted surprised when Xander and Philip wondered if she planted the bug. Xander suspected her and rightfully so because she didn’t put it in a good spot. She also let it slip that she knew Philip and Xander were getting along. Gabi needs to leave the spy stuff to people like Rafe and Steve.

Was Brady renting the Salem brain?

As you know, Brady was working hard to prove that Sophia was up to something when it concerned her pregnancy. He paid attention to the things that he heard when it concerned Sophia and started putting the pieces together. Brady realized that Sophia lied about the baby. Tate told him that Sophia was acting weird around July 4th, and he put it together that Tesoro is Sophia’s baby. Tesoro is half Asian so it shouldn’t have taken much to put it together that he belonged to Sophia. There aren’t that many Asian people in Salem so it wouldn’t be hard to get the connection. We never thought we would be happy to see movement in Tate and Sophia’s story. It’s not easy to find something good to watch on the show right now so we are happy to see movement in the story. The other stories aren’t moving too much lately so it meant the world too see Brady figure something out for a change.

Are the writers going to allow the widows to grieve?

We liked how we caught a glimpse of Julie and Maggie grieving over their late husbands. It was a tender moment between them. Julie and Maggie don’t get a chance to interact much for one reason or another, so it was nice to see them talking to each other about their pain. They knew how it felt to lose someone they loved. The writers did the right thing by adding their scenes. It tugged at our heart strings when they talked about feeling alone. The actresses did an amazing job showing their grief while talking about their loneliness and how hard it is to move on. We want to give a shout out to the writers for remembering to have Julie and Maggie talk about Mickey. Maggie wasn’t just married to Victor. She was married to Mickey too.

 

 

 

 

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 Nitpicks & Flubs For The Week Of September 8, 2025

Nitpicks & Flubs

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Monday

-EJ could be heard talking while Gabi was shown.

-Chad was with Jack and Jennifer one minute and with Cat the next.

-Charlotte was with Jack, Jennifer, and Thomas one minute and upstairs the next time they were shown.

Tuesday

-Gabi didn’t put the bug in a good spot in Xander’s office, but she was surprised that he found it.

-Philip was talking while Tony was shown.

-Philip wanted Xander to consider forgiving Sarah. If he wanted him to do that, he shouldn’t have opened his mouth to tell him that she knew about his scheme.

-The Hortons don’t seem to care about Victoria. No one from the Horton family mentioned her birthday. It’s near JJ’s birthday, the Hortons didn’t say anything about wanting to celebrate it.

Wednesday

-Maggie forgot about the anniversary of Victor’s funeral. Are the writers hinting that something is wrong with Maggie?

-Stephanie had no faith in Steve because she accused him of planting a bug in Xander’s office. She should have asked him instead of accusing him.

-Theo was uncomfortable around JJ. He worked with JJ on the company, but he was acting funny around him.

-Maggie cried without any tears.

-Marlena was talking while Julie and Maggie were shown.

-Marlena cried without any tears.

Thursday

-Holly tried to downplay how obsessed she was about Johnny. Are we supposed to forget that she tried to steal him from Chanel?

-Tate didn’t want to be a father, but he’s constantly talking about wanting to see the kid.

-Javi and Leo were talking while Tate and Holly were shown.

-Johnny referred to Belle by her first name instead of calling her “Aunt Belle.”

Friday

-Brady was nodding on the phone as if Steve could see him.

-Javi cried without any tears.

 

 

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 Update Friday, September 12, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Brady pulls out his phone and calls Steve, reminding him about how the fire house baby couldn’t have been Sophia’s because she was still pregnant when he was born, then asks what if she wasn’t. Steve questions what he’s saying. Brady explains what Tate told him about Sophia acting weird and not wanting him to touch her anymore around the 4th of July which is when the fire house baby was born. Brady says it could be nothing and that Sophia was just over the pregnancy, but his gut tells him it’s worth looking in to which Steve agrees with.

Tate goes to the bookstore to pick up his text book when he gets a call from Holly. Tate tells her that he was just talking to Brady about Sophia while Holly reveals that she ran in to Rachel in the park, who said she was running away because she was blaming herself for Kristen going to prison. Holly says she tried to tell her it wasn’t her fault but she’s not sure she believed her. Holly says she took Rachel back to school but figured Tate and Brady should know. Tate thanks her for telling him and says he really appreciates it and loves her. They hang up and then Tate calls Brady to tell him he won’t believe what Holly just told him. Johnny then approaches Holly at school and greets her, commenting on her taking his class. Holly promises she didn’t just take it because of him and knows she made things awkward with her crush on him years ago. Johnny assures it’s no problem and he knows she got over that awhile ago. Johnny adds that he just hopes the other students are okay with him as the last minute replacement teacher. Holly jokes that she and Tate can talk him up to the other students. Johnny feels he will need all the help he can get. Johhnny adds that he was happy to hear Holly and Tate are back together and that it seems like all their problems with Sophia are in the past. Holly responds that she sure hopes so.

Leo asks Javi what he has to tell him. Leo assures that his heart is in the right place when it comes to Javi, so he can trust that whatever it is, he has to tell him. Javi starts to cry as he reveals to Leo that he had a daughter and she died. Leo tells him he’s so sorry. Javi cries that it’s hard for him to talk about. Leo says he doesn’t have to but Javi feels he does. Javi wants to tell Leo what happened because he loves him and he’s important to him, which means he should know all about his daughter as he doesn’t want to keep her a secret. Leo says he’s here and listening. Javi explains that a few years ago, he started dating a girl named Sylvia. Javi says he already came out to his parents but his mom didn’t take it well and kept fixing him up with girls, so to appease her, he went back in to the closet. Javi says his relationship with Sylvia was rocky but about three years ago, they had a beautiful daughter named Solana. Javi cries that he vowed to protect her, but failed miserably.

Tate runs in to Sophia in the bookstore and says he’s glad to run in to her because he wanted to apologize for flipping out on her. Sophia says it’s okay and that she deserved it for lying to him about the open adoption. Sophia says it was all a big mess and she’d like to explain it to him if he’ll give her the chance. Tate decides they can talk now before their film class which Sophia says would be great.

Brady calls the school and questions how Rachel could’ve just walked off the playground with no one noticing and questions who knows what would’ve happened if Holly hadn’t found her in the park. Brady says he’d like to see Rachel in person but is informed that they can’t find her, causing Brady to storm off.

Rachel visits Kristen in prison. Kristen questions what she’s doing there and not in school. Rachel reveals that she snuck out because she had to see her.

Rafe goes to see Steve in his office. Steve hopes he didn’t pull him away from any important FBI business. Rafe assures that he didn’t and asks what this is all about or if he’s stumped on a case. Steve calls it more like a personal favor for a friend and it involves the baby that Rafe’s family is fostering.

Javi holds back tears as he tells Leo about he and Sylvia’s routine where he would drop Solana off at daycare and Sylvia would pick her up, but that day he was out drinking with friends so Sylvia took Solana to daycare and he fell asleep. Javi cries that the next thing he knew, his phone was ringing and Sylvia was screaming to tell him that Solana was in the hospital. Javi says he raced over and found out Sylvia forgot Solana in the car on a hot summer day.

Sophia explains to Tate that when she went in to labor, she panicked and was alone so she went ahead with what she thought was the best thing to do. Sophia says the adoption being semi-open was better than her mom forcing her to keep the baby. Tate questions why she didn’t just tell him this at the time. Sophia says she was so scared that he’d be angry with her but she knows she shouldn’t have lied and wishes she could make it up to him. Tate responds that he really wants to track down the adoptive parents on his own, so he really needs her to tell him whatever information she knows about them.

Johnny and Holly wait for class to begin. Holly notes Johnny being realy nervous. Johnny points out that he’s never taught anything before ever. Holly reminds him of all the movies they watched when their parents were married and says she learned a lot from him back then. Johnny says he had no idea. Holly tells him not to worry as he’s going to be great.

Rachel asks Kristen if she’s in trouble. Kristen says she was just asking the guard for permission to hug her since it’s not usually allowed, but he agreed to make an exception so they hug. Rachel tells her how much she’s missed her. Kristen says she’s so sorry for not saying goodbye to her. Rachel asks if she’s okay. Kristen tells her not to worry as she’s fine and asks how Rachel got here by herself. Rachel says she took a rideshare. Kristen brings up that Brady disabled her account after she did that the last time. Rachel admits she used Kristen’s account instead. Kristen calls her very resourceful. Rachel says she asked Brady to come visit but he said they’ll see, so she knows he meant no and decided to do it herself. Rachel jokes about the guard buying her sob story like the last time. Kristen admits she’s so happy to see her, but says she shouldn’t have snuck away like this. Rachel argues that she had to because she has to tell her that she’s sorry which Kristen questions. Rachel tells Kristen that she’s the reason she’s in prison and it’s all her fault. Kristen assures that it’s not her fault while Rachel disagrees, saying that if she never found Grandma Rachel, EJ wouldn’t have made her disappear and Kristen wouldn’t have shot him. Kristen says she’s really glad she found Grandma Rachel or she would’ve never known she was still alive. Kristen states that she’s here because of what she did and it has nothing to do with Rachel. Kristen knows things are hard right now for them, but promises it will be okay. Brady then arrives and hugs her, thankful that she is okay. Rachel questions how he knew that she was there.

Holly comments that she can’t imagine how crazy Johnny’s life is since he’s a brand new college professor, while just a couple weeks ago he was on trial for attempted murder. Johnny is grateful for how the trial turned out with Kristen confessing, so he can finally get back to a normal life if he can between teaching and working at Titan-DiMera. Holly questions him still working at Titan-DiMera. Johnny explains that teaching one class a week isn’t enough and he needs the extra security since he and Chanel are trying to adopt a baby. Holly hopes things go smoother for them this time.

Leo can’t imagine what Javi must have gone through and says he’s so sorry. Javi cries that it was completely avoidable and if he hadn’t gone out drinking the night before and just got up to take Solana to daycare. Leo assures that it was not his fault and just a terrible accident. Javi calls it really hard not to think like that because if he changed one thing in his day, Solana would still be there. Leo encourages him to stop thinking like that. Leo asks what happened to Sylvia. Javi says that she only forgot her in the car because of the change in routine, but they charged her with child abuse and arrested her so she didn’t even get to say goodbye to their daughter before they took her off life support. Javi cries that he was horrifed and angry over what Sylvia did to their little girl, he already knew she was suffering enough already so he tried to persuade her that he didn’t blame her but she still blamed herself since their lives were shattered.

Rafe questions what friend of Steve’s could possibly be connected to Tesoro. Steve responds that all he can say is that this friend suspects he may be Tesoro’s real father. Rafe asks if he wants to claim custody. Steve says he just wants to know the truth before the baby gets adopted and is only asking for a chance to meet his child if Tesoro is in fact his child. Steve asks if Rafe can help him out. Rafe asks if he would be wildly off the mark if he guessed that Steve’s friend was Tate Black.

Sophia claims not to remember much about the adopted parents. Tate asks if she doesn’t remember their names as they must have introduced themselves. Sophia says she thinks it was like Harry and Marsha, but they didn’t give last names. Tate asks what kind of doctors they were but Sophia says she doesn’t remember. Tate argues that she has to give him something. Sophia tells him to stop yelling at her. Tate says he will when she tells him the truth and questions why she’s lying to him.

Steve asks what makes Rafe think he’s talking about Tate. Rafe explains that Javi was out with the baby and ran in to Sophia and her mother. Rafe notes that Sophia’s mother commented that Tesoro had a striking resemblance to her own son and Javi noticed the baby did appear to look at least partly Asian. Rafe says it made Javi wonder if the baby could be Tate and Sophia’s. Rafe asks if he’s right that Tate thinks Tesoro is his baby. Steve responds that Tate doesn’t, but he and Brady do.

Javi tells Leo that for a long time after losing Solana, he was inconsolable and a complete mess, but eventually he got back on his feet with the help of family and friends. Javi says that’s when he decided to dedicate his life to making sure she didn’t die in vain. Javi talks about the paramedics being so kind, loving, caring, and doing everything they could so save his baby girl, so he wanted to do that for other people in need and decided to become a paramedic himself. Leo says he’s even more proud of him than he already was. Leo adds that he understands why Javi wanted to take Tesoro in and why he’s so protective of him. Javi says he loves Tesoro as Leo says he does too. Javi remarks that the thought of losing Tesoro had started to feel like losing Solana all over again as Leo hugs him.

Brady informs Rachel that the school called him and told him she was gone, so he figured that she was on her way here and then the warden called to confirm. Rachel questions how the warden knew and then realizes Kristen told on her. Kristen says that Brady needed to know where she was. Brady says he needed to know where she was. Rachel doesn’t care. Brady argues that she can’t just leave school twice. Kristen questions it being twice. Brady informs her that Holly found her in the park and took her back to school. Rachel reveals that she just walked out the back door after Holly left. Brady tells her that she’s never doing this again and they are going back to school but Rachel says no, declaring she misses her mom and she’s not leaving her again.

Johnny tells Holly that he’s about to start class. Holly responds that she thought Tate would be there by now. Johnny invites her to wait inside so she can fill him on whatever he misses. Holly says she’ll be right in as Johnny heads back in to the classroom.

Sophia tells Tate that she’s not lying to him and that she was delirious and exhausted after giving birth, so everything is a blur. Tate argues that in that compromised state, she made the biggest decision of their child’s life. Sophia insists that she trusts the parents completely while Tate questions trusting them when she barely even knows their names. Sophia asks why he can’t just let this go. Tate complains that he needs to know his baby is safe and that she’s acting shady. Tate talks about trying to be there for her but he can’t. Sophia argues that he was there for her and she didn’t want him to be mad at her which is the whole reason. Tate questions the reason for what.

Steve tells Rafe about a lot of Sophia’s story not matching up but that she’s managed to convince Tate. Steve adds that Tate doesn’t know he and Brady are still looking into it, so they’d like to keep it that way until they have actual proof that Sophia lied. Rafe agrees that makes sense and feels everything he told him so far is suspicious, but not exactly damning evidence. Rafe doesn’t know if the timeline fits. Rafe recalls Javi meeting Sophia around the time they started fostering Tesoro, so he questions how it could be Sophia’s baby if she hadn’t given birth yet. Steve says that’s exactly the point he and Brady were stuck on, until they heard that Sophia got jumpy towards the end of her pregnancy and wouldn’t let Tate feel the baby kick anymore. Rafe wonders if Sophia was wearing some sort of padding and why she would go through all that trouble. Steve calls that the million dollar question.

Kristen tells Rachel that she has missed her so much, but she’s smart enough to know that she can’t stay here. Rachel worries about her but Kristen says she’s fine. Kristen adds that for everyone’s sake, it was important that she accept responsibility so this is where she needs to be, just like Rachel needs to be at home with her father. Rachel declares that she will only go if Brady promises she can come back to visit. Kristen doesn’t think she has to worry and is sure they can work things out.

Javi shows Leo a picture of his daughter Solana on his phone. Javi apologizes for not telling him about her sooner. Leo understands he told him when he was ready and he’s just glad to be there for him, especially if they have to give up Tesoro. Javi cries that he really wishes they could adopt him, but with everything surrounding Solana’s death and the background checks. Leo brings up his extensive criminal past so he doesn’t know if he’d pass a background check either, so they are in the same boat. Javi thinks part of him is afraid to become a dad again, worrying about having a child and something happening to them again. Leo insists that what happened wasn’t his fault, but he understands why Javi would feel afraid to be a dad. Leo hopes he gets over it in time. Javi cries that he hopes so too as Leo hugs him.

After class, Holly asks how Johnny feels after getting his first class out of the way. Johnny says it wasn’t much of a class and asks if there was any word from Tate about missing class. Holly says it’s not like him to skip class, especially since this was the one he was looking forward to. Holly adds that there might be something going on with his sister as she informs Johnny that she found Rachel in the park earlier and she said she was running away. Johnny questions why she would do that. Holly says it was something about her mom, but she thought maybe something else happened. Holly decides she should go find out and tells Johnny that she will let him know as she exits.

Tate questions what Sophia did and says he doesn’t want to be mad at her, he just wants answers. Tate asks her to tell him the truth and promises he won’t be angry with her. Tate states that they had a baby together and that’s a bond they will share for the rest of their lives, so nothing can break that. Tate asks her to tell him the truth.

Steve tells Rafe that he knows through Tate and Brady that Sophia was worried about her mother forcing her to raise the baby herself if she couldn’t line up an adoptive family before she gave birth, so he guesses it’s possible she went in to labor early and panicked. Rafe can’t imagine how traumatic that must have been for her if so. Steve notes that it’s still speculation so until they have actual proof, the investigation can’t go much further which is why he needs Rafe. Steve points out that there is a simple way to prove if Tesoro is Tate and Sophia’s baby and that’s a DNA test. Steve knows it’s weird to ask but Rafe has access to Tesoro. Rafe responds that he’d be more than happy to provide him a DNA sample and calls it a favor to Steve and John, adding that he won’t tell a soul.

Rafe goes home and asks Leo and Javi if everything is okay. Javi informs him that he was just telling Leo about Solana as he thought it was the right time. Rafe knows giving up Tesoro must be bringing back memories.

Brady promises Rachel that they will discuss her visiting Kristen. Brady instructs Rachel to text Marlena that she’s okay because leaving school worried a lot of people and she owes her an apology. Rachel then exits the visiting room. Brady tells Kristen that he thinks it would be best for Rachel if they were all on the same page about this as he didn’t appreciate being strongarmed in to agreeing to let Rachel visit. Kristen argues that she didn’t appreciate Brady urging the judge to extend her sentence. Brady says that was for Rachel’s own good and she knows that as well as he does. Kristen argues that he doesn’t know a damn thing. Brady tells her not to make him the bad guy as he understands she misses her daughter, but she should’ve thought about that before shooting her brother in cold blood.

Javi says he should get back to work, so Leo asks Rafe to keep an eye on Tesoro as he walks Javi out. Rafe then pulls out a swab to get Tesoro’s DNA.

Tate takes Sophia’s hand and tells her that he really cares about her, so he can tell whatever secret she’s keeping is hurting her. Tate promises not to judge her and stand by her. Holly then enters the bookstore and sees them together with Tate holding Sophia’s hand.

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Days Update Thursday, September 11, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Tate and Holly have breakfast at the Brady Pub. Tate talks about being anxious for the first day of classes and says he’s only really looking forward to the intro to film class. Holly says she just signed up and added it to her schedule as well. Tate jokingly asks if that was before or after they found out Johnny DiMera would be teaching the class. Holly assures it was before and that she is a movie buff.

Johnny works on his laptop at home and tells Chanel that he’s preparing for class which he should’ve done yesterday and then mentions that he will be going to work at Titan as soon as he’s done to shoot the press conference for One Stormy Night in the town square. Chanel comments on him working through lunch and seems disappointed. Johnny asks if that’s a problem. Chanel responds that she was hoping they could talk but it seems like he’s too busy. Johnny tells her that he is very busy but he’ll always make time for her which excites her.

Alex goes home to Stephanie and comments on her getting home late last night since he didn’t hear from her. Stephanie apologizes for not texting or calling. Alex asks if she spoke to the person she thought was digging in to the Titan-DiMera takeover. Stephanie confirms that she did and they said it wasn’t them and she believes them. Alex questions what makes her so sure they are telling the truth and who this person is.

Brady walks through the town square with Rachel until she stops and asks if they can go to the pet store. Brady says they can’t because he wanted to talk to her about her mom.

Javi sits at home with baby Tesoro until Leo comes in to greet him. Leo questions Javi being distracted and asks what’s going on with him. Javi responds that he’s in a funk because Tesoro is going to be leaving them soon.

Johnny tells Chanel that he’s a little nervous since the last serious conversation they had was about the possibility of him going to prison for shooting his father. Chanel is glad that’s all behind them and says what she wants to talk about now is a good thing and hopes it will be positive. Chanel informs him that it’s about them having a baby.

Holly assures Tate that she signed up for the intro to film class before she knew Johnny was the professor. Tate says he’s just giving her a hard time and he’s very glad she’s taking the class. Tate talks about being exhausted after being unable to sleep on the awful bed in his dorm and Aaron’s snoring. Holly feels it sounds like more and questions what’s going on. Tate informs her that he found out Sophia hadn’t been totally honest with him about the adoption as he found out it was only semi-open which means they don’t have the adoptive parents’ contact information and he’s just having a hard time accepting the fact that he’s not going to meet or see a picture of his kid.

Leo questions Javi saying Tesoro is going to be leaving them. Javi says the waiting period is over so it will probably only be a few more days before someone adopts Tesoro. Leo says he never thought he’d want to raise a kid but now he feels like everything is going to fall apart with Tesoro leaving them.

Brady sits Rachel down and says he was going to talk to her about this yesterday but he didn’t think the first day of school was the right time. Rachel responds that she knows what it is already and guesses her mom is going to prison. Brady confirms that she is and says he’s sorry. Brady hugs Rachel as she starts to cry.

Alex tells Stephanie that he needs to know who this person is if she wants him to take their word that they didn’t plant the bug in Xander and Philip’s office. Stephanie responds that if she does tell him, he cannot tell a soul especially not Xander. Alex questions her wanting him to keep another secret from Xander when that’s what got them here in the first place. Stephanie insists that she hates it a lot, but if he can’t promise, she can’t tell him. Alex argues that if someone is coming after the company, Xander needs to know. Stephanie questions when she said someone was coming after the company. Alex questions why else someone would plant a bug. Stephanie reminds him that she said the person she talked to didn’t plant the bug and are not coming after the company. Alex says he gets it and that she’s not going to tell him who the person is. Stephanie assures that she wants to, but she needs his word that he will keep it to himself. Stephanie adds that she doesn’t want secrets between them and she will trust him, but she needs to know that he trusts her too. Alex then agrees not to tell anyone if she tells him who the mystery person is. Stephanie then reveals it’s her dad.

Rachel asks Brady how long Kristen will have to stay in prison. Brady says it’s hard to say, but she could be released early. Rachel demands to know how long if she doesn’t. Brady informs her that the sentence is six years. Brady tries to encourage that it’s not that long but Rachel cries that in six years, she’ll be in high school. Brady repeats that she could be released early, so they just have to hope for that. Rachel asks when they can visit her. Brady says they will have to see.

Johnny questions Chanel wanting to talk about a baby. Chanel argues that it’s not like they hadn’t talked about it before and reminds him that they were set to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby not long ago. Johnny states that he ruined that. Chanel blames EJ while Johnny says it’s because of his problems with EJ. Chanel says they both have problems with EJ. Chanel adds that she eventually came to understand why he couldn’t go through with it, but now the trial is over and their lives are back on track so they should be moving forward. Chanel repeats that they were set to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby and they were both excited to become parents and raise a family. Chanel asks if Johnny would be open to trying again.

Javi tells Leo that he’s having a hard time imagining their lives without Tesoro. Javi mentions speaking to a social worker, who said the adoptive parent list is a mile long. Leo reminds Javi that he’s the one who found Tesoro and he’s been living with their family ever since. Leo asks if they would jump straight to the top if they were on the list of adoptive parents.

Tate tells Holly about Sophia sending him a random photo offline and claiming it was the adoptive parents. Tate says there’s nothing he can do about it as he has no way of knowing who the parents are unless they tracked him down, so he’ll never know who has his kid. Holly points out that at least Sophia got to meet them and said they were good people. Tate then declares Holly to be a genius which she questions. Tate asks why he didn’t think about it before but that Sophia has to know the parents’ names. Holly guesses she must have gotten to know them. Tate says she told him they were doctors. Holly encourages that all he needs now is a last name. Tate decides that if Sophia gives him that information, he should be able to track them down.

Javi tells Leo that he had the same thought about them adopting Tesoro and checked it out with an adoption lawyer. Leo asks what the lawyer said. Javi responds that they said it’s not a possibility which Leo questions.

Johnny tells Chanel that there’s nothing he’d love more than to have a baby with her and says they could get started on that right now but Chanel clarifies that’s not what she meant, reminding him of her condition and says she doesn’t know when she’ll be able to get pregnant. Chanel explains that she was thinking maybe he’d still be willing to adopt. Johnny responds that he’s more than willing as he’s ready now to be a dad and he knows she will be the best mom ever. Chanel hugs him and thanks him as she says she loves him so much.

Rachel questions what Brady means by they’ll have to see. Brady says he will have to look in to it but it might take some time, so it may not be soon. Brady suggests she take the day off from school and they’ll go to the Bakery but Rachel says no and that she wants to go to school. Brady tells her that he’s so proud of her as he hugs her and then they walk off to get her to school.

Alex questions why Stephanie would think Steve planted the bug. Stephanie explains that she found out that Steve was the one who filed the request and he admitted he was hired to look into Titan, so she asked him to drop it which he did and she thought that was the end of it. Alex gets that Steve doesn’t want to give up his client but worries that they may already know Philip’s secret. Stephanie feels they don’t and that if they do, they didn’t get it from Steve. Alex worries that whoever planted the bug is clearly listening in. Stephanie tries to encourages that they haven’t been and they found the bug before it recorded anything. Alex feels they have to prepare for the worst which means someone may know the truth and he wishes he knew who it was. Stephanie tries to encourage him but Alex complains that he just wishes Stephanie told him when she knew what Steve was doing. Stephanie argues that Alex responded to Xander pressuring him by pressuring her and she feels she went above and beyond by convincing Steve to drop the case. Stephanie states that she’s done all she can and she’s out.

Holly walks to the park and finds Rachel sitting on the bench. Holly questions her being out here by herself and not in school. Rachel responds that she was in school, but she snuck out before the first bell because she’s running away.

Tate runs in to Brady in the town square and tells him that he was just venting to Holly about Sophia giving birth in Chicago and it hit him that the adoptive parents were with Sophia when the baby was born, so she has to know their names. Tate feels if they put all the information together, they can find them. Brady says it’s certainly worth a try but questions what Sophia is willing to tell him and how he will know if it’s true.

Johnny pulls out his phone and says he’s calling an adoption attorney to get the ball rolling since Belle gave him a few names awhile back. Chanel stops him and says she has another idea, revealing that she already has a baby in mind which Johnny question. Chanel brings up the baby that was abandoned at the fire house.

Leo questions Javi as to why them adopting Tesoro is not possible. Javi explains that the lawyer told him all they would have to do as far as background checks and paperwork. Leo guesses Javi doesn’t think he’d pass a background check and says he always knew his past would come back to haunt him, but Javi clarifies that it’s not Leo, it’s him.

Alex apologizes to Stephanie and agrees that this is Xander’s problem, so he shouldn’t be dumping it on her. Stephanie feels Xander has a talent for making his problem everyone else’s. Stephanie says she did her best to come up with a solution but Xander blew her off. Alex reveals that Xander actually changed his mind and will be officially naming Philip as co-CEO, so the letter will be irrelevant because Philip will have a legitimate position in the company. Alex praises Stephanie for potentially saving Titan-DiMera and says it means so much to him that she’s helped so much. Alex brings up that this is the second time Stephanie has bailed him out as they kiss.

Holly questions why Rachel wants to run away. Rachel responds that her mom is in prison and it’s all her fault.

Johnny questions Chanel wanting to adopt the baby from the fire house. Chanel says he’s perfect and is officially up for adoption. Johnny is sure plenty of couples are already in line. Chanel thinks they should be in line too and talks about already feeling a connection when she saw him. Chanel agrees that a ton of families probably already put in applications but brings up that her mother is the Mayor, so she must have an in with social services. Johnny agrees so Chanel asks if it’s worth pursuing.

Leo questions why a background check on Javi would cause a problem. Javi informs him that there’s something that happened in his past that he didn’t want to tell him about that he should know.

Tate doesn’t understand why Sophia wouldn’t be honest about the adoptive parents’ names. Tate acknowledges that Sophia lied to him before but says she thought he’d be upset about the adoption not being open, so he questions what she possibly be trying to hide now. Tate adds that Sophia explained the picture thing and believes she misspoke when calling the baby “him”. Tate admits she’s acted weird but doesn’t think that’s enough to blame her. Brady questions her acting weird. Tate talks about Sophia meeting the adoption attorney without him and no longer wanting him to feel the baby kick. Brady questions when all this weirdness started. Tate reveals it was around July 4th.

Holly questions why Rachel thinks it’s her fault that her mother is in prison. Rachel explains that Kristen was really upset that her Grandma was missing and cries that none of this would’ve happened if she didn’t help Rachel Blake kidnap Ava to stay away from Brady which is why Kristen was arguing with EJ. Holly insists that she’s not to blame and that grown ups make grown up decisions. Holly tells Rachel that she’s sorry and feels bad that she’s going through a hard time. Holly encourages that she has so many people who love her and she’s so strong, so she promises she will be okay. Holly then walks Rachel back to school.

Alex talks to Stephanie about her upcoming press conference and how he can’t wait to brag about her novel. Alex reminds Stephanie that she can go as herself and no one will know that she is Anastasia Sands. Stephanie responds that she has so much to do and was awake half the night trying to fix a scene in her mystery novel. Alex talks about giving her inspiration as he kisses her.

Johnny states that as a DiMera, it would be hypocritical of him to question someone calling in a favor, but points out there would still be a chance the adoption wouldn’t go through so he doesn’t want Chanel to get her hopes up to get crushed again. Chanel responds that she’d feel more crushed if they didn’t at least try. Johnny says he loves her willingness to take risks. Chanel asks if that means he’s willing to take one with her. Johnny agrees to do it which thrills Chanel.

Leo asks Javi what he has to tell him. Leo assures that his heart is in the right place when it comes to Javi, so he can trust that whatever it is, he has to tell him. Javi starts to cry as he reveals to Leo that he had a daughter and she died.

Brady questions Tate saying that Sophia started acting weird around the 4th of July and asks if anything happened to upset her around that time. Tate doesn’t think so and says she just suddenly started acting distant, avoiding calls, and not wanting him to touch her anymore. Brady says with any luck, they’ll get the information they need from her to put an end to this and get him some closure. Tate tells him that he really appreciates Brady always having his back as it really means a lot to him. Tate says he has to go pick up a textbook for his film class so he walks away. Brady then pulls out his phone and calls Steve, reminding him about how the fire house baby couldn’t have been Sophia’s because she was still pregnant when he was born, then asks what if she wasn’t.

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Days Short Recap Friday, September 12, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Tate saw Sophia at the bookstore. He apologized to her for getting mad at her for lying. Tate questioned her about the adoptive parents. Sophia was ready for him and came up with names for the parents. She couldn’t come up with any more information for him, so Tate yelled at her for lying to him. Sophia started crying when he yelled at her. The yelling helped her get out of telling the truth. Sophia tried to defend herself and almost let it slip what happened. Brady called Steve to tell him about his theory regarding Sophia. He told him that the baby from the firehouse is Tate and Sophia’s baby. Steve agreed to look into it. Tate called Brady and found out that Rachel was missing. Brady was upset that the school didn’t keep track of Rachel. He became enraged when he found out the school didn’t find her again. Rachel went to see her mother at the prison. Kristen was shocked to see her there. Rachel wanted to apologize to her mother, but Kristen wanted to apologize to her. Kristen told her that she was in prison because of what she did. She assured Rachel that everything would be okay. Brady arrived while they were talking. The warden called Brady after Kristen snitched. Rachel was upset with Brady and yelled at him. She refused to leave her mother’s side. Kristen had to talk to Rachel to get her to calm down and leave. She let Brady know that he had to allow Rachel to visit her.

Javi talked to Leo about what happened to his daughter. He told him that he tried to date a girl, and they had a child together. Javi got drunk so his girlfriend offered to take their daughter to daycare. The baby ended up stuck in the car on a hot summer day in Texas. Leo told Javi it wasn’t his fault, but he had trouble believing that. After watching the paramedics try to save his daughter, it made him want to help others. Leo told him that he wouldn’t be able to pass the background check either. Steve asked Rafe for help with Tesoro. He discreetly told him about the case and who could be the father. Rafe knew that Tate was the father. Steve admitted that Tate didn’t know about the investigation. He talked to Rafe about the slip ups that Sophia did. Rafe admitted that it sounded suspicious. He agreed to get a DNA sample from Tesoro. Brady gave his phone to Rachel so she could call Marlena to let her know that she was okay. He yelled at Kristen for a bit and then stormed out of the precinct. Rafe went home and found out Javi told Leo about his daughter. He’s glad that Javi could lean on Leo. Rafe offered to watch Tesoro while they went out. He pulled out a swab to get Tesoro’s DNA.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, September 11, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Tate talked to Holly about the baby. Holly tried to make him feel better about it. She reminded him that Sophia met the adopted parents. He told her that Sophia talked with them for a bit. It made him realize that he could use what Sophia knew to track down his baby’s parents. Chanel wanted to talk about possibly having a baby anymore. The couple talk about what happened the last time they tried to adopt a baby. They talked about being in a better place. Johnny tried to get Chanel into bed so they could make a baby. He finally agreed to adopting again. Johnny wanted to get started right away. She suggested they adopt the baby that was at the firehouse. Brady was taking Rachel to school when he wanted to talk to her about her mother. He told her that Kristen was going to prison for six years. She was devastated by the news. He told her that it wasn’t a long time. Brady told her that she might not be able to visit her mother, and Rachel wasn’t happy about it. He tried to give her a kiss, but she wanted to go to school. Brady dropped her off at school, but Rachel didn’t go inside. She ran off, and Holly spotted her. Rachel confided in her that she was going to run away. She told Holly that it was her fault that her mother was in prison. Rachel started crying when she talked to Holly about what she did to help her grandmother kidnap Ava. EJ fought with her mother because of it. Holly tried to make her feel better about what happened.

Tate ran into his father at the town square. He told him that Sophia knew things they could ask about the baby’s adoptive parents. Brady didn’t share Tate’s optimism. He wasn’t sure if Sophia was telling the truth about anything Tate was confused by Brady’s attitude because he thought they got past her lies. He thought her weird behavior that started around July 4th was done. A lightbulb went off above Brady’s head. Leo noticed that Javi was upset. He told him that he knew the time to have Tesoro was winding down. Javi knew someone was going to adopt him soon. Leo was heartbroken about losing the baby too. He suggested they adopt him. Javi told him that he talked to an adoption lawyer and found out that He wouldn’t pass a background check. He felt dark secrets would keep them from getting Tesoro. Javi broke down so Leo tried to make him feel better. He opened up to him about his daughter that died. Chanel wanted to let her mother pull strings to help them move up on the list. Johnny was okay with it, but he didn’t want her to get her hopes up. Brady wanted more info about Sophia’s weird behavior. He let it go until Tate left. After Tate left, Brady called Steve to let him know that the firehouse baby could be Tate and Sophia’s child.

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Days Update Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Abe and Paulina have dinner at the Bistro where Paulina proposes a toast to Johnny and Chanel putting the trial behind them. Paulina adds that she’s so glad that the judge took a firm stance against Kristen. Paulina feels six years in prison is the least she deserves after what she did. Abe says he doesn’t disagree but he can’t help think about Rachel being separated from her mother. Paulina admits she was being callous and it’s awful in any circumstance for a child to be separated from their parents. Paulina remarks that it’s bad enough not living in the same city. Abe guesses she’s talking about Lani and Theo. Paulina confirms she is and states that whether it’s the other side of town or the other side of the world, their children are never far from their mind..

JJ runs in to Theo in the town square. JJ hugs him and says it’s good to see him while Theo seems hesitant as he looks down at JJ’s badge and gun at his side.

Belle and Shawn sit in the interrogation room as Belle says she thinks it will be a slam dunk conviction and thanks him for going over the details with her. Shawn says he’s happy to help. Shawn knows Belle has been dealing with a lot and that everything worked out for Johnny but not so much for Rachel being separated from her mom. Shawn adds that he knows that aside from grieving her father, she’s still processing her break up with EJ, so she’s worried that she’s being too hard on herself and shouldering all the blame for whatever went wrong. Belle responds that he still knows her so well.

Maggie and Julie go to the Horton house after coming from a grief support group meeting. Julie talks about how it helps to share how you feel with people who understand. Julie adds that she’s so sorry that Marlena didn’t join them since she did invite her, but guesses she decided against it.

Kayla meets Marlena at the Brady Pub and says she was late because she had an impromptu meeting with EJ. Marlena hopes that wasn’t too bad. Kayla says it actually wasn’t at all and reveals that EJ wants to open a free clinic in the hospital which surprises Marlena. Kayla adds that EJ also agreed to name it in the Tom Horton Free Clinic which Marlena calls even more surprising. Kayla knows she should be more thrilled since she’s been advocating for a free clinic for years, but she can’t shake the feeling that it’s too good to be true.

Steve goes to see Stephanie and notes that she sounded upset, so he asks what’s wrong. Stephanie responds that she asked him to drop the Titan-DiMera investigation and he said he would, so she asks what changed his mind and what the hell happened.

Julie invites Maggie to stay for tea and leftover cake from JJ’s birthday party. Maggie admits she’s in no rush to get home to an empty house. Julie questions it being empty. Maggie tells her that Xander is gone and spending half of his time with Victoria, Sarah’s hours at the hospital are crazy so she’s rarely home, while Bonnie and Justin are gone for the week to visit Mimi and Emily. Maggie adds that Holly moved out to the Salem U dorm so it’s very quiet at the Kiriakis Mansion. Julie understands she’d be feeling lonely. Maggie says that’s why she’s so grateful for her company. Julie jokes that she’ll have more of it tomorrow if she can tolerate her two days in a row. Maggie assures that she adores her company and asks what about tomorrow. Julie reminds her that it’s the anniversary of Victor’s funeral.

Belle admits to Shawn that she does usually feel like she’s the one to blame while Shawn encourages that she’s such a good person and sometimes life is just complicated. Belle thanks him for his generous perspective on her screwed up life. Shawn insists she’s just being hard on herself. Belle asks how she could not be hard on herself after she got involved with EJ when she knew better. Shawn says she’s just human and the heart has a mind of it’s own. Belle remarks that her heart is crazy when it comes to men but she did get it right one time when she chose Shawn. Shawn says his heart got it right then too.

Kayla talks to Marlena about being suspicious of the free clinic because of EJ’s past behavior. Kayla says she hates to be over analytical of EJ’s every move and wants to believe he’s just doing something good for the community. Marlena hopes that’s all it is for everyone’s sake.

Steve tells Stephanie that he doesn’t know what she’s talking about and that he dropped the investigation as she asked. Stephanie question why Xander and Philip found a listening device in their office then. Steve is surprised while Stephanie argues that he had to be the one who put it there which Steve denies. Steve argues that he’s too smart to do a thing like that as it’s a rookie move and would be way too easy to get caught. Steve assures Stephanie that he dropped the investigation and gave back his client’s retainer, so he has no idea who was stupid enough to put a bug in Titan-DiMera’s office. Steve swears to her that it was not him.

JJ asks Theo when he got back to town and why he didn’t tell him. Theo responds that he just got in a few hours ago and that it was a last minute decision. JJ wants Theo to catch him up and asks how’s life in South Africa and how his company is doing. Theo reveals he’s no longer involved in the company and sold his stake in it which JJ questions why. Theo calls it a long story and tells JJ that he’s sorry but he’s gotta run. JJ suggests they get together soon. Theo seems disinterested but says sure and walks away, leaving JJ confused.

Abe tells Paulina about signing up for a literacy program at the bookstore where he will help tutor a student. Paulina suggests he practice by helping her read more of One Stormy Night. Abe admits he likes that idea a lot as they laugh together.

Maggie is surprised that Julie remembers the anniversary of Victor’s funeral. Julie recalls Maggie saying last year that no one knew the exact date of Victor’s plane crash so she would make the day of his funeral the day of his passing. Julie explains that she made a note to remember that, knowing she might need extra love and care on that date. Maggie cries that it was so kind of her. Julie talks about how long they’ve been friends and declares they will always be there for each other as Maggie thanks her.

Kayla says enough about her and her work problems as she asks if Marlena has had time to regroup during her leave of absence. Marlena says not really as she’s utterly exhausted and admits she’s not sleeping well and still having nightmares about Stefano. Marlena says when she wakes up from all that, she’s obsessed with concerns about Tate, Belle, and Rachel. Kayla thinks she’s focusing on everyone else but herself. Marlena agrees and says she should be focusing on overcoming her own grief, but that seems to be more than she can manage.

Stephanie apologizes to Steve for accusing him of bugging the Titan office. Steve says it’s okay and he understands why she did. Steve is sorry it’s so upsetting for her. Stephanie says Xander and Philip are furious while now Xander is asking Alex to find out what she knows about it. Stephanie tells Steve that she left his name out of it, but all of this has her thinking that this can’t be a coincidence. Stephanie declares that if it wasn’t Steve, it had to have been his client who planted the bug. Steve guesses it’s possible. Stephanie pleads with him to tell her who his client was that hired him to look in to Philip and Xander.

Julie tells Maggie that she’s always associated the word “anniversary” with joyful things and not losses. Julie brings up it almost being a year since Doug passed away. Julie talks about having so much to be thankful for, but part of her wants to stay under the covers until the holidays pass. Maggie tells Julie that she will be there to support however she chooses to go through it.

Marlena tells Kayla that she was meant to attend one of the grief support groups that she recommended and Julie offered to take her, but she just couldn’t go. Marlena says she gave herself excuses like worrying about running in to a patient or being unable to control herself. Kayla encourages that she will go when she’s ready. Kayla asks what is going on with her. Marlena responds that she doesn’t know who she is anymore. Kayla is sorry she’s feeling that way but encourages that she’s the same wonderful person she’s always been. Marlena is not so sure.

Steve tells Stephanie that he can’t reveal his client. Stephanie argues that the bug likely recorded the truth about Philip’s forgery and could cause the downfall of the company. Steve says he warned her that the truth was bound to come out sooner than later. Stephanie says she warned Xander but he didn’t listen to her. Stephanie says if Steve could tell her who was behind this but Steve insists that he cannot do that. Stephanie argues that she has to give Alex something to relay to Xander or he’s going to lose his job. Steve says if she needs to out him, that’s up to her, but he cannot give up his client under any circumstances. Stephanie says she understands. Steve wishes he could help her with this. Steve tells her that he loves her and hopes she gets the answers she needs. Stephanie says she loves him too as Steve then exits the apartment.

Shawn tells Belle that things just didn’t work out between them but they gave it a good run and made a lot of great memories. Belle adds that they also made a really great kid. Belle says now that the trial is over, she really should go see their daughter. Shawn knows Claire is looking forward to it as she went on about how much she misses her. Belle says she misses her so much and was glad that Shawn was there for her during her break up with Theo. Shawn assures that she’s doing great and is happy with a new guy she’s seeing. Shawn guesses they have been in love for awhile. Belle points out that Claire and Theo haven’t been broken up that long and questions what Shawn isn’t telling her. Shawn knows Claire is not proud of it but guesses that she was seeing this guy while she was still with Theo.

Abe and Paulina go home where Abe suggests reading One Stormy Night in bed like they talked about but they are interrupted by a knock at the door. Abe answers the door and is surprised to see Theo as they embrace.

Kayla questions why Marlena feels like she’s not herself. Marlena supposes she’s trying to figure out who she is without John. Steve then arrives and says he finished up early with Stephanie so he decided to join them for dessert. Kayla asks what Stephanie wanted to talk to him about. Steve says he’ll tell her later as it’s kind of a long story.

Stephanie and JJ go to the Bistro for dinner. Stephanie calls JJ her favorite cousin and says she’s sorry Alex couldn’t make it as he’s busy at work. Stephanie asks if anyone at work surprised him with birthday cake. JJ says no but he did get another surprise as he ran in to Theo on his way here. Stephanie says that must’ve been nice since they were close. JJ says that’s what he thought but Theo seemed a little weird and distant. Stephanie guesses he’s just wrecked from the long flight.

Paulina tells Theo how happy she is to see him. Abe can’t believe he didn’t tell them he was coming. Theo says it came together suddenly and he knows Abe likes surprises. Abe calls it the best one he’s had in awhile. Paulina says she could’ve picked him up from the airport or got the guest room setup. Paulina goes to warm up their leftovers from the Bistro for him. Abe asks what made Theo come back.

Belle questions Claire cheating on Theo. Shawn says for what it’s worth, she feels terrible. Belle says she would be hypocritical to judge her considering her own past and worries that they set a bad example for her. Shawn thought it would prove to Claire how not okay being unfaithful is. Shawn tells her that they both made mistakes so she shouldn’t blame herself and he assures they are really good parents.

Julie recalls Maggie going to grief support meetings after Mickey died and asks if she kept going to meetings after marrying Victor. Maggie confirms that she did and that she felt guilty being happy with Victor, like she was betraying Mickie, so the group meetings were very helpful with the struggle. Julie bets a lot of others are going through the same thing. Julie talks about not seeing any reason to move on from Doug and declares she will carry him and only him in her heart forever. Julie bets Maggie didn’t plan on falling love again after Mickey passed and certainly not with Victor. Julie calls them a unique couple but points out they made each other happy. Julie says for her, she plans to spend her golden years by herself like Alice after Tom passed away. Julie says that Alice kept herself busy with family and friends, so that’s what she will do. Julie adds that now owning the bookstore will keep her in touch with all of Salem.

Stephanie asks JJ about his birthday party. JJ says it was short and sweet since he had to go to work, but he was glad to see his parents. Stephanie calls it sweet of them to fly in for his birthday. JJ says it wasn’t all about him as they wanted to spend time with Thomas and Charlotte too. Stephanie asks how long Jack and Jennifer are in town for. JJ says they are supposed to fly back tomorrow and admits he’s kind of relieved because as much as he loves them, he feels kind of smothered and feels the pressure of being their only surviving child. Stephanie brings up Jack having Gwen but JJ says they never really had a relationship so all of their parental love basically falls on him. Stephanie says it could be worse. JJ agrees that he shouldn’t be complaining. Stephanie tells him it’s okay to vent and she knows he loves and respects his parents, but also understands feeling smothered by parents so he’s not alone in that. Stephanie says speaking of parents and venting, she just came from a very tense conversation with her father.

Marlena tells Steve and Kayla that Kristen was sentenced to six years in prison and by the time she’s out, she will have missed almost all of Rachel’s childhood. Steve feels bad for Rachel. Kayla is glad Rachel at least has Marlena, Brady, and Tate. Marlena assures they will all be there for her. Kayla mentions hearing Tate move in to the dorms at Salem U and asks how it’s going. Marlena says she hears it’s going well so she hopes he immerses himself in the college experience and stops dwelling so much on he and Sophia’s baby. Marlena is sure he will throw himself in to his studies and make new friends so he can move forward with this part of his life.

Theo tells Abe that he needed a change of scenery after his break up with Claire. Abe knows he’s had a rough time with that. Theo adds that he recently found out that Claire got involved with someone else while they were still together which shocks Paulina, who questions why she did that to him. Abe says he’s so sorry. Paulina asks how he found out. Theo explains that Claire said she didn’t feel comfortable working with him anymore and felt compelled to come forward about the affair. Theo says it helped him realize there was nothing left for him in South Africa, so he sold his interest in the non profit and left. Paulina asks if that means he’s coming home for good. Theo responds that he’s still trying to figure out his next steps. Paulina encourages him doing that in Salem where he’s surrounded by people who love him.

Belle asks Shawn what else Claire has been up to since she hasn’t been as open with her. Shawn says she’s all just happy and in love which Belle is glad to hear and says she deserves to be happy. Belle and Shawn say they deserve that too. Belle says they will always be bonded by their daughter and she’s always here for him. Shawn tells her the same as they hug.

Steve and Kayla go over dessert while Marlena decides she’s going to call it a night. Marlena says she hasn’t been sleeping well but she’s feeling a little tired. Marlena thanks them for a lovely evening. Steve and Kayla assure that the meal is on them. Marlena thanks them for everything and exits the Pub. Steve comments on Marlena having a rough time and says it’s good she has a good friend like Kayla to get her through it. Kayla wishes she could do more and asks about his tough conversation with Stephanie. Steve explains that Stephanie was mad at him for something she thought he did that he didn’t do. Kayla asks if everything is alright. Steve says not quite everything as Stephanie has a tough decision to make.

JJ asks if Stephanie and Steve are having issues. Stephanie says it’s not between them but more Steve and Alex. JJ asks if they don’t get along. Stephanie says that Steve has warmed up to Alex but she’s gotten herself in a sticky situation where she needs to help Alex but in order to do that, she’d have to throw Steve under the bus to a certain extent. JJ admits it sounds rough and asks if there’s anything he could do. Stephanie appreciates that but says it’s her dilemma alone. JJ tells her that he’s here for her if she needs him. Stephanie tells him the same.

Theo thanks Abe and Paulina for the tour of their place and says it’s great. Paulina says they are very comfortable there and hopes he will be too in their guest room. Theo reveals he already checked in to the Salem Inn but Paulina tells him to check out because he’s staying with them. Abe assures they got the space and would welcome the company so Theo agrees to stay. Theo promises it won’t be forever. Paulina understands he had his life turned upside down so he can take all the time he needs. Abe adds that he can always count on family as they hug.

Belle runs in to Marlena in the town square and they hug as they walk off together.

Maggie goes home to the Kiriakis Mansion where she looks at framed photos of Mickey and Victor

Julie sits at home reading a book and then looks at a framed photo of Doug which she holds in her arms.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, September 10, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

JJ was shocked to see Theo in town. Theo was uncomfortable when he saw JJ with a gun and a badge. When JJ asked him questions, Theo said he had to leave. Belle and Shawn finished a case. Shawn let her know that what happened wasn’t her fault. When she started blaming herself Shawn let her know that it wasn’t. He said life was complicated. Belle blamed herself over what happened with EJ. She said Shawn was the only man she got right. He said they had a good thing and a good kid. Shawn told her that Claire was in love with a new guy. He said they were great parents and none of what happened was her fault. While they were talking, they vowed to be there for each other. Theo went to see Abe and Paulina. They wondered why he was in town. Theo said he needed a change after breaking up with Claire. He said she cheated on him. Theo said he got out of the nonprofit program and was back in town for good.

Julie and Maggie went to grief counseling. She asked Maggie to spend more time with her the next day. She reminded her of the anniversary of Victor’s death. While they were talking, they brought up how Doug’s anniversary was coming up. Julie said she didn’t want to move on from Doug. She said she would be like Alice carrying love in her heart. Julie said the bookstore would help he. Stephanie wanted to know why Steve didn’t drop the case. Steve told her that he did drop the case. Stephanie blamed him for the listening device. Steve denied knowing anything about that pen and said he was too smart for that. Stephanie apologized to Steve but didn’t think it was a coincidence. She thought a client must have done it. He offered himself as a decoy to save Alex’s job but he couldn’t break. Kayla told Marlena about EJ’s plan. While they were talking, Marlena admitted that she hasn’t been sleeping and was still having nightmares. She said she was worried about Belle, Tate, and Rachel. Marlena was overwhelmed. She told Kayla that she felt overwhelmed and was still grieving. Steve ended up showing. They talked about the kids. The three of them talked until Marlena left.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, September 9, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Tony felt like Gabi wasn’t being careful with the bug. It was a red flag for her, but he wouldn’t cut her out of the deal. She was going to get what she deserved. Tony promised her that no one would know that she was involved in the plan. After she left, Rita called Tony to let him know that someone was arriving in town. Xander talked to Philip about his anger issues. He planned to make amends with everyone. Xander admitted that he couldn’t forgive Sarah. He and Philip went over the security findings. They wanted to put a rush on the co-CEO deal before the fallout. Rafe went over the blueprints with Cat. The blueprints looked normal. EJ’s renovating the office that was used for Body & Soul. Rafe wanted to make sure the architect’s signature, and the permit were legit. Rafe was convinced EJ was up to something since he’s always been a criminal. He told Cat about the things that EJ did over the years. Rafe warned her not to get sucked into his charm. Chad went to see EJ to talk. EJ showed him the blueprints for the hospital. Chad didn’t believe that EJ wanted to help the community. EJ wasn’t concerned about his worries. Chad wanted him to go easy on Cat. EJ teased him about having feelings for Cat.

Philip spotted Gabi and invited her to eat with him. Gabi asked questions about whether Philip and Xander were getting along. He was suspicious about how she knew about them arguing, but he got over it. Philip was thankful for her advice because it helped him get along with Xander. They said they had a common enemy. Gabi wanted to know if they found the person spying on them. He told her they didn’t find the person yet, but he or she would be sorry they did it. EJ and Rafe ran into each other in the town square. Cat watched them talking to each other. EJ and Rafe threatened each other. Tony opened the door and saw Theo standing there. He welcomed Theo back with open arms. Theo was curious about Tony’s proposal.

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Days Update Tuesday, September 9, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Stephanie works on her laptop at home until Alex comes in and asks if she’s got a second. Stephanie then gets an alert on her phone and exclaims that she is a best selling author as Alex hugs her.

Gabi goes to see Tony at the DiMera Mansion. Tony notes that her voicemail sounded panicky. Gabi asks if he doesn’t think she has a reason since Xander and Philip discovered the bugging device, so they must suspect that someone is onto them about Philip’s fraud. Gabi worries that they can cover it up before Tony is able to take advantage. Tony declares that Xander and Philip lied and they just have to prove it.

Philip questions if Xander really wants him at Victoria’s birthday party. Xander responds that they need to act like family and present a united front against whatever this new threat is. Xander adds that he would just like him to be there for his niece. Philip agrees to be there but asks if he’s sure Sarah will be cool with them coming. Xander says they agreed to a ceasefire for their daughter’s birthday party. Philip tells him that if things start to heat up, he’ll have his back. Xander adds that as advised by Marlena, he will manage his anger, extend himself, and work on making amends. Philip asks if that’s what this invitation is about. Xander says it’s part of it. Philip says for what it’s worth, he thinks Marlena will be impressed and hopefully Sarah too.

Cat joins Rafe in his office and shows him the photo she took of the blueprints she found in EJ’s office. Rafe recognizes it as the wing they used for filming Body and Soul but notes they haven’t been using it much since. Rafe takes a closer look and says it looks like EJ is planning a renovation.

Chad visits EJ in his new office. EJ asks him what he thinks. Chad says it’s nice. EJ questions that being it. Chad says it’s kind of modest and admits he’s a little surprised since when he heard about all the budget cuts and penny pinching, he thought maybe it was all going to his new office. EJ admits he might like a bit more flair but says that all the money he’s saved will be going to something entirely different.

Alex tells Stephanie that he’s so proud of her and hopes she can make it to the press conference tomorrow. Alex talks about Titan needing this win and the positive buzz it will generate. Stephanie says she’s so glad she could help the company, but she can’t go to the press conference tomorrow. Stephanie reminds him that she’s supposed to be incognito. Alex says maybe Anastasia Sands can’t make it, but Stephanie Johnson can. Stephanie says it’s very tempting, but she has a full day tomorrow which disappoints Alex. Stephanie apologizes and kisses him.

Tony tells Gabi that she should be more careful. Gabi tells him not to blame her for this fiasco. Gabi reminds Tony that they signed an ironclad contract, naming her as the next CEO of DiMera. Gabi then questions if he’s trying to use this to renege on that deal.

Xander tells Philip that he appreciates him and others being a cheerleader for he and Sarah, but says it’s pointless. Philip points out that Xander still loves her. Xander says he always will, but he can’t get over what she did to him. Philip argues that he wouldn’t have known if he didn’t blurt it out. Philip says he has a lot of regrets over telling him that Sarah knew about the letter. Xander admits he hated him for it at the time, but he’s glad he did because he needed to know where Sarah’s loyalty lied. Xander remarks that it turns out she was never really in his corner, just like the rest of his family. Philip argues that’s not true and that when she found out what he had done, she was in an impossible position. Xander disagrees and says that Sarah made a choice. Xander states that Sarah was his heart and soul and the only person in the world that he actually trusted, so when she chose to keep Philip’s secret, she put a knife in his back. Philip points out that Xander is working on forgiving him. Xander insists he can’t forgive Sarah because the betrayal was too great.

Rafe tells Cat that the blueprints don’t seem out of ordinary and just standard for renovation. Cat says maybe that’s all they are. Rafe then points out the architect’s signature and building permit number which means they were filed with the city, so he will call and make sure it’s legit. Cat admits that she was hoping for something more, but there’s nothing wrong with improving and expanding the hospital. Rafe doesn’t believe it because with EJ DiMera, there’s always more to it.

EJ shows Chad the blueprints of the hospital wing that Body and Soul used and says it will be the new home of the free clinic. Chad questions it, so EJ claims he wanted to do something good for the community and give back. Chad asks who he is and what he’s done with his brother.

Tony tells Gabi that she’ll get exactly what she wanted when all is said and done. Gabi apologizes for overreacting. Tony understands that she would doubt a DiMera’s intentions, but promises they are in this together. Gabi asks what the timeline is looking like now and when Tony plans on dropping the bomb about Victor’s will. Tony responds that he’s working on it. Gabi reminds him that once he makes his move, Xander and Philip will know who has been digging for dirt on the merger. Tony says by that point, there will be no point in hiding the DiMera family is behind it. Gabi says they will realize something is up when he installs her as CEO. Tony assures that no one will know she had a role in it. Gabi tells him to keep her posted when he has a plan as she then exits the mansion.

Philip informs Xander that the security team said no other listening devices were found and the building was secured. Xander complains that they still don’t know what the bug picked up and that the person who planted it was likely the one digging for information, so he put a rush on the paperwork to officially name Philip as his co-CEO. Philip assures that he’ll be ready to sign as the last thing they want to do is lose DiMera since it’s pretty much all they have that’s turning a profit right now. Xander adds that if the merger fell through, Titan would be vulnerable to someone raiding them and they’ve come too far to falter now. Philip comments on how they are getting along again and how it’s starting to feel like it did at the beginning of their partnership. Philip declares that if they can get along after all that’s happened, it proves his point about Xander and Sarah. Xander responds that he’ll be in touch when the paperwork is ready as Philip then exits the office.

Alex tells Stephanie that maybe they can celebrate her success by recreating one of the key moments from One Stormy Night as they kiss until Stephanie gets a text from EJ, wanting her to meet him at the hospital ASAP. Alex then gets a text from Xander, requesting an emergency meeting. Alex and Stephanie kiss as they agree to pick this up later. Alex congratulates her again as Stephanie then exits.

EJ tells Chad that Stephanie is on her way in. Chad tells him to stop changing the subject and questions what is going on with him. EJ says nothing is going on and asks if it’s that hard to believe he’d do something charitable, pointing out that he did just buy the hospital thus saving it from ruin or from Xander. Chad assumed he did that because he wanted the profits from the drug patent. EJ says he mostly did it to give back to the town. Chad questions there being no ulterior motive to the free clinic that isn’t just a money laundering scheme. EJ admits he hopes it helps their family reputation, especially after Johnny’s trial and Kristen’s arrest, as he wants the DiMera name to be known for more than just mayhem. Chad jokes that it will take more than a hospital wing to do that but he admires the effort. EJ remarks that he’s sick of everyone treating them like a pariah. Chad asks if he means everyone or Belle and Johnny. EJ admits they are on the top of the list. Chad says that if all of this is on the up and up, then he’s proud of him and tells him to let him know if there’s anything he can do to help. EJ thanks Chad and says he will. Chad requests that EJ treat his new assistant with kindness and respect. EJ asks if he’s worried about Cat working for him. Chad says he’s just putting it out there. EJ guesses that’s because he cares about her and urges Chad to admit he has feelings for her. Chad then admits that he does.

Cat tells Rafe that EJ did just survive a near death experience and asks if it’s possible that he turned a corner. Rafe says no because EJ is a criminal, forever and always. Cat asks if he’s sure this is professional. Rafe assures that it’s personal as he and EJ have been butting heads since he arrived in Salem and they fell in love with the same woman. Rafe adds that EJ has tried to ruin his life including kidnapping him and replacing him with a lookalike twice. Rafe states that EJ tore his family apart and if it wasn’t for him, he might be married to Jada now. Rafe adds that EJ has done every crime in the book and she can ask Johnny. Cat says she doesn’t get how he’s gotten away with all of it. Rafe says it’s because he’s EJ DiMera and he gets away with everything. Cat says that’s why everyone keeps telling her to stay the hell away from him.

Alex goes to see Xander at the office and asks what’s going on. Xander reveals that his office was bugged and someone has been listening to them. Alex asks if they know who did it. Xander says not yet, but they had the entire building swept and will interrogate every employee. Xander informs him that it was a pen on his desk. Alex questions how long it had been sitting there. Xander says he doesn’t know but he definitely had conversations that if became public, would be very bad for Titan-DiMera. Alex guesses he means about Philip. Xander confirms he has decided to take Stephanie’s advice to install Philip as co-CEO which Alex calls a good idea. Xander says they still need to find out who’s behind it which is where he needs Alex’s help.

Philip runs in to Gabi in the town square. Philip invites her to an early dinner which she accepts.

EJ asks Chad if that was so hard. Chad says he won’t be interrogated by him and that right now, he and Cat are just enjoying each other’s company. EJ hopes it works out for him because he deserves to be happy. Chad thanks him but asks him not to say anything to anyone because it’s still in the early stages and he’s not ready to have that conversation with his kids or with Abigail’s family yet. EJ jokes that him being rude to Cat would be the least of his problems, then promises to treat her like gold. EJ adds that from what he’s seen, he expects Cat to be an excellent assistant.

Rafe asks Cat who else warned her about EJ. Cat starts with Brady, who Rafe says has good reason. Rafe asks what Chad had to say. Cat admits Chad didn’t want her to work for EJ. Rafe understands and points out that Chad didn’t want her to go on the fundraiser date with EJ either. Cat knew this assignment wouldn’t be easy and says that EJ sounds like a monster. Rafe assures that he is. Rafe says that EJ can be charming and pleasant, but warns her not to be fooled as he’ll just hurt her like everyone else in his life.

Tony sits in the living room and gets a call from Rita. Tony asks if the plane has landed. Tony says that’s perfect and to just let him know when he’s in the car…

Philip and Gabi go to the Bistro for dinner. Philip questions why Gabi keeps looking at the bar. Gabi responds that she’s worried about getting kicked out because of her last time there with Xander. Philip assumes it was because they were making out but Gabi clarifies that it was after Sarah kissed Brady and then Xander tried to punch Brady that they got escorted out. Philip recalls getting to experience hungover Xander the next morning which Gabi calls not his best moment. They talk about Xander going to anger management which Gabi says must be working since they are getting along again. Philip stops and questions how she would know that.

Alex tells Xander that he would love to help but he assumes a DiMera agent would’ve covered their tracks, so he doesn’t know what he could do to help. Xander says it’s not like they are flying blind as someone that Alex knows well knows more than she’s letting on. Alex insists that Stephanie knows nothing about the bug. Xander points out that Stephanie works with EJ while Alex assures that she is on her side, so Xander declares it’s time Alex finds out what Stephanie knows about their enemies.

Stephanie joins EJ in his office, where he shows her the blueprints and talks about what all they will offer in their new free clinic which Stephanie calls amazing. EJ asks what she expects the staff’s reaction will be. Stephanie thinks they will be thrilled with more opportunity to help people. EJ is glad she approves. Stephanie admits she wasn’t expecting this and is pleasantly surprised. Stephanie says as his PR person, he made her job a lot easier. Stephanie asks who else knows about this. EJ says just her and his family. Stephanie questions the secrecy. EJ says he wanted to make sure the announcement comes out right since a lot of people will be skeptical, including Kayla, but he can’t afford to have her as a roadblock. Stephanie talks about Kayla working at a clinic for years so she’ll be his biggest ally if he’s on the level with this project. EJ starts to explain his plan and calls it the DiMera Family Free Clinic, but Stephanie stops him and says he absolutely cannot call it that.

Chad runs in to Cat in the town square. Cat says she just got off the phone with Mark and told him that Chad isn’t going to contest his parole, so he wanted him to know he’s very grateful. Chad hopes it helps his case. Cat knows Chad’s decision will put him in hot water with Abigail’s family. Chad feels he’s doing what’s best for his family and hopes Mark’s release would help Cat’s family too. Cat doesn’t want to get her hopes up as she’s spent so much time thinking Mark would be locked up for years. Chad notes that if Mark does get released, he and Cat will have to have a talk and figure out what that means for them. Cat realizes Mark coming home could make things more complicated than they already are. Chad says especially if he’s going to live with her. Cat thinks they can figure out a way to continue seeing each other and keep it to themselves for now. Chad says one of the reasons he’s concerned with her brother knowing is because his brother already does.

Gabi tells Philip that she’s observant when it comes to relationships and when she walked in earlier, he and Xander seemed like a team. Philip complains that the office was bugged and their company is under attack, but admits that Gabi is right and that he and Xander had an honest conversation about mending their relationship. Philip adds that Xander even invited him to his daughter’s birthday party tomorrow. Philip states that they still have a ways to go, but having a common enemy really helps.

Xander tells Alex that he hired Stephanie to get ahead of the Philip story and she told him she’d make sure it would stay buried, but in order to make that promise, she had to know or have some inclination of where things came from. They both say that Stephanie wouldn’t tell them but Xander says that she’s going to tell Alex now or else their family’s company could go under on their watch. Xander instructs Alex to talk to Stephanie and find out who’s after them before it’s too late.

Stephanie tells EJ that everything he just said about the new clinic is a PR dream except for the name attached to it. EJ argues that the DiMera family has been an important part of this community for decades and he wants people to know that they can be a force for good. Stephanie questions him being married to that idea even if she’s telling him it’s not going to work. EJ tells her to make it work. Stephanie says it’s not that simple. Stephanie adds that the staff were grateful that he saved the hospital, but they are also worried about him and his reputation, so if he puts his name on the clinic then Kayla and those that support her will oppose it. EJ argues that they’ll get over it when they see the good it does. Stephanie says that’s if it gets that far since he needs their cooperation. EJ questions her saying he has to do this anonymously. Stephanie talks about the hospital’s history of tradition and that the name he puts on the clinic should respect that. EJ says it sounds like she has an idea. Stephanie proposes that he name the clinic after the doctor whose legacy he saved by buying the hospital, their longest serving chief of staff, Dr. Tom Horton which is a name everyone can be proud of. EJ agrees to think about it. Stephanie says it’s ultimately his decision, but if he asks her, there’s nothing to think about. EJ then decides that Dr. Tom it is. Stephanie says she can’t wait to get the word out and exits the office.

Cat questions Chad telling EJ about them. Chad says he didn’t have to since EJ is his brother and he knows him well, so EJ knew he had feelings for her before he did. Cat feels it’s different now since EJ is her boss but Chad assures that he talked to him and he’s not going to make it weird or get involved in their personal lives. Chad asks if Cat had to let “James” down easy. Rafe walks in to the town square and runs in to EJ. Rafe tells him that he was happy to hear Johnny was exonerated while EJ blames Rafe for Johnny being arrested in the first place. Cat tells Chad that she knew James wasn’t the guy for her which Chad says he hoped too. Cat talks about her past relationships and says she knows it’s early but things already feel different with Chad. Cat comments on them starting how they did to where they are now. Chad says he wants to kiss her right now. Cat feels the same but says it would be a bad idea because her boss is right there as she points over to EJ. Rafe tells EJ that he still can’t believe he wasn’t disbarred for tampering with evidence. EJ says that’s allegedly. Rafe warns EJ that one day, his luck will run out and he’s going to have to pay for everything he’s done. EJ responds that he’s just getting started. Rafe says he is too. Chad and Cat then come over to greet them. EJ calls them the referees to break it up. EJ asks if Rafe has met his new assistant. Rafe confirms that they’ve met and advises Cat to watch out for her new boss.

Xander finishes wrapping birthday presents for Victoria in his office. Xander then sees a framed photo of Victoria and Sarah on his desk.

Alex goes home to Stephanie, who asks what he’s doing back so soon and what happened at the office. Alex informs her that Xander is demanding to know how she was able to put the whole Philip fraud to rest. Stephanie says she’s not going to out anybody. Alex says that’s not going to satisfy Xander because whatever she did didn’t work which she questions. Xander reveals that someone bugged the office with a listening device, so whoever it was might already know the truth about Philip. Alex asks Stephanie if she knows who it was and what they are up to.

Gabi guesses Philip has decided not to leave Titan-DiMera. Philip confirms he can’t leave now when his family needs him. Gabi asks if he ever found out who put the listening device in his office. Philip responds that they are working on it and when they find out who did this, they will be sorry they picked a fight with the Kiriakis Brothers.

Theo Carver (now played by Tyler Andrews) returns to Salem and shows up at the DiMera Mansion where Tony greets him at the door with a hug. Tony tells Theo that he’s so glad to have him back in Salem and in the family fold. Theo responds that it’s good to be back, but he’s curious since Tony sent the DiMera jet halfway around the world to bring him home. Theo asks what Tony’s proposal is for him and why it was so important to discuss it in person.

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Days Short Recap Monday, September 8, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Philip took the bugged pen out of his pocket, He let Xander know that it didn’t work anymore. Xander was upset and thought that the person who was looking for information about the merger planted it there. They argued over whether or not they should keep the bug. Xander believed that someone already knew their secret. He said Titan was in trouble and that the lawyers needed to get Philip’s co-CEO papers ready. Xander wanted them to stick together to which Philip agreed. They talked about who the suspects were and accused the DiMeras as well as anyone else who was in and out of the office. EJ talked to Rita and wanted her to make sure the construction crew signed NDAs. He said he wasn’t risking the project. Cat took pictures of the blueprints. Gwen walked in on Cat while she was rolling them up. Cat told her that she was getting a head start on her job. While they were talking, Cat told her not to worry about the blueprints. She said she knocked them over. Cat asked how she could stay on EJ’s good side. Gwen didn’t know how to help her. When Cat tried to compare EJ to Dimitri, Gwen told her what she has observed.

Gabi snuck into the CEO office and noticed that it was a mess. She took her phone out to check on the listening device and realized that they found the bug. Gabi went to the DiMera mansion to look for Tony but ran into EJ instead. They argued with each other. Gabi lied and said she was looking for Anna. When she tried to leave, EJ asked if she heard from Stefan. Gabi said she hadn’t heard from him. EJ said something felt off. Gabi didn’t believe his fake concern about Stefan. She threw up his issues with Johnny and Belle before she left. Jack and Jennifer talked to Chad about how hard he fought to keep Mark from getting parole. Chad said he wasn’t sure if he wanted Mark to stay in prison. Jennifer thought it was because of Cat. Jack and Jennifer were upset when Chad defended Mark and Cat. They wanted Chad to think about Abby and the kids. Chad continued to defend Cat and Mark. Jennifer said she would never forgive Clyde, Cat, or Mark. Xander and Philip went back to the office and hoped that security finished sweeping the office. Gabi showed up and pretended to be surprised by the mess. Xander and Philip told her about the bug and wanted to know if she knew anything about it. Gabi said she didn’t and wondered why she would betray them. When Gwen went home, EJ told her about Kristen’s sentence. She told him about Cat being in his office with the blueprints. Gwen wondered what they were going to do. She reminded him that half the money came from her and wanted to know the plan. EJ said Cat saw the public plans instead of the real ones. He said by November, the DiMera Family Clinic would be ready. EJ said no one would know what was really going on.

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Days Update Monday, September 8, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Xander and Philip go to the park with the recording device, assuring it is no longer operating. Xander worries about whoever was sniffing around planting it right under their noses. Philip points out that they don’t know how long it was there or what they overheard.

Gabi goes to the Titan-DiMera office and is shocked to find things are everywhere in a mess. Gabi realizes that they found her recording bug device.

At the DiMera Mansion, EJ is on the phone with Rita, telling her to make sure everyone in the crew signs an NDA as they can’t have anything getting out about what they are doing. EJ declares that this project cannot have anyone or anything get in the way and it must be seamless.

After taking pictures of it, Cat rolls up the blueprint for the new hospital wing and puts it back. Gwen then walks in to EJ’s office and questions what Cat is doing there. Cat tells Gwen it’s good to see her again.

After JJ leaves for work, Jack and Jennifer sit with Chad. Jennifer assumes he heard about Mark’s upcoming parole hearing which he confirms. Jack informs him that they sent their statement in, asking them to deny Mark’s early release. Jennifer hopes they take that in to account. Jack thinks they made a compelling case. Jennifer assumes Chad sent his in too. Chad reveals he actually hasn’t. Jack questions what the hold up is when the parole hearing is about to deliver, so the sooner the better. Chad says he’s just been busy with work and the kids. Jack questions being too busy to stop the man who almost put a bullet in his back from getting out of prison, pointing out that he’s only been there a few months. Jennifer asks if Chad is going to send a letter to the parole board. Chad reveals that he’s honestly not sure. Jack asks why the hell not. Jennifer guesses it’s because of Cat.

Gwen asks Cat again what she’s doing in EJ’s office. Cat informs her that she’s EJ’s new assistant. Gwen says she heard, so Cat asks why she’s surprised to see her then. Gwen says that EJ said she doesn’t start until tomorrow. Cat says she wanted to make a good first impression and asks what brought Gwen back to the hospital. Gwen says she had an appointment and decided to pop in to check out EJ’s new digs. Cat calls it quite the office. Gwen then questions the paper that Cat is holding.

Gabi goes to the DiMera Mansion where EJ questions what she wants and why she’s there.

Xander worries about anyone nearby watching them while Philip encourages him not to get paranoid. Xander argues that if they were more paranoid, they might have caught the bug sooner. Philip thinks they should’ve talked about it before Xander crushed the bug. Xander asks if they were supposed to let whoever was snooping in continue to invade their privacy. Philip argues that they could’ve fed them bad intel or tracked them down. Xander worries that it’s too late for that now as someone out there knows the secret that could topple Titan. Philip declares that it’s his fault if Titan goes down as he messed it all up because he couldn’t stand that Victor chose Xander. Philip says he understands if Xander wants to rescind his offer to install him as co-CEO but Xander assures he’s not rescinding anything and he’s having legal papers drawn up ASAP. Philip doesn’t understand why he’s so determined to do this. Xander states that all hell is about to break loose so they need to tighten the ship. Xander declares that someone is out to get them and the only way to stop them is to work together as brothers.

Jennifer asks Chad if she’s right that he’s dragging his feet on writing the letter because Cat asked him not to. Chad says she didn’t, so Jack asks why he hasn’t written it then. Chad calls it complicated. Jack disagrees, arguing that Mark tried to kill him during his wedding to his con artist sister. Jack talks about what Mark and Cat did to their family and declares that if Steve hadn’t shown up, Chad would be dead while Jennifer adds that their grandchildren would be orphans. Chad states that Mark Green isn’t a threat to him and the kids anymore because they only did what they did because Clyde Weston was holding their mother captive. Jack asks if that justifies what they did. Chad says it doesn’t but he just wants to put what happened in the past. Jack argues that as impactful as their statements, Chad’s would be much more since he was the intended victim. Jack instructs Chad to go to the parole board and give his statement for his kids and for Abigail.

Cat tells Gwen that what she’s holding are blueprints and claims she doesn’t know what they are for. Gwen questions why she’s holding them. Cat claims she knocked them off the desk and was just rolling them back up when she walked in. Cat brings up that Gwen probably knows EJ pretty well since she lives in the DiMera Mansion. Gwen questions if anyone truly knows EJ. Cat agrees he’s pretty mysterious. Cat says she really needs this job to work out and asks if Gwen has any pointers on how to stay on EJ’s good side.

Gabi claims she came to see Anna. EJ questions what they are up to now. Gabi says she has a lot of respect for her fashion sense so she was thinking of collaborating with her. EJ responds that Anna isn’t home as she’s out with Tony. EJ finds it funny as he doesn’t see Gabi and Anna having the same sense of fashion at all. Gabi blames that on EJ’s lack of vision which allowed Titan to take over DiMera in the first place. EJ reminds her that he was in a coma. Gabi asks how many times EJ lost DiMera before getting fired as district attorney. Gabi asks if he shouldn’t be at work now, tanking the hospital. EJ responds that he’s working from home today because his new office is being renovated and won’t be ready until tomorrow. Gabi mocks that the good people at the hospital have one last day of freedom. Gabi guesses Kayla can’t wait to have EJ looking over her shoulder all the time. EJ responds that he and Kayla have a great relationship and calls her an outstanding team member. Gabi mocks the idea that Kayla can’t wait to have him as her boss. Gabi says she’d love to stay and shoot the breeze but she should get going. Gabi tells him to tell Anna that she stopped by but EJ stops her and says they have something they need to discuss.

Chad argues that it’s the parole board’s job to determine what happens to Mark while Jack argues that it’s the parole board’s job to determine if he’s paid his debt to society while they might not even know he tried to kill Chad in Paris. Jennifer adds that it’s bad enough that Cat didn’t go to prison for what she did and now they have to imagine Mark walking the streets of Salem. Chad argues that the district attorney dropped all charges against Cat because she helped them put Clyde away. Jennifer complains that they still don’t know what Clyde did with Abigail’s remains. Chad says he’s sorry about that, but Cat did everything she could and attempted to make amends. Jennifer says she’s trying to make peace with all of this and move forward for her family, but declares that she will never forgive Clyde Weston or the Greens. Jennifer doesn’t care what Clyde put them through and argues that decent people would’ve found a way not to desecrate Abigail’s memory. Thomas and Charlotte then run in, excited to see Jack and Jennifer.

Gwen questions Cat wanting advice and says she hardly knows EJ. Cat brings up Gwen dealing with complicated men and figured Dimitri and EJ might have some qualities in common. Gwen says now that she thinks about it, EJ’s a fine host but she doesn’t need to tell her about his reputation as he can be quite the bastard, especially to his employees. Cat says she will keep her eyes wide open. Gwen then offers a few tips from what she’s observed at the mansion as long as Cat doesn’t reveal her sources. Gwen tells Cat that EJ is a stickler for punctuality and has no patience. Cat agrees to always be on time and asks about his favorite dream. Gwen says scotch definitely, vodka occasionally and he likes his water at room temperature with no ice. Gwen adds that EJ doesn’t like smelly perfumes. Gwen tells Cat that the most important thing is that no one can ever call him Elvis except for his mother. Cat says that’s good to know and asks if there’s anything else. Gwen says not that she can think of. Cat says she really appreciates it and thanks her. Gwen says she’s glad she could help. Gwen adds that they should have lunch soon. Cat says she’s looking forward to it. Gwen congratulates Cat on her new job and wishes her luck as she exits.

Philip questions Xander really wanting him as his co-CEO, knowing the truth about Victor’s letter can come out at any time. Xander responds that it doesn’t matter what he wants as once it’s done, Victor’s wishes won’t matter. Philip starts by going over what they know and suggests it’s possible the recording device wasn’t working but even if they did overhear their secret, it will take them time to formulate a plan. Xander says that’s unless they already had a plan waiting for solid evidence. Philip suggests starting a list of all suspects, first any and all DiMeras, but notes that with Kristen locked up that narrows it down. Xander says they need a list of anyone and everyone who comes in and out of the office on a daily basis. Philip says that’s a long list of assistants, cleaning crew, deliveries, as anyone could slip in and drop off a pen at any moment without attracting attention. Xander says they don’t have much time to figure it out as they could be preparing to drop the bomb as they speak.

EJ asks Gabi if she’s heard from her ex-husband Stefan since they last spoke. Gabi says she hasn’t, doesn’t expect to, and doesn’t want to because he’s dead to her so she’d appreciate if he stopped bringing him up. EJ just finds it strange that Vivian is the only one who has been in contact with Stefan. Gabi says she’s his mother. EJ adds that she’s also a homicidal maniac. Gabi says Vivian loves her son and would never hurt him. EJ says something just feels off about the whole situation. Gabi questions EJ pretending to care about Stefan, arguing that he never even acknowledged him as his brother. EJ argues that just because he didn’t want Stefan running the family business doesn’t mean he wished him harm as he is still family. Gabi remarks that they both know how very important family is to him. EJ asks what the hell that means. Gabi says she overheard Johnny disowned him again. EJ calls that none of her damn business. Gabi remarks that she also heard Belle dumped his ass and asks if he’s run out of people in Salem that will tolerate him so he’s suddenly missing Stefan. Gabi tells EJ to get a life and storms out of the mansion.

Thomas tells Chad that he didn’t tell them Jack and Jennifer were coming. Chad says he wanted it to be a surprise. Jennifer asks Charlotte about her first day in Kindergarten which she says was good. Thomas brings up that Julie said they missed JJ’s birthday party. Jack says it wasn’t much of a party. Jennifer says JJ had to go to work but she saved slices of cake for the kids. Chad tells them cake comes after dinner. Chad shows Jack and Jennifer pictures of Thomas and Charlotte at school. Jennifer comments that Charlotte looks just like Abigail on her first day of Kindergarten and shows the pictures together. Chad decides he will let them catch up. Jack asks where he’s off to. Chad says he just has a meeting. Jack hopes Chad thinks long and hard about what they discussed earlier. Chad says he will as he then exits.

Xander and Philip return to their office. Philip says it looks like the security crew finished sweeping the building. Xander hopes they would let them know if they found any more bugging devices. Gabi then comes in behind them and asks what’s going on with the security brigade in the hallway. Xander tells Gabi to tell them.

Cat returns home and calls Rafe, leaving him a message that she came across something in EJ’s office that he might find interesting. Cat hangs up as Chad then arrives at her door, surprising her.

Gwen goes back to the living room of the DiMera Mansion and comments that it can be any time of day and she’ll find EJ pouring a drink. EJ informs Gwen that Kristen has been sentenced to six years in prison which Gwen had not heard. Gwen then asks for a drink and says she has to tell EJ something. Gwen informs EJ that she was at the hospital earlier and decided to pop in for a look at his new office. EJ asks if she approves. Gwen says it’s fine but she saw Cat Green there. EJ confirms she is his new assistant. Gwen reveals that Cat also found the blueprints that she found in her hand when she came in, so that begs the question of what the hell they are going to do.

Gabi asks if she’s missing something. Xander informs her that someone planted a listening device in his office. Gabi calls that awful. Philip questions if she knows anything about it. Gabi says no and asks why he would think that. Xander points out that Gabi has been in and out on multiple occasions. Gabi questions if Xander honestly thinks she had something to do with this. Gabi gets her past and history with DiMera, so she hasn’t given them a reason to trust her but says they have been nothing but great to her since she started working here. Philip brings up that in the beginning of the merger, she did want to take Gabi Chic and run. Gabi says that’s because she didn’t know what to expect but it turns out she likes it here and she likes working for them. Philip informs Xander that when he asked Gabi if she filed the information request, she swore on her daughter’s life that she didn’t. Gabi tells Xander that he of all people knows how serious she takes that. Xander believes Gabi wouldn’t say it if it wasn’t true. Gabi thanks him and asks if there’s anything she can do to help. Philip asks if Gabi has any thoughts on someone they should talk to or someone they shouldn’t trust. Gabi says every employee has something to grumble about but questions going that far. Gabi says she’ll keep her ear to the ground and asks if she should check her office. Philip says they are having security sweep every office just in case. Philip declares they will not rest until they find out who did this and why.

After Charlotte goes upstairs, Thomas talks to Jack and Jennifer about he and Rachel having the same class. Thomas talks about Rachel being obsessed with snakes. Thomas brings up when Chad took them to play mini golf last night and mentions that Felicity and Cat were there too, causing Jack and Jennifer to give worried looks.

Chad apologizes to Cat for leaving abruptly earlier as he had to get to JJ’s birthday party. Cat asks if he’s not mad at her then for springing the thing about her brother on him and calls it unfair to ask him to show mercy on the man who tried to kill him. Chad understands Mark is her brother and she loves him. Cat assures that Chad doesn’t owe them anything. Chad jokes that EJ is his brother and he hates him half the time, if not all the time, but he’d do anything to help him if he was going to prison. Cat thanks Chad for understanding. Chad tells Cat that she should know that Jack and Jennifer have written letters to the parole board, opposing Mark’s early release. Chad adds that they are both award winning journalists and grieving parents, so he guesses it will be pretty powerful and persuasive. Cat thanks Chad for telling her and asks if he’s decided on sending a letter to the parole. Chad reveals that he has decided not to, at the risk of pissing off Jack and Jennifer, and he will not be contesting Mark’s early release.

Gwen questions EJ as to how he could be so careless to leave the blueprints lying around. EJ warns her not to talk to him like that. Gwen argues that she’ll talk to him however she pleases, reminding him that half of the money to buy the hospital came from her. EJ says it came from her husband, who Gwen notes is not here. Gwen complains that she needs to know what EJ’s plan is because the last thing they want is for this to come out the wrong way.

Cat asks Chad if he’s sure since she doesn’t want to cause any more trouble for him with Abigail’s family. Chad says if their relationship works out, Jack and Jennifer will eventually have to get used to the fact that Cat is going to be in his life. Chad says for now, they will just take it one step at a time but the fact is that Cat cares about Mark and he cares about her so that’s all there is to it. Cat tells Chad how much this means to her and her siblings. Chad says it’s for his family too as it’s time for them to move forward, so he prays that Jack and Jennifer can do the same.

Jack and Jennifer question Thomas if Chad took he and Rachel to mini golf with the Greens. Thomas clarifies that the Greens were already there when they got there and that Chad seemed surprised. Jack tells Thomas to go get Charlotte and they will all go get pizza and then come home for cake, so Thomas heads upstairs. Jennifer tells Jack how much she can’t stand Cat being around their grandson and is thankful the kids don’t know that Cat pretended to be their mother. Jack says he’s no fan of Cat but she does live in the same town as Chad and the kids, so they are bound to cross paths sometime. Jennifer declares that Thomas and Charlotte are all they have left of Abigail, so she will not let anyone hurt them, no matter what she has to do. Jack asks what she is saying. Thomas stops on the stairs to listen in as Jennifer proclaims that they need to stay in Salem to keep an eye on Cat Green.

Philip tells Xander that there must be something they can do to get an advantage on whoever was spying on them. Xander says they can start by interrogating every employee in the company. Xander gets a reminder on his phone that his daughter’s birthday party is tomorrow. Philip wishes her a happy birthday. Xander hopes he’s not busy tomorrow as he’d really like Philip to come with him.

Gabi walks through the town square and calls Tony, leaving a message complaining that Xander and Philip found the bug before she could retrieve it and they interrogated her like she was some kind of undercover mole, which she is. Gabi thinks she put them off the scent, but she can’t be too sure. Gabi hopes this will all be worth it in the end and they can get back control of the company.

EJ tells Gwen to relax as the plans that Cat saw are the public set of blueprints that were filed with the city, so there’s nothing there to see but a regular old hospital renovation. Gwen questions him not telling her in the first place. EJ says she wouldn’t stop ranting to hear him and declares that he’s having construction on the real plans begin tomorrow. EJ announces it won’t be long before all of Salem learns that that in November, University Hospital will be unveiling the DiMera Family Free Clinic, but they’ll have no idea what they are really up to…

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Days Update Friday, September 5, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Cat sits at home and gets a text from Chad that he can’t stop thinking about her which makes her smile. Chad sends another text asking about stopping by since he’s close to her apartment. Cat texts back asking how close he is.

Jack and Jennifer return home and join Julie at the Horton house which is decorated for JJ’s birthday. Julie is thrilled that they are keeping their promise of visiting Salem more often. Jack and Jennifer talk about the airport trouble they experienced on the way while Julie says what’s important is they are here now which will be a wonderful surprise for Thomas, Charlotte, and JJ.

JJ walks through the town square and runs in to Gwen, who stops him to wish him a happy birthday.

Tate waits on Steve and Brady at the Brady Pub. Steve compliments Tate’s service. Tate thanks him for all the help he’s giving him to try and find out what happened to his baby. Brady hopes they will get their hands on the adoption papers. Sophia then enters the Pub so Tate goes over to ask if she brought the adoption papers that they discussed. Sophia responds that she did.

JJ can’t believe Gwen remembered his birthday. Gwen says just because they never celebrated doesn’t mean she doesn’t know when it is. Gwen says there was a time where she was so desperate to be part of his family that she studied everything about them. JJ guesses that investment never paid off since she made it clear what a disappointment his family turned out to be. Gwen says not as big of a disappointment as she turned out to them. JJ says he can’t argue with here, thanks her for the birthday wish, and walks away.

Jennifer asks Julie who else is part of JJ’s birthday party planning crew. Julie explains that Maggie wanted to be but Victoria’s nanny got sick so she’s stuck babysitting at home. Jack says they’ll bring her a piece of cake for missing the party. Julie then realizes they don’t have the cake and asks Jack to go pick it up from the bakery which he agrees to. Jack then exits while Jennifer acknowledges that Julie wanted it to be just the two of them. Jennifer guesses Julie is going to tell her what she’s missed since she was last in town. Jennifer goes over Chad and Cat getting stuck in the elevator and getting sick together. Jennifer guesses a lot more has happened. Julie confirms that Chad has asked her to cut down on her endless critiques of Cat which she agreed to do. Jennifer is shocked and asks if Julie really thinks it’s okay that Chad is hanging around Cat.

Chad goes to see Cat at her apartment. Cat mentions that Aaron has moved in to the dorms and Felicity is back in school. Chad talks about Charlotte and Thomas being excited to be in school as well, adding that Thomas and Rachel made up. Cat is glad Rachel will have a friend in class. Chad hopes they bring out the best in each other. Cat says if they’re anything like Chad, she’s sure they are wonderful, kind, and considerate. Cat comments on Chad just coming to check on her and thanks him for the flowers. Chad says they were beautiful like her as they kiss.

Brady admits to Steve that it’s keeping him up at night not knowing where the baby is or what happened to him. Steve asks how much he’s talked to Tate about it. Brady says he told him about Sophia calling the baby “him” and the weird vibe he got from Sarah, but he didn’t tell him about the same vibe from him. Steve doesn’t like that it’s keeping him up at night. Brady talks about how Tate was crushed when Sophia told him the baby was already given away, but he was proud of how he handled it because he knew he wasn’t ready to be a father and just wanted the baby in a good family, but now he doesn’t even know if the family is real. Steve calls not knowing the hardest part. Steve brings up when his mother gave up he and Jack because she was afraid their father was abusing them. Steve says for a long time after Jack was adopted, he felt like he drew the short end of the stick since he stayed in the orphanage but Jack ended up in a bad situation too. Steve says there’s no guarantees when it comes to raising children as so many things can go wrong despite the best intentions. Brady prays that the baby is safe and loved. Steve says that’s all they can do until they get to the truth. Sophia gives Tate the adoption papers. Tate looks it over and asks what the hell. Sophia asks what’s wrong. Tate responds that she lied to him.

Cat tells Chad that having the place to herself definitely has it’s perks. Chad is sorry they have to sneak around but says it’s just something they have to do right now. Cat is fine with it as long as she gets to see him. Chad calls it his lucky day then. Chad thought she had to start her new job. Cat says she starts tomorrow but she might have to go in later today to start getting EJ’s office ready. Cat knows Chad’s not thrilled about her working for EJ. Chad says it’s fine as she can take care of herself. Cat still appreciates him looking out for her and says he knows how to navigate EJ better than she does, so she asks if he has any words of advice for her. Chad advises her that it’s more than likely that whatever EJ is doing, he has an ulterior motive so it’s entirely likely that he’ll ask her to do something underhanded and he doesn’t want to see her get involved in anything ethically questionable. Cat asks if that means illegal. Chad tells her to just keep her eyes open to whatever dirty tricks EJ is up to. Cat responds that now that they talked about Chad’s brother, she needs to talk to him about her brother.

Julie assures Jennifer that she’s not happy that Chad is spending so much time with Cat, but Chad has been her rock since Doug passed away and she wants to keep him in her life, so she had to accept the fact that he’s a grown man and is entitled to make friends with whomever he chooses. Jennifer guesses she just has to accept that too. Julie says they have so little time alone together, so she doesn’t want to spend it talking about Cat when Jennifer has come a long way. Julie says she’s interested in what’s going on in Jennifer’s life and asks how she is doing. Jennifer responds that she’s good all things considered. Jennifer says it’s been a long road and declares that she will never ever get over what happened to Abigail, but she’s starting to find some peace which Julie is glad to hear. Jennifer adds that she’s here for something joyful to celebrate. JJ then comes home so Jennifer excitedly hugs him and wishes him a happy birthday.

Jack runs in to Gwen in the town square and mentions that he’s picking up a cake for JJ’s birthday. Gwen notes that she just saw JJ and he didn’t mention a party, so she assumes she’s not invited. Jack asks if she wanted to be.

Sophia asks what Tate means that she lied to him. Tate complains that there’s nothing useful in the papers, not even the names of the adoptive parents. Tate thought they agreed on an open adoption. Sophia calls it semi-open which Tate questions what that even means. Sophia says it means the adoptive parents can contact them but they can’t contact the parents. Tate argues that it’s not what they agreed to but Sophia says it’s all the parents would agree to and she doesn’t blame them. Tate complains that she should’ve waited for other parents who would’ve agreed to the terms they discussed. Sophia says that’s easy for him to say and questions how she would know there would be other parents. Tate argues that there’s tons of families who would love to give their baby a good home. Sophia says not in Chicago that night and worries that if she went back home, her mom would’ve been back to finding fault with anyone adopting their daughter. Tate argues that she’s 18 so her mom doesn’t have a say. Sophia argues that he doesn’t have to live with her and asks what if her mom decided to raise the baby and went to court. Sophia says she didn’t want to risk what happened with Johnny and Chanel happening again, so she had to do what was best for the baby. Tate remarks that it’s not the only thing she lied to him about as he presents her with the stock photo that she claimed were the adoptive parents. Sophia asks why she brought the picture. Tate argues that she tried to convince him that was a photo of their daughter with her new parents when it’s a stock photo she found on the internet. Sophia tries to deny it but Tate reveals that Brady found it in a picture frame at some store, so he questions why she would try to convince him that was their child’s parents. Sophia responds that she didn’t know what else to do because the couple wouldn’t give her any photos and she knew how important it was for him to have one. Tate angrily asks how she could do that until Brady comes over to calm the situation and takes Tate aside. Tate apologizes to them for upsetting Sophia. Steve asks what the problem is since it looked like she gave him the adoption papers. Tate shows the papers to Brady and Steve, asking if they see why he was so upset.

Chad assumes Cat wants to talk about her brother Mark and informs her that the parole board reached out to him about Mark’s upcoming hearing. Cat hoped to talk to him before that as she’s sure it brings up a lot of bad memories for him. Chad confirms especially since Mark tampered with her DNA test results while trying to shoot him happened in Paris. Cat says whenever she goes to see Mark in prison, he talks about how sorry he is and swears he never could’ve pulled the trigger. Chad says that’s because Steve knocked him out. Cat knows how desperate Mark must have been to go through with Clyde’s orders since she was backed in to the same corner and he was trying to save their mother. Cat feels Chad would do the same to protect his loved ones and clarifies that she’s not defending what Mark did, but she knows him better than anyone and if he was thinking clearly, he never would have done any of this. Cat knows it’s none of her business but she has to ask if Chad knows what he’s going to say to the parole board.

JJ asks what Jennifer is doing here. She says they wouldn’t miss his birthday. Julie explains that she sent Jack on an errand and he was supposed to be back before JJ arrived. Jennifer adds that they also wanted to be there for Charlotte’s first day of Kindergarten. JJ says she’ll appreciate the fuss more than him. Jennifer says they just wanted to have some cake before he goes in to work, but JJ reveals he got called in early. Julie asks if he’ll have time for a piece of birthday cake which JJ agrees to. Jennifer says she’ll make a fuss over him forever because he’s her son. They hug and say I love you to one another.

Gwen mocks the idea of her being desperate for an invitation to JJ’s birthday party and asks why she would want to be in a house full of people who hate her. Jack responds that he doesn’t hate her. Gwen says maybe not but her presence would sour the mood, so she’s not going to ruin JJ’s celebration since he is her half brother even though he definitely doesn’t look at her like his sister. Gwen tells Jack to just go enjoy the party. Jack remarks that if he didn’t know better, he’d almost think she cared.

Tate exits the Brady Pub with Brady and Steve, telling him why Sophia gave him the fake picture and that she did misspeak when she called the baby “him”. Brady asks if he’s okay. Tate responds that he’s not happy about what she did, but at least he has answers. Tate says he has to get back to work but he appreciates them helping out as he heads back in to the Pub. Brady asks what Steve thinks. Steve thinks it’s too convenient that all the information about the adoptive parents are redacted. Brady calls it plausible. Steve agrees that it could technically be true, but they both feel their guts are saying there’s more to the story. Brady decides they should keep digging because this whole thing doesn’t feel right. Brady adds that they should keep it all between them now since Tate seems to have accepted Sophia’s explanation and he wants him to focus on college until they know more. Steve agrees it’s better not to be distracted. Brady comments that Sophia could be telling the truth this time. Steve agrees not to say a word until they know more and says he’ll be in touch as he walks away.

Sophia apologizes to Tate and says she never wanted to lie to him about any of this. Sophia wants him to know how sorry she is because she feels terrible about all of this. Tate thinks he just needs some space right now and walks away from her.

Gwen tells Jack not to delude himself as she has no desire to be somewhere she’s not wanted. Jack says he’s still glad they had a chance to meet up as it’s been too long. Jack comments that she seems to be doing well. Gwen asks why she wouldn’t be when she has her husband’s inheritance. Jack is relieved that she can support herself but he’s more concerned with how she’s coping with Dimitri’s betrayal. Gwen admits he hurt her terribly which Jack says is exactly what the Hortons did to him. Jack guesses Gwen went after Julie’s necklace to hurt the Hortons how they hurt her. Gwen argues that she bought the necklace while Jack feels she couldn’t get back at Dimitri so she settled for the people who were still around her. Gwen remarks that Jack knows what drove her to this behavior and is still standing her looking disappointed as always. Jack asks if she expects him to admire what she did. Gwen says that’s her answer. Gwen adds that she finds it so disappointing that he still sides with the Hortons instead of his own daughter. Gwen then storms off.

Jennifer and Julie talk about Alice’s necklace being back where it belongs. Julie thinks Gwen only bought it to hurt her and throw it in her face, while now she’s staying in Salem. JJ mentions running her in to the town square. Jennifer hopes she didn’t say anything too hurtful. JJ says she actually wished him a happy birthday which surprises Jennifer and Julie. Jennifer hopes to never cross paths with Gwen again and thinks her and Doug III are two peas in a pod. Julie thinks it’s more nuanced than that. Julie admits she was furious with Doug III for stealing the necklace but he did return it eventually. Jennifer argues that he stole it from Gwen. Julie admits the methods were questionable but his heart was in the right place. JJ says she clearly believes in the power of redemption. Jennifer asks if JJ’s subtext is that she married Jack because of redemption and says that was an entirely different case. Jennifer admits it’s still heartening to know that people can surprise you.

Cat tells Chad that Mark wouldn’t hurt a fly now that their mother is safe and Clyde is out of the equation. Chad doesn’t doubt that now but argues that he went to Paris with the intention of shooting him, without any care that he’d be taking away his kids’ last surviving parent, so it’s not something he can just get past. Chad argues that if he and Cat continue to see each other, that means he’ll have to see Mark too. Cat guesses that means Chad will oppose his parole. Chad says he just needs to think about it. Chad says he’s sorry to cut this short but he should go as he then quickly exits.

Brady goes back in to the Brady Pub and tells Tate that he will hang onto the adoption papers to show them to Belle, just to make sure everything is on the up and up.

Jack returns home with the birthday cake and wishes JJ a happy birthday as Jennifer takes the cake to put a candle on it. Chad then arrives. Julie worried that he would no show while Chad says he wouldn’t miss seeing the birthday boy as he hugs JJ. Jack then realizes Julie has Alice’s necklace. Julie says it’s back where it belongs. JJ suggests putting it away to be safe so Julie takes JJ to put it in the safe. Jack asks Chad if he’s seen Gwen since returning to Salem. Chad confirms he has. Jack asks if Chad has any idea why Gwen is staying in town.

Cat goes to the hospital to begin setting up EJ’s new office where she finds a blueprint for plans for a new hospital wing which she takes pictures of.

Chad tells Jack that he has no idea why Gwen is sticking around. Jack supposes she doesn’t have to stay anywhere with Dimitri’s fortune. Chad says she’s taking full advantage and staying at the DiMera Mansion. JJ comes back in and says he’s sorry he can’t stay until the kids get home since he got called in early so he hopes they are okay with cake in the middle of the afternoon. Steve then arrives and hugs JJ, wishing him a happy birthday. Steve and Jack hug, saying it’s good to see each other. Steve gives JJ a birthday card from he and Kayla. JJ asks if Kayla’s not coming. Steve says a chief of staff’s work is never done. JJ thanks him and says they didn’t have to. Steve tells him not to get too excited as it’s just a gift card to the Brady Pub. JJ says it will still go to good use. JJ and Chad then go to check on Jennifer with the cake. Jack asks Steve if something is on his mind. Steve responds that birthdays just remind him of all the birthdays he missed when he wasn’t here and guesses Jack knows all about that too. Jack says never again. JJ, Chad, Jennifer, and Julie return with the cake as they all sing happy birthday to JJ. JJ makes his wish and blows out the candle. Steve asks what he wished for but Jennifer says he can’t tell him that. JJ thanks them all. Jack proposes a toast to JJ and that he finds all the happiness he’s looking for this year.

Brady and Tate exit the Pub. Brady is sorry that Tate got his hopes up as he knows he hoped those papers would lead him to the baby or give him some closure. Tate says if Belle says the papers check out, he doesn’t know if there’s anything he can do or if he’ll ever be able to track down his baby.

After JJ leaves for work, Jack and Jennifer sit with Chad. Jennifer assumes he heard about Mark’s upcoming parole hearing which he confirms. Jack informs him that they sent their statement in, asking them to deny Mark’s early release. Jennifer hopes they take that in to account. Jack thinks they made a compelling case. Jennifer assumes Chad sent his in too.

Cat rolls up the blueprint for the new hospital wing and puts it back. Gwen then walks in and questions what she is doing there.

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Days Update Thursday, September 4, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Johnny goes home to Chanel and tells her that Salem U officially offered him the teaching job and confirmed it won’t interfere with his job at Titan-DiMera which excites her. Johnny adds that he told Alex he should only be at the school for a few hours a week so it shouldn’t interfere with anything he’s doing there. Chanel encourages Johnny to take the job. Johnny admits he gets a little exciting when he thinks about all the films he would get to discuss, share his passion with the students, and hopefully inspire some of them as it feels like an opportunity he can’t pass up. Chanel declares that Johnny will make an amazing professor as she hugs him.

EJ joins Tony in the living room of the DiMera Mansion. Tony offers him breakfast but EJ says he has an errand to run before Kristen’s sentencing. Tony still can’t believe that Kristen let Johnny take the fall. EJ responds that he doesn’t entirely blame her as the DiMeras do have an instinct for self preservation. Tony argues that it wasn’t someone random that Kristen put through this, but his own son. Tony is surprised that EJ is so level-headed about this. EJ says what’s done is done and mashing his teeth won’t change things, especially for poor Rachel.

Belle goes home and brings Brady his favorite breakfast burrito, figuring he could use some comfort food with his oldest child going off to college and his youngest starting her last year of elementary school so it must be an emotional day. Brady confirms it was hard but that’s nothing compared to what happens later when he has to tell Rachel how long she’s going to be separated from her mom. Belle hugs him.

Marlena sleeps in bed and dreams about EJ remembering that Rachel shot him and promising Kristen that no one will ever find out. Marlena then wakes up.

Xander returns to the office where Philip is inside. Philip asks how his session with Marlena went. Xander says it was fine and that they talked about what happened.

Gabi listens in to Xander and Philip’s conversation from home on her recording device.

Xander tells Philip that it was about what happened between them which Philip says is what he wanted to talk to him about earlier. Philip thought eventually they’d be able to get past all of it, but now he’s not so sure.

Gabi urges them to keep talking as she listens in.

Xander questions Philip not being sure they can get past it and suggests he should’ve thought of that before claiming Victor left him half of his company, using a letter that was forged.

Gabi is excitedly shocked by hearing the truth through her recording device.

Xander tells Philip that he wants to put the letter situation to rest once and for all. Philip asks how he proposes doing that. Xander responds by making him co-CEO, leaving Philip confused.

Johnny finishes a call, accepting the job with Salem U, and tells Chanel that it’s a done deal. Chanel congratulates him. Johnny says he is stoked but hopes he’s not taking on more than he can handle. Chanel encourages him that with the trial over, his schedule is his again and he can do what he chooses. Johnny declares that after Kristen’s sentencing today, he can finally put this whole thing behind him and move on. Chanel asks if he’s sure he doesn’t want her to go with him to the courthouse. Johnny says yes, feeling it’s not a big deal. Chanel argues that Kristen shooting EJ and letting him take the fall is a big deal. Johnny says he is upset about it but at the end of the day, Kristen did the right thing and that’s what matters most. Chanel agrees and declares now he’s a free man while they are free to spend the rest of their lives together.

Belle asks Brady if Rachel knows Kristen is being sentenced today. Brady says he didn’t want to burden her with that on her first day of school. Belle asks how it went moving Tate in to his dorm. Brady says it was great and he’s psyched about college but he’s still having a hard time with the adoption. Marlena comes in and says she didn’t sleep very well but she’s glad Belle is there as she needs to talk to her about something privately.

EJ tells Tony that Anna said they were leaving town soon. Tony confirms they are going on a cruise but before they go, he wanted to finalize his plans to take back DiMera Enterprises from the Kiriakis Brothers. EJ asks how that’s going and if Rita was able to find him a disgruntled Titan employee. Tony confirms that he currently has someone on the inside, digging around. Tony hopes they will soon hit paydirt.

Gabi looks at Tony’s number on her phone but hesitates.

Philip reminds Xander that he’s already co-CEO. Xander says he obtained that by fraud and that could be exposed but Stephanie suggested if he drew up legal papers to install him as co-CEO, Victor’s papers would be moot and Philip would have the same claim to the company as he does. Philip is surprised he’d be willing to do that. Xander says it kills him to reward him but if that’s what it takes to protect their business, so be it. Philip calls that quite the sacrifice but calls it completely unnecessary because he quits. Xander asks if he didn’t understand that he’s offering to make him co-CEO officially and legally. Philip responds that he’s saying thanks but no thanks. Philip explains that he’s come to realize that he never should’ve used the fake letter to stake his claim on Titan. Philip calls it a huge mistake that he deeply regrets and he thinks it’s best if he just walks away. Xander calls him an idiot which Philip calls the main reason he’s quitting. Philip argues that they keep saying they’ll put aside their differences for the sake of the company to peacefully co-exist. Philip says that he’s done his part but Xander keeps berating him and being a total jerk to him. Xander calls it a start that he didn’t rip into him like he usually does for helping himself to hi candy without asking. Philip jokes that the anger management must be working wonders. Xander insists that they can do this and be partners. Philip says he tried but it’s never going to work.

Gabi continues to hesitate over calling Tony and thinks back to Xander being kind and helpful when Arianna was missing, then she thinks back to sleeping with Philip. Gabi then sits and puts her phone down.

Chanel tells Johnny that she’s going to check on the Bakery and tells him to let her know how the sentencing goes. Chanel goes to leave right as EJ arrives. She questions what he’s doing there. EJ responds that he came to speak to his son. Chanel tells him to leave but Johnny says it’s okay and he’s got this, so Chanel exits. Johnny asks what EJ wants. EJ says he figured he’d see him at the sentencing but he wanted to share some news with him in person. EJ reveals to Johnny that he heard from Gwen who heard from Leo that the jury was going to find Johnny not guilty. Johnny admits that’s a relief. EJ tells Johnny that the jury came to that conclusion because he did everything in his power to exonerate him. EJ argues that Johnny crucified him for being ruthless and deceitful but in the end, it was his defense that helped prove his innocence.

Belle asks Marlena what she wanted to talk to her about. Marlena responds that she would never dream of telling her how to do her job, but she was wondering if Belle would be tempted to go a little easy on Kristen at the sentencing for Rachel’s sake. Belle confirms that is the plan because she thinks the family has suffered enough. Marlena agrees and says it really is about Rachel. Belle wishes Kristen would’ve been concerned about Rachel. Belle complains that Kristen only ever cares about herself and questions what kind of mother puts their daughter through what Kristen put Rachel through. Marlena stops her and says that’s enough.

Chanel runs in to Brady in the town square. They talk about being relieved that Johnny was cleared. Chanel says she’s really angry with Kristen but she’s really sorry for what Rachel must be going through. Brady acknowledges that both of his kids have been put through it lately. Chanel mentions that she and Johnny ran in to Tate at the Pub a few weeks ago and he put on a front but she could tell he was still really upset about the adoption and she can’t imagine how hard it must have been to give up the baby. Chanel says at least Tate and Sophia found the baby a loving home.

Johnny questions if EJ came all the way over just to say he told him so. EJ says he came to get him to see that even though he didn’t approve, his legal strategy worked. EJ argues that if he didn’t pull out all the stops, there’s a good chance that Johnny would be in prison now. Johnny understands EJ had to create reasonable doubt and he had no problem with that. Johnny argues that he had a problem with EJ blindsiding Belle and destroying Chanel in court to drive a wedge between them and doctoring the video. EJ tries to deny that but Johnny says they both know he’s behind the deep fake. Johnny says he gets that in EJ’s weird messed up way, he was trying to save him. EJ states that he did save him but Johnny declares all he did was destroy his relationship with Belle and with him. EJ argues that they were just getting back to a good place. Johnny tells him that he blew it. EJ asks if he’s just going to cut him out of his life again. Johnny responds that he’s been struggling with this for months because he loves him and always will, but he’s come to the decision that he can’t have him in his life now or ever. Johnny understands that as the victim, EJ has a right to be at the sentencing hearing, but he’s asking him out of respect for him and Belle, to just stay away.

Belle asks if Marlena is okay. Marlena apologizes for snapping at her and thinks she’s just on edge from lack of sleep. Marlena doesn’t think there’s any need to come down on Kristen right now. Belle agrees and says she’s just angry that Kristen put them all through this terrible trial when it all could’ve been avoided if she was just honest from the start. Belle brings up that Marlena told her that she had an idea of who the shooter was during her hypnosis sessions with EJ. Belle says that EJ thought it was her and asks if she knew it was Kristen. Marlena says she had her suspicions but she didn’t have any proof. Belle argues that she would’ve helped her find proof. Marlena points out that Kristen stepped up and if she hadn’t, then she would’ve stepped forward because she never would’ve let Johnny go to prison. Belle says she’s just angry at the situation and knows Marlena would always want to take care of her family as she hugs her.

Gabi goes to see Tony at the DiMera Mansion and tells him that she has news about Xander and Philip that she had to share in person right away.

Xander tells Philip that he can’t quit when the company is in a vulnerable position and the bottom could fall out. Philip responds that he doesn’t want to walk away from the company but there’s too much tension between them and he can’t keep going on like that. Xander promises things will be different now that he has started anger management. Xander acknowledges that he had not made an effort but he will now see real change. Philip responds that he’s heard that before so he’s not sure. Philip then begins choking on the candy he was eating, so Xander gets up and helps him with the Heimlich Maneuver to get the candy out. Philip remarks that for a moment, he thought Xander was going to let him die. Xander admits the thought crossed his mind so Philip asks why he didn’t. Xander declares that in that moment, he realized that no matter what’s happened between them or how much he annoys the crap out of him, they are brothers and it’s about time they started acting like it for real. Philip agrees, especially now that he passed the test which Xander questions. Philip reveals that he wasn’t really choking and he faked it to see what Xander would do, which shocks him.

Gabi plays the recording of Xander and Philip’s conversation for Tony, revealing the forged letter. Gabi says there’s much more to listen to later but the headline is that Philip is guilty of fraud which means he’s not a legitimate heir to Titan. Tony realizes that would invalidate the takeover. Gabi says that’s why they were freaking out about the information inquiry as once their lies become public, the deal can be undone. Tony declares that DiMera will belong to them.

Brady tells Chanel that he knows it must be hard to talk about but Chanel says it’s okay as she brought it up. Chanel admits that she’s still pretty sad that she and Johnny didn’t get to adopt Tate’s baby. Brady says he was upset about it too. Brady adds that Tate was hoping for an open adoption to get pictures, updates, and maybe even visit but the parents are very resistant and they don’t even know who they are. Chanel says she’s so sorry. Brady says they are still hopeful it will work out somehow. Brady asks if Chanel and Johnny still have thoughts about adoption. Chanel says it’s definitely something she’d like to pursue and guesses they will see.

EJ goes to see Marlena and asks if she’s alone. Marlena confirms that she is but she thought he would want to be at Kristen’s sentencing. EJ informs her that Johnny doesn’t want him there. Marlena is surprised that EJ is respecting Johnny’s wishes and notes that she thought he’d want to be there to make sure Kristen doesn’t retract her story. EJ assures that she won’t since it’s about protecting Rachel so he has no doubt she will stick to the story and keep quiet about what really happened. EJ adds that he trusts Marlena will do the same.

Johnny joins Kristen and Belle with the judge for the sentencing. The judge brings up that Kristen has chosen not to retain counsel. Kristen confirms she will be representing herself. The judge remarks that seems to be a trend around here. She brings up Kristen pleading guilty and asks if she cares to amend her plea. Kristen says she does not wish to change her plea. Belle goes over Kristen being charged with criminal assault and negligence. Belle says the people accept her statement that the gun discharged accidentally. The judge asks Johnny for a statement. Johnny states that he is hurt and disappointed that his aunt would let him take the blame for something she did, but she is family and she has a young daughter so he is in favor of a lighter prison term. The judge then reveals she will read a letter she received from EJ just before the start of the hearing. She reads that EJ wrote that he implores the court to hand down a lesser sentence because Kristen’s daughter has suffered enough as a result of her actions and Kristen does love her child, so he’s asking the court to show mercy for Rachel’s sake. Brady then enters and declares that he has something to say.

Marlena assures EJ that she promised Kristen that she would not say anything to anyone about Rachel. Marlena admits it kills her to keep the truth from Brady and have him thinking the worst of Kristen when she did nothing wrong. EJ reminds her that the fewer people that know, the better. Marlena adds that she didn’t want to add to Brady’s plate. EJ assures that she’s making the right call. They both wish that Kristen didn’t have to be punished for something she didn’t do. EJ remarks that if only he knew the verdict was going to come back not guilty which Marlena questions.

Tony asks Gabi how she got this recording. Gabi explains that she planted a bugged pen on Xander’s desk and asks what’s next. Tony thinks their next best move for now is to do absolutely nothing which confuses Gabi.

Xander calls Philip a lousy son of a bitch. Philip says he’s sorry but he needed to know that Xander was sincere about wanting to work through their problems and now he knows he has his back. Philip declares that maybe their partnership isn’t doomed to fail after all. Xander remarks that maybe he should rebuke his offer. Philip says it’s up to him but he might be okay with walking away. Xander decides for Victoria’s sake and the Kiriakis generations to come, he’s willing to start fresh if Philip is. Philip responds that he is, but before they proceed, he feels compelled to point out one tiny hitch in his plan to make him co-CEO and it could be a deal breaker.

Chanel reads an article that Tesoro is no longer able to be reclaimed by the birth parents and is officially now up for adoption.

Belle questions what Brady is doing while the judge asks who he is. Brady explains that he is the father of Kristen’s daughter and he debated coming here but felt he had to advocate for his daughter, so he’s asking the court to do what is best for her which would be to give Kristen the maximum sentence allowed by law. Brady knows it might be counter intuitive to ask for his daughter to be separated from her mother for the longest time, but he believes she would be protected in the long run by being protected from Kristen, who has proven to be violent, dangerous, disruptive, and selfish time and time again. Kristen argues that he doesn’t understand that the whole reason she’s confessing is for Rachel.

EJ reveals to Marlena that he recently learned that the verdict was going to be not guilty. Marlena complains that she told him to wait for the jury and now Kristen confessed for nothing. EJ argues that it easily could’ve gone the other way and he couldn’t take that risk or else his son’s life would be over. Marlena asks if Kristen knows. EJ confirms she does not and declares Marlena is not going to tell her.

The judge tells Kristen that she will be able to speak when Brady is done. Brady responds that he has said his piece, so she allows Kristen to continue. Kristen repeats that the reason she confessed was for her daughter, to teach her to take responsibility for your actions and mistakes. Kristen adds that she wanted the court to know how much she regrets the night of her brother’s shooting and she would do anything to go back to make other choices. Kristen knows how much Johnny suffered during the trial and she’s so sorry he had to go through all of that. Kristen hopes that pleading guilty can help their entire family put this experience behind them once and for all. The judge then announces she has made her decision and says the maximum sentence is ten years while the people have recommended three years. She adds that after Brady’s statement, she has decided a number in the middle is appropriate. The judge sentences Kristen to six years in prison.

Gabi questions Tony doing nothing when their goal is to take back DiMera, make her CEO while Tony oversees from afar. Tony acknowledges that she is committed to their plan but they have to wait to make maximum damage. Gabi explains that they can’t wait too long as the rest of the recording includes Xander offering to make Philip permanent co-CEO. Tony argues that it doesn’t take away that they committed fraud while Gabi worries that it could bolster their defense of the takeover. Tony understands her concern but tells her to trust him that they can’t be rash and they must be careful on the way they play this next move. Gabi reluctantly agrees to keep it under wraps for now but warns that she held up her end of the deal by bringing the ammo to take down the Kiriakis Brothers, so now it’s his turn to make her CEO of DiMera. Tony responds that he will be in touch. Gabi then exits the mansion.

Philip states that if Xander legitimately makes him co-CEO, the balance of power between them will shift dramatically in his favor. Xander acknowledges that he will no longer be able to hold the fraud over his head as he’ll legitimately be in charge and Philip could still rat him out about the assault, but he’s willing to take that risk. Philip asks if they should go to legal. Xander suggests they go over the details first. Xander’s pen stops working and then as he tries twisting it, the recording device that Gabi planted falls out causing Xander to question what the hell that is.

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Days Short Recap Friday, September 5, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Julie was happy to welcome Jennifer and Jack back in town. They were in town for JJ’s birthday. Julie sent Jack to Sweet Bits. the women were free to talk about Chad and Cat. Julie told Jennifer that she agreed to back off when it concerned Cat. Jennifer wasn’t happy about that. Julie told her that she didn’t like it either, but she wanted to keep Chad in her life. She had to accept that he could be friends with anyone he wanted. JJ arrived and talked about his run in with Gwen. Jennifer badmouthed her. She compared her to Doug III. Julie defended Doug III and said that his heart was in the right place. JJ reminded Jennifer that she believed in the power of redemption. Jennifer felt like JJ was talking about Jack, but he was different. Jack ran into Gwen at the town square. He told her that it was JJ’s birthday and about the party. Gwen didn’t want to be where everyone hated her even if she were invited to the party. Jack let her know that he didn’t hate her. He felt like she cared more than she was letting on. Jack knew that she went after the necklace to hurt someone. Gwen thought he was siding with the Hortons and walked away from him.

Tate asked Sophia for the adoption papers, and she gave them to him. He was upset because there was nothing in them that was useful to him. The papers didn’t include the name of the parents. Sophia said they only agreed to a semi-open adoption which meant their identities would be protected. Tate didn’t agree to that. He confronted her about another lie. Tate wanted to talk about the photo of the parents. Sophia stuttered when she told him that she didn’t know what else to do since they wouldn’t give their pictures. Brady took Tate outside. Tate showed Brady and Steve the papers and told them what Sophia said. He went back to work. Brady and Steve questioned Sophia’s story. They decided to keep investigating it without Tate being involved. Sophia apologized to Tate, but he didn’t want to hear it. He needed space. Brady went back in the pub and told Tate that he wanted Belle to look at the adoption papers. Tate felt like if they checked them out, he would never find his baby.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, September 4, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Marlena had a dream about Rachel shooting EJ. She went to the living room and told Belle to go easy on Kristen during the sentencing. Belle let her know that she planned to go easy on her. the family suffered enough. Belle wondered what kind of mother would put her daughter through the things Kristen did. Marlena stopped Belle from ranting about Kristen. Belle wondered if her mother suspected Kristen all along. Marlena played along with her. Johnny saw EJ and coldly passed by him. EJ let him know that the jury was going to find him not guilty because of his defense. Johnny didn’t have a problem with him causing reasonable doubt, but he didn’t like what he did to Belle and Chanel. He said he would always love him, but he couldn’t have EJ in his life anymore. Johnny didn’t want EJ at the sentencing hearing. Gabi overheard Xander and Philip talking about the forged letter. Philip was shocked when he saw Xander holding the bugged pen. Xander wanted to officially make him co-CEO so Victor’s wishes would be moot if the truth came out. Philip would have the same claim to the company that he had. Xander was shocked when Philip decided to quit. He wanted to quit because they couldn’t co-exist together. Philip ate jellybeans until he choked. Xander gave him the Heimlich maneuver. He managed to save Philip. Philip wondered why he saved him. Xander felt like it was time for them to start acting like brothers.

Chanel ran into Brady and admitted that she was still sad that she and Johnny didn’t get to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby. She still wants to adopt a child one day. After Brady left, Chanel read about a baby that was left at the firehouse. The parents missed the deadline to claim the baby so he’s officially up for adoption. EJ went to see Marlena to make sure she stayed quiet about Rachel shooting him. It killed her not to tell Brady, but she agreed to keep quiet. They regretted what was happening to Kristen. EJ told her that Johnny would have been found not guilty. Marlena knew he should have waited for the verdict, but he couldn’t risk it. He didn’t want Kristen to know that Johnny would have been found not guilty. Johnny joined Belle and Kristen in the judge’s chambers. He asked the judge to give Kristen a lighter sentence. The judge read a statement from EJ asking for a lighter sentence for Kristen too. Brady walked into the courtroom and asked the court to do what was best for his daughter. He wanted the judge to give her the maximum sentence. Kristen jumped up and said she did that for Rachel. She lied and said that she did it to show Rachel how to take responsibility. Kristen expressed remorse and apologized to Johnny for what happened. The judge reached her verdict. She gave Kristen six years. Gabi went to Tony with her recording. Tony felt like he recording would invalidate the takeover allowing the DiMeras to reclaim what belonged to them. He wanted to wait before the truth came out. Tony wanted it to have the best effect. Gabi didn’t think they should wait, but she understood. She wanted to make sure that Tony remembered their end of the bargain. Gabi wanted to make sure that he made her CEO.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, September 3, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Gabi ran into Philip and they talked about the good time they had. She said they couldn’t let HR find out what they did. He said it wouldn’t matter if he quit. Philip said he had enough of Xander, but he didn’t want to leave her or the other employees in a lurch. Gabi advised him to do what made him happy, but he shouldn’t do anything rash. Xander went to Marlena’s for his anger management session. He told her that he wanted to be a hero in Victoria’s eyes. Xander said no one looked at him like the way Victoria did. He said Sarah used to look at him like that but she didn’t any more. Xander said he was nothing but a thug who wore expensive suits and ran a corporation. He said he spent most of his life doing Victor’s bidding, Marlena reminded him that Victor was no longer here so Xander could be who he wanted. Xander didn’t believe it was possible because certain people made him want to beat them up. He said he expected it from Philip but not Sarah. While Xander was talking to Marlena, he told her about Philip’s forged letter. He also told her that Sarah knew about it and didn’t tell him. Xander said Philip’s presence reminded him of the pain between him and Sarah. While Gabi was in her kitchen, she listened to Xander and Philip’s conversation through the listening device. Xander told Philip that Marlena knows the truth about him using a forged letter to get the company. Gabi was shocked when she heard it.

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Days Update Wednesday, September 3, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Cat helps Aaron finish packing to move in to the dorms. Aaron jokes that he’s excited to spend all his money on textbooks and ramen noodles. Cat encourages that he might learn things and meet new friend. Aaron admits he’s excited to be living with Tate. Cat encourages that he deserves some fun after all he sacrificed for their mom. Aaron talks about how Cat is going to have to making the rounds visiting him at the dorms, visiting their mom, and visiting their brother Mark in prison. Cat responds that hopefully Mark will be getting out soon and the whole family will be back together.

Brady goes home and asks Tate how it went with Sophia. Tate says she surprisingly said yes to giving him the adoption papers and will bring it to work today. Brady says that’s good that she didn’t up a fight. Tate wonders if it’s possible that they are wrong and she’s not hiding anything. Brady asks how that could be when she gave him the stock photo. Tate agrees, questioning why she would do that if she had nothing to hide. Brady instructs Tate to get the papers and says he’ll take it from there.

Holly finishes packing for college at the Kiriakis Mansion. Maggie can’t believe she’s off to college and asks how she’s feeling. Holly says she’s excited and nervous but will only be a couple miles away. Maggie points out that she could come home every other weekend and encourages her to study hard. Maggie tells Holly that college will be a wonderful adventure for her.

Marlena is at the bookstore, picking up a book.

Xander works in his office at Titan-DiMera.

Gabi sits at home, listening in from her recording device that she planted on Xander’s desk.

Philip enters the office and tells Xander that he needs to talk to him. Xander says not now as he has an appointment but Philip says too bad because this is important. Xander says his appointment is important too. Philip demands Xander show him respect and listen to what he has to say.

Gabi listens in on Xander and Philip’s conversation until Arianna walks in and questions who she’s talking to.

Holly finishes a video chat with Nicole, promising to send pictures and videos when she gets to college. Maggie is still amazed that she can talk to Nicole and see her across the ocean with just the push of a button. Holly says she misses Nicole. Maggie says she will miss Holly too. Maggie says that Holly going off on this new adventure is inspiring her to do the same. Maggie isn’t sure what that adventure is but it has to be something to keep her on her toes. Maggie repeats that she will miss her so much as they hug.

Cat tells Aaron that the car is all packed and he’s ready to embark on his new life adventure. Aaron jokes that she sounds just like their mom. Cat says she’s super honored to be able to do this with him. Aaron thanks her and calls her the best. Aaron adds that he’s so glad she’s finally settling in and seems happy. Aaron thinks he knows why since Felicity told him that she’s in love with Chad DiMera. Aaron thinks he saw some sparks flying too but Cat says he’s imagining things and that she and Chad are just friends.

Marlena hugs Tate as he talks about how he will still come visit. Brady mentions that he will bring Rachel by his dorm room when he’s all moved in. Tate decides he should get going. Tate tells Marlena that he loves her and exits with Brady. Marlena sits down and begins to read the book she got at the bookstore titled “Calm the Mind”.

Gabi claims to Arianna that she was listening to a podcast. Arianna asks if it’s anything she’d be interested in. Gabi claims it was just nutrition and eating healthy. Arianna talks about being excited for her dorm room. Gabi tells her that she’s so proud of her and gets emotional. Gabi talks about learning so much at Salem U. Arianna says they should get going.

Philip is tired of Xander treating him like the enemy when they agreed to peacefully co-exist but he’s been nothing but nasty to him 24/7. Xander complains that Philip is so annoying. Philip argues that he’s trying to make this work while Xander says he’s driving him insane. Xander asks if he wants him to pretend everything is fine between them when it isn’t and never will be. Philip warns him to dial it down before their employees hear them. Philip asks what the hell happened to anger management therapy. Xander says that’s where he’s trying to get to if Philip would get out of his way. Xander then storms out of the office.

Gabi brings Arianna to her dorm room where Maggie and Holly are inside. Arianna and Holly excitedly hug while Gabi jokes about the room being small. Holly says she can’t believe this is finally happening. Arianna sees she was sent a plant from Will and Sonny. Holly takes Arianna to see the lounge down the hall. Gabi jokes to Maggie that she will set it all up and Arianna will change everything. Maggie informs Gabi that she’s throwing a birthday party for JJ and that she will invite Arianna but she’ll probably be too busy here to come. Maggie adds that Gabi is still more than welcome. Gabi thanks her but says it would probably be awkward since her and JJ aren’t dating anymore, plus Julie being there. Maggie tries to say Julie will be nice but Gabi disagrees. Gabi remarks that at least Julie found someone else to hate besides her, in Cat Green.

Brady helps Tate carry his boxes in to his new dorm room. Aaron arrives behind and greets them. Cat then comes in with some of Aaron’s boxes. Tate and Aaron go to get more of their boxes. Cat asks Brady how Marlena is.

Xander goes to see Marlena. She apologizes for not seeing him at her office but she’s taking a leave of absence and is only seeing a few private patients, but assures this is a very safe and secure environment. Xander says he’s very glad to have made the cut. Marlena responds that she would like to help him. Marlena asks what he thinks is going on. Xander admits he’s there because Sarah forced him to as it’s the only way he can keep custody of his daughter. Marlena thought Xander agreed with Sarah that he needed some anger management. Xander explains that tomorrow is Victoria’s 2nd birthday and while he’s been trying to get ready to celebrate, his lasting memory of her birthday last year is him losing control which he never wants to happen again.

Holly says she and Arianna will get everything set up. Gabi tells Arianna that she’s going to miss her so much. Holly hugs Maggie and thanks her for everything. Maggie feels she didn’t do that much but Holly says she’s been an amazing grandmother and substitute mother, so she doesn’t know what she’d do without her love and support. Maggie feels she’s been the lucky one since the day Holly was born. Maggie promises to always be there for her as they hug. Gabi says to send pictures of the room when they are done as she and Maggie then exit.

Brady tells Cat that Marlena is doing as well as can be expected after a rough couple months. Cat sends her best. Brady hopes her leave of absence didn’t cost her a job. Cat says it’s fine and she understands that Marlena needed time after losing John. Cat adds that she will forever be in debt to John for what he did for her mother. Brady mentions hearing that her mother was being transferred to a facility near Salem. Cat confirms that and says everything is moving in a good direction. Brady asks how Cat is doing. Cat says she’s good and reveals she got another job at the hospital working for EJ. Brady admits he’s not a fan of EJ and asks her to tell him if he gives her any trouble since he’s on the board. Cat says she appreciates that.

Xander tells Marlena that Victoria is his heart, soul, and everything. Xander says Victoria sees him as a loving and caring hero, so that’s what he wants to be for her. Xander adds that no one looks at him like she does, though Sarah used to. Marlena asks how they see him now. Xander says how he sees himself as a thug. Marlena points out that he’s running a global corporation. Xander says he may wear expensive suits and sit in the executive suite, but that doesn’t change the fact that he was Victor’s enforcer for most of his life and he was very good at his job. Marlena asks how he felt about doing that. Xander says that didn’t matter as he wanted to prove he was a true Kiriakis, worthy of Victor’s approval and that was the only way available to him. Xander says in that line of work, what you do becomes who you are so he couldn’t just shake it off and become a different person. Marlena states that Victor is gone, so he can be whoever he wants to be but Xander doesn’t think that’s possible.

Tate and Aaron begin to unpack their boxes. Brady and Cat offer to help and joke about making sure to change their sheets. Brady and Cat hug Tate and Aaron. Brady tells Tate he loves him. Cat tells Aaron to call if he needs anything. Aaron thanks her for helping him. Brady and Cat then exit. Aaron and Tate start talking about plans but Tate first wants to go check in with Holly.

Arianna and Holly talk about being glad to be out of their family homes and in to their own place. Holly mentions that Tate’s going to come check out their room at some point. Arianna then gets a text from Sophia and mentions that Sophia hadn’t made up her mind about living in the dorms. Arianna notes that she can’t imagine Sophia’s mom letting her live on campus. Holly admits that she hopes not and complains that Sophia is stalking Tate as she’s working at the Pub with him and just signed up for the same film class as him. Arianna suggests Holly sign up for the class too which Holly admits Tate suggested too. Holly then opens her laptop and decides to sign up for the film class.

Philip runs in to Gabi in the town square and asks if she’s headed to the office. Gabi says she had to drop her daughter off at Salem U so she’s working remotely today. Philip calls it huge that Arianna is starting college. Gabi talks about being happy that she’s still so close, but she knows she has to back up and let her live her own life. Philip points out that Gabi has to live her life too which Gabi says she did the other night with Philip. They agree they had a really good time. Gabi adds that they just have to make sure HR never finds out. Philip then remarks that it wouldn’t matter if he wasn’t her boss anymore if he quit Titan.

Marlena encourages Xander that anybody can change and that Victor is gone so he can no longer dictate who he is. Xander remarks that no one is ever free of Victor Kiriakis, especially not his son, so what he was is in his DNA. Xander states that anytime someone sets him off, his first instinct is to turn them in to oblivion. Marlena asks for an example of what triggers him. Xander lists lying, scheming, and cheating. Marlena asks who has done that. Xander says Philip and Sarah. Xander says Philip is to be expected but he loved Sarah with all his heart and she betrayed him with a huge lie by not sharing something with him that was life changing because she didn’t trust him. Xander doesn’t think he could ever get past that.

Tate goes to visit Holly in her dorm and kisses her. Arianna decides to go to the bookstore and exits. Tate and Holly think they are going to like college as they continue kissing.

Gabi questions Philip quitting Titan. Philip responds that he’s seriously thinking about it. Gabi doesn’t understand since his father left him half the company. Philip complains that Xander is being a total jerk and it’s getting to the point where he’s had enough. Philip declares that he doesn’t want to leave Gabi and the other employees in the lurch. Gabi says that’s sweet but assures they’ll be fine and that he should do what’s best for him. Gabi asks him to just promise not to do anything rash.

Marlena asks Xander about the secret that Sarah kept from him. Xander responds that it was life changing. Marlena asks if he wants to talk about it. Xander confirms that whatever he says is confidential and stays between them. Marlena says that’s unless she thinks he’s a danger to himself or others. Xander says it’s hard for him to say. Marlena tells him to take his time. Xander then reveals to Marlena that the letter Philip used to claim half of Victor’s estate was a forgery and Vivian Alamain wrote it, Sarah found out and chose to keep him in the dark, allowing Philip to play him for a fool and now he’s stuck with him. Marlena questions why he didn’t fire Philip immediately. Xander explains that it would jeopardize the DiMera takeover which is too big of a risk, so they have to play nice. Marlena sees why he’s caring around so much anger then. Xander admits it’s pushing him to the edge because every time he sees Philip, he’s reminded of the profound pain inflicted upon him and the intense rage inside of him brought on by Philip and Sarah.

Tate and Holly kiss in bed in her dorm. Tate comments on how quickly they got the place decorated. Tate jokes that they won’t have anyone walking in on them as they continue kissing.

Aaron comes out of his dorm and runs in to Arianna, reminding her that they met at senior night. Arianna asks if he’s all moved in. Aaron confirms that they just finished unpacking and invites her in. Arianna agrees to come in for a bit since she can’t go back to her room right now since Tate and Holly are getting busy. Aaron invites Arianna to play his Nintendo Switch which she accepts and comes in.

Cat returns home and finds flowers at her door with a card that says “Looking forward to another round or two, of mini golf”

Brady goes home and tells Marlena that Tate is all settled in. Brady says he just wants him to have a good year after everything he’s been through. Brady asks if Marlena is okay. Marlena responds that she’s not as she just saw a patient and sometimes the burden of keeping other people’s secrets is just too much…

Xander returns to the office where Philip is inside. Philip asks how his session with Marlena went. Xander says it was fine and that they talked about what happened.

Gabi listens in to Xander and Philip’s conversation from home on her recording device.

Xander tells Philip that it was about what happened between them which Philip says is what he wanted to talk to him about earlier. Philip thought eventually they’d be able to get past all of it, but now he’s not so sure.

Gabi urges them to keep talking as she listens in.

Xander questions Philip not being sure they can get past it and suggests he should’ve thought of that before claiming Victor left him half of his company, using a letter that was forged.

Gabi is excitedly shocked by hearing the truth through her recording device.

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Days Update Tuesday, September 2, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Chad tells Cat that the other day, she asked if she kissed him but he said she was dreaming and he thought she should know it wasn’t a dream. Cat can’t believe it and says she’s so sorry as she was delirious and sick. Chad says it just wasn’t how he imagined kissing her for the first time for real as they then kiss. Chad says that was as they continue kissing.

Javi brings Tesoro to the Brady Pub and runs in to Steve. Javi mentions Leo buying Tesoro’s outfit as Steve comments that it looks like they are taking good care of him. Javi tells Steve that he really needs to thank him since the day Tesoro was dropped off at the fire station, he was ready to give him to foster care until Steve shared his experience with him and he got the idea that his family could take him in. Steve says he’s glad it al worked out. Javi says he is too as he’s starting to wonder what they’d do without Tesoro.

Sophia goes to see Melinda in her office and asks what was so urgent. Melinda reveals that she went to see Patsy McGowan right after Brady did which shocks Sophia.

Tate reveals to Brady that the picture in the frame is a photo of his baby with the adoptive parents. Brady is shocked as he reveals to Tate that it’s just the picture that came with the frame, leaving Tate confused. Tate questions why Sophia would give him a fake photo. Brady says he doesn’t know but it’s the latest in a growing list of details about his baby’s adoption that just doesn’t add up.

Marlena goes to sleep and has nightmares about her time as Stefano’s Queen of the Night. In her sleep, she says “no, this isn’t right.” She says she doesn’t want to be his queen and doesn’t want to be separated from her children again.

Tate still can’t believe Sophia would give him a fake photo. Brady says too many things about his baby’s adoption feels way off. Brady goes over Sophia going to Chicago to meet the adoptive parents but then she just happens to go in to labor right then and there. Tate mentions not even getting a chance to meet her. Brady then reveals that he’s not sure his baby is a “her”.

Sophia questions what Brady was doing there and begins to panic that she gave Tate the lawyer’s name when she was actually planning on using her, so he must have given it to Brady. Melinda tells her to take it easy because Patsy stuck to their story.

Brady tells Tate about how Sophia referred to the baby as “him” and said she just misspoke. Tate agrees that it’s weird. Brady brings up Sarah being very surprised that the baby was a girl and when he asked her about it, she again looked uncomfortable. Tate argues that he has a right to know the truth and wants to go find Sarah. Brady reminds him that Sarah can’t violate the confidentiality as Sophia’s doctor, but admits he feels like Sarah was hiding something. Tate complains that he needs to know what happened to his baby.

Steve tells Javi that Tesoro is really lucky to be in such a loving home and repeats that he’s happy that everything worked out well. Javi brings up that Tesoro will be available for adoption soon, but he doesn’t think he’s ready to say goodbye.

Chad and Cat kiss until Rachel runs up and interrupts them. They try to explain that Cat was helping Chad with his swing. Rachel asks Chad if they can go home and says she’s not having fun since she’s terrible at golf too. Chad agrees to get the kids home before tomorrow’s first day of school. Chad and Cat decide that Rachel must not have seen them kissing. Cat then goes to check on Aaron and Felicity.

Steve tells Javi that he doesn’t usually give unsolicited advice, but maybe his reluctance to give Tesoro up is a sign that he’s meant to be with him permanently. Steve says Javi obviously loves him and seems heartbroken at the thought of giving him up. Javi says there are so many families who will want him. Steve brings up his experience in the system and says foster families get priority when it comes to adoption.

Sophia tells Melinda that besides them and Patsy, the only other person who knows her baby is a boy is Sarah who said she’s bound to confidentiality. Melinda questions how else Brady could’ve found out. Sophia admits she slipped up and referred to the baby as him. Melinda asks what she was doing talking to Brady about it in the first place. Sophia explains that she ran in to him in the Pub and he brought it up, but it’s fine because she covered for it. Melinda says not good enough since Brady’s still sniffing around and asked Patsy for a copy of the adoption papers. Melinda assures that Patsy turned him down but Tate might ask her. Sophia asks what she’s supposed to do if he does. Melinda says she will get her a copy to give to him which will say the baby is female and leave out the adoptive parents’ name. Sophia points out that Tate wanted an open adoption while Melinda says she will say they only agreed to a semi-open adoption which would keep their names private and any communication would be done through a third party. Sophia worries that Tate said he was letting it go but she knows he was still sad about losing the baby and now he’s going to lose his mind.

Tate repeats that he wants the truth. Brady says he wants that too, so he went to Steve for help. Tate realizes this is why Brady asked for the name of the adoption lawyer. Brady explains that he didn’t want to worry him for no reason if there was nothing to his suspicions. Tate says he’s now worried and asks what Steve said they should do. Brady says they need to get a copy of the adoption papers, so he went to the attorney but he got shut down pretty badly, so he asks if Tate can get a copy from Sophia without raising her suspicions. Tate agrees to try while Brady says he will take the stock photo to Steve. Brady warns Tate not to let on that he knows the picture is fake so they don’t give Sophia room to cover her tracks again. Brady promises they are going to figure this out as he exits.

Marlena wakes up in a panic before realizing it was just a dream. Marlena then screams, causing Tate to run in to her room and find that Rachel’s snake got in to Marlena’s bed.

Chad goes back to Cat’s apartment with her and says everyone is accounted for as Aaron and Felicity went for pizza and they dropped off Thomas and Rachel back at their homes. Cat asks if Chad is sure that Rachel didn’t see them kissing. Chad insists that if she did, they never would’ve heard the end of it but if she showed up a few seconds earlier, it would’ve been a close call. They agree that they should be more careful. Cat remarks that she can tell Chad would’ve hated it if Rachel saw them kissing which she guesses is because Chad feels like it was a mistake.

Tate apologizes to Marlena, guessing he didn’t put the lid on the aquarium tight enough after the snake escaped this morning and says he’ll talk to Brady about getting him a more secure home and keeping Rachel’s door closed. Tate asks if everything else is okay since she seems pretty shaken up. Marlena guesses it was just a bad dream. Tate asks what it was about but Marlena claims not to remember. Tate promises she won’t get any more visits from the snake and says to let him know if she needs anything as he exits.

Brady goes back to Steve and shows him the photo that Sophia claimed to be of the adoptive parents along with the photo from the picture frame Marlena bought. Steve uses it to do a reverse image search and confirms that Sophia got the image online from a stock website. Brady questions why Sophia would give Tate a fake picture which Steve calls a damn good question.

Sophia complains that Melinda is the one who told her to lie about the baby being a girl. Melinda asks how she was supposed to know that her doctor and Tate’s dad were best friends. Sophia panics while Melinda tells her to calm down. Sophia worries that Brady won’t stop until he finds out the truth and then her mom will force her to take the baby back which she can’t. Melinda encourages her to stop and breathe but Sophia declares it’s over because when Tate finds out what she did, he’s going to hate her forever.

Cat guesses she has her answer. Chad doesn’t think she understands. Cat says she asked if Chad regretted kissing her and he couldn’t even respond which means he does. Chad clarifies that if he regrets anything, it’s not admitting how he felt about her sooner. Chad says after he found out she was pretending to be Abigail, he thought his feelings were just residual confusion because he wanted to believe she was his wife. Chad talks about finding out she did what she did because she was under enormous pressure to save her mother. Chad talks about forgiving her, becoming friends with her, and admits he started caring about her as more than a friend. Chad jokes that now she’s not saying anything. Cat admits she felt the same way he did and she thought after pretending to be Abigail, her feelings would go away but they didn’t and only got stronger. They comment on their hearts both beating fast. Cat asks where they go from here and if he’s able to get past everything to give this a try.

Rachel joins Marlena in her room. Rachel tells her that Tate told her about her snake getting out and waking her up.

Melinda assures Sophia that Tate and Brady don’t know anything and aren’t going to as long as they continue to cover their tracks. Sophia cries that she’s scared and doesn’t think she can do this anymore. Melinda reminds her that she’s not alone and they are still in this together. Sophia apologizes for blaming her when she’s done nothing but help her. Melinda tells Sophia that she can show her gratitude by living her best life. Melinda talks about people trying to make decisions for her and take away her rights to control her future, but she didn’t let them. Melinda encourages Sophia for staying strong and making the right decision for her and her baby. Melinda says she will never stop supporting that and tells her not to stop believing that she did the right thing. Sophia admits she needed to hear that. Melinda tells her that everything will be okay as she will start college and her baby will be placed for adoption where there are a lot of interested families. Sophia asks if she doesn’t get to know who gets the baby which Melinda confirms. Sophia admits it’s been nice knowing where he is and that he’s been with a loving family. Melinda reminds Sophia of how panicked and worried she gets when running in to Leo and Javi while now her mother and Tate have also seen him. Sophia knows adoption is for the best, but cries that it’s really hard. There’s a knock at the office door so Sophia asks who that is. Melinda responds that it’s just a delivery she’s expecting. Melinda answers the door and it’s Javi with Tesoro, leaving Sophia shocked.

Brady complains to Steve that this is his grandchild they are talking about. Steve assures they are not giving up. Brady hopes Tate can get Sophia to hand over the adoption papers. Steve says she’s obviously hiding something so she’ll probably turn him down. Brady asks what to do next. Steve tells him about running all this by Kayla since she treated Sophia early in her pregnancy and she couldn’t break confidentiality but she did review Sophia’s records and when he asked if they should stop looking in to this, Kayla didn’t say no, so that makes him think they are right to look in to it. Brady concludes that Sophia not only lied about who she gave the baby to but also the sex of the baby and questions why she wouldn’t want Tate to know that. Steve guesses she was trying to throw him off the scent in case the baby stayed local. Steve mentions running in to Javi, who came in with the baby that was brought in to the fire house. Brady questions what he’s thinking.

Marlena asks Rachel how things are going in therapy. Rachel says pretty good and they’ve talked a lot about her mom. Rachel adds that kids at school might say stuff about Kristen shooting EJ and her therapist told her to say that her mom made a mistake, broke the law, but they still love each other. Marlena calls that taking the high road and praises Rachel having courage and strength which Rachel says is just like her as Marlena hugs her.

Javi comes in and greets Sophia. Sophia thanks Melinda for the advice and says she has to run as she quickly hurries out of the office. Javi introduces himself to Melinda, who says they must have ran in to each other when they both worked at DiMera. Javi jokes that he’s trying to block that out. Melinda asks how she can help him. Javi apologizes for showing up without an appointment but says he really needs an adoption attorney and when he looked online, her name came up first. Javi introduces Melinda to Tesoro, explaining that his family has been fostering him since her mother gave him up at the fire station. Melinda mentions reading about that and seeing his picture. Melinda comments that Javi’s really been giving him a gift. Javi responds that he’s the one that has been given a gift and he’s not ready to part with that gift. Melinda asks what he means. Javi explains that he’s exploring an idea and wants to know if it’s even possible. Javi asks Melinda what the chances are that he and Leo could adopt Tesoro and raise him right here in Salem.

Brady tells Steve that Sophia was panicked when Johnny and Chanel backed out of the adoption and she was very afraid that her mother would force her to keep the baby if they didn’t find adoptive parents before the birth. Steve wonders if it’s possible that Sophia gave birth in Salem and not Chicago. Brady says they know it wasn’t at University Hospital. Steve points out that there are several clinics. Brady asks when the baby was born and found at the firehouse. Steve recalls it was the night before the 4th of July because he was at the hospital with Kayla when Javi brought him in. Brady declares that couldn’t have been his grandchild then because he saw Sophia around that time and she was still pregnant.

Sophia runs in to Tate in the town square. Tate says they need to talk but Sophia says she doesn’t have time right now. Tate tells her to make time so Sophia asks what he wants. Tate responds that he wants a copy of their baby’s adoption papers.

Cat asks Chad if they are taking turns now. Chad says he keeps telling himself that he shouldn’t consider how Abigail’s family would react to them becoming more than friends, but admits it really weighs on him since he cares about them a lot and they’ve been through hell from losing their daughter in such a horrible way. Chad is struggling with how he could ever make them understand. Cat knows they will never see her as anything other than the woman who conned him in to believing his wife had returned. Cat declares that she understands it’s not in the cards for them.

Marlena asks Rachel how mini golf was. Rachel guesses it was okay except for Thomas bragging about how much better he is at it than her. Rachel then reveals she did see something she wasn’t supposed to and admits she saw Chad kissing Cat.

Melinda questions Javi wanting to adopt a baby with Leo, bringing up Leo’s rap sheet. Javi insists that Leo has changed and worked so hard to be a better person, adding that he’s amazing with Tesoro. Melinda questions if they are legally partners. Javi says they haven’t made it official yet but they are living together and everyone adores Tesoro. Javi adds that Rafe is the foster parent on record but he and Leo have been his primary caretakers. Melinda wishes she could be more optimistic but says the odds of he and Leo getting approved are slim to none. Melinda suggests Javi could adopt as a single father where he’d be subjected to a thorough background check, so she assumes that wouldn’t be a problem but Javi informs her that it might be. Melinda asks why that is. Javi then reveals that he had a child who died.

Sophia tells Tate that she’ll get him a copy of the adoption papers which surprises him as he expected her to argue against it. Sophia declares that she’s done fighting so if giving him the papers will put an end to all the questions, she’s glad to do that. Tate thanks her and says he really appreciates it. Sophia says she’ll bring it to work tomorrow so they agree to see each other then as Tate walks away.

Melinda tells Javi that she is so sorry as she lost a child too so her heart goes out to him. Melinda says she didn’t mean to pry. Javi asks if that would be a dealbreaker in terms of him adopting Tesoro. Melinda responds that it shouldn’t be, but they will do a thorough investigation in to the child’s death which upsets Javi, who thanks Melinda for her time and quickly exits with Tesoro.

Steve tells Brady that now that they’ve ruled out that the baby is with Javi and Leo, they need to get a copy of the adoption papers to get all the answers they need about the adoptive parents and the sex of the baby. Brady adds that there’s one more thing he should mention as a couple weeks ago, he sent a gift to the baby and Tate included a letter, asking to visit his baby, to a PO box in Chicago that the adoption attorney set up because the parents were not willing to disclose their home address. Steve asks if Tate heard back. Brady says they e-mailed and turned him down. Steve decides he’ll check out the e-mail. Brady feels bad for Tate as that e-mail hit him hard. Brady says Tate was handling the whole thing with compassion and maturity but then he finds out Sophia has been lying to him this whole time. Brady argues that Tate deserves to know what happened to his child. Steve assures that he will. Brady feels he should’ve done more as he feels like he failed his son. Steve encourages that Brady is doing everything he can to get to the truth. Steve assures that he’s got his back and he’s here for him, just like John would be.

Marlena tells Rachel that it’s really none of their business who Chad decides to spend his time with, so if she happens to notice Chad having a private moment with somebody, they need to stay quiet about it which Rachel promises to do. Rachel gives her word that no one will hear from her about Chad and Cat kissing.

Cat thanks Chad for the golf outing and imagines he needs to be getting home now, so she opens the door for him to leave but Chad shuts the door and says he has more to say. Chad tells her that after he lost his wife, he swore he would never fall for anyone else ever again because he convinced himself it would be a betrayal or cheating on Abigail. Chad thought he would never feel a strong connection with anyone else ever again. Cat asks why he’s telling her all of this. Chad says because he feels a strong connection with her. Chad admits he comes with a lot of baggage and he’ll have to be really cautious because of his kids, his in-laws, and Julie, so he just wants her to know that’s something they will have to think about. Chad declares that right now in this moment, he doesn’t want to think about anything as he kisses Cat.

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Days Update Monday, September 1, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Cat returns home with Felicity and Aaron from getting their mom in an assisted living facility near Salem. They talk about being glad Aaron is back since they missed each other and being happy that their mom was well enough to come back to Salem.

Chad walks through the town square with Thomas and asks if they are all set for school. Thomas says if they forget something, they can always come back. Thomas brings up how Abigail used to buy him an eraser and tell him to erase his fears as it’s going to be a great year. Thomas then tells Chad that he’s worried about something.

Marlena brings Rachel to the Brady Pub where Tate greets them and asks if they had fun at the pool. Marlena informs him that Rachel was feeling too tired to go in the pool. Tate says he has just the thing to wake her up.

Patsy tells Brady that she just got his voicemail and was about to return his call. Brady says he’s sorry for his impatience but he had some pressing questions about an adoption she recently handled because it was his son’s baby. Patsy asks what his son’s name is. Brady tells her Tate Black and Patsy responds by asking who? Brady explains that Tate gave his baby up for adoption about a month ago and says Patsy was the attorney that handled it, but guesses that isn’t true.

Aaron says he’s happy to be home even if it’s not for long since he will be moving in to the Salem U dorms for college tomorrow. Cat tells them their secret fun plan is going to play mini golf and get pizza. They bring up their brother Mark and talk about how much they miss him. Cat notes that Mark’s lawyer called a few days ago and his parole hearing is coming up soon, so he could be back with them sooner than later. They then exit for mini golf.

Chad asks Thomas what’s going on. Thomas says it’s nothing but Chad insists. Thomas talks about thinking it would be cool to have class with Rachel but they got in a big fight today. Chad says he’s sorry to hear and asks what happened. Thomas explains that he told her he’s sorry her mom is going away but that it’s not forever, so he thought he was helping but she got really mad at him instead. Chad he’s sorry and that Rachel is just going through a lot right now. Chad suggests he just be patient with her. Chad says a lot of people in Rachel’s life will be able to help her with her feelings, so he thinks Thomas should keep doing what he’s been doing and being a good friend. Thomas agrees to do his best. Chad then presents him with an eraser and tells him to erase that fear and have a great year. Thomas thanks him and hugs him.

Tate brings Rachel a fudge sundae. Rachel tries some but remains unenthusiastic. Tate says he’s about to get off work and go on a really fun adventure he has planned which Rachel asks about. Tate jokes that she’s probably too tired to go. Rachel says she’s not that tired and excitedly asks Marlena if she can go. Marlena sends her to go wash her hands and says then she can go on the adventure. Marlena tells Tate that he was so good with Rachel. Tate says he loves Rachel and hates that she’s going through this, but he can unfortunately relate to having a parent in prison. Marlena says she’s been worried about Tate since he’s gone through a lot with Sophia’s pregnancy and the adoption, but she’s been watching him and she’s very proud of the way he’s been handling it.

Brady explains to Patsy that Tate never got a chance to meet the attorney that handled the adoption but Sophia told him it was her, so he was wondering if that was the case or not since some things have raised some questions for him. Patsy gets a call and says it isn’t the best time as she’s in a meeting. She says she will call them back when she’s free and hangs up. Brady then tells Patsy that Sophia had told Tate that they went to Chicago because she had lined up adoptive parents there. Patsy responds that she thinks she can explain.

Cat, Aaron, and Felicity go to play mini golf. Cat sends them to get started as Chad and Thomas then arrive.

Tate tells Marlena that he’s not really proud of himself as he feels he really made a mess out of everything but he’s trying hard to get back on the right track. Marlena says he supported Sophia through the pregnancy and did what he could for the baby, so she thinks he should give himself credit. Tate says it’s not about him and says he told the adoptive parents he’d give up on seeing his kid but admits he thinks about his kid all the time. Tate says he keeps telling himself that she’s where she needs to be, being taken care of with a good life. Marlena agrees and says what he’s going through is completely normal. Marlena encourages that one day, he will be a magnificent father.

Patsy tells Brady that she didn’t recognize Tate’s name earlier since he’s not her client and she never actually met him, but it’s coming back to her now as she identifies Sophia Choi as the mother. Patsy confirms that she was able to connect Sophia to the adoptive parents who are lovely people and have been waiting years to have a baby. Brady notes that Tate was very upset that he was unable to meet the parents or the baby. Patsy asks if Tate reached out to the parents since she did give Sophia an address. Brady responds that they unfortunately refused Tate’s request to visit the baby. Patsy calls that not unusual and says she’s sure Tate has good intentions, but there’s always the fear he could change his mind about the adoption. Brady understands the worry but calls it very disappointing. Patsy says these situations are very fraught and often heartbreaking. Patsy adds that she has a meeting in a few minutes and asks if there’s something else she can help him with. Brady then asks Patsy if the baby was a boy or a girl. Patsy responds that the baby was a girl as she’s sure he was told. Brady says he just wanted to verify and make sure the facts were clear. Brady adds that Tate didn’t get a copy of the adoption papers, so he hoped maybe that was something she could give him. Patsy says she’s afraid not as she would need her client’s permission before sharing any legal documents with him. Brady guesses that’s it and thanks her for her time. Patsy tells him to feel free to contact her office if he has any more questions as Brady then exits.

Cat greets Chad and Thomas. They talk about mini golf being their back to school tradition. Thomas adds that they invited Charlotte but she had a play date. Cat tells them that she’s with Felicity and Aaron to celebrate Aaron’s homecoming. Chad sends Thomas to find Aaron and Felicity while he stays behind to help Cat find a pencil to keep score.

Brady runs in to Marlena in the town square and sees she’s doing some shopping. Marlena tells him that she got Rachel the glow in the dark sneakers she wanted. Brady thanks her for taking Rachel to the pool and asks how it went and where she is. Marlena tells him that Rachel is at the Pub with Tate. Marlena adds that it didn’t go too well at the pool as Rachel got in to an argument with Thomas and got her feelings hurt, but then Tate swept in to save the day by taking her on an adventure. Brady questions what kind of adventure but Marlena says she doesn’t know as they wouldn’t say. Marlena tells Brady that Tate is so good with Rachel, like Brady. Brady responds that he thinks Tate takes after his grandpa John.

Cat jokes about Chad not having a pencil since he’s a newspaper guy. They talk about how they keep bumping in to each other. Chad says there’s something he wanted to say but Tate and Rachel arrive. Rachel excitedly greets Chad. Chad tells her that Thomas will be so excited to see her. Rachel isn’t so sure since she was mean to him at the pool. Chad says they talked about it and encourages that Thomas is her friend and family sticks together. Rachel says she is going to go tell Thomas that she’s sorry so Tate takes her to go find him. Cat then asks Chad what he wanted to tell her before. Chad says he wanted to apologize for being a jerk about her taking the job with EJ. Cat understands he was worried about her and says it’s fine. Chad says she can take care of herself and if anyone can handle EJ, it’s her.

Melinda Trask meets Patsy in her office. Patsy says she just missed Brady and it was a close call as she didn’t expect him to waltz in so quickly after calling her, but at least they had a chance to get their stories straight. Patsy tells Melinda that Brady seemed to buy it. Melinda thanks her and says she owes her one. Patsy says that Melinda saved her life and she was happy to help Sophia. Melinda says she’ll be relieved to put it all behind her but Patsy worries that they may have another problem

Marlena gives the sneakers for Rachel to Brady along with a picture frame, suggesting putting a picture of Rachel and Kristen in it on her nightstand. Brady agrees that she would love that and calls it extremely thoughtful of her. Brady states that Rachel is lucky to have Marlena in her life, calling her a wonderful Grandmother. Brady says he doesn’t know how they would get through this without her as he hugs her.

Tate and Rachel run into Aaron on the golf course. Tate says he didn’t know Aaron was back in town as they send Rachel to join Thomas and Felicity. Aaron says he was going to call Tate to see if he wanted to meet up. Tate mentions that he’s looking after Rachel today. Aaron says he would ask how his summer was, but he heard it’s been rough. Tate guesses he heard Sophia gave the baby up for adoption and he didn’t even get to see her. Aaron confirms he heard that and he’s not going to pretend he knows what it’s like to have a kid, but not being able to see them is next level rough. Aaron encourages that they are so young and have so much to look forward to in their future. They talk about rooming in the dorms at Salem U, so they are going to enjoy their last day before that.

Cat appreciates Chad’s faith in her. Chad knows she will stand up to EJ if she needs to. Chad says that him snapping earlier was more about him than her as he’s been a little on edge lately because his in-laws are coming in to town for JJ’s birthday and the last time he saw them, they were upset about he and Cat, especially Jennifer. Chad is not sure how he’s going to deal with that. Cat suggests not mentioning her name at any cost and not coming anywhere near him and he’ll be golden. Chad responds that he’s not sure he’d be able to stay away since the universe keeps throwing them in each others’ paths. Chad feels like the universe is trying to tell them something. Aaron comes over and says they are waiting on them, so Cat and Chad go join them on the golf course.

Brady and Marlena go home where Brady looks at the photos of John on the mantle. Marlena notes it’s early but she’s going to pack it in. Brady points out that she didn’t eat dinner and argues that a big lunch wasn’t enough. Brady offers to go to the Pub or get something from the freezer. Marlena complains about frozen rodents being in the freezer. Brady knows she doesn’t like having snakes but appreciates her letting Rachel have him there. Marlena thanks Brady for his concern about her skipping supper but assures she’s fine. Marlena tells Brady that she’s very grateful to have him and Rachel there as it’s a tremendous comfort to her and she loves them both so much. Brady says they love her too and are very grateful for her. Marlena then heads to her bedroom.

Chad and Cat play mini golf. Chad keeps score on his phone but Cat says he doesn’t have to. Chad says Aaron insisted so it’s too late. Cat asks how she’s doing. Chad says that Rachel is the only person not beating him while Cat is beating absolutely everyone. They joke about that, so Cat offers to help Chad with his stance as they get close.

Melinda asks Patsy what the other problem is. Patsy says there’s two problems, first Brady asking for a copy of the adoption papers but she told them that wouldn’t be possible, however he might still try to get it another way. Patsy adds that Brady also asked about the baby’s gender, but she stuck with the story Melinda gave that the baby was a girl. They talk about Brady being suspicious. Melinda thanks her for the heads up and says she’ll figure it out. Melinda adds that she really thought Brady and Tate would’ve let this go by now.

Tate goes home where Brady asks where Rachel is. Tate explains that she was having so much fun with Thomas at mini golf that she basically told him to leave, so Chad will give her a ride home. Brady is glad she’s having fun and appreciates Tate looking after her. Brady then hands Tate the picture frame that Marlena bought. Tate thanks Brady and calls it thoughtful of him. Brady explains that Marlena actually bought it. Tate is touched and calls it sweet, remarking that he didn’t even know she had the picture, confusing Brady, as the frame came with a generic stock photo that happens to be the picture Sophia claimed was the adoptive parents with their baby.

Marlena goes to sleep and has nightmares about her time as Stefano’s Queen of the Night.

Chad tells Cat that the other day, she asked if she kissed him but he said she was dreaming and he thought she should know it wasn’t a dream. Cat can’t believe it and says she’s so sorry as she was delirious and sick. Chad says it just wasn’t how he imagined kissing her for the first time for real as they then kiss. Chad says that was as they continue kissing.

Melinda walks through the town square and calls Sophia, leaving a message that she has to see her right away as it’s important.

Tate reveals to Brady that the picture in the frame is a photo of his baby with the adoptive parents. Brady is shocked as he reveals to Tate that it’s just the picture that came with the frame, leaving Tate confused.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Javi was with Tesoro and gushed about how happy he was to be one of his foster parents. He admitted he wouldn’t be ready to let him go when he gets adopted. Steve suggested that might mean he should adopt him. Sophia rushed to Melinda’s office to let her know that Brady questioned the adoption lawyer. Melinda planned on creating adoption papers for her to give to Tate that state that the baby was a girl and that she was in semi-adoption mode. It protects the identity of the parents. Communication would go through a third party. Melinda assured a scared Sophia that Brady and Tate wouldn’t know anything as long as they covered their tracks. Sophia knew she had to give the baby up for adoption, but it was hard for her since she kept running into him. Javi knocked on Melinda’s door while they were talking. Sophia panicked while Javi and the baby were in Melinda’s office so she made an exit. He talked to Melinda about exploring his options because he and Leo were ready to take on adopting Tesoro. Melinda told him that he would be better off adopting the baby as a single parent. He would have to have a background test, but he didn’t do anything wrong so it wouldn’t be a problem. He admitted to Melinda that he had a child, but the baby died. Melinda was empathetic about it. She didn’t think his secret should be a problem. Melinda warned him that the investigators would check into how the baby died. Javi was afraid of that. With tears in his eyes, Javi left her office.

Tate was upset to find out that the picture of the couple that were going to adopt his came from a casting company. The picture came with the frame and weren’t his daughter’s adoptive parents. Brady told him that he didn’t think his baby was a girl. He advised Tate to ask Sophia to see the adoption papers while he wanted to go to Steve with the fake photos. While he was at the private investigation office, Steve told him that the picture Sophia had was from a website. He also told Brady that Kayla couldn’t reveal much about Sophia, but she warned him to keep investigating. Steve talked to Brady about running into Javi and Tesoro at the pub. Brady wondered if it was possible that Javi could have had Tate’s baby. The timeline didn’t match up so Brady felt like he let his son down. Steve told him that he had his back. He was there for him like his father would have. Tate ran into Sophia, and he asked to see a copy of the adoption papers. She agreed to let him see them. Marlena had another nightmare about being the Queen of the Night. She screamed when she woke up and saw Rachel’s snake in her bed. After getting the snake out of her room, Rachel wanted to talk to her. Rachel told Marlena about the kids bullying her because of her mother. She was excited to tell her some gossip. Rachel saw her Uncle Chad kissing the blonde woman who pretended to be Abby. Marlena said it wasn’t their business, and Rachel agreed not to say anything.

 

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Days Update Friday, August 29, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the hospital, Cat goes to Kayla and says she’s applying for a job at the hospital cafeteria, so she asks if she can use Kayla as a reference. Kayla acknowledges that Cat did excellent work for Marlena and the hospital fundraiser, so she agrees to put in a good word for her. Cat thanks her but Kayla thinks she’s overqualified for that job and asks why she wouldn’t apply for another administrative assistant position. Cat says she would but there aren’t any available. Kayla asks if it has to be at the hospital.

At the Spectator office, Leo complains to Chad about his time on the jury and not even getting to deliver the verdict, saying Kristen stole that moment from him. Chad mocks it being a horrible ordeal for him to sit through his innocent nephew’s trial, but he’s sure Leo is relieved to be home which he confirms. Leo never thought he’d miss being at work so much. Chad says they are happy to have him back as they missed him. Chad then asks Leo to cover Kristen’s sentencing hearing tomorrow. Leo responds that he wouldn’t miss that for the world.

EJ enters the living room of the DiMera Mansion where Gwen comments to him that she’s more shocked by Kristen confessing than her shooting him. Gwen calls Kristen her friend but admits she’s not exactly ethically driven. EJ suggests she just didn’t want her nephew to take the fall for something she did as no one is immune to having a moral breaking point. Gwen brings up Leo saying that the jury’s verdict was going to be not guilty so Kristen confessed in vain for no reason and now she’ll probably spend decades away from her daughter. Gwen says her heart goes out to Rachel.

Brady reads the article on Kristen on his tablet at home until Tate returns home from a run. Tate asks if the trip to the pet store lifted Rachel’s spirits. Brady says no and that she perked up a little when she saw Sarah but other than that, she’s been subdued. Brady adds that Rachel is now at the pool with Marlena, hoping time with her will lift her spirits. Tate wishes there was something he could do to help and mentions offering her his Playstation but she barely reacted. Brady calls him a good brother. Tate asks if he shouldn’t live at the dorms in case Rachel needs him but Brady wants him to have the full college experience and come home on weekends and holidays. Tate agrees and says he’ll bring Holly over since she and Rachel got close while living at the DiMera Mansion. Tate then tells Brady about what happened earlier and that Holly doesn’t like snakes.

Holly goes to the Brady Pub where Sophia is working. Sophia asks where Tate is, but Holly says it’s just her this time and she wants a word with her in private. Sophia tells her that she’s working here which Holly says is a problem. Sophia sits with her and questions why she has a problem with her working here. Holly argues that she’s only working there to get closer to Tate. Sophia insists that her mom saw the help wanted sign and made her apply but Holly doesn’t buy it. Sophia calls her paranoid and suggests she cool it with the Dawson’s Creek reruns and meditate. Holly suggests Sophia cool it with the sarcasm and with confiding in Sarah. Sophia questions what Sarah said about her. Holly says just that she got the impression Sophia still has feelings for Tate. Sophia denies it and says Tate is the father of her child so she cares about him. Holly argues that she knows that’s not what she meant, so Sophia asks what she does mean. Holly warns Sophia that if she thinks she’s going to steal her boyfriend, she better think again.

Tate tells Brady that he’s going to shower so he’s not late for his first day back at the Pub. Brady wishes him luck. Tate thanks him and says he’s going to need it as he admits he’s a little worried about working with Sophia which Brady is surprised to learn. Tate says he and Holly just ran in to Sophia in the middle of her shift. Brady calls that interesting as he knows things have been tense between them since giving up the baby. Tate decides he’s not worried as Sophia seems to appreciate him moving on from trying to meet the baby and he thinks Sophia just wants to move on with her life and put it all behind her.

Leo tells Chad that he’s thinking about writing a tell-all book about being on the jury. Leo talks about the trial and feels it all wrapped up a little too neatly. Leo believes Kristen’s confession was too convenient. Chad asks if he’s saying that he doesn’t think Kristen did it. Leo talks about having admiration for Kristen but he doesn’t buy Kristen suddenly feeling guilty enough to confess. Chad questions why she would confess then since Kristen wouldn’t voluntarily go to prison and be separated from her daughter.

Cat tells Kayla that she’d like to stay at the hospital if she can since she likes working there and the benefits are amazing when it comes to health care for Felicity. Kayla agrees to do what she can to help her get the job, so Cat thanks her and steps aside. EJ then arrives and asks Kayla when his new office will be ready. Kayla says tomorrow and she’s glad she could help. EJ then walks away, so Cat follows after him. Chad then arrives and has Kayla sign a form for his daughter Charlotte’s physical. Kayla can’t believe Charlotte is starting Kindergarten. Chad talks about being glad he didn’t get his kids sick and thanks her for sending antibiotics. Kayla is sorry they had to be quarantined and says she’s sure it was miserable for Chad and Cat. Chad thinks back to Cat kissing him, but tells Kayla that it was miserable.

Cat catches up with EJ in the town square and says she couldn’t help but hear him talking to Kayla at the hospital, so it got her thinking to ask if he needed an administrative assistant. EJ asks if she knows someone who would be interested. Cat says she would be.

Sophia reminds Holly that she just gave birth to a baby and gave it up for adoption, so maybe her main focus isn’t on stealing her boyfriend. Holly knows she’s been through a lot recently and says she’s not trying to be a bitch about this, but she’s tried and succeeding at coming between her and Tate before so she just wants to make it clear that’s not happening again. Sophia calls her insecure and asks if she actually wants to order something or if she’s just going to sit around harassing her all day. Tate then arrives and asks what Holly’s doing there.

Brady goes to see Steve in his office and says he knows it’s only been a couple hours but he hoped he would have something on the adoption. Steve says not yet and without a court order, all the documents are sealed. Steve asks if Brady has anything else they can go on, pointing out that there are hundreds of hospitals in Chicago to try and narrow down where Sophia gave birth at. Brady says the problem is that he literally has no information or even the names of the adoptive parents. Brady notes that he did see a picture of them and that Tate probably has it on his phone. Steve says with that, he can do a reverse image search and maybe they can start getting some answers. Brady confirms he doesn’t have a copy of the adoption papers since Tate signed them and Sophia took them with her. Brady explains that they were both in shock when Sophia showed up without the baby and had already given her away. Steve suggest asking for a copy of the papers now but Brady doesn’t want Tate and Sophia to know he’s looking in to this. Brady realizes there might be another way to get a copy of those papers.

Holly claims that she just came to wish Tate luck on his first day back at the Pub which Tate calls so sweet. Tate says he has to go clock in while Holly says she’ll stick around to be his first customer. Holly then grabs Tate before he goes and kisses him right in front of Sophia.

Leo walks past the Brady Pub and runs in to Gwen. Leo asks about the shopping bags in her hands and asks if she’s out spending Dimitri’s inheritance. Gwen mocks Leo’s comedy and says she’s not in the mood for his clever tangents. Leo declares that he’s met an amazing man who loves him and that’s all he needs. Leo decides he’s grateful to Dimitri because if not for his letter, he never would’ve met the man he’s meant to be with and the same could be true for Gwen. Gwen asks if he’s saying she should be thankful that Dimitri cheated on her with him. Gwen tells Leo that he and Dimitri are both backstabbing lowlives, so she hopes they both rot in Hell.

Chad tells Kayla that when he offered to bring Felicity’s prescription, he never imagined he’d be stuck there for a few days and adds that they helped him too when he came down with strep throat too. Kayla guesses they caught it while stuck in the elevator together and tells Chad that he can blame EJ for getting him sick.

EJ thought Cat was Marlena’s assistant. Cat explains that Marlena has decided to take an open ended absence, so she’s without a job and was hoping to stay at the hospital. EJ points out that he already has an assistant but admits that Rita is more of his right hand while he could use someone to organize his calendar and files. Cat says that would be perfect. EJ responds that there would be one problem and that’s that he can’t hire her.

Chad tells Kayla that he had a talk with EJ about the elevator incident but he seemed more concerned with him being with Cat. Kayla says it does seem EJ finally realized he can’t cut corners with hospital maintenance and hoped he would have a similar epiphany when it comes to patient care. Kayla questions why EJ wanted to buy the hospital in the first place. Chad thought at first it was to get the rights to Versavix while Kayla argues that the trials on the drug aren’t even done and it could be years before that makes a profit, so it just makes her think there’s something else. Chad says he can try to find out but they both know that EJ plays his cards close to the vest.

Cat asks why EJ can’t hire her. EJ responds that he doesn’t think Chad would approve. Cat knows she did a terrible thing by impersonating Abigail. EJ says that’s not what he meant and brings up that Chad didn’t like the idea of him going on a date with her and felt the need to protect her from his devious older brother. Cat asks if he’s devious. EJ supposes there’s some truth to that which is why he’s guessing Chad would have an issue with them working together. Cat tells him not to worry about Chad as she’s sure she can get him to come around since it’s not like they are dating. Cat says she needs a job with two siblings at home and no income. EJ asks for her resume’ which she shows. EJ calls it impressive but notes there’s a large gap in her work history. Cat says she had family dealings and then her car accident. EJ acknowledges that she’s been through the ringer. Cat says she could really use a break and asks EJ to give her a chance.

Gwen tells Leo that he has some nerve acting like he did a favor for her by having an affair with her husband. Gwen calls him a narcissist, gaslighter, and a lying wanker. Leo admits what he said was a little self serving, but he genuinely hopes Gwen could get past this at some point and find somebody who makes her happy. Gwen questions what makes him think she’s not happy. Leo points out the look on her face and her tone. Gwen argues that she’s only like this around him. Leo says despite her seething hatred for him, he’s still sad that she’s stuck in a loveless marriage with a man who is missing. Gwen doesn’t care as long as she has his money. Leo points out that she’s also living where people despise her. Gwen mocks Leo while Leo says he knows her and she seems miserable. Gwen asks why that’s any of his concern. Leo responds that he cares about her and he knows the funny, brilliant, and charming human she is, so he wishes they could be friends again. Gwen states that anyone who could do what he did to her was never her friend to begin with.

Tate brings Holly her chocolate milkshake. Holly says she can’t finish it on her own and invites him to sit down so they can share. Tate says he probably shouldn’t on the clock as he wouldn’t want to get canned on his first day. Holly argues that Roman would never do that to him. Tate says Roman actually has high standards. Holly questions him hiring Sophia then. Tate points out Sophia’s experience from the Bistro and since Doug III and Kate left, he had spots to fill. Holly jokes that she should’ve applied since she could use the cash. Tate jokes that Holly could babysit Rachel’s snake. Sophia comes over and says she’s sorry to interrupt but she could use Tate’s help with the tables so Tate goes back to work.

Steve and Brady research the adoption attorney that Sophia used named Patsy McGowan. Steve reads that it seems like she’s up and up. Brady decides to give her a call and leaves a voicemail that he’s looking for information on an adoption she handled a month ago.

EJ hires Cat and tells her that she starts tomorrow at 8 AM. Cat thanks him and says he has no idea how much she needed this. EJ says he’ll see her at the office and walks away. Cat then pulls out her phone and calls Rafe, saying she has some good news. Cat informs him that she got a job at the hospital, but starting tomorrow, she will be working directly for EJ.

Leo comments on how bad he feels. Gwen tells Leo that their friendship is over. Leo thought since she’s back in Salem, they could put their hurtful past behind them and start fresh. Gwen calls that not possible and says he’s dead wrong if he thought she was back in Salem to smooth things over. Leo questions why she is back then, since her initial reason was to flaunt Alice’s necklace. Leo asks why she’s still in Salem now that Julie has it back. Gwen responds that he’ll find out soon enough and warns Leo to enjoy his happiness while it lasts as she walks away.

Tate tells Sophia that it looks like it’s finally slowed down. Sophia tells Tate that he got pie filling on his face and wipes it off for him until Holly comes over and comments on registering for classes. Tate tells that her if she takes introduction to film, she can be in the same class as him. Sophia points out that she is also taking that class as they talk about the professor suddenly quitting. Tate acknowledges that if Holly takes that class, they will all be in it together.

Steve goes to the hospital and greets Kayla. Steve says he needs to talk to her about a case. Kayla asks what he needs her to do. Steve asks if she ever treated Sophia while she was pregnant. Kayla confirms she did early in her pregnancy but she can’t divulge more than that. Steve explains that Brady has a suspicion that Sophia isn’t being totally upfront with Tate about the adoption and what actually happened with the baby. Kayla asks how. Steve says she’s being cagey and recently referred to the baby as “he”. Steve adds that Sarah was there too and Brady got the impression that she wasn’t saying all she knew. Steve says he’s just trying to help Brady figure out if it’s nothing or something they should look in to. Steve asks if there’s anything Kayla can do.

Brady goes to see Patsy McGowan and says he hopes she can help him.

EJ returns to the living room of the DiMera Mansion and comments on Gwen keeping busy by shopping. EJ offers her a drink which Gwen accepts. Gwen asks how work was. EJ says he finally got his office at the hospital and hired an assistant, Cat Green. Gwen calls Cat her new kind of friend or perhaps her only friend now that Kristen will be sent off to prison. EJ jokingly asks what about him. Gwen says she doesn’t think so.

Cat tells Rafe that they really lucked out as now she’s in the position to watch EJ’s every move and figure out who helped him buy the hospital and why. Cat declares that this job could be the key to solving everything as Chad walks up and asks what job. Cat pretends to be on the phone with her mom and hangs up. Chad apologizes for interrupting but asks about her getting a new job. Cat reveals that she’s going to be working as EJ’s assistant but Chad tells her that she can’t do that. Cat says that EJ said he might react like this but it’s fine. Chad argues that EJ has a way of hurting people even when he doesn’t mean to, so Cat needs to call him right away and change her mind. Cat refuses, saying she needs this job. Chad offers to get her another job and says he’s trying to protect her. Cat says she understands that but she can take care of herself. Chad says he tried to warn her and walks away.

Holly talks about her and Arianna being stoked to move in to their dorm. Tate asks if Sophia is going to live on campus. Sophia says she doesn’t know as she hasn’t really made up her mind yet. Leo then enters the Pub with Tesoro. Holly comments on how cute Tesoro is while Sophia turns away. Tate notices and tells Leo to grab a table and he’ll be with him. Tate tells Sophia to take a break and he’ll handle it. Sophia thanks him and says it’s just hard for her to be around babies right now. Tate says he understands and hugs her as she cries while Holly looks on.

Steve asks Kayla if she found something in Sophia’s records that’s unusual and if he should keep investigating. Kayla responds that she can’t tell him what to do, but he’s always been a man with very good instincts.

Patsy tells Brady that she just got his voicemail and was about to return his call. Brady says he’s sorry for his impatience but he had some pressing questions about an adoption she recently handled because it was his son’s baby. Patsy asks what his son’s name is. Brady tells her Tate Black and Patsy responds by asking who?

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Days Short Recap Monday, September 1, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Marlena and Rachel went to the pub. Rachel was upset. Tate tried to make her smile but it didn’t do any good. When he suggested that they go on an adventure, she was happy. When Rachel left to wash her hands, Marlena said he was good with Rachel. Tate said he could relate to Rachel’s situation since he had a parent in prison. Marlena said he has gone through a lot and was proud of him. Tate said he wasn’t proud of the mess he made with Sophia. He said he thought about his baby all the time and wished he could hold her. Marlena said his feelings were normal and that he would make a great father one day. Brady met with Patsy to talk about his grandchild’s adoption. Patsy said she didn’t recognize Tate’s name. Brady told her everything Tate and Sophia told him about the baby. A phone call interrupted their conversation, Patsy said she would call the person back. After she got off the phone, Patsy said she could explain. She said Tate wasn’t her client and she never met him, but she connected Sophia to the adoptive parents. Brady asked if the child was a boy or a girl. Patsy said the baby was a girl as he was told. Brady said he was verifying the facts since Tate didn’t have a copy of the adoption papers. He asked if he could see a copy of the adoption papers, but she said Sophia had to give permission first.

After Brady was finished with Patsy, he ran into Marlena at the town square. He thanked her for taking Rachel shopping. Marlena showed him a picture frame she got for Rachel and said they could put a picture of Kristen and Rachel together. Brady thought Rachel would love that. He thanked her for being there for them. Cat, Felicity, and Aaron went to play miniature golf. Chad and Thomas showed up. Tate also showed up with Rachel. When Thomas and Rachel went off together, Tate and Aaron reunited with each other. They talked about being roommates at Salem U. Chad and Cat talked about the way he reacted to her taking the job with EJ. He said he was on edge because Jack and Jennifer were coming to town and they weren’t happy about them being friends. Cat suggested they stay away from each other, but Chad thought the universe was pushing them together. Melinda went to see Patsy. Patsy said Brady left her office. Melinda said she was glad that they got their stories straight, Patsy said she was always happy to help someone who saved her life, but she was afraid that they might have another problem, She told Melinda that Brady wanted a copy of the adoption papers and questioned the baby’s gender. Melinda thanked Patsy for letting her know. She said she thought Brady and Tate would have dropped it by now. When Brady and Marlena went home, she told him she was glad that he and Rachel were there with her. While they were talking, she said she wanted to lay down. Brady was concerned about her. When Tate came home, Brady showed him the picture frame Marlena got for Rachel. Tate said he didn’t know that Marlena had that picture. Brady didn’t know what Tate was talking about and looked at the picture. Marlena had a nightmare. She was dressed like the Queen of the Night. Marlena told Stefano that she couldn’t turn her back on her family because they needed her. Brady asked what picture Tate was talking about. Tate said the picture in the frame was a picture of the adoptive parents. Brady said it was the picture that came with the frame.

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