Days Update Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the Kiriakis Mansion, Maggie informs Holly about Doug III stealing the necklace back and returning it to Julie. Maggie says that Julie sounded like they got to a good place. Holly says she’s glad and she wants to hear all about it, but she has to go meet Tate at the Brady Pub. Maggie asks how he’s holding up. Holly says he’s pretty bummed about Sophia giving the baby up for adoption without him getting to meet his baby. Maggie knows they agreed it was for the best, but a decision like that is never easy. Sarah walks in and says especially because Tate wasn’t there. Sarah says she didn’t mean to eavesdrop but she ran in to Brady earlier and he said that Sophia went in to labor while in Chicago. Sarah questions Sophia going to Chicago so close to her due date. Holly explains that she went with her lawyer to meet with the adoptive parents. Holly says it’s good the parents were there but it sucks that Tate didn’t get to meet his baby before the adoption was finalized. Holly says she feels really bad for Tate.

Tate sits at the Brady Pub and texts Sophia, asking if she’s heard from the adoptive parents and if she has any more pictures.

Sophia lays in bed when she gets Tate’s text. She hopes that Tate will let it go for both of them.

Maggie assures that Sophia was just doing what she thought was best for the baby. Holly feels it’s still pretty sad. Sarah invites Holly to join her and Maggie for lunch but Holly says she already has plans. Sarah tells her to have fun. Maggie reminds Holly to text her when she gets there as Holly then exits.

Johnny questions if EJ really had to go after his Grandfather like that. EJ responds that if he’s going to get him out from these charges, he needs to create reasonable doubt by pointing out there’s no shortage of people in town that wish him dead.

Paulina and Chanel have lunch in the town square. Paulina talks about being glad they get to do this when they are normally too busy. Chanel says business was a little slow which is probably good with Johnny’s trial ongoing. Chanel just hopes it’s over soon. Paulina hopes so too as long as EJ doesn’t try to point the blame at Chanel.

Johnny argues that there has to be some way without making someone else look guilty. EJ says they don’t have that reach and they are only casting doubt in the jury’s minds. EJ needs Johnny to trust him to clear his name. Johnny declares that he’s had enough of this place for today and he needs to go see Chanel, so he exits. Belle comments to EJ that it’s really tough on Johnny but she thinks when the trial is over, he will see that EJ did right by him. Belle compliments EJ on doing goo work today. EJ responds that he wishes he could say the same about her and questions what the hell her opening statement was about. EJ asks Belle how she could’ve gone after Johnny like he’s some cold-blooded killer. Belle compares it to how EJ went after Roman. EJ argues that she knows he has to make other possible suspects. Belle remarks that they both have a job to do.

Sarah tells Maggie that she’s sorry she had to cut her vacation short but says Holly and Arianna being kidnapped is a good reason. Sarah guesses they just never stop worrying about their kids and grandkids. Maggie asks how things are going on the custody front with Victoria. Sarah responds that she’ll be happy to know that Xander let her see her and they worked out a shared custody agreement, so Victoria will be home soon. Maggie calls that wonderful news but questions what she isn’t telling her. Sarah responds that they didn’t just make a decision about Victoria’s custody but about their marriage too. Sarah declares that they are going to legally separate.

Amy goes to Sophia’s room and questions her still being in bed at this hour. Sophia tells her to give her a break since she just gave birth. Amy argues that she’s not pregnant anymore so there’s no reason for her to be laying around in bed all day. Sophia calls it recovery while Amy argues that after she gave birth to her, she was back in church that Sunday. Sophia tells her to lay off. Amy questions why she should go easy on her after she went off to Chicago on her own and didn’t tell a soul before giving her grandchild away to strangers. Amy bets Tate is as furious with her as she is.

Holly meets Tate at the Brady Pub. Tate asks how she’s hanging in. Holly assures she’s good. Tate hopes she never has to go through something like that again now that Doug Williams III is gone. Tate is so relieved that she is okay as he doesn’t know what he would’ve done without her.

Amy complains that her and her husband didn’t even get to meet their grandchild or hold her and neither did Tate. Sophia asks what about her. Sophia complains that she’s talking all about what they went through while showing no sympathy for her when she’s the one who carried the baby for nine months and had to give birth. Sophia says it’s hard enough as it is without her constantly berating her for not handling it exactly how she wanted her to. Sophia declares that this is her life so she gets a say in how it goes. Amy sits with her and apologizes, saying she doesn’t mean to make it about herself. Sophia says she could’ve fooled her. Amy says being a parent is like living with your heart outside of you, unprotected, and her heart is now aching knowing that Sophia’s is broken. Amy says that Sophia was so determined to give up the baby so that she and Tate could have a better life and she wouldn’t say she told her so, but the feeling of yearning she has for her child never goes away because it’s exactly how she still feels about Sophia. Amy hugs Sophia as she cries.

Chanel argues that the video of her saying crazy things to EJ doesn’t mean people are going to believe that she shot him. Chanel says if it’s just casting doubt on Belle’s case, then she’s willing to take the hit. Paulina worries that’s not all because the video will put more pressure on Jada to make an arrest. Paulina wants Johnny acquitted too but not if it means Chanel gets railroaded. Johnny then arrives in the town square so Chanel rushes up to hug him and asks how it went in court. Johnny responds that EJ raked Roman over the coals, Belle eviscerated him in her opening statement, but other than that it was smooth sailing.

EJ questions Belle comparing her hit job of an opening statement to him questioning a witness. EJ asks how Belle could be so callous to her own family. Belle argues that she tried to get off the case because she knew how difficult it would be to prosecute her own nephew, but EJ pressured the judge to get her back on the case. Belle asks if EJ wanted a fair trial because that’s what this is. Belle says she’s being watched like a hawk, so she has to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law whether she likes it or not, just like EJ needs to give Johnny the best defense possible.

Chanel suggests they go to the Brady Pub to celebrate and they can worry about the trial tomorrow. Johnny says he can’t keep her from work but Chanel says it was slow today anyway so Johnny says he’s in then. Paulina decides she will sit this one out since she’s next to be called to the witness stand so she worries she would bring down the mood. Paulina tells them to enjoy each other. Johnny guesses he’ll see her tomorrow then. Paulina assures that she’s praying for all of them as they walk away.

Belle tells EJ that she’ll see him in court tomorrow. EJ stops her to apologize and acknowledges that he put her in a horrible position when he knows how much she loves Johnny. EJ admits he shouldn’t have questioned her being loyal to family. Belle says it’s been really hard on all of them, especially Marlena. EJ is sure she’s grateful to have Belle to lean on. EJ wants Belle to know that she can lean on him, but Belle says she can’t until this trial is over as she then exits.

Sarah tells Maggie that sometimes she doesn’t even understand how she and Xander got here as they both went in to their marriage with so much hope for the future, but now she’s trying to wrap her head around paperwork that makes their estrangement legal. Maggie asks how she’s feeling about it. Sarah responds that she’s trying to make peace with it as she knows their marriage couldn’t carry on like that. Sarah admits that part of her feels free.

Holly can’t believe the police took Tate’s money as evidence. Tate says they will pay him back eventually. Holly knows he was saving up for a car. Tate says he would’ve emptied his entire trust fund to save her because that’s how important she is to him. Holly tells him to stop being so nice to her, feeling she doesn’t deserve it because he lost his money because of her and it’s her fault that he missed out on seeing his baby being born.

Sophia tells Amy that she and Tate weren’t ready to be parents and their baby deserves to be raised by people who are. Sophia says she might be a little sad, but the thought of her baby being cared for by people who adore her is helping her heal. Amy calls that the silver lining in all of this, but says she’s worried about Sophia since she’s been holed up in her room. Sophia promises she’ll be fine. Amy notices Sophia is warm and worries that she has a fever and they discharged her from the hospital too soon. Sophia insists that she’ll be fine but Amy feels exhaustion could be a symptom of something more serious. Amy wants to take Sophia to get properly checked out at the hospital but Sophia says no.

Tate tells Holly that it’s not her fault that he wasn’t there when his baby was born. Holly argues that if he wasn’t trying to rescue her and Arianna, he could’ve made it to Chicago. Tate assures that he would not change anything. Holly points out it was his one chance to meet his baby and she knows it must be killing him. Tate says it does kill him but he’ll never regret getting Holly home safe and sound. Tate calls it very complicated as he was always prepared to give the baby up since that was the plan all along. Tate wishes Sophia didn’t finalize the adoption before he got the chance to say goodbye but it was never going to be easy. Tate adds that what made the decision easy is that he was going to watch his baby grow up in Salem which is how it would’ve gone if Johnny didn’t back out of adopting at the last minute. Johnny and Chanel then enter the Pub.

Amy questions what has gotten in to Sophia. Sophia says she already got checked out in Chicago so she’s tired of being poked and prodded. Sophia wants to forget she ever had the baby and move on with her life. Sophia asks if she can’t pretend things are back to normal for awhile longer but Amy tells her that she can’t because she’s still her baby and she won’t let her neglect her health. Amy demands Sophia get ready and meet her outside, declaring they are going to the hospital and that’s final.

Johnny and Chanel greet Tate and Holly. Tate says he hears things went pretty well for Johnny in court at least according to Roman. Johnny supposes that’s true but EJ threw Roman under the bus to help his case. Tate notes that Roman didn’t seem too shook up and says as long as it gets Johnny acquitted, that’s all that matters and he agrees. Johnny thanks Tate and says that’s worth a lot. Johnny adds that Marlena told him that Sophia had the baby. Johnny confirms that they already placed her with adoptive parents which Chanel calls wonderful news. Johnny says they are happy to hear that Holly and Arianna got back in one piece. Chanel can’t believe they were kidnapped and is thankful they are okay. Holly responds that she’s really lucky. Chanel jokes that between that and the trial, she’s surprised Dateline hasn’t done a whole season on Salem. Chanel tells Tate that she’s really happy things worked out for he, Sophia, and the baby. Johnny and Chanel then go to get a table.

EJ goes home to the DiMera Mansion and pours a drink. Susan walks in so EJ goes to hug her but Susan says no hugging until she picks a bone with him.

Belle runs in to Paulina in the town square. Paulina says she already heard all about the trial from Johnny. Belle says that’s not why she needed to see her. Paulina asks if she needs to go over her testimony, but Belle announces she wants to resign and step down as district attorney. Paulina argues that if she let her abandon the case now, it will look like she’s trying to influence the trial. Belle says she will make sure it won’t look like that and complains that it’s been too hard having to prosecute Johnny and deal with EJ. Paulina tells her to let her deal with EJ.

Susan tells EJ that he has disappointed her because he hasn’t kept in touch after she prayed for him to get out of his coma then he woke up and told everyone he turned a new leaf, but guesses the kinder EJ is already gone. EJ argues that he’s using his power to do good in the world and he needs to project strength to protect Johnny from ridiculous attempted murder charges. Susan says he doesn’t have to convince her that Johnny is innocent as she could’ve told him a month ago that Johnny didn’t shoot him and neither did Chanel.

Chanel asks Johnny about the look on Tate’s face when the adoption came up and feels it’s hitting him pretty hard. Johnny acknowledges that Tate probably thought his kid would be staying in Salem. Johnny is surprised Tate could even look at him or speak to him and sometimes he’s surprised Chanel can either. Chanel assures that Tate has forgiven him for backing out of the adoption and she has too. Johnny doesn’t know what he did to deserve her. Chanel says they deserve each other and declares that she won’t rest until she’s in the clear. Tate tells Holly that he made peace with Johnny changing his mind awhile ago. Holly encourages that maybe things worked out for the best since now Johnny is on trial for shooting his own father, so he and Chanel will be focused on clearing his name instead of raising a newborn. Holly remarks that any kid raised under the DiMeras don’t come out unscathed, pointing out that Nicole being married to EJ still messed with her. Tate acknowledges that she’s not totally wrong but he thought things were going to turn out differently. Tate checks his phone, so Holly asks if he’s waiting on a call. Tate responds that he keeps texting Sophia about the baby and she’s not responding, so he’s starting to think she’s avoiding him.

Amy brings Sophia to the hospital. Sophia apologies for wasting Sarah’s time and says her mom was being unreasonable. Sophia asks if she’s fine. Sarah confirms that there’s no infection but notes that her uterus has contracted more than she expected for someone who just gave birth two days ago. Sophia asks if that’s a good thing. Sarah says there is something she needs to ask her. Sarah says that Brady said she gave birth to a little girl, but she knows from the ultrasound that she was expecting a boy. Sarah asks if there’s something she would like to tell her.

Chanel repeats to Johnny that she just wants this to be over and asks what she was thinking by reaching out to Susan for help. Johnny calls that a bit of a stretch but understands her heart was in the right place. Johnny says the only problem is that whatever Susan sees would be inadmissible in court, so the only person who has all the answers is EJ but for some reason he still can’t remember what happened that night.

Susan argues that they both know Chanel didn’t shoot EJ. EJ remarks that she isn’t as sweet as she thinks after the things she said to him that night. Susan says that Chanel may have said some things out of anger but she doesn’t have it in her to do that. EJ says as long as she provides a reasonable alternative to Johnny then he’s done his job. Susan warns EJ that the truth is going to come out about whatever he did to make Johnny look innocent in the eyes of the law and when that truth comes out, it may just do the opposite of setting him free.

Paulina tells Belle that if EJ is giving her trouble, she’ll be more than happy to handle him for her. Belle says she was just venting. Belle admits EJ is going after the people she cares about but he’s just doing it to protect his son. Paulina says if she could get her off the case she would, but that ship has sailed and it’s no longer possible. Paulina declares that one of these days, EJ’s schemes are going to blow up in his face.

Tate tells Holly that he knows Sophia has been through Hell but admits he’s pissed that she left him out of the adoption. Tate asks if that makes him a horrible person. Holly says it doesn’t as it was one of the most important decisions in both of their lives. Holly adds that she can see where Sophia is coming from since she carried the baby and gave birth alone. Holly thinks Sophia just needs time and space, then when she’s ready, she’ll give him the answers he’s looking for.

Sarah tells Sophia that this is a safe space and she can tell her anything. Sophia argues that Sarah can’t say anything to anyone as she knows her rights and her medical information is confidential. Sarah says there are limits to that, so she needs her to tell her the truth. Sarah asks if her baby is safe and what she did with him.

Tate tells Holly that he really appreciates her having Sophia’s back when he knows she’s not her favorite person. Holly believes Sophia has a right to process this on her own terms, but that doesn’t mean Tate has a right to his own feelings too so she’s trying to be fair. Tate says she’s been way more than fair, she’s being really amazing. Tate says that’s one of the reasons he will miss her so much when she goes to France. Tate assures that he’s happy for her but the timing sucks since so much weighed them down last year and now that high school is over and the adoption is finally over, it feels like they are finally back on track but now she has to leave. Holly asks what if she told him that she’s decided not to go to France.

Sarah tells Sophia that if she has reason to believe her baby is in danger, that supersedes confidentiality. Sophia questions her thinking that she hurt her baby. Sarah thinks her story doesn’t add up since her examination indicates that Sophia gave birth much earlier than she said she did and she knows that she’s lying about the sex of the baby. Sophia responds that he’s safe and that’s all she needs to know. Sarah says she needs more than just her word, otherwise she has to report it to the authorities. Sophia then agrees to tell her everything.

Tate tells Holly that she has to go to France because that’s her dream. Holly says she may have exaggerated that. Holly says she applied and the main reason she said yes was to put distance between her and everything going on with he and Sophia. Holly adds that she was worried about Nicole and Eric but Nicole said things are fine between them now. Tate questions if it’s not her dream school. Holly says lots of other schools have great programs including Salem U. Holly adds that Salem U also has something Paris can’t match and that’s Tate. Tate can’t let her stay in Salem just because of him. Holly assures that it’s not because of him, but for herself so she can be close to him. Tate tells Holly how happy she just made him. Holly says she feels the same. Tate says he loves her and Holly says she loves him too as they hold hands. Johnny asks Chanel if she has room for dessert. Chanel responds that what she wants for dessert isn’t on the menu, so she suggests they head home where she can make him forget all about his day in court. Johnny then calls for the check.

Sophia asks Sarah if she won’t say anything now that she knows the baby is safe. Amy enters the room and asks if everything is alright. Sophia confirms there’s no infection. Sarah tells her that Sophia is doing great and just needs to rest for a couple of days. Amy thanks her. Sarah tells Sophia to feel free to come back anytime. Sophia assures that she’ll be fine and thanks her as she then exits with her mom.

Paulina tells Belle that if she wants what’s best for Johnny, she will stay the course and if it tanks her relationship with EJ, that’s just icing on the cake. Paulina argues that Belle is better off without EJ in her life. Belle admits she has a point about Johnny, so she will stay on the case. Paulina knew she would see it her way.

EJ thanks Susan for her advice and says he’ll take it under advisement. Susan tells him not to sass her. EJ says he needs to prepare for another day of court. Susan tells him not to dismiss her either. Susan remarks that some days he sounds just like Stefano. Susan then starts to panic about feeling Stefano’s presence and declares that he’s here.

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Days Update Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Kate goes to the Brady Pub and greets Roman, who is dressed in a suit for court. Roman remarks that he’s going to testify against his own grandson. Kate encourages that he will be fine as she grabs an apron off the counter and begins putting it on. Roman questions what she is doing. Kate responds that she is starting her other job.

Jada gets dressed at home as Stephanie comes in, leaving a voicemail for EJ. Jada questions Stephanie working for EJ and if she’s sure that’s a good idea. Stephanie admits she’s not.

EJ runs in to Chad in the town square. EJ mentions Belle having Chad listed as her first witness. Chad hates that she asked him to testify. EJ tells him to just tell the truth and leave the rest to him. EJ starts to ask for a favor but Chad says he won’t slide the coverage in favor of Johnny. Chad encourages that it will all work out the way it’s supposed to and says he’ll see him at the courthouse as he walks away.

Belle finishes a call outside the courtroom and runs in to Johnny. Johnny says he’ll see her inside but Belle stops him and says whatever happens, she needs him to know that she loves him and believes in him. Johnny appreciates that and knows she’s just doing her job. Johnny then heads inside. EJ arrives and walks past Belle on his way in to the courtroom.

Roman argues that Kate is the editor-in-chief of Titan Publishing so she doesn’t have to bus tables anymore. Kate points out Roman being short staffed. Roman argues that he can manage on his own but Kate says it’s a family business, they are family, and she’s here for him as they kiss.

Stephanie tells Jada that she can’t always choose her clients if she wants to make money. Jada warns Stephanie about what she’s getting herself in to. Stephanie assures that she knows who EJ is and what he’s capable of, adding that part of the reason she took the job was to be a buffer between EJ and Kayla. Jada says that makes sense but she doesn’t like the idea. Jada apologizes for being judgmental. Stephanie understands her being worried and says she has every right to be considering what EJ has done to them and so many other people.

Philip goes to the Brady Pub and tells Kate that he missed her at the office. Kate says she left early so she could be here for Roman since he’s short staffed and he had to be in court. Philip asks how it’s going at Titan Publishing. Kate asks if he’s asking as her son or her boss. Philip remarks that he gets enough of being treated with utter contempt from the rest of his family.

Johnny tells EJ that Susan stopped by to see him earlier and said she knows it in her bones that he’s not the shooter. Johnny wishes they could find out who was the shooter. EJ says they don’t need a psychic as he has a pretty good idea of who it was. Johnny says he already told him there’s no way it was Chanel and warns him not to go there as Belle enters the court room. The judge then enters to resume the trial. She calls for Belle to start with an opening statement. Belle stands and give a speech about upholding the law and declares they are here to find justice as she intends to prove that Johnny, full of anger and rage, was on a mission the night that EJ was shot as he went to his family home not just to confront his father, but to murder him.

Kate tells Philip that she has no problem with him being her boss. Philip says he’s thrilled to be working with his very gifted mother. Philip brings up reading One Stormy Night and calls it a best seller in the making. Kate talks about the author emerging out of nowhere. Philip guesses Anastasia Sands is a pseudonym. Kate calls that not uncommon which is why she can’t tell anyone who they might be, including him. Philip reminds Kate that he is her boss and says she has to tell him.

Jada tells Stephanie that she’ll see her later as she’s heading for court. Stephanie wishes her luck. Jada sees the box on the table from the mail and asks if Stephanie saw it. Stephanie confirms that Alex brought it in and guesses it’s from one of her exes. Jada points out that there’s no return address on it and asks why an ex would send her something. Stephanie doesn’t know and says that if it’s from who she thinks it is, she’d rather pretend she never got it.

Belle says that during the trial, she intends to prove the crime was premeditated and she’s sure they are all wondering why EJ is representing the man accused of shooting him. Belle admits it’s unorthodox and maybe unheard of. Belle says EJ may believe his son is innocent but that’s not what this is. Belle declares that EJ would do anything to protect his family’s name, bringing up what the DiMera name means in Salem. Belle tells the jury not to be fooled in to believing that EJ is here out of the goodness of his heart to protect his son when he’s a DiMera through and through. EJ tries to object but the judge tells Belle to continue, though reminds her that EJ is not the one on trial. Belle continues that EJ will try to paint a contrived picture of his relationship with his son but it’s their job to follow the facts. Belle declares that her job is to prove that Johnny shot his father at point blank range with the intent to kill. Belle then takes her seat as EJ stands to speak next. EJ calls that quite an opening speech from Belle, noting it also was dramatic, deceiving, and misleading. EJ states that Belle accused him of only being there to defend his family name but he’s confident that he’s the best man for the job because he loves his son with his whole heart and more importantly, he knows that he is innocent. EJ says it would all be easier if he could simply remember the details of that horrific night but he doesn’t. EJ adds that Belle forgot to add they have no concrete evidence either with no fingerprints or DNA. EJ says they are making up facts which is the definition of reasonable doubt. EJ calls it reasonable to question their evidence or think someone else might be the shooter. EJ admits that quite a few people in town wanted him dead. EJ brings up that Belle said it was her job to prove the case which is what she will try to do at all costs, even if she knows she has no case.

Jada doesn’t know what Stephanie is afraid of but says the box isn’t going to go away if she ignores it. Stephanie responds that she’d rather not dig up the past. Jada says she gets it after everything that went down with Bobby and Everett. Jada thinks it’s better to be prepared with whatever it is but Stephanie says no and drops the box in the trash can.

Philip continues asking Kate about Anastasia Sands but Kate says he’ll just have to accept that is the author of the novel. Philip remarks that he thinks he knows who it is anyway as there may have been some semi-autobiographical parts of the novel that he recognized which Kate questions. Philip points out that she’s blushing. Kate doesn’t think she wants to hear anymore. Philip guesses that he’s right that Anastasia Sands is Stephanie Johnson. Kate reluctantly admits it but argues that Philip cannot let anyone else know as Stephanie is a very successful PR journalist, who doesn’t want people to know that she’s writing erotic novels on the side. Philip thinks there’s more to it than that.

EJ says he won’t pretend he comes from a family of angels as he’s well aware of how people in town feel about him, specifically that the district attorney and her office has always had it out for the DiMeras but that’s not what this case is about. EJ says it’s about Johnny, his innocent son. EJ asks the jury not to punish Johnny for the sins of his father. Chad takes to the witness stand. Belle asks him to recall the night. Chad says he went to the DiMera home to see EJ and the butler Harold had the night off, so he let himself in. Belle asks how Chad would’ve felt if he lost his brother. Chad admits that he and EJ haven’t always gotten along, but he’s his brother and he loves him so he would’ve been devastated. Belle asks if Chad was aware of Johnny’s strained relationship with EJ. Chad says he knew there were issues. Belle questions if Chad talked to Johnny about EJ after the shooting. Chad confirms that he told Johnny he should go visit EJ in the hospital and he said he didn’t want to go. Belle asks if Chad told Johnny how dire his father’s condition was. Chad confirms that he did. Belle demands to know what Johnny said. Chad admits that Johnny said he didn’t care if his father lived or died. Belle then takes her seat while the judge calls on EJ. EJ asks what Chad can tell them about the state of the house when he walked in that night or if there was anything unusual. Chad remembers the doors in the living room were open to the outside, but there was no sign of the shooter. EJ asks if he saw Johnny anywhere. Chad confirms he did not and as far as he could tell, the only person in the house was EJ and he was afraid it would be the last time he ever saw him.

Kate questions Philip thinking there’s another reason that Stephanie is hiding her identity. Philip says that Stephanie would be the first to tell that she’s made some mistakes, boyfriend wise, himself included. Philip points out that if he could recognize stories in the book, they might too, and that wouldn’t be good for anyone.

Jada takes the witness stand. Belle asks her to explain the ballistics report. Jada explains that it confirmed that the bullet used to shoot EJ came from Roman Brady’s gun. Belle asks where the gun was found. Jada responds that Roman turned it in, himself. Belle points out that Johnny’s grandfather. EJ points out that Johnny’s fingerprints were not found on the gun with no other evidence. Jada tries to argue but EJ says that’s all as the judge reminds her to just answer the question. EJ calls it interesting that Jada started to bring up motive and asks if Jada had motive to want him dead. Belle objects, arguing that Jada is not on trial but the judge allows it. EJ asks again if Jada had a reason to want him dead, perhaps believing he ruined her wedding or got her fired from her job which Jada admits. EJ asks if she ever told anyone that she wished him dead. Jada admits that she did and tries to explain but EJ says that will be all and sits back down. Roman then takes the witness stand. Belle brings up Roman being a police officer for most of his life and says they just heard from Jada that the bullet matched Roman’s pistol and that Roman turned the gun in because he was concerned that someone had taken it. Belle asks Roman to walk them through the events leading up to him realizing the pistol was missing. Roman explains that he was at the Pub, talking with Johnny and he mentioned that he kept a gun behind the bar. Belle asks if Roman had any reason to believe Johnny took his gun or that he knew Johnny was upset with his father. EJ objects, arguing that Roman is being asked his opinion on the defendant’s state of mind. The judge overrules, arguing that Roman would have first hand knowledge of the situation and asks Roman to answer the question. Roman states that Johnny was upset with EJ for something current and something going back many years.

Stephanie runs in to Chad in the town square and asks if he’s alright. Chad informs her that he just testified at Johnny’s trial and it wasn’t great. Stephanie hopes EJ can keep Johnny out of prison. Chad says that EJ is going to fight like hell and he hopes whatever he’s up to doesn’t bring Stephanie down with him. Stephanie guesses he heard about her new job. Chad reminds her that he’s on the hospital board so he hears about all new hires. Chad states that he loves his brother and he cares about Stephanie a lot, but people who are tied to EJ don’t usually end well.

Kate knows Philip has concerns about the book and there’s parts in it that may resemble events from Stephanie’s life, but she’s changed names, is using a pseudonym, and has her to protect her. Kate wishes she had been so lucky, since she wrote a book once about her love affair with Bill Horton while still married to Curtis. Philip didn’t know about this and asks what happened. Kate informs him that Jack found it, tried to publish it, she got it killed at Titan but it all came out again at Curtis’ murder trial. Philip is sorry she had to suffer through that and thinks about how many times he’s screwed up his life. Kate encourages that’s all in the past and to look at what he’s accomplished. Kate calls this his second chance and says he’s got it with the help of Xander.

Belle asks Roman if he ever heard Johnny say he wanted to hurt his father. Roman admits that he did. Belle asks if Roman tried to track Johnny down when he realized his gun was missing. Roman responds that he did, but he was too late as he walked up to the door of the DiMera Mansion when he saw his gun in a planter, so he got a sinking feeling that it might be too late, but before he could investigate, he heard sirens so he figured help was on the way. Roman states that he grabbed the gun to protect Johnny and got the hell out of there. Roman adds that he went back to the Pub and returned the gun to it’s lockbox behind the bar. Belle asks if Roman looked in the gun’s chamber first. Roman confirms he did and that there was a bullet missing. Belle asks what he did then. Roman admits he wiped it down. Belle questions why he took the gun from the DiMera Mansion and why he cleaned it and hid it. Roman admits that he thought Johnny might be the shooter. Belle then takes her seat.

Stephanie appreciates Chad’s concern but assures that she’s not going to let EJ push her around or compromise her values. Chad asks how it’s going with Alex. Stephanie says it’s going well. Chad says he’s happy for her. Chad tells her from experience that when you’re happy in life or a relationship, the past doesn’t matter anymore. Chad encourages her to stop letting it hurt her which Stephanie agrees with.

Philip tells Kate to just ignore Xander. Kate says she plans to but she’s glad she’s in the company in case Xander gets any more ideas, so he’ll have backup. Kate reminds Philip not to forget to keep his friends close and his enemies closer as she resumes working at the Pub.

Stephanie goes home and tells Jada that she wins, so she’s decided to face this head on. Stephanie retrieves the box from the trash and opens it up, learning that it’s a tote bag that she forgot she ordered. Stephanie says now she feels silly. Jada says she pushed her but questions why she was so suspicious about an ex and if he’s been in contact with her. Stephanie guesses she’s had him on the brain because she had to put herself back in that place because of her novel. Stephanie explains that a lot of those events are based on events that happened in the past but she’d like to keep them there.

EJ comments that Roman has a lot of opinions on Johnny’s state of mind on the night of the shooting. EJ argues that as a cop, Roman knows he needs proof. Roman confirms that he did not see Johnny with the gun. EJ brings up Roman once being his father-in-law. EJ asks how Roman felt about him marrying Sami. Belle objects to not being relevant but the judge overrules it and instructs Roman to answer. Roman admits he wasn’t happy about it. EJ asks if Roman ever wished him dead. Roman responds that he didn’t shoot him if that’s what he’s getting at. EJ questions just taking his word for it while Belle objects again. EJ brings up Roman saying he found his own gun at the scene of the crime, took it home, cleaned it, and put it back in his safe box which Roman confirms. EJ adds that Roman claims he did all of that to protect his grandson, but he’s the one who turned it in and is a witness trying to have him convicted. Roman argues that he didn’t want to be here as Belle objects. EJ goes over Roman admitting to being at the mansion and having the means and motive to avenge Sami. Roman cuts him off and asks if he’s serious. EJ states that it was Roman’s gun that shot him, so maybe he was the one that pulled the trigger. Belle objects so EJ withdraws and decides no further questions.

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Days Update Monday, July 28, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi goes to the DiMera Mansion where Tony offers her a drink. Tony asks if she’s given any thought to how she’s going to help him take back DiMera Enterprises. Gabi points out that it hasn’t even been 24 hours so she hasn’t had time to formulate a plan. Tony says he has a blueprint. Tony declares that if in-fighting could take down the DiMeras, maybe it could do the same for the Kiriakis family.

Steve and Kayla sit together to eat in Steve’s office. Kayla talks about how being there reminds her of John. Steve informs Kayla that he’s happy to report that Julie has her necklace back. Kayla calls that amazing and asks how she got it back. Steve guesses it was the power of the Horton spirit.

Gwen walks through the town square and runs in to Julie, shocked to see her wearing the necklace. Julie remarks that it does look better on her than it did on Gwen.

The book “1001 Arabian Nights” lies nearby as Marlena begins to dream about when Stefano made her his Queen of the Night until she suddenly wakes up.

Gwen tells Julie that she knew she stole the necklace from her. Julie denies it and asks how she could steal something that was never Gwen’s in the first place. Gwen questions how it ended up around her neck then. Julie responds that a certain person decided to right an egregious wrong. Julie tells Gwen to go ahead and call the police if she wants to. Gwen decides it’s not worth the trouble. Julie says Gwen only stole it out of spite and calls it misplaced revenge. Gwen tells Julie to enjoy her gaudy necklace for now. Julie asks if that’s a threat. Gwen says those are her words.

Gabi asks if Tony wants to fight fire with fire. Tony comments on burning up family ties. Gabi recalls that Xander and Philip were very much on the same page as co-CEOs at first but not so much now, like one day someone flipped a switch and now they can’t stand the sight of each other. Tony brings up that when Philip was brutally beaten, the police immediately suspected Xander. Gabi notes that Philip said Xander had nothing to do with it, but she’s seen them together and they hate each other. Tony states that something must have happened to turn brother against brother. Gabi guesses nobody knows. Tony feels that somebody must know. Gabi agrees and decides they will have to find out who that is.

Julie warns Gwen that if she comes for her family in any way, she’ll finally get what she deserves. Gwen mocks that she won’t be able to hang an ornament on the Horton family tree. A man named Foster comes over from the nearby bookstore and complains that Gwen has been going on near his store and tells her to get out of here and leave this wonderful lady alone. Gwen warns Julie that she’ll be hearing from her while the man tells her to just leave already. Gwen then walks away. Julie comments that chivalry is not dead and thanks him for coming to her rescue. Foster remarks that it sounds like Gwen’s the one that needs rescuing.

Steve informs Kayla that Doug Williams stole the necklace back from Gwen and gave it to Julie. Kayla says she normally doesn’t condone stealing but since it belonged to Julie, she thinks he did the right thing. Kayla says she should get going as she has a pile of paper work at the hospital. Kayla complains that her office is so hot right now along with the entire hospital. Kayla thinks EJ is trying to save money by putting the air conditioner on minimum and not having fresh fruit and vegetables in the cafeteria. Steve hopes Kayla can make it home at a reasonable hour. Kayla says she’ll do her best. Steve says he’s not one to tell her how to do her job, but he’s worried that she’s running herself into the ground. Kayla responds that she’s fine and that it’s Marlena that she’s worried about with everything going on and now dealing with Johnny’s trial. Steve calls Marlena a strong woman. Kayla agrees but says everyone has their limits. Kayla informs Steve that Marlena fainted at the trial today. Steve questions if she’s alright. Kayla confirms that Sarah checked her out at the hospital and sent her home to rest.

Marlena gets up and picks up the “1001 Arabian Nights” book and finds a note from Belle underneath, saying she had to go back to court while Brady took Rachel out so she could rest in a quiet home and to call if she needs anything. Marlena then gets up and exits the house.

Gabi tells Tony that she’ll let him know if she learns anything about Xander and Philip. Tony is glad she’s on board as he worried that she would back out of their deal. Gabi asks why she would back out. Tony acknowledges that her relationship with his family is complicated. Gabi mentions how badly she wants to be CEO of DiMera Enterprises. Tony brings up that Gabi was hesitant about stabbing Xander in the back. Gabi acknowledges that he was supportive, but business is business and he has what she wants. Gabi then walks out of the room.

Marlena goes to the hospital where Kayla asks if everything is alright after she passed out in court. Marlena confirms that she went home and rest, but says she can’t sleep away the entire day. Kayla asks if she’s experienced any more symptoms. Marlena says no and that she’s completely fine. Marlena says she came to consult with Dr. Fuller on a shared patient. Kayla asks if she can’t just take a few days off but Marlena doesn’t think that’s necessary. Marlena then reveals to Kayla that she is the patient.

Julie goes to the bookstore with Foster, who says he’s missed her the last few months. Julie says she missed this as well but she’s been very busy. Foster says he has a whole list of books to share which Julie calls something to take her mind off Gwen. Foster compliments her necklace. Julie calls it a family heirloom. Julie informs Foster that she’s looking for a gift for a friend. Julie then notices a sign that says the shop is for sale and questions that.

Gwen goes to the DiMera Mansion and takes Tony’s drink for herself, calling it one reason she liked living there. Tony mentions hearing that she moved in. Gwen asks if that will be a problem for him. Tony says not at all and he’s happy that she’s going to stay there which surprises her. Gwen says that Tony is the first person to say something nice to her since she came back to Salem. Tony suggests they take the opportunity to catch up as he has a couple of questions about her time in Alamainia. Gwen asks if the questions are personal. Tony wants to ask about his nephew Dimitri as he finds it strange that after all this time, Dimitri hasn’t tried to divorce her or take back control of his fortune. Gwen doesn’t find it strange and thinks he has other priorities. Gwen states that she is Dimitri’s wife so she is entitled to his fortune. Tony questions if she didn’t happen to hear anything about his brother Stefan.

Gabi goes to see Steve in his office and tells him that she wants to hire him.

Kayla questions Marlena being at the hospital as a patient. Kayla knew she was considering grief counseling but Marlena says this isn’t about grief, but more about feeling a little out of control which Kayla questions. Marlena explains that Sarah suggested passing out and other problems she’s been having are most likely psychogenic, so she just wants a second opinion and to make sure it’s not a problem with her soul.

Julie asks Foster if he’s really selling the book shop. Foster says he’s afraid so. Julie asks if business is not doing well. Foster explains that his kids all live in California while he’s been widowed for a few years now which Julie relates to. Foster says he planned to be alone for the rest of his life with nothing but his books to keep him company, but his daughter was telling him that his grandson is now pitching in Little League and he realized he’s not alone. Foster says nothing was keeping him from being with his family but the bookstore. Foster admits he will miss it, but he’d miss watching his grandkids grow up even more. Foster says he had a good run in Salem. Julie can’t imagine what she’ll do without him and the shop since it’s been her comfort in good times and bad. Foster encourages that she’ll be fine. Julie questions what will happen to the property and what the shop could be changed in to. Foster recalls Julie telling him about an adventurous book club meeting with pot donuts. Julie jokes about him remembering that. Foster says if she knows anyone who would like to take over the shop, he’d be happy to make a deal. Julie agrees to ask around.

Steve asks what Gabi wants to hire him to investigate. Gabi first wants him to promise to keep it confidential which he agrees to. Steve asks what’s going on. Gabi wants him to investigate the heads of Titan-DiMera, but Steve says absolutely not. Gabi questions him turning her down just like that and why he doesn’t want to investigate Xander and Philip. Gabi argues that he’d be exposing some very shady stuff going down. Steve doesn’t doubt that. Gabi states that she knows for a fact they are working very hard to cover something up which Steve questions. Steve says he intends to steer clear of cases that are personal. Gabi calls BS on that and questions Steve being close to the Kiriakis family. Steve brings up his brother in law, nephews, and Stephanie. Steve doubts Stephanie would be happy that he’s investigating her boyfriend’s family. Gabi clarifies that she’s not asking him to investigate Alex. Steve questions why she cares and what’s in it for her.

Kayla asks about Marlena being worried that she’s having a problem with her soul and hopes the Devil is not back. Marlena says not exactly but brings up the time when Stefano would invade her dreams and refer to her as his Queen of the Night. Marlena says she was vulnerable to evil. Kayla calls that a long time ago and says Stefano is dead while she reclaimed her soul with John’s help. Kayla questions her thinking of that. Marlena says she hasn’t forgot what it’s like to feel lost and ill. Kayla asks if she’s feeling that way now. Marlena confirms that she had a dream about being Queen of the Night. Kayla points out that it was just a dream. Marlena explains that Susan had come by earlier and said she could feel that she was ill in her body, mind, and soul.

Gwen tells Tony that she hasn’t heard from Stefan and asks if he’s worried that he will come back for a piece of the DiMera pie. Tony says he wouldn’t be that petty and that Stefan is entitled to his share. Tony adds that he finds it strange that Vivian said Stefan was living it up in Alamainia but Gwen didn’t see him and none of his family have heard from him. Gwen argues that if she was Stefan, she’d stay away too since they didn’t like him anyway. Gwen isn’t sure why Tony cares since he always treated him like an outsider as well as Dimitri, so she thought he’d be thrilled that they are both missing.

Foster asks Julie what kind of book she’s looking for. Julie says she’s looking for a book on grief as a very good friend recently lost her husband and she recalls Foster recommending a very good book when she lost Doug. Foster asks if she doesn’t think that book is good for her. Julie explains that they are different people and it was different circumstances. Foster asks what her friend is like. Julie responds that she’s serious, selfless, and a psychiatrist. Foster suggests a memoir which Julie says is perfect.

Kayla asks Marlena if her dream this morning was like those dreams all those years ago. Marlena says yes, just not as real. Kayla says it can’t be real because Stefano is dead and asks if she wants to tell her about the dream. Marlena mentions that she’s been reading to Rachel every night and they’re at “1001 Arabian Nights” so it was kind of that same scene. Kayla guesses the book just got in her head and prompted the dream. Kayla hopes she didn’t let Susan in to her head. Marlena says they both know that Susan is eccentric and things she comes up with aren’t necessarily based in scientific fact. Marlena guesses her psyche has just taken a beating lately. Kayla is sorry that she’s having to deal with Johnny’s trial on top of everything else. Marlena says she better get to her appointment with Dr. Fuller. Kayla asks if there’s anything she can do to help her. Marlena responds that she’s already doing it. Kayla tells Marlena to find her after her appointment so she can hear how it went. Marlena says she will, thanks her, and walks away.

Gabi tells Steve that all she want is to take Gabi Chic back from Titan-DiMera and since they won’t let her leave, she has no choice but to play hard ball. Steve says there are easier ways. Gabi refuses years of litigation. Gabi knows corporate machinations are hardly his thing but she knows how much he cares about the town. Gabi says it was bad enough when Titan and DiMera were separate. Gabi urges that Steve would be doing Salem a favor by exposing Xander and Philip’s lies. Steve agrees to talk about the terms. Gabi asks if she’s convinced him to take the job. Steve responds that he enjoys a challenge.

Tony tells Gwen that he doesn’t wish ill on his brother or his nephew, but she’s right that they are not particularly missed in this household. Gwen questions why he cares where they are then. Tony supposes it’s his controlling nature and not wanting to be left in the dark. Tony says with all that’s going on in Salem, he’s feeling uneasy about not hearing from them. Gwen asks if it’s out of concern or to gloat. Tony responds that he likes to keep track of his family. Gwen asks if that’s in case one of them decides to stab him in the back. Tony calls that always a valid concern with the DiMeras.

Foster talks to Julie about how a book can transport them to a different time and place and help them empathize with people. Foster adds that books help build connections with other book lovers like her. Foster tells Julie how grateful he is for that. Julie wishes him all the happiness and good fortune that he’s about to embark on his new adventure, adding that he will be sorely missed as they hug.

Marlena returns from her appointment so Kayla asks how it went. Marlena responds that she’s afraid that she’s left with more questions than answers about the dream and this unsettling feeling she’s having. Kayla suggests another session will get the answers she needs but Marlena declares that she doesn’t think she wants the answers.

Steve tells Gabi that she’s got herself a detective. Gabi asks how this is going to work. Steve says he’s already on the clock, so he’ll let her know if he finds anything. Gabi accepts that and exits the office.

Gwen was under the impression that Tony had removed himself from the family business. Tony responds that it his legacy. Gwen asks if he’s trying to get back in. Tony calls that none of her business and exits the room.

Steve gets a call from Kayla and asks if everything is okay. Kayla says she just saw Marlena which got her thinking that she should heed his advice and take the rest of the day off. Kayla suggests they could spend the day together since Steve is his own boss. Steve responds that he just got a new case so he thinks she will beat him home. Kayla says she’ll be waiting for him and tells him not to be too long as they hang up.

Marlena returns home and picks up the 1001 Arabian Nights book but Julie shows up at the door which Marlena calls a nice surprise. Marlena notices that she got her necklace back and says she’s so happy as she asks how that happened. Julie reveals that Douglas Williams III returned it and it’s a very long story for another day. Julie declares that Doug III redeemed himself and then left town. Marlena is glad to hear it and asks what brings her by. Julie says she was walking through town and saw Foster’s Bookstore so she thought some good writing could help her find peace of mind. Julie informs Marlena that she brought two memoirs about facing grief and embracing life again after losing the center of your universe as they both have. Marlena calls that so kind of her. Julie says that Marlena helped her so much on the darkest day of her life and is still helping her. Julie understands how much she has to deal with and says she’s here for her too, so she’s not alone. Marlena responds that she knows Julie understands all too well as they hug.

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Days Update Friday, July 25, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi goes to the Brady Pub and introduces herself to Doug III as Arianna’s mom. Gabi says that Ari told her that he’s leaving town which she thinks is a good idea but warns that he’s not getting off that easy.

Gwen opens the safe in her room and discovers it is now empty. Gwen goes to leave her room when Julie arrives and informs her that she’s suing her for the return of her Grandmother’s necklace. Gwen calls that convenient and argues that Julie knows she can’t give her the necklace because it’s gone.

Brady and Rachel meet Belle at the hospital. Brady asks how Marlena is and if they know why she passed out. Belle says not yet but Marlena is insisting it’s not a big deal. Rachel asks if she’s going to be okay.

Sarah checks Marlena out in a hospital room, noting that her blood pressure is a little high. Marlena responds that she’s stressed and exhausted but these tests checked out just fine last month. Sarah still wants to run a couple of extra tests to be safe.

Chanel and Johnny are at home where Chanel asks if there’s any word on Marlena. Johnny says not yet but he hopes it’s nothing serious. Susan Banks then shows up at their door. Johnny is surprised and asks what she’s doing there. Susan responds that she’s there to make sure he doesn’t go to prison for a crime he didn’t commit.

Doug III tells Gabi how terrible he feels about Arianna getting involved in the situation as that was never his intention. Gabi argues that he made one stupid decision after another, complaining that he did nothing to protect Arianna and nearly got her killed. Doug III repeats that he’s really sorry. Gabi responds that he has a lot to be sorry for. Gabi argues that Roman took him in and gave him a job and this is how he repays him. Doug III agrees that Roman was really good to him and he messed things up badly. He adds that he wanted to apologize to Roman in person but he hasn’t been around, so he wrote him a letter and left his room key which Gabi agrees to make sure he gets.

Julie questions Gwen saying the necklace is gone. Gwen explains that she put the necklace in her safe last night and then this morning, she saw the safe was empty. Gwen accuses Julie of acting and that she’s trying to cover for the fact that she stole the necklace. Julie argues that she’s sure Gwen still has it stashed somewhere to pretend it was stolen because she knew she was coming. Gwen insists she doesn’t have it so Julie questions who does have it. Julie declares that she’s calling the police. Gwen says not if she beats her to it as Julie storms out of the room.

Belle assures Rachel that Marlena will be just fine. Rachel questions why she fainted then. Belle thinks Marlena is just under a lot of stress lately. Brady compares it to when Rachel had an upset stomach and then she felt better. Belle agrees that she has no reason to worry. Brady says they can wait for Marlena if Belle has to get back to court. Belle says the judge called a recess so they don’t have to go back until after lunch. Brady asks how Johnny is doing. Belle says he’s alright. Brady asks about Belle. She says she feels as she expected and just hopes that Johnny will be found innocent.

Susan hugs Johnny and talks about her flight being delayed. Susan reveals that Chanel called and told her the trial was delayed until after lunch. Johnny questions Chanel being in contact with his Grandmother. Chanel reminds him of their conversation about getting in to contact with someone to help them find the real shooter, so she thought who better than Johnny’s own Grandmother who also happens to be a psychic.

Gwen comes out of the Salem Inn and runs in to Doug III in the town square as they pass by each other. Gwen stops and remembers seeing Doug III pretending to be room service at the Salem Inn.

Rachel asks Brady if they can buy something for Tate’s baby from the gift shopt while they wait. Brady agrees that’s a great idea and tells Belle to text him when she knows anything. Belle promises Rachel that everything will be just fine. As Brady and Rachel walk away, Sarah brings Marlena over. Marlena tells Belle that she’s perfectly fine. Sarah says she will call with the rest of the test results and encourages Marlena to get some rest and not skip any more meals. Belle tells Marlena that she will take her home.

Johnny doesn’t know that having Susan using her psychic powers to find out who the real shooter is will work. Susan questions why not. Johnny responds that some people don’t buy in to all that and it will never hold up in court. Chanel argues that it’s a start since the police aren’t looking at any other suspects, so they need to take it in their own hands and think outside the box. Johnny asks if EJ knows about this. Chanel says of course not. Susan can’t believe EJ would think Johnny shot him and says she could’ve told him from the start that it wasn’t him. Susan says she feels things in her bones and declares that Johnny is innocent.

Gwen tries calling in her necklace being stolen but gets put on hold as Gabi approaches and says look what the cat dragged in. Gwen questions if the baby that Gabi has is Leo’s baby. Gabi says no and explains that the baby was abandoned at the fire station where Javi works, so her family is fostering him. Gwen tells the baby to run for the hills because he would not want to be raised here by a bunch of despicable ghouls. Gabi tells Gwen to say whatever she wants about Leo but warns her not to insult her family. Gwen says she’ll restrict it to her then and calls her the ghoul. Gabi says if this is about her stealing Jake from Gwen, it’s not her fault that she couldn’t keep him satisfied. Gwen calls Jake a classless fool who couldn’t keep up with her intelligence. Gwen then brings up Stefan cheating on Gabi with Ava. Gwen asks who would’ve thought her marriage would have a longer shelf life. Gabi questions her boasting about her marriage to a closeted gay man who cheated on her with her best friend. Gwen brings up her husband’s bank account. Gabi remarks that her husband has gone missing. Gwen says she doesn’t miss him as the money keeps her warm. Gabi remarks that she will squander the fortune and finds it funny that Dimitri didn’t track her down to demand his money and a divorce. Gabi asks if Gwen killed Dimitri.

Julie goes home, complaining that Gwen is not going to get away with this. Doug III then shows up at her door. Julie asks what he wants. Doug III informs her that he’s leaving Salem. Julie calls that no concern to her. Doug III says he has a parting gift for her and presents her with the necklace.

Susan says she feels the dark energy and laughs, saying they should see what she just saw. Johnny asks what she saw but Susan says it’s too raw and she needs to let her psychic energy marinate. Susan declares that she has somewhere very important to be right now and quickly exits.

Belle brings Marlena home. Marlena thanks her and assures she’s perfectly fine on her own if Belle has to get back to work. Belle says she wanted to ask her about her hypnosis session with EJ. Marlena says she can’t discuss that. Belle says EJ told her a little about how he can’t remember who shot him. Belle asks Marlena if she thinks it’s just the trauma or if it’s about the identity of the shooter. Marlena responds that she honestly can’t say.

Rachel greets Sarah at the hospital. Sarah informs her and Brady that Belle took Marlena home. Rachel asks if Marlena is going to be okay. Sarah assures there’s nothing to worry about. Rachel shows Sarah the stuffed animal she got for Tate’s baby and adds that the baby was already born. Sarah is surprised and asks when. Brady informs her it was yesterday as she went to Chicago to meet potential adoptive parents and went in to labor. Sarah questions if everything went okay. Brady says it went fine but the problem is Sophia gave the baby to the adoptive parents right away so he and Tate never even got to meet her. Brady comments on Sarah looking surprised. Sarah says she’s still processing that Sophia was out of town when she went in to labor, but she’s glad it went well. Rachel is glad the baby was a girl, joking that they have too many boys in the family. Rachel wonders what they named the baby and comments that she likes the name Mackenzie, not knowing that was the name of the baby that Sarah had lost.

Marlena tells Belle that she doesn’t feel comfortable talking about her session with EJ. Belle apologizes and doesn’t want to add more stress to her life when she has enough to worry about and she’s still grieving John. Belle asks if they talk about that enough with everything going on with Johnny, Arianna, Rachel, and Tate but none of that compares to Marlena losing the love of her life. Marlena calls it a terrible loss for Belle as well. Belle says they are talking about Marlena now and assures what she is going through never leaves her mind. Belle says she doesn’t bring it up because she respects that she’s a stoic person that may not want to open up about it. Marlena agrees that’s what is right for her right now. Marlena states that John was stoic, strong, and brave so she would like to live a life, emulating him. Belle encourages that she’s doing a really good job but wants her to lean on her so she can be there for her. Belle tells Marlena how grateful she is for her and is thankful they have each other as they hug.

Gwen questions Gabi accusing her of murder. Gabi points out that Gwen would not only have killed Dimitri for money, but he also betrayed her in such an egregious manner. Gabi wonders how far Gwen would go for revenge. Susan appears and tells Gabi that she’d like to ask her the same question. Susan talks about some thoughts not going away and asks Gabi if she shot EJ. Gabi tells her to give it a rest already because she did not shoot EJ. Susan brings up that she sensed Gabi was at the DiMera Mansion that night and she denied it like crazy, but then she’s heard since then that Gabi confessed to being there. Gwen jokes that Susan’s really got Gabi’s number. Gabi admits she told a little white lie, but insists that she is innocent. Gabi says based on evidence, the real culprit is either Johnny or Chanel. Susan calls that not true and says she intends to prove it. Susan warns Gabi to pray that she doesn’t find out it was her or she will be in a world of trouble. Susan then walks away. Gwen laughs at Gabi accusing her of murder.

Julie questions where Doug III got the necklace. He admits that he stole it from Gwen’s hotel room because it doesn’t belong to her, it belongs to Julie. Julie says she was just with Gwen and she didn’t believe she didn’t have the necklace but guesses this one time she was telling the truth. Julie remarks that Gwen’s head will explode when she finds out she got it back. Doug III asks if Julie will tell Gwen that he’s the one who stole it. Julie doesn’t think that’s necessary. Doug III repeats that he’s really sorry about everything. He acknowledges that Julie took him in, made him feel so welcome, and showed him so much kindness and love which he hadn’t felt in a long time but he knows he blew it big time, breaking her heart and her trust which he will always regret. Doug III says now he has to get going. Julie stops him and asks him to help her put on the necklace which he agrees to do. He tells her that it looks great on her. Julie says it does make her feel closer to her Grandmother. Doug III talks about one of his most prized possessions being a pair of gold cuff links from his other Grandfather which makes him feel closer to him. Julie goes to a drawer and presents Doug III with a locket that Doug had with him during World War II to bring him luck and says perhaps it will do the same for him. Doug III thanks her and says it’s so kind of her. Julie tells him that when he gets settled where ever he’s going, she will wire him however much money that he ows the loan shark. Doug III questions why she would do that. Julie says until he pays off the debt, he’s in danger and she wouldn’t want him hurt. Doug III doesn’t know what to say. Julie knows it’s what Doug would’ve wanted and he’s his grandson and her family.

Rachel asks Sarah if she made her sad. Sarah claims she just has allergies. Brady sends Rachel to the vending machine to get whatever she wants. Brady tells Sarah that he’s sorry. Sarah understands that Rachel doesn’t know. Brady thinks she may remember that Eric had a baby named Mackenzie. Sarah says maybe deep down, she remembers that used to be her name. Brady calls that possible. Sarah apologizes for getting emotional and blames it on her and Xander deciding to legally separate. Brady says he’s sorry. Sarah says she’s spent far too much time fighting the inevitable, so it’s time to move on.

Susan goes to see Belle, who says she didn’t know she was in town. Susan explains that when she heard Johnny was on trial, she got there as fast as she could and she also wanted to offer her condolences to Marlena. Belle says right now Marlena needs some rest but Marlena comes back in to the room. Susan tells her how sorry she is for her loss as she praises John. Marlena acknowledges that John was very fond of Susan. Susan hugs Marlena and says she can’t believe John is gone. Susan then says she just got a weird vibe from Marlena.

Johnny tells Chanel that when they talked about getting outside help to find out EJ’s shooter, he thought maybe they would hire a private investigator. Chanel says that’s still an option but encourages that Susan loves him and will do whatever it takes to find the truth. Johnny argues that he’s sure she will but she can’t just look in to a crystal ball and figure it out because it’s not that easy. Chanel points out that they are desperate as his trial starts in a matter of hours. Johnny agrees that they are sort of desperate and admits it can’t hurt to see what kind of vibes Susan gets.

Marlena questions Susan getting strange vibes. Susan calls it very peculiar as she senses that Marlena is not well and that there’s trouble residing in her mind, body, and soul. Marlena asks what kind of trouble. Belle thinks it’s time for Susan to go. Susan argues that she just got there. Belle warns Susan that she might get a parking ticket. Susan says her goodbyes to Marlena as Belle hurries Susan out the door.

Doug III promises Julie that he will find a way to pay her back. Julie says he doesn’t have to as she doesn’t need the money, just for him to stay out of trouble. Doug III knows he hurt a lot of people but promises to make changes so he doesn’t keep making the same mistakes which Julie is glad to hear. Doug III decides he should get going. Julie reminds him to keep in touch about the money. Doug III says he will check in to see how she’s doing and thanks her again for everything. Julie tells Doug III that he has a great deal of potential so he just has to get his life together. Julie asks him to come back to Salem when he does to show her well he’s doing. Doug III promises to do that as he then exits.

Gwen asks Gabi what her motive was for shooting EJ. Gabi responds that she didn’t shoot EJ and not that it’s her business, she was very upset with EJ for kidnapping her brother and replacing him with a doppelganger. Gabi adds that EJ is also the reason that her marriage to Stefan went up in flames. Gwen asks how so but Gabi refuses to tell. Gwen guesses it must have been pretty awful for Stefan to dump her and go running to his mom. Gabi asks if Gwen didn’t run in to him while she was there. Gwen asks if she’s still holding a torch for him. Gwen says no and that Tony said he and Anna reached out to him but never heard back, so she was curious. Gwen guesses Dimitri isn’t the only one who has gone missing then. Gwen tells Gabi to give her regards to her family. Gabi tells Gwen to go to Hell as she walks away.

Johnny tells Chanel that he doesn’t have enough time to get back to work before he’s due in court again. Chanel says she has an idea and kisses him. Johnny likes that idea so they head to their room.

Sarah tells Brady that she should’ve broke things off with Xander the moment she found out that he tried to hurt Brady, but she was so in love that she ignored all the obvious red flags. Brady feels she’s being way too hard on herself. Sarah says she’ll do everyone a favor and quit talking about her failed marriage. Brady says he’s been there, done that so if she wants to vent, he’s here because he won’t make any judgments. Sarah thinks it’s just that Victoria is staying with Xander right now so she has all the time alone to think and wallow. Brady suggests she come to dinner with he and Rachel as a distraction. Sarah admits she would like that as Rachel comes back to say bye to Sarah. Rachel and Brady then exit the hospital. Sarah goes to her charts and confirms that Sophia’s baby was definitely not a girl.

Belle returns from walking Susan out and finds Marlena has fallen asleep on the couch. Belle puts a blanket over her and quietly heads to her room. The book “1001 Arabian Nights” lies nearby as Marlena begins to dream about when Stefano made her his Queen of the Night.

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Days Update Thursday, July 24, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Brady reveals to Belle and Marlena that Sophia had her baby and already gave it up for adoption, explaining that she had a new lawyer and went to Chicago where she went in to labor which shocks Belle and Marlena. Marlena says that must have been so difficult for her. Marlena asks how Tate is. Brady says he’s overwhelmed, explaining that Tate went out to rescue Holly and Arianna then found out that Sophia went in to labor and the baby was gone. Belle says it all happened so fast. Marlena questions the adoptive parents taking the baby so quick. Brady explains that Sophia thought it was for the best and admits she’s probably right. Brady says he feels bad for Tate because he did want to hold his daughter just once. Marlena says it’s been such a rollercoaster ride for Tate. Belle says not just for him. Marlena brings up Johnny going on trial but Rachel comes in and asks Marlena to read her a story. Brady says that’s going to have to wait, reminding Rachel that she lost her goggles so they have to go to the DiMera Mansion to get the other pair. Rachel asks if Brady can’t just go. Brady reminds her that they working on being responsible, so he exits with Rachel. Belle calls it lovely that Marlena is reading with Rachel every night. Marlena thought it would take her mind off the fact that she might have to testify against Johnny in court. Belle agrees that it wouldn’t be any easier in a room full of people.

At the Brady Pub, Abe finishes a call with Theo and then sits down with Paulina. Abe points out that Paulina has hardly touched her breakfast. Paulina responds that she can’t eat when she’s about to be called to the witness stand. Abe knows she’s nervous about Johnny’s trial. Paulina complains about the thought of sending an innocent man to prison for attempted murder. Abe questions her believing now that Johnny is innocent now. Paulina confirms that she had her doubts, but not anymore after seeing him at the police station, hearing his voice, and looking in his eyes, she’s sure that he didn’t do it. Paulina worries about Chanel being a suspect too because of the memory card that just happened to land in Belle’s lap right before the trial. Paulina reminds Abe that she saw the video of Chanel in EJ’s face, saying he wouldn’t live long enough to hurt anyone else that she loves. Abe points out that Chanel said she didn’t recall that. Paulina assures that Chanel certainly didn’t go back to shoot EJ. Paulina knows she will be questioned about the video in court while Belle will ask her about the evidence to make Johnny look guilty. Abe argues that circumstantial evidence proves nothing. Paulina calls the whole situation horrible for Johnny and Chanel, so she would never forgive herself if she made it worse. Abe reminds Paulina that it’s her duty to tell the truth. Abe encourages her that whatever happens, they are in this together. Paulina thanks Abe for always being the voice of reason. Abe encourages her to eat. Paulina decides maybe changing the subject will help and asks him how Theo is. Abe responds that he’s not good.

Gwen goes to the DiMera Mansion with her bags packed, questioning where the staff is to help her with her luggage.

EJ goes to see Belle and Marlena. EJ declares that the sooner Marlena hypnotizes him, the sooner he can remember who shot him. EJ thanks Marlena for doing this for him. Marlena is quick to remind him that she’s not really doing it for him.

Chanel helps Johnny with his tie as they prepare for his first day of trial. Chanel worries about Johnny not getting any sleep. Johnny assures that he’ll be fine and have coffee on the way. Chanel points out that it’s a big day and asks how he’s feeling. Johnny admits he’s scared.

Paulina asks Abe what’s wrong with Theo. Abe responds that he’s fine but reveals that he and Claire broke up. Paulina asks what happened. Abe says he’s not sure as Theo didn’t want to get in to it. Paulina says that’s too bad as she thought they were in it for the long haul. Paulina says break ups are awful but encourages that you heal in time and if you’re lucky, you find love.

Brady and Rachel run in to Gwen at the DiMera Mansion. Gwen says it’s lovely to see them. Rachel questions what she’s doing there. Gwen reveals that she’s moving in and asks if Kristen hadn’t told her. Rachel says no because she hasn’t been there as she’s been at Brady’s house. Brady sends Rachel upstairs to get her goggles. Gwen asks Brady about Kristen letting Rachel stay with him.

Chanel understands Johnny is scared but she promises him everything will be okay. Johnny question how she can say that. Johnny worries that once the jury sees the evidence against him, they will definitely vote guilty. Johnny goes over how he took Roman’s gun, multiple witnesses can place him at the scene of the crime and he pointed the gun at EJ, saying he wanted him dead. Chanel argues that may have been his intention but he didn’t go through with it. Johnny argues that there was a bullet missing from the gun. Chanel says it’s not because he used it or pulled the trigger. Johnny complains that he practically shouted from the rooftops that he wanted EJ dead. Chanel argues that half of Salem wanted that too. Johnny talks about how people warned him not to be talking about wanting EJ dead but he did it like an idiot. Chanel understands he was enraged after finding out what EJ did to Sami. Johnny admits he didn’t have to go so far as to get a gun. Chanel points out that he stopped himself and that’s what matters. Johnny questions if it is or when Belle lays out the evidence, it will look like he shot his dad. Chanel argues that what it looks like doesn’t make him guilty and he’s innocent. Johnny complains that it’s the middle of summer so the jury aren’t going to want to sit through a long trial, they’ll want to get it done quick. Chanel thinks he should give them more credit. Johnny questions what if he still gets convicted.

Marlena reminds EJ that she’s doing this for Johnny because if EJ remembers who shot him, they can clear Johnny’s name. EJ says they have the same goal then. EJ wishes he did this sooner. Belle asks why he didn’t. EJ admits he was scared that he would remember it was Johnny that shot him. Marlena asks if he doesn’t think that now. EJ states that Johnny said he didn’t shoot him and he believes him. Belle brings up that whatever he remembers under hypnosis may not be admissible in court. EJ is confident that he will remember and says they will work backwards from there to find evidence they can use. Marlena goes to get her notebook. Belle notes that EJ seems optimistic and asks if he really thinks hypnosis will work. They acknowledge that if it doesn’t, that means they will be going to war with each other in court.

Abe tells Paulina that they better get going to court. Paulina stops to ask Abe what he thinks Johnny’s chances are. Abe responds that all the evidence against him is circumstantial, but admits he has seen cases where people have been convicted for a lot less. Abe adds that he’s also seen cases he thought were a slam dunk but the jury voted to acquit. Abe says they can be sure that EJ will be fighting for his son’s future. Paulina declares that EJ will put on the fiercest defense of his life.

Belle reminds EJ that they need to put distance between themselves in public with the trial starting. Belle declares that it’s for Johnny and until this is over, they cannot be seen together. EJ argues that there’s nothing wrong with opposing attorneys being romantic partners. Belle feels it’s not a good look for them. EJ suggests secret meetings but Belle talks about how much scrutiny they will be under with EJ defending his son and her prosecuting her nephew. EJ reminds Belle that the judge insisted on having her on this case and ruled that Johnny could choose him to defend him. Belle questions the victim being the defense which EJ calls innovative while Belle feels it’s suspicious. Belle worries about if it got out that they were together, it would just add fuel to the fire. EJ questions being forbidden from sneaking her in to his house. EJ guesses they’ll just have to take advantage of every moment that they can. EJ then kisses Belle until Marlena returns to the room to ask EJ if he’s ready. EJ confirms that he is so Marlena asks Belle to excuse them. Belle wishes EJ luck and exits. Marlena sits with EJ to begin his hypnosis.

Brady informs Gwen that he and Kristen agreed that it would be best if Rachel stayed with him during the trial since there’s a lot going on at the DiMera Mansion. Gwen recalls Kristen saying it was like a powder keg ready to explode. Gwen remarks that Johnny shot his father and now EJ is defending him. Gwen says with all the drama she’s been involved in, she’s so glad to not be involved in this mess as it doesn’t seem like it would end well for anyone.

Belle walks through the town square on the phone with Claire, telling her that she’s so sorry about her and Theo not working out. Belle says she wishes she could come visit with Shawn but she can’t get away. Belle tells Claire to call anytime she needs to talk and she loves her as they hang up.

Chanel tells Johnny that she’s no lawyer but she’s had enough brushes with the law to know that all the evidence against him is circumstantial. Johnny says it doesn’t make a difference. Johnny reminds her of a documentary they watched and they were helping people wrongly convicted but they are still sitting in prison. Chanel encourages that Johnny has something they didn’t and that’s EJ DiMera as his lawyer. Johnny hopes it’s enough. Johnny worries that if he’s convicted, he’s looking at a maximum sentence of 80 years. Chanel insists that EJ will do whatever it takes to clear his name, including pointing the finger at her. Johnny says no way. Chanel says they went over this, reminding him that the police have a video of threatening EJ on the night he was shot. Johnny points out that she doesn’t even remember that. Chanel complains that it wouldn’t stop EJ from using it in court. Johnny argues that he knows Chanel loves him and there’s no way she would let him take the fall for a crime she committed because it doesn’t make sense. Chanel brings up that Jada told her not to leave town and Paulina is hiring Justin to represent her. Johnny states that she did nothing wrong. Chanel says they know that, but when EJ gets him acquitted, Belle is coming after her next. Johnny declares there is no way in Hell that he will let her get railroaded. Johnny wishes that EJ could just remember who shot him so this would all go away. Chanel says they can’t wait around for a miracle and they have to figure it out themselves. Johnny agrees that it’s up to them to find a way to prove they are both innocent. Chanel notes that her mom always says the truth will come out, but in this case they are going to have to make it come out.

Rachel comes back downstairs with a backpack full of other things that she remembered she wanted to take. Gwen asks if she has any messages for Kristen. Rachel questions why. Gwen reminds her that she’s a good friend of Kristen’s. Rachel says she remembers and that Gwen beat her at chess, but she’s better now. Gwen says they will have to rematch. Brady comments that with everything going on, he’s surprised EJ let Gwen move in. Gwen questions why since there’s plenty of room and she is a DiMera. Brady assumes EJ just welcomed her with open arms then. Gwen remarks that she honestly doubts EJ even notices she’s there and he’s probably got a lot more important things on his mind.

Under hypnosis, EJ says “you don’t want to do this” but tells Marlena that he doesn’t know who he is talking to and he can’t tell who it is, despite looking straight at them. EJ gets frustrated but Marlena encourages that he’s doing great. Marlena decides to bring him out of the hypnosis. Marlena then asks what he saw. EJ says he was looking at someone but he couldn’t see who they were. Marlena questions him not knowing even now. EJ confirms that he doesn’t and questions why he couldn’t tell who it was. EJ asks if it was because it was Johnny.

Paulina and Abe approach Belle in the town square. Paulina assumes they are all on their way to court. Belle confirms so and mentions that she just talked to Claire. Abe says he’s so sorry to hear about Claire and Theo breaking up. Belle says Claire was too upset to share the details and she wishes she could make their pain go away. Belle adds that all they can do is be there for their children. Paulina says just like they have to be there for Johnny and Chanel. Paulina hates that they have to go through this.

Chanel knows she said they should leave the investigating to the police, but now that they have the video, it seems like they are done and if it’s not Johnny, it’s her. Johnny declares that there is no way he will let her go down for it and repeats that he would confess to shooting EJ before letting her go down for it. Chanel notes that Paulina told her that he told her the same thing. Johnny says that he and Paulina both love Chanel. Chanel declares that neither of them shot EJ so neither of them are going down for it. Johnny responds that someone has to go down and the cops aren’t looking for anyone else while EJ may never remember who shot him. Chanel decides they need to find someone who will remember for him.

Gwen says she’s going back to the Salem Inn for the rest of her things to move on and tells Rachel that they can rematch in chess soon. Gwen then exits the mansion. Rachel asks Brady if they can go now too. Brady reminds her that Harold made her cookies but Rachel complains that she doesn’t want cookies and just wants to go.

Johnny and Chanel meet Abe and Paulina outside of the courthouse. Johnny thanks them for coming and says it means a lot. Paulina wishes she and Chanel could go in with him but witnesses aren’t allowed in until called to testify. Johnny says he feels a lot better just knowing they are there. Abe says he’ll be inside and will bring support from all three of them.

Belle sits inside the courthouse and checks her phone, looking over at EJ not being there yet. Belle calls EJ and leaves a message that the trial’s about to start and he’s not here. Belle asks what happened with Marlena and if he remembered something.

EJ is frustrated asking why he couldn’t remember who he was talking to when he was shot. Marlena notes that he’s obviously very disturbed by these memories. EJ complains that he thought the point of this was to access those memories. Marlena reminds him that there are no guarantees. EJ asks if she’s saying they failed and this was a total waste of time. Marlena says not at all and that they just had a goal. EJ asks what it means that they couldn’t do it. Marlena says it just means his memories are still blocked. EJ guesses he must be still worried that his memories could harm him and wonders how else his memories could harm him. Marlena advises him not to jump to conclusions on this. Marlena reminds him that she asked Johnny and he said he didn’t shoot him and they both believe him. EJ questions why he can’t see who it was then. Marlena thinks the memories are blocked from him as maybe his mind is still protecting him. EJ hoped it would work so he could exonerate Johnny. Marlena encourages that maybe he still can. Marlena adds that she’s willing to do this again if he is. EJ questions if she thinks that could work. Marlena says she wouldn’t offer if she didn’t believe that. EJ says he’s due in court, but he wishes he wasn’t. Marlena tells him not to be discouraged and that hypnosis can take some time. Marlena says whatever trauma he suffered is buried deep in his subconscious and they just have to find a way to unlock that and release those memories.

Brady asks Rachel what is going on and why she’s so upset. Rachel cries about being where she saw Johnny standing with the gun. Brady is sorry she had to see that but says it was very brave of her to tell Jada and Belle. Rachel cries that Belle said she had to tell it all again in court and brings up that Johnny’s trial is today. Brady says that trials can last days so he doesn’t know when her turn will come. Rachel cries that she doesn’t want to send Johnny to jail. Brady hugs her and says he’s so sorry that she has to go through this. Rachel hopes that Belle finds out who really did it.

EJ arrives in court. Belle asks if he had any luck. EJ responds that he didn’t remember a damn thing. Belle says she’s so sorry. EJ explains that Marlena said he’s blocking something out that’s too traumatic to remember. Belle thinks being shot in his own home could be enough. EJ says he’s been shot before but this just feels different since so much time has passed and he still can’t remember. EJ admits that while he was under, he recalled asking someone to hand him the gun but he couldn’t make out who it was and that apparently suggests that simply being shot wasn’t the most traumatic part of what happened that night. EJ wonders what could be worse, so he asked Marlena if it was possible that the shooter really was Johnny but she urged him not to jump to conclusions and said it’s entirely possible to be another reason. Belle believes Marlena. EJ states that he just wants answers to help his son. Belle says he can’t just skip past experiencing something so traumatic and some things can’t be rushed, pointing out that he almost died. Belle asks where they left it. EJ responds that Marlena wants to try again so they scheduld another session and God willing, she helps him recall what really happened that night.

Marlena goes to the courthouse and hugs Johnny, asking how he’s holding up. Johnny guesses he’s doing as well as could be expected. Marlena encourages that they are there for him, they believe in him and love him so much. EJ comes out from the court room to tell Johnny that it’s time, so he heads inside. The judge orders the jury to be called in, so Marlena and Abe enter but Marlena staggers and then passes out in Abe’s arms.

Brady brings Rachel home and tells her to get her bag so they can get her to camp. Rachel wants Marlena to read to her first but Brady says that’s not going to happen because Marlena is at Johnny’s trial. Brady suggests changing plans and going to see a movie instead. Rachel asks what about camp. Brady decides she can skip a day to hang out with her dad which Rachel excitedly agrees to. Brady sends her to go put her bag away in her room. Brady then gets a call from Belle, who informs him that Marlena just collapsed in court.

Gwen packs the rest of her bags at the Salem Inn and says that should be everything. Gwen then looks at the safe in her room and thinks back to placing the necklace in there. Gwen then opens the safe and discovers it’s now empty.

Belle tries to wake Marlena up as EJ, Johnny, and Abe look on.

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Days Short Recap Monday, July 28, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Gabi went to the DiMera mansion to meet with Tony. He wanted to know if she had a plan to get the company back. Gabi said she didn’t have one. Tony said he had a plan. He said to cause fighting within the Kiriakis family. Gabi said she noticed that there was tension between Xander and Philip, but she didn’t know why they were fighting. Tony said someone might know why. She said she liked the plan. He said he was glad she was willing to go along with the plan since she didn’t want to turn on Xander at first. Gabi said business was business and walked out. Kayla went to see Steve at Black Patch. She said she was distracted thinking about John. He said he knew what she meant. Steve told her that Julie got her necklace back. He told her how Julie got the necklace back. Kayla said she didn’t like the idea of Doug stealing, but he did the right thing. While they were talking, Kayla told Steve about Marlena fainting in court. After Kayla left, Gabi showed up to hire Steve to investigate Xander and Philip. Steve refused to take the case. He believed they were shady, but he stayed away from personal cases. Gabi didn’t believe him. Steve said his brother-in-law and nephews were Kiriakises and Stephanie was dating Alex and had a past with Philip. He asked what was in it for Gabi. She said Xander and Philip wouldn’t let her take Gabi Chic so she had to play hardball. After some convincing, Steve changed his mind and said he would take the case.

Marlena went to work. Kayla was surprised to see her. Marlena said she didn’t have any symptoms and was there to consult with Dr. Fuller on a patient. Kayla asked her to wait a few days, but Marlena said she was that patient. Marlena said what was wrong with her wasn’t physical. She thought it had to do with her soul. Kayla asked if she was possessed again. Marlena said she wasn’t. She said there was a time when Stefano used to invade her dreams and would refer to her as his Queen of the Night. Marlena said that left her vulnerable for possession. Kayla said that was a long time ago. Marlena said she hadn’t forgotten how that felt and let her know she had a dream about being the Queen of the Night. She said Susan’s premonition had her worried too. Kayla said Stefano was dead. Marlena knew he was gone. She told her what happened when she read Rachel a story from Arabian Nights and the dream was similar. Kayla said that the story and stress was why she had the dream. Marlena said it could explain the dream. She left for her appointment and would let Kayla know what happened. While Gwen was moving her things, Julie showed up to show off the necklace. Gwen accused her of stealing the necklace. Julie said she couldn’t steal something that was hers. She told Gwen to call the police and file a report. Gwen told her to enjoy the necklace for now. Julie told her that she better not be threatening her. She warned Gwen that she would get what was coming to her if she ever showed up at the house. While they were arguing a man showed up and yelled at Gwen. When Gwen left, Julie thanked Foster. He said he missed her and she said the same thing. They talked about the necklace and his bookstore. Foster told her he was selling the bookstore to be with his family in California. He said he would miss the store, but he missed his family more. Marlena told Kayla about the appointment. She said she had more questions than answers. Marlena said she couldn’t shake the unsettling feeling. She said she didn’t know if she wanted the answers.

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Days Short Recap Friday, July 25, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Gabi found Doug and gave him a piece of her mind. He tried to stop her by apologizing for what happened. Gabi refused to let him off the hook. She called him out for betraying Arianna and Roman. Doug knew what he did. He wrote a letter for Roman and asked Gabi to give it to him. When he pulled it out the necklace came out with it. Chanel wondered if Johnny heard anything about Marlena. He didn’t hear anything yet. Susan arrived at their place. She hugged Johnny and let him know that she was there to make sure that he didn’t go to prison for a crime he didn’t commit. Chanel admitted that she called Susan to help them find out who shot EJ. Johnny wasn’t sure if it was a good idea because everyone didn’t believe in psychic powers, and it’s useless in court. Chanel felt like it was a start. Susan thought they would figure it out. She knew Johnny was innocent from the beginning. Susan began to work her magic leaving Chanel and Johnny confused. Johnny thought they could hire a private investigator and not rely on his grandmother’s psychic powers. Chanel told him they were desperate, and they were out of time. Johnny finally gave in and allowed Susan to figure it out. Gwen was shocked to find out that the necklace was gone. She tried to leave when Julie showed up. Julie served her with legal papers. She let Gwen know that she was being sued. Gwen told her that she couldn’t have the necklace because it’s gone. Julie wanted to know what she meant by that. Gwen accused her of stealing the necklace and used it to cover her tracks. Julie told her that she didn’t have it and wondered who did. She stormed out of the place, and they both threatened to call the police. Gwen left her room and ran into Doug. She put it together and realized that he was the one who took the necklace. Gwen ran into Gabi at the town square. They started arguing about Gabi stealing Jake from her, and Stefan cheating on Gabi. Gabi reminded her about Dimitri cheating on her. Gwen was thankful that she got Dimitri’s money. Gabi wondered if Gwen killed Dimitri. Susan showed up while they argued. She asked Gabi if she shot her son. Susan remembered seeing that Gabi was at EJ’s place the night he was shot, and she confessed to being there. Gwen enjoyed watching them talk. Susan warned Gabi that if she was responsible for EJ’s shooting, then she would be in trouble. She stormed off. Gwen thought it was funny that Gabi was accused of the shooting when she asked her if her if she killed Dimitri.

Julie was upset when Doug arrived. She demanded to know what he wanted. He told her that he was leaving Salem, but Julie didn’t care about it. Doug pulled out the necklace, and she changed her tune. She wanted to know where he got it. He said he stole it. It belonged to Julie and not Gwen. Julie knew Gwen would go ballistic once she found out the necklace was gone. She wasn’t going to tell Gwen that Doug stole it. He apologized to her again. Doug would regret throwing the love that she gave him in her face. He was about to walk away when she asked him to put the necklace on her. Doug put the necklace on her and let her look at it. Wearing it made Julie feel closer to her mother and grandmother. Julie wanted to give him Doug’s pocket watch. He thanked her for the gift. Julie offered to wire him the rest of the money he owed the loan shark once he got settled. His grandfather would want her to help him. Doug promised to pay her back. Julie just wanted him to stay out of trouble. He promised to stay out of trouble and start a new life. Sarah checked on Marlena. She told her that her blood pressure was high. Sarah wanted to run more tests. Marlena told her that she was stressed and tired. Marlena assured Belle that she was feeling okay and that they ran more tests. Sarah would tell her the results when they were done so they headed home. Rachel and Brady were at the hospital to find out about Marlena. They missed her because she left. Rachel showed Sarah the stuffed animal she got. They told Sarah that Sophia had the baby. Brady told her that they baby was fine, but she was gone. Sarah was surprised to find out that Sophia had a girl and had her out of town. Belle and Marlena arrived at the townhouse and talked about EJ’s session. She wondered if EJ was experiencing trauma or if the identity of the shooter was why he blocked it out. Marlena couldn’t say either way. She wasn’t comfortable talking about it with her. Belle didn’t want to press the issue. They talked about their loss of John. Susan arrived at the townhouse to see Marlena. She offered her condolences to Marlena. They hugged each other, but Susan felt uneasy after she did it. She told Marlena that she got a weird vibe from her. Susan said that there was trouble in the body, mind and soul. Marlena wondered what trouble she meant. Belle said it was time for her to go. After Brady left, Sarah decided to check Sophia’s chart. She knew she was right. Sophia was pregnant with a boy. Belle came back inside and saw her mother asleep on the couch. She was relieved. Marlena was dreaming about being the Queen of the Night.

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Days Update Wednesday, July 23, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Xander plays with Victoria in his office until Sarah arrives, watching from the doorway with a smile.

Arianna is home and comments on how much she missed Tesoro while she was gone. Gabi says not as much as she missed her as they hug. Gabi says she has no idea how relieved she is to have her home safe, though she still thinks the hospital should’ve kept her overnight. Arianna assures that she’s fine, but also angry not just at Doug III but at herself. Arianna remarks that she never should’ve got involved with that loser or lied to Gabi about it. Arianna tells Gabi to go ahead and say she told her so. Gabi says all she wants to say to her is that she loves her as they hug.

Holly goes to the Brady Pub where Doug III rushes up to hug her. He says he wanted to come see her as soon as he heard she was rescued, but he wasn’t sure she’d want to see him. Holly asks if he means because her kidnapping was his fault.

Tate asks Sophia where the baby is. Sophia responds that she’s gone. Tate asks what she means and if she didn’t make it. Sophia clarifies that the baby is alive and she shouldn’t have said it like that. Brady comes in and asks how Sophia is feeling. Sophia says she’s good overall. Brady asks if the baby is with her parents right now. Sophia responds that she was just about to explain to Tate that the adoptive parents were with her when she gave birth and they wanted to take her home right away, so she let them, leaving Brady and Tate shocked.

Sarah tells Xander that she knows she didn’t tell him she was coming and she’s not there to take Victoria from him, she just really needed to see her. Xander understands and says she doesn’t need to explain as he hands Victoria to her.

Arianna puts Tesoro to sleep. Gabi then asks what she wants for dinner and offers to make whatever she wants. Arianna asks if they can eat later because there’s something she needs to do first. Gabi guesses she wants to give Doug Williams a piece of her mind. Arianna asks how she knew. Gabi responds that they are a lot more alike than she thinks. Arianna asks if it’s okay that she sees him. Gabi says absolutely, but she’s coming with her because she has a few things to say to him too.

Holly argues that Doug III should’ve told them that the loan sharks were after him again because if they knew they were following them, they could’ve had their guard up. Doug III agrees that he was stupid and thought maybe he could push them away. Holly says it was too little, too late and adds that they don’t appreciate that Doug III tried keeping she and Arianna a secret from each other. Holly asks Doug III to tell the truth for once. Doug III informs Holly that he really likes Arianna but admits that he was only with her because he couldn’t be with Holly.

Tate gets furious as he questions Sophia giving their baby away without telling him, complaining that he didn’t even get to meet the lawyer or the parents. Brady asks Sophia what happened so they can better understand. Sophia claims she went in to labor while meeting the parents and they all just thought it was a sign of how it was meant to be. Sophia says she didn’t even get to hold the baby and she couldn’t. Tate cries that he didn’t even get that chance because she took that from him. Sophia says she’s sorry and didn’t know it meant that much to him. Brady points out that nothing is set in stone as there is paperwork for Tate to sign. Sophia says she brought it with her and her lawyer said it’s all standard. Sophia asks if he wants to look it over but Tate refuses, declaring he’s not signing anything.

Xander and Sarah put Victoria down for a nap. Sarah is glad she got to see her at least. Xander admits that Victoria misses her. Sarah says she is her mother. Xander argues that she didn’t seem to care when she missed him. Sarah doesn’t want to argue. Xander complains that he felt like a stranger to Victoria and they were just getting back to normal. Sarah is sure they will face the same adjustment when it’s her turn again which they need to talk about. Xander agrees, but notes that before he got this time with Victoria, he was ready to go to war with her but now he realizes they aren’t just hurting each other, but hurting their daughter and he doesn’t want that for her. Xander suggests they stop all the fighting and fix the custody situation.

Arianna tells Gabi that she cannot go with her. Gabi argues that she’s not going by herself when Doug III nearly got her killed. Arianna pleads with her that she needs to do this alone and asks her to trust her, promising to give Doug III hell for the both of them. Gabi reluctantly agrees but reminds her that she has eyes and ears at the Brady Pub. Gabi asks Arianna to promise to be safe and adds that after tonight, she doesn’t want her going near Doug III again. Arianna assures that she doesn’t plan on it.

Doug III guesses he was delusional to think Holly might have feelings for him too. Holly admits he wasn’t and that when she and Tate broke up, she thought something might happen between them. Doug III admits he wanted to make a move then, but she didn’t seem ready so he didn’t want to screw things up. Holly remarks that instead he screwed Arianna and kept her in the dark. Doug III says he should’ve been more upfront and repeats that he’s really sorry. Holly tells him that it’s Arianna who deserves an apology. Doug III responds that he’s going to talk to her before he leaves town. Holly questions him leaving town.

Sophia argues that Tate has to sign the papers as it’s what they agreed to do. Brady thinks Tate needs a moment to process everything, adding that they both have legitimate concerns about how things went down. Brady says she was supposed to bring the baby back with her. Sophia says she’s sorry she wasn’t clearer on the phone. Tate argues that they were doing all of this together and questions her going without him. Sophia argues that he was at the lake with Holly. Tate points out that he told her he would only be gone a day and questions that she couldn’t wait until he got back. Sophia says she couldn’t because they were running out of time and she tried to call him, but he didn’t pick up the phone. Tate argues that she knew he wanted to be there but he couldn’t because he was saving Holly’s life. Tate informs her that Holly and Arianna were kidnapped which Sophia questions. Tate calls it a long story and says it’s over now and they are home safe. Sophia says she’s sorry that happened, but all she knew was that he wasn’t answering the phone and she had to give birth in a strange city surrounded by people she didn’t know. Brady says she’s obviously had a very hard day and they can’t imagine how painful and frustrating it’s been. Brady thinks she deserves a bit of empathy and understanding right now. Tate agrees and apologizes, saying he can’t imagine what she just went through. Brady adds that he’s sorry her parents weren’t there but notes they are there for her too. Sophia says she appreciates that. Tate goes over Sophia being wiped out from giving birth, her parents not being there, and he wasn’t picking up the phone so she made a snap decision. Tate brings up that nothing is set in stone so it’s not too late for him to meet his daughter. Tate asks her for the address of the adoptive parents so he can go there, meet the baby, and make sure everything feels good to him before he signs anything.

Sarah tells Xander that she’s totally open to working out a custody agreement with him, but last time they tried, it didn’t go so well. Xander says that was because she tried to entrap him. Sarah says she’s not rehashing that again. Sarah says they need to talk about his anger. Xander questions this again. Sarah says she knows he would never lay a hand on Victoria, but the idea of leaving her alone with a man that could pop off any moment in a blind rage and not acknowledge what he has done, scares the hell out of her. Sarah declares that as far as she’s concerned, that’s the only thing standing in the way of making an agreement with him. Xander swears to her that he will never lay a hand on Philip. Sarah asks about anyone else since before Philip there was Brady and Eric. Sarah questions how she’s supposed to believe that he won’t be violent again. Xander doesn’t know what she wants him to do and says at the end of the day, she’s just going to have to trust him but obviously she’s incapable of doing that. Xander states that they are at a stand still. Sarah says maybe not as she has an idea, but she doesn’t think he will like it.

Gabi goes to the DiMera Mansion where Tony tells her that he heard about Arianna’s kidnapping and he’s so relieved she is okay. Gabi thanks him and says she is her whole world. Tony says family is everything and he appreciates that she came by to see him. Gabi says she was intrigued by his message, saying he had a business proposition for her. Tony informs her that his associate Rita has been keeping him up on Titan-DiMera and identified Gabi as a disgruntled employee. Gabi laughs and says she knew Rita was up to something. Gabi admits she’s very disgruntled and asks for his pitch. Tony responds that he wants to take back his family’s company and in order to do that, he needs information. Tony asks if Gabi could help him dig up dirt on Xander and Philip. Gabi responds that she’s sorry but she can’t do that.

Sophia tells Tate that he can’t see the baby because she needs to bond with the adoptive parents and she promised they wouldn’t interfere. Tate argues that she had no right to promise that and they agreed to an open adoption. Sophia says they did agree to send pictures and it’s all in the contract. Brady reminds Tate that he hasn’t signed anything yet. Sophia worries that they could still back out. Sophia then shows Tate a photo of parents with a baby, claiming that they sent it right when they got home. Sophia says they’ve had so many things go wrong and asks if he really wants to screw it up now.

Doug III tells Holly that it’s better if he skips town so he doesn’t put anyone else in danger and once he’s gone, he doubts the loan sharks will come after them again especially now that they know Arianna’s uncle is in the FBI. Holly sees his point and hopes that he’s right. Doug III says he’s sure that he is. Holly asks if he will tell Julie that he’s leaving town. Doug III says no but that Holly can tell her as he’s sure Julie will be relieved since he betrayed her and broke her heart. Holly thinks Julie will still want closure. Doug III asks if she means giving him hell one more time. Doug III decides that he deserves to let everyone get their licks in one last time. Arianna arrives and asks if that includes her. Arianna guesses Holly had the same idea and asks if she told him that they figured out he was pining after Holly the whole time he was sleeping with her. Doug III confirms that she did and tells Arianna how sorry he is for hurting her and putting her in danger. Arianna responds by slapping Doug III across the face. Doug III admits he deserved that. Holly decides she will leave them to talk as she’s sure Arianna has more to say. Holly says goodbye to Doug III and wishes him the best of luck where ever he ends up. Doug III wishes her the same and says he hopes things work out for her and Tate. Holly doesn’t think he really means that but thanks him anyways as she exits the Pub. Arianna notes that sounding final and asks if he’s leaving Salem. Doug III confirms that he is. Arianna guesses she caught him just in time, because she can’t let him leave without telling her how she really feels.

Tate says he doesn’t want to screw up the adoption. Sophia swears that the baby is in a wonderful home. Brady asks Sophia to tell them about the parents to put their minds at ease. Sophia claims they are both doctors and Christian like her mom wanted, they are very active in the church and volunteer a lot to give back to the community. Brady notes they sound like good people. Sophia says they definitely are. Sophia realizes it didn’t happen exactly how they expected, but she feels the end result is even better than they could’ve hoped because now she and Tate can move on with their lives. Sophia tells Tate that all he has to do is sign the papers. Tate reluctantly agrees, saying that Sophia found a good home for their baby and that’s all that matters. Tate then officially signs the adoption papers.

Xander asks Sarah what her idea is. Sarah informs him that she wants him to do anger management counseling. Xander guesses she’s teaming up with Philip to try and make him look weak and says that’s not happening. Sarah asks what if he saw Marlena, noting that it would be private and confidential. Xander asks if she’s saying that if he did therapy with Marlena, she would agree to a joint custody arrangement. Sarah responds that if he follows through with it and puts in an honest effort, then yes.

Tony questions Gabi not being interested and asks if she doesn’t want to own the rights to Gabi Chic. Gabi says she’s more than interested in that. Tony says that’s what he’s offering her and if they succeed, she’ll own the rights to her company. Gabi argues that it’s only if she agrees to play dirty. Tony argues that Xander and Philip aren’t above that. Tony says he’s heard they are making Gabi’s life Hell and feels she surely can’t be interesting in making them win. Gabi tells Tony if he approached her a few days ago, she would’ve jumped at the chance to stick it to Xander and Philip, but when Arianna went missing, Xander was very kind to her and compassionate, so she wouldn’t feel right turning around and stabbing him in the back. Tony says he’s surprised because Gabi’s never been loyal to anyone but herself. Tony adds that he’s always admired her survival instincts. Gabi says when Tony texted her about a business proposal, she thought he had something more interesting and asks why he doesn’t just get Rita to do his dirty work. Tony explains that Rita doesn’t work for Titan-DiMera as she now works for EJ at the hospital. Gabi suggests he find someone else to be his mole. Tony asks if she would come on board if he sweetens the pot. Gabi questions in what way as they sit down. Tony asks Gabi how she would like to become the next CEO of DiMera Enterprises.

Sophia thanks Tate for being so understanding as she knows it’s all really stressful. Sophia states that she’s made peace with her decision and thinks they can all agree that this is what’s best for the baby. Sophia decides she should get going. Brady offers to drive her but Sophia says her mom is waiting outside. Brady is glad she’s taking care of her. Sophia assures that she’s fine and that it was an easy labor that went by really fast. Brady is glad they are okay. Tate asks Sophia to text him the photo of the baby and any other photos that the parents may send. Sophia agrees to do so and tells Tate that she’s really sorry about all of this. Sophia hopes he doesn’t hate her. Tate says that he doesn’t hate her. Sophia tells him that she’ll see him around as she exits.

Arianna tells Doug III that she knows they kind of jumped in to bed together sort of fast, but she really did care about him. Doug III responds that he cares about her too. Arianna says she did in the past but argues that Doug III never cared about her and was only using her, but then he almost got her killed. Doug III wishes he could make it up to her. Arianna tells him that he can start by never contacting her again, losing her number and her socials. Arianna wishes she could forget ever meeting him and calls him that forgettable as she walks out of the Pub.

Brady asks Tate if he’s alright. Tate says he just thought he’d to get to meet his baby and hold her at least once. Tate feels like something was taken from him. Brady asks if he’s having second thoughts about the adoption. Tate assures that he’s not and that he’s just sad. Brady asks Tate if he needs anything from him. Tate thinks he just needs space. Brady says he’s got it and he’s here if he needs him. Tate reminds Brady that Theresa has no idea that her granddaughter was just born and he doesn’t want to rehash it. Brady agrees to tell her and the other family members as well. Brady hugs Tate as he cries and encourages that it’s alright. Brady then heads to his room. Tate sits down on the couch and gets a call from Holly. Holly tells Tate that she can’t thank him enough for saving her life. Tate is just glad she’s not hurt and that she’s home safe. Holly calls it kind of hot how he kicked the door in and invites him to come over tonight. Tate says maybe another time. Holly asks if something’s wrong.

Gabi questions why Tony would offer her the CEO job and if he doesn’t want it himself. Tony says not really as he likes his life the way it is, traveling the world with Anna. Gabi thinks he’d try to bring another DiMera back from the dead before looking outside the family. Tony brings up Gabi’s marriage to Stefan and says once a DiMera, always a DiMera. Tony talks about the family being more about being loyal than blood. Gabi brings up that he said she’s only been loyal to herself. Tony says as CEO, their interests would be the same. Gabi asks how she knows that he’s not setting her up. Tony asks why he would do that. Gabi brings up working with Anna to oust him from the CEO position. Tony laughs that off as so long ago and says they did him a favor, freeing him from that position and that all has been forgiven. Gabi admits his offer is very tempting. Tony says he knew she would come on board, but adds that he would like to retain some input like a friendly advisor, working strictly behind the curtains. Gabi supposes she could work with that. Tony asks if they have a deal then and if she’s interested in joining forces with him to bring down the Kiriakis Brothers.

Xander tells Sarah that he will look in to scheduling an appointment with Marlena. Sarah says that’s great. Xander adds that he will need something from Sarah as well. Xander states that as things stand, any agreement they make would be informal and the trust in their marriage is broken, so he believes they do need a formal agreement and the only way they can have that is for them to legally separate.

Tate tells Holly that he wasn’t going to get in to it right now. Holly asks if it’s about Sophia and the baby. Tate confirms that he found out Sophia went in to labor when Holly was at the police station. Holly asks if something went wrong. Tate says that Sophia and the baby are fine, but he found out that she gave birth in Chicago and immediately handed the baby over to the adoptive parents. Tate cries that he didn’t even get to hold her. Holly congratulates him but says she’s so sorry that he missed the birth and asks if there’s anything she can do. Tate thinks he just needs a little time to let it process. Holly says if he wants to talk, he can just let her know. Tate thanks her and says he will see her soon as they hang up.

Sophia goes to the town square and calls Melinda, telling her that she stuck to their story. Sophia adds that Tate was very upset as she expected but he eventually did sign the adoption papers. Sophia notes that Tate wasn’t suspicious but he would totally hate her if he ever found out the truth that she abandoned their baby.

Arianna takes care of Tesoro at home and admits that as much as she loved telling off Doug III, she really did like him and part of her is really going to miss him.

Doug III walks through the town square with his bags.

Gabi tells Tony that she’s not agreeing to anything until she has all of it in writing. Tony agrees to have a contract drawn up right away. Gabi says she will read it thoroughly and then he has a deal. Gabi declares that she will help dig up dirt on Xander and Phillip, and in return, she will become DiMera CEO.

Sarah questions Xander wanting to legally separate. Xander explains that they can’t get a court enforced document unless they do and the way things are now, a separation seems inevitable anyway. Sarah hesitates but admits he’s right that there’s no use putting it off any longer. Xander says he will get Melinda to draw up the arrangement which will include the terms for joint custody. Sarah says she will have Justin look at it when he sends it over. Xander points out that they finally agreed to something which he didn’t think was still possible. Sarah admits she didn’t either but they are doing the right thing for Victoria.

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Days Nitpicks & Flubs For The Week Of July 21, 2025

Nitpicks & Flubs

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Monday

-Tate’s not dating Sophia so he didn’t need her permission to go to the lake.

-Tate and Holly could be heard talking while Sophia was shown.

-Sophia was clearly pointing her diary towards the camera while she was reading her diary.

-Sarah told Xander that Maggie invited her to go to Bermuda at the last minute. She rewrote what happened. Sarah invited herself on the trip to Bermuda.

Tuesday

-It shouldn’t have been so easy for Doug to get a uniform at the Salem Inn.

-Johnny and Chanel could be heard talking while Belle was shown.

-Doug walked up after Gwen left her hotel room, but he knew she was wearing the necklace. She could have taken the necklace off since he she left her room before he saw her.

Wednesday

-Stephanie and Alex could have made out in her bedroom. Did she forget that Jada stays with her? She could have showed up any time.

-Rafe was talking while Chad was shown.

-Thomas called Julie “Aunt Julie.” He needs to look at the family tree. Julie is not his aunt. She is his cousin.

-Did Cat forget about her brother Mark? She talked to Rafe about Aaron and Felicity, but she forgot about Mark.

-Victoria cried like she was a baby and not a toddler.

Thursday

-Tate was talking while Holly and Arianna were shown.

Friday

-Tate rushed Sophia to answer her phone when it barely rang.

-When did Maggie go to Bermuda?

-How did Rafe know that Maggie considered going to Bermuda? Who told him that she was going?

-Sophia 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 Opinions For The Week Of July 21, 2025

Opinion Article

 

by Michele & Cheryl

We don’t understand why Gwen was brought back to the show. The actress has been back for a little while so it’s time to talk about her return. We weren’t fans of her character by any means and that didn’t change. She didn’t need to be back on the show. All she does is brag about being rich. We get it. Dimitri’s inheritance made her rich. We don’t need to keep hearing about it. She also keeps talking about how she was abandoned by her family. Gwen already dealt with that trauma when she was on the show before. It’s time for her to move on from that part of her life because she wasn’t worried about it when she was bragging about the money she inherited from Dimitri. The writers were certain we couldn’t have Bo and Hope back permanently, but they were sure we needed Gwen back on the show. It’s safe to say they got it backwards.

Speaking of useless characters, what was the point of Doug? He was on the show for months, and we don’t know any more about him than we did when he joined the show. The writers didn’t bother to flesh out his character. All he did was steal Julie’s necklace, flirt with Holly and sleep with Arianna. At first, we thought his character would have been enough to finally give Julie a storyline. Unfortunately, that story went nowhere. Julie was upset with him and kicked him out of the Horton house. When that storyline didn’t work the writers tried to have him be the interloper in Tate and Holly’s relationship. The writers tried to make him come off like Mr. Romantic when he was the bad guy in the storyline. It didn’t work because we knew that he was a thief. Holly didn’t return his feelings for her so that was the end of that storyline. The writers tried another story by making him fall for Arianna. That storyline didn’t work either because he was finally written out of the cast. They had to find some way to write him out of the show, so Tate told him to leave town. Doug agreed to leave town, so that’s then end of his character. We can’t say that we will miss him because we won’t. It helped that we never got to know the real version of Doug. In our minds, he was a thief who betrayed a woman who just lost her husband. The writers couldn’t do anything to fix his character at that point. They would have been better off making him a villain instead of trying to convince us that he was a thief with the heart of gold.

There is one more useless character that we must talk about. Cat has been on the show for a while, and she hasn’t done anything worth watching. The writers have tried to do things to make this character more likable and interesting, but the attempts have failed. She is hard to watch because she is very annoying. Cat does nothing but flirt with Chad. We couldn’t care less about seeing them bond after the way she schemed against him. The writers wasted their time expecting everyone to forgive and forget her actions. They tried to give her character more life by tying her to the ISA. Suddenly Cat is some great expert in investigating things. No offense, but she doesn’t seem especially brilliant so it’s hard to believe that she’s such a genius that she could work with the ISA undercover. Is this storyline a way to create needless tension between Chad and Cat? Are they starting a triangle with Rafe? She’s definitely beyond boring with Chad. Hopefully she will have some chemistry with Rafe because she doesn’t with Chad.

Was anyone else ready to hit the fast forward button on Stephanie and Alex? Their scenes could cure insomnia. We know the actors are trying their best to put on good performances, but their scenes were extremely boring. Are the writers struggling for ideas? The best story they could come up with was Stephanie getting her book published. We couldn’t care less about her book or whether it gets published. It’s time for the writers to cut their losses with Stephanie and Alex because they don’t have chemistry. Watching Stephanie go on about whether people would know she wrote her book was like watching paint dry.

It was strange to see Melinda helping Sophia. She’s not exactly a nurturing character, but she showed that side when she was talking to Sophia. It was nice to see her be patient with Sophia even though cried about a decision she chose to make. Melinda reminded the audience about her decision to give up her baby. We applaud the writers for including that beat into the storyline. Sophia didn’t want to have the baby, and Melinda talked to her about what she went through when she gave her baby away. The situations aren’t the same, but she found a way to relate to Sophia. It was nice to see them working together when they didn’t interact with each other before. Sophia needed someone to help her, and Melinda was the person who came through for her.

Johnny’s trial started. It’s been a while since we’ve seen a courtroom case on the show. The writers took the time to show EJ and Belle question people for jury duty. Amy and Leo were summoned for their case. The writers didn’t write jury service the way it’s supposed to be, but it was enjoyable to watch. Anyone who suffered through jury duty knows that you wouldn’t get summoned that fast. You must wait for a month to go and must sit in a jury control room in person on a Zoom call. Leo tried everything he could to get out of the case, but it didn’t work. EJ and Belle wanted to keep him on the case. We hope that we get to see the case unfold onscreen. There have been other times when the cases took place offscreen. It would be nice to see one play out on the show.

 

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

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Days Short Recap Thursday, July 24, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Belle talked to Marlena about how Johnny’s trial was going to take a toll on her. EJ met them so he could have his hypnosis session. Marlena stressed that she wasn’t doing the hypnosis session for him. She was doing it for Johnny. EJ let her know that he thought Johnny did it too but now he believes he’s innocent. Belle explained to EJ that hypnosis wasn’t admissible in court. EJ knew it wouldn’t be, but he was glad that he started somewhere. Marlena left to prepare for the session. Belle reminded EJ that had to keep their relationship professional during everything that’s going on. EJ didn’t want to do that, but Belle reminded him about how serious their trial was. She pointed out how Johnny was related to both of them, and EJ was the victim. EJ hesitated, but he agreed with Belle. He kissed her until Marlena broke them up. Belle left and they got started. He looked at something, but he couldn’t see what it was. EJ got frustrated because he didn’t know what it was. Marlena stopped the session. He couldn’t tell who it was. Marlena wanted to know if it was because he thought Johnny did it. She let him know that he seemed troubled by his memories. His memories were still blocked. EJ thought his memories could harm him. She thought he was trying to say Johnny was the shooter. Marlena let him know that Johnny was innocent. EJ thought he was innocent too. She’s willing to keep going. They had to unlock his memories. Paulina told Abe that she was nervous about being called as a witness at Johnny’s trial. She was afraid that she would send Johnny to prison. Paulina believed he was innocent. She thought Chanel was innocent too. Abe reminded her that she had an obligation to tell the truth. He believed everything would be okay. She asked him if Johnny had a shot of winning. Abe told her that the evidence against Johnny was circumstantial. Unfortunately, he’s seen guilty verdicts with less evidence.

Johnny and Chanel were getting ready for his trial. He admitted that he was scared because he threatened his father with a gun. Johnny wanted him dead at one point. Chanel told him that he didn’t do it. She said what mattered was that he stopped himself. Johnny said he still looked guilty. Chanel reminded him that his father was defending him, and he might blame her for the crime. He knew that Chanel would never let him take the fall for what he did. Chanel thought they couldn’t wait for the truth to come out. They had to make it come out. Johnny and Chanel didn’t shoot EJ, and they weren’t going down for it. They had to find someone who could remember if EJ couldn’t do it. Everyone headed to the courthouse for the trial. Belle called EJ to find out why he wasn’t at the courthouse. She wanted to know if he remembered something. EJ arrived a few minutes later. He told her that he didn’t remember anything. Him getting shot wasn’t the most traumatic thing that happened. She wondered what could be worse. Belle knew he was dealing with trauma. It’s not something that could be rushed. EJ told her that he had another session scheduled. Marlena hugged Johnny outside of the courtroom. She assured him that she would be there for him. EJ told Johnny that it was time. Everyone took their places in the courtroom. The judge called the jury into the room. Marlena and Abe sat in the gallery. She became woozy and dropped into her chair. Marlena passed out on Abe. Belle called Brady and told him about what happened to Marlena. She begged her mother to wake up. EJ and Johnny watched them helplessly.

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Days Update Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Alex joins Stephanie at home as she stresses over working on her pitch to EJ on the hospital. Stephanie talks about wanting to help Kayla as she could use all the help she could get. Alex tells Stephanie that he always her her back no matter what. Stephanie assures that she’s very grateful for him as they kiss. Alex hopes she has enough time in her busy schedule. Stephanie says she always has time for him. Alex says that’s good because they have a book launch to do that he wants to be epic.

Kayla is in her office, talking on the phone to Bo. Kayla hangs up as EJ enters. EJ argues that Bo wasn’t a patient at their hospital. Kayla argues that the drug that saved his life was developed here and she thought he’d want to know how it’s doing, remarking that the drug is the only reason EJ got his greedy hands on the hospital in the first place. EJ questions her talking to her superior like that. Kayla complains that he’s not her superior as she is chief of staff and answers to the board. EJ states that as sole owner of the hospital, she serves at his pleasure. Kayla says she is very busy and asks if there’s something else he needs. EJ responds that he needs his own office since he’s the boss. Kayla says they are short on office space so EJ says this one will do just nicely.

Sarah brings Javi coffee at the hospital and guesses his adrenaline must still be pumping. Javi says he’s just relieved they got to Holly and Arianna in time. Javi wonders how they are supposed to bounce back from this without PTSD. Sarah encourages that they have amazing support systems but says it’s crazy to think about all the dangers out there as their kids are growing up.

In Chicago, Sophia worries to Melinda about lying about something this big. Melinda says they had no choice but to keep the birth of her baby a secret and reminds her that she will be here for her through all of it. Melinda encourages that Sophia did the hardest part in giving birth, so if she could do that, she can do anything. Tate calls Sophia again. Sophia complains that Tate sure is trying to get a hold of her now when he couldn’t be bothered to pick up before. Melinda points out that it’s a good thing he didn’t pick up before, otherwise he’d be on his way to Chicago now.

Tate rushes home to tell Brady that they need to go now because Sophia is in labor which Brady questions. Tate explains that Sophia left him a voicemail hours ago that he just checked because he was so worried about Holly after she and Arianna were kidnapped which Brady is shocked to learn. Tate says it was really scary but they are safe now and he really hopes Sophia and the baby are too.

Javi talks to Sarah about how things can get tough even before kids grow up. Sarah relates, telling Javi that her daughter was kidnapped when she was only a few months old. Javi says he’s so sorry. Sarah explains that she was returned to them unharmed and was too young to be traumatized. Sarah asks about Javi’s little one. Javi clarifies that he’s not his as he’s just fostering him. Javi points out that Rafe is the actual foster parent while Sarah notes that Rafe isn’t the one she sees taking care of him all the time with a big smile. Javi mentions how they named him Tesoro and admits he’s dreading having to give him up to a new family as he and Leo have grown really attached to him. Sarah says she understands that too, calling it a very long story but she bonded with a child that she had to give up and it is brutal as it leaves a hole in your heart that you can never fill. Javi apologizes for dragging all of this up. Sarah explains that her daughter is with her father right now and she’s just missing her so much.

Leo is at home on the phone with Chad, complaining that he still can’t believe he’s on jury duty instead of covering the trial for the Spectator. Leo talks about the idea of writing a book about it. Leo acknowledges that they are talking about Chad’s nephew and brother and they probably shouldn’t be talking at all as he hangs up. Leo asks Tesoro if EJ’s own son tried to off him. Leo adds that if Johnny did do it, he hopes he doesn’t have to convict him because then EJ will want to put a bullet in him.

Kayla tells EJ that they are running short on office space but it wouldn’t be any trouble to spruce up a utility closet and suggests one next to the morgue. EJ mocks her wit and sarcasm. Kayla warns EJ that he might own the hospital, but she runs it. EJ remarks that she used to run it and ran it in to the ground.

Brady tells Tate that he will call Sarah but Tate reveals that Sophia is in Chicago and he has to get to her. Tate says if he leaves now, he can be there by 5 but Brady stops him and says he can’t let him do that.

Kayla questions EJ talking to her like that. EJ says it’s just facts with the hospital in debt. Kayla aruges that Seth Burns was in charge of the budget, not her. EJ calls it water under the bridge and says it’s now his responsibility to keep the hospital from going bankrupt. Kayla questions EJ thinking his budget cuts are fixing things when all it’s doing is lowering the staff morale and patient care. EJ says he’s implementing the changes to keep the hospital afloat and Kayla has to comply. EJ warns her to trim the fat and figure it out. Kayla responds that she will not be his figurehead or puppet. Kayla warns EJ to let her run the hospital as she sees fit or she is officially resigning.

Sophia worries to Melinda that Tate will never see his baby and will be heartbroken and suspicious. Melinda encourages that if they just stick to the plan, Tate will never know that the baby she took to the fire station was his son. Sophia questions if she’s sure, pointing out that she knew right away when she ran in to Leo and Javi. Sophia worries about when he grows up and people figuring it out after seeing he’s half-Asian. Melinda tells her that they won’t and she knows how to make sure of it.

Alex talks to Stephanie about setting her up for interivews and podcasts to promote her book. Stephanie reminds him about no one finding out that she wrote it. Alex encourages that all interviews will be over the phone and they will use audio tricks to keep her privacy. Alex assures that he’s taken every precaution to make sure that no one finds out she is Anastasia Sands.

Brady says Tate is way too wired to drive to Chicago, so he will take him. Brady asks where Sophia was admitted but Tate says she didn’t say and she’s not picking up her phone. Brady worries that they won’t get there in time but Tate declares that his baby is about to be born, so he has to try.

Sophia asks Melinda if she’s sure this will work. Melinda says it’s the best shot they have and that she will take care of the paperwork so that everything looks legit. Sophia agrees to do it and repeats that she can’t thank her enough. Melinda tells her to just go out in to the world and live her life to the fullest, knowing that her baby will be placed in a very loving home. Melinda asks if she’s ready to head back home to face Tate and her mom. Sophia says she’s as ready as she will ever be.

Javi goes home where Leo tells him about putting Tesoro to sleep and asks about Arianna. Javi says she’s fine and still being monitored, Leo asks what happens to Doug III. Javi says that he left after questioning. Javi asks Leo to be honest with him as he says he knows that Leo was helping Doug III scrape together money to pay off the loan shark, then asks if he had any idea he would go after Holly and Arianna.

EJ tells Kayla that he doesn’t take too kindly to threats. Kayla says it’s not a threat and that she could just retire early and enjoy her life without all the stress, but she doesn’t because shes cares about the hospital, patients, and staff. EJ points out that she hasn’t turned down her salary. Kayla says she doesn’t do this for the money and she won’t continue if she has to answer to someone she disrespects and despises. Kayla tells EJ that it’s his choice to either accept her resignation or back the hell off. EJ tells Kayla that he will use her office for his meeting and it won’t take long, so Kayla storms out.

Alex tells Stephanie that they gave some advance copies to authors to get some blurbs out to the press which surprises her. Alex says that Stephanie’s book is the perfect one to relaunch Titan’s publishing division. Alex adds that it does need her approval for an exceprt from the book to be used for press junkets which is the main character’s monologue about their forbidden romance. Stephanie says he can’t use that passage and she’s going to tell Kate to take it out of the manuscript altogether. Alex questions what she is getting worked up about. Stephanie says nothing and she just wants that excerpt removed. Alex agrees and says nothing will be done without her approval. Alex then asks why that was so upsetting and if there’s something she’s not telling him. Stephanie says it’s all just happening so quickly and a few months ago, she didn’t think anyone would see her book but now there’s blurbs and press tours. Alex knows it’s overwhelming but encourages that it’s all happening because of her amazing talent and imagination. Stephanie realizes she has to go before she’s late. Alex wishes her luck with EJ and says maybe by the time she gets back, they’ll be celebrating both of her careers.

Sarah calls Xander and argues that he can’t keep Victoria from him and that she was justified when she did it to him. Sarah angrily says screw you and hangs up as Kayla approaches. Kayla asks her what’s wrong. Sarah says it’s everything as Kayla hugs her.

Brady tells Tate that they will get on the road, start driving, and call as many hospitals in Chicago to see if they can find Sophia. Tate then gets a call from Sophia.

Sarah apologizes to Kayla for being unprofessional. Kayla understands she has every right to be furious at Xander. Sarah says it’s not like Victoria was kidnapped, it’s just a custody dispute. Kayla says she can feel how she feels, calling it so painful that Xander is keeping her from seeing her daughter which no parent should ever have to go through.

Stephanie goes to Kayla’s office to see her but is surprised to find EJ and questions what he’s doing in her office. EJ informs her that Kayla graciously lent him her office for their meeting. Stephanie doubts that. EJ guesses since Stephanie didn’t cancel, she has agreed to take on University Hospital as a client. Stephanie responds that she has but under certain conditions and she will not lift a finger to help him unless he agrees to all of her terms.

Sarah thanks Kayla and says it means a lot to have her on her side. Kayla assures that she always will be. Kayla offers to call her brother in law to send an ISA agent to Xander’s house and getting him to see reason. Sarah hopes she can get Xander to back off. Kayla says the way Xander has behaved recently almost makes her regret voting for him to take over the hospital. Kayla talks about the changes EJ wants to make and says as impossible as Xander has been, she thinks he might be the lesser of two evils.

Tate answers Sophia’s call and asks if she’s okay. Sophia says she’s fine. Tate says he’s been so worried about her and the baby. Tate asks what hospital she’s at as he and Brady will be on their way to Chicago. Sophia responds that she’s actually on her way home. Tate asks if it was another false labor. Sophia says no. Tate asks what’s going on and what’s wrong. Sophia informs him that she had the baby already and claims that it’s a girl.

Leo promises Javi that he had no idea Doug III and Arianna knew each other, let alone that they were involved and that he would’ve told him if he knew. Javi says he believes him but he doesn’t understand why he would help some stranger out of a jam. Leo explains that maybe if someone helped him at his age, he would’ve turned his life around sooner. Leo says he sees himself in Doug III and that he needs someone to believe in him like John and Marlena believed in him. Javi says he believes in him too. Leo asks if he does, bringing up how Javi recently found out what he did to Gwen and Dimitri. Leo swears that he’s not that person anymore. Javi says he knows that and he doesn’t have to keep persuading him on it. Leo tells Javi that he has changed him for the better and that they are an open book with each other.

Kayla apologizes to Sarah for saying that. Sarah understands that EJ has been making her life miserable for weeks now. Kayla says EJ doesn’t seem to be backing down and was just trying to take over her office. Kayla adds that EJ already scolded her for not making enough cuts in her budget. Sarah is unsure if Xander would be a better boss, saying his temper has been uncontrollable lately and almost violent. Kayla asks if she’s worried for Victoria’s safety. Sarah says she knows that Xander would never hurt Victoria, but she is worried for anyone else who gets caught in his crosshairs. Sarah tells Kayla that she feels stupid for having a baby with a man who is a ticking time bomb. Kayla says she knows she feels that way now, but reminds her that the decisions she made led to Victoria and she knows despite any regrets, she would never take that back.

Tate tells Sophia that he will see her soon and hangs up. Tate tells Brady that it’s a girl. Brady can’t believe he has a granddaughter. Tate points out that she isn’t going to be theirs for very long. Brady asks how he’s feeling. Tate admits he doesn’t know but he can’t wait to meet her.

EJ asks Stephanie what her conditions are. Stephanie says first, she will not do anything to undermine her mother. EJ says he would never ask her to smear Kayla or believe she would. Stephanie adds that she won’t do anything unethical, no lying, cheating, or stealing on behalf of EJ or the hospital. EJ says she will have no pushback on that and her terms are more than acceptable. EJ asks if they have a deal. Stephanie agrees and they shake hands as Kayla returns and asks what the hell is going on here.

Leo asks Javi if he’s sure he doesn’t mind watching Tesoro until he gets back. Javi assures that he watches him all the time and loves it. Leo worries about Tesoro’s needs then realizes he’s hovering which Javi calls sweet. Leo says he’ll be right back and exits.

Alex calls Kate and tells her about Stephanie not wanting to use the excerpt from the book and he doesn’t know why. Alex says it was difficult enough getting Stephanie on board but it’s her book so they have to make sure she still feels in control of it. Alex tells Kate that they will touch base at the office tomorrow and hangs up as there’s a knock at the door. Alex opens the door and finds a box addressed to Stephanie. He picks it up and says that was weird.

EJ informs Kayla that he and Stephanie were just finalizing the terms of their agreement. Kayla argues that she wasn’t aware this was the meeting he needed her office for. EJ remarks that he didn’t know the head of PR needed her mother’s permission. Kayla questions Stephanie not telling her that she ignored all her advice and accepted this job with EJ. Stephanie responds that now Kayla knows. Kayla asks for a moment alone with EJ. Stephanie decides she should go check on things with Alex anyways. Stephanie says she’ll call Kayla tonight as EJ says he’s very much looking forward to working with her as she exits. EJ questions what Kayla’s complaint is now. Kayla says it’s an order as she will not let him corrupt her daughter. EJ tells her that he’s hired her because of her expertise as a publicist. Kayla argues that nothing can make EJ seem noble or altruistic. EJ suggests not underestimating Stephanie or him. EJ then exits the office, leaving Kayla frustrated.

Tate tells Brady that if he needed more proof that he wasn’t ready to be a parent, he can look at how he acted the last few days. Tate calls it crazy to go out to the lake when Sophia was so close to her due date and asks what he was thinking. Brady tells him not to think that way and encourages that if he didn’t go to the lake, he wouldn’t have been able to help Holly and Arianna. Tate questions why Sophia didn’t wait for him to meet with this couple about adopting. Brady thinks she just wanted the whole thing over. Brady encourages that they have their whole lives ahead of them and the sooner the adoption goes through, the sooner they can move on. Tate doesn’t think he’ll ever move on and he will always wonder about his daughter having a good life. Tate wonders if the couple was there when Sophia gave birth and saw the baby before he did. Brady points out that once they adopt the baby, they are her parents. Tate complains that he hates it so much as he’s happy, sad, and scared. Brady tells him that he’s allowed to feel all of it and he knows it can’t be easy. Brady wishes he could take it away but promises to be with him every step of the way. Tate tells Brady that he loves him as he hugs him while holding back tears.

Leo runs in to EJ in the town square. Leo says he was just leaving but EJ stops him and says they need to have a little chat. Leo argues that they aren’t supposed to be chatting at all and asks what he wants. EJ says the question is what he wants. Leo says he just wants to get diapers home to his foster son. EJ says everyone knows that Leo craves self preservation. Leo says that’s who he used to be. EJ argues that a leopard never changes his spots. EJ claims he’s just catching up with an old friend. Leo says they aren’t friends and tells EJ to find someone else to be his stooge because he’s not for sale anymore as Leo then walks away.

Stephanie goes home and informs Alex that she’s now officially working for EJ DiMera, so now she just has to hope that Kayla doesn’t disown her after seeing her and EJ together. Stephanie asks about the box that came in the mail. Alex says it came while she was out with no card or return address and asks if she has a secret admirer that she’s not telling him about.

Kayla goes back to Sarah and tells her that EJ is hiring her daughter to do PR for the hospital and that was the meeting he needed her office for. Kayla says she just worries about Stephanie and all her kids. Sarah brings up her ranting about Xander earlier and doesn’t want Kayla to think she regrets having Victoria. Kayla assures that she knows Victoria is her world. Sarah says what Xander is doing is so incredibly painful and she wishes he could see that. Kayla asks if Xander has ever seen a psychiatrist. Sarah talks about Xander not being the type to open up about his feelings, especially to a stranger. Kayla says she’s not talking about marriage counseling but she thinks if they are going to co-parent, Xander needs to get his anger in check and she knows that Marlena offers intense anger management classes. Sarah asks if she thinks that would work. Kayla responds that if anyone could do it, it’s Marlena.

Leo returns home which Javi notes was quick as Leo watches out the window, saying he’s making sure no one followed him. Leo informs Javi that he ran in to EJ, who tried to bribe him in to acquitting his son but he said no. Javi hugs Leo and says he’s proud of him for standing up to EJ.

Sophia shows up at Tate’s door. Tate questions how she’s back so soon and where the baby is. Sophia responds that she’s gone.

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Days Update Monday, July 21, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Javi is at home on the phone with Leo, who sits in the town square. Leo complains about having to be on jury duty for Johnny’s trial because it’s the scandal of the year and he doesn’t get to cover it for the Spectator. Javi encourages that he gets to be front row and can write a book about it one day. Javi tells Leo that Tesoro is eagerly waiting for him. Leo says he will finish up and hangs up. Gwen then walks by in the town square. Leo greets her and comments on her stolen necklace. Gwen says she was heading to the Spectator office to visit her old stomping grounds. Leo asks if she’s feeling nostalgic. Gwen says now that he’s here, he can fill her in on what’s going on at the Spectator. Leo informs her that things are looking up. Gwen laughs at Leo being their star journalist. Leo calls it unkind of Gwen to come back to Salem to flaunt the necklace in Julie’s face. Gwen argues that it’s her necklace now and says that wasn’t her only reason for coming back to Salem. Gwen calls the necklace just the appetizer, so Leo says he dreads knowing what the main course is. Gwen questions Leo not wanting to know. Leo then says if it’s illegal, he does want to know so he can cover it and expose her. Gwen informs him that she has a full course plan but she only intends on telling her close and most trustworthy friends, not the lying wanker who blew up her marriage.

Johnny goes to Titan-DiMera and tells Philip that he’s there to record his statement with Xander. Johnny thanks him for pushing it to today as he really wants to get it done before his trial starts tomorrow. Philip didn’t realize his trial was so soon and asks if he’s spoken to HR about it. Johnny confirms that he let them know that he might miss a couple of weeks. Johnny swears to Philip that he did not shoot EJ, but if Philip feels the need to fire him for PR reasons, he will understand.

Xander asks if Gabi wants to go home but Gabi says she’s not sure anyone is home and she’d rather not be alone. Xander says he understands and asks what she’s thinking. Gabi talks about how excited she was when Arianna first told her that she was coming to Salem as she was so happy and missed her so much, but now she wishes she told her not to come. Gabi argues that Arianna was thriving in Arizona with Will and Sonny, but ever since being here, it’s been misery and chaos as she’s been acting out and defiant, so she feels like it’s all her fault. Gabi declares that she’s a terrible mother.

Arianna complains that there has to be another way out while Holly tries picking the lock to the door. Arianna then looks between some boxes and declares that she may have found their way out.

Tate goes to the alley way where Holly and Arianna were kidnapped and Holly dropped her class ring but someone comes out with a gun.

Javi watches over Tesoro at home, talking about how he had no idea how hard it would be to even think about saying goodbye to him. Javi hopes it won’t be anytime soon. Javi declares that no matter what happens, he will always be in his heart.

Leo tells Gwen that he’d rather not know what her plans are, illegal or not, but if it does involve breaking the law, he will likely uncover and expose them. Gwen mocks him leading the Spectator while Leo argues that ad revenue and subscriptions are up. Leo adds that they will go even higher when he posts a tidbit on Gwen. Gwen questions what that is. Leo says she’ll read about it soon enough. Gwen demands to know what he has. Leo then reveals that he saw Gwen going in to the Salem Inn with Xander the other night, so the burning questions is if she’s really running head first in to that buzz saw again.

Xander tells Gabi that from what he’s seen, she’s a great mother. Gabi thanks him for saying that even if he doesn’t believe it. Xander assures that he does. Xander knows that they have had their differences in the past, but he can see how much she loves her daughter. Xander relates to how frustrating it is to not be able to protect your own child. Xander talks about how scary it was when Victoria was kidnapped, but points out that they got their happy ending and she came home, so he wishes her the same with Arianna.

Philip tells Johnny that no one will be asking him to leave work as he believes he is innocent and that he will beat the charges. Johnny appreciates his faith in him. Philip says he’ll let HR know they spoke. Johnny says he will get his tripod and asks Philip to let Xander know that he’s almost ready to record his statement. Philip agrees to do so as Johnny walks away. Gabi then comes out from the office. Philip greets her but Gabi says she’s in a rush. Philip asks if something is wrong. Gabi confirms it’s something terrible as she hurries off.

Tate is startled by Rafe approaching with his gun. Rafe questions what he’s doing out here. Tate shows Rafe that he got Holly’s class ring which Felicity found outside of the gym nearby. Rafe says he just checked with the owners and found the only two unoccupied warehouses. Tate says he’ll check one while Rafe checks the other. Rafe worries that it’s too dangerous. Rafe tells Tate to stay there and wait for the police, then tell them where he went when they get there. Tate agrees to stay but when Rafe walks away, Tate heads in the opposite direction.

Arianna and Holly discover an air vent behind boxes. Arianna feels they just need to get the grate off and it could be their way out. Holly points out that they don’t know where it leads to. Arianna says she can see daylight so it must lead to the roof or the side of the building. Arianna knows it’s a longshot but says it beats sitting around rotting away and they have nothing to lose, so Holly gives in. Arianna tries the grate but it’s screwed in, so she goes in search of a tool.

Gwen asks Leo so what if she went to the Salem Inn with Xander. Leo reminds her that Xander is a married man. Gwen guesses he’s behind on his dirt. Leo says he’s well aware there’s trouble in paradise but Xander and Sarah always find their way back to each other. Gwen asks what if this time they don’t. Leo says if that’s because of her influence, she would be a fool to go down that road again. Gwen questions him caring. Leo reminds her that he was there before and saw how Xander used her and broke her heart, so he would take no pleasure in watching that happen again. Gwen admits she did hit rock bottom when Xander left her for Sarah. Gwen adds that she has hit rock bottom many different times for many different reasons, but what really broke her heart was Leo.

Philip joins Xander in the office and questions what he did to Gabi because she just ran out in tears. Xander questions him assuming that was his fault. Johnny then returns with his tripod and asks where they want him to setup or if it’s a bad time.

Gabi goes home where Javi asks if she’s okay because he thought she had a big meeting. Gabi responds that it was cancelled and Xander sent her home. Javi asks how come. Gabi then reveals that Arianna is missing as she’s been kidnapped. Javi is shocked and hugs her.

Arianna and Holly successfully get the grate off. Holly asks if she’s sure she wants to go in the vent. Arianna says no but she’s going to. Arianna crawls in to the vent, worrying about spiders and mice, but then fears that she has gotten stuck.

Gwen tells Leo how devastated she was by his betrayal. Leo says if she ever listened to his voicemails or read his messages, she would know it was the biggest regret of his life. Leo says he would crawl through glass and beg for forgiveness if he thought it would make a difference. Gwen says as much as she would love to see that, it wouldn’t make a difference because he put a knife in her back so deep that it can’t be removed. Leo states that when it comes to Dimitri, they both lost big but at least she got his fortune. Gwen comments that it looks like Leo recovered nicely with a sparkly new relationship. Leo states that Javi is a good man and totally gets him. Gwen calls them lucky. Leo decides he needs to get going because Javi needs him to take care of the baby. Leo exits as Gwen mutters about Leo going home to his happy little family.

Johnny apologizes for having to postpone yesterday. Philip says they understood he was dealing with a personal matter. Xander says maybe Johnny starting work here wasn’t good timing which he questions. Philip argues that he just told Johnny that his job is safe and that Xander is the one who hired him. Xander argues that at the time, Johnny was all in on undermining his father, but now thanks to Philip, EJ has the hospital and is on good terms with Johnny again so he’s no longer sure that having Johnny at Titan-DiMera is a good idea.

Gabi tells Javi that Rafe is out looking for Holly and Arianna now. Javi asks if he has any leads. Gabi says she hasn’t heard and she can’t reach him. Javi says he will see if he can find out anything and will call her right away if there’s any news. Gabi thanks Javi as they hug. Javi tells her to hang in there and think positive because they are going to find her little girl.

Tate plans to head to the next empty warehouse when he hears screaming.

Holly tries to encourage Arianna to relax as she panics in the vent. Tate arrives and kicks the door in as he rushes in to embrace Holly.

Johnny admits that he and EJ are on better terms but assures that he is loyal to them and the company. Xander remarks that loyalty can be fickle. Philip asks Johnny to give them a minute so he steps out. Philip tells Xander that he can’t be serious about firing Johnny just because he made nice with his father, arguing that it would be a PR nightmare they can’t afford right now. Philip adds that Johnny’s skillset is useful here. Xander questions what exactly his skillset is. Philip says that he has great ideas for the brand and a knack for telling stories, so he thinks they could use someone like him. Xander questions if he’s just there to whitewash Philip’s lies and betrayal. Johnny comes back over and says he doesn’t want to cause any problems, so if Xander wants him to resign, he will. Philip stops him and says he’s not resigning and that they should just get going on recording the video. Xander reluctantly agrees but Victoria wakes up crying. Philip remarks on Xander saying they don’t let personal matters interfere in the workplace. Xander dares Philip to say another word about his daughter.

Gabi sits at home with Tesoro and talks about when Arianna was that little. Gabi talks about not being there as a mother and says no matter how old Arianna gets, she’ll always be her little girl. Leo comes home and tells her that Javi just texted him about Arianna. Leo says he’s so sorry and can’t even begin to imagine what she’s going through. Gabi gets a call from Javi, who announces that he just heard on the radio that Rafe found Arianna and Holly. Gabi is relieved and asks if Arianna is okay. Javi says he doesn’t know the details but they are at some warehouse and he’s on his way to see her. Gabi thanks him and asks him to call as soon as he has eyes on her. Javi says he will and tells Gabi that he’s really happy for her. Gabi says she has no words as they hang up. Gabi tells Leo that her baby has been found, so she and Leo hug.

Rafe joins Tate with Holly. Rafe tells Holly it’s so good to see her and asks about Arianna. Holly explains that she got stuck in the vent. Rafe asks Tate to take Holly out and call the paramedics. Holly calls in to Arianna that she will see her when she’s safe. Arianna yells that something’s happening and screams as a crash is heard.

Tate gets Holly outside. Holly remains worried about Arianna. Tate hugs Holly and tells her that she’s safe now and it’s okay. Holly responds that she’s only safe because of him.

Rafe tries calling out to Arianna through the vent but she is now unconscious after the crash inside the vent.

Johnny films Xander and Philip saying that they are united in their efforts to stabilize and grow Titan-DiMera together. Johnny calls it very convincing. Xander argues that Philip didn’t stick to the script and was ad libbing. Philip argues that he was just trying to be natural. Victoria starts crying again so Philip questions why she’s not with a nanny. Xander says he’s spoken with HR about starting a daycare in the building. Philip suggests letting Victoria go home to her mother until then instead of trapping her in a portable crib that looks like a tiny prison. Philip tells Xander to get over himself and think about what Victoria really needs.

Leo says that Tesoro is going to go down for a nap while he’s going to call someone who may have been a very bad boy. Leo calls Doug III and says he just heard about Arianna and Holly’s kidnapping and questions if he and his friends had something to do with it. Leo can’t believe Doug III didn’t tell him that the other girl he was involved with was his boyfriend’s cousin. Leo worries about Gabi finding out that he knew Arianna could’ve been in danger.

Holly tells Tate that the paramedics checked him out and she’s okay, but she remains worried about Arianna. Tate encourages that she has Rafe and others to help her. Holly worries about when they are going to get her out.

Javi joins Rafe, who explains that he was barely able to get Arianna out after she tried to escape through the air vent that collapsed.

Holly tells Tate that he’s a hero and the reason they were rescued. Tate tells Holly that she is everything to him and he can’t ever lose her. They almost kiss but are interrupted by Gabi arriving, asking where Arianna is.

Javi gets a breathing mask on Arianna as she regains consciousness and asks what happened. Rafe informs her that she was in an air vent that collapsed. Gabi then rushes in, relieved to see Arianna.

Gwen returns to her room at the Salem Inn and removes her necklace, placing it inside a safe. Gwen declares that her two faced husband might be missing, but thanks to his fortune, she’s still present and accounted for and she’s just getting started. Gwen remarks that Salem really is in for a rip roaring good time.

Johnny tells Philip and Xander that he will edit their statement and send it back for review. Philip wishes him luck tomorrow as Johnny exits. Xander complains that it’s a nightmare just being in Philip’s presence. Philip tells him that he’s not quitting. Xander then suggests sending Philip to the Hong Kong office as it’s the furthest place he could think of. Philip thinks that would be perfect for Xander and he’s sure Sarah would agree. Philip then exits the office. Xander comments to Victoria that Philip is trying to get under his skin. Xander declares that if they can’t live with him or smother him with a pillow, they will just have to come up with a more creative solution.

Leo takes care of Tesoro at home and talks about thinking if he was ever a dad, he thought he would screw up his kid the way he was screwed up, but says Tesoro brings out the best in him and he’s starting to think he’s not so bad at parenting after all. Leo admits he does feel overprotective and he can’t even think about anything bad ever happening to Tesoro. Leo vows that he would protect Tesoro with his life.

Javi notes that Arianna’s oxygen levels have returned to normal but he wants to take her to the hospital as a precaution. Arianna cries to Gabi that she’s so sorry. Gabi says it’s not her fault and she loves her so much as they hug.

Rafe rejoins Tate and Holly outside to tell them that Arianna is going to be fine. Rafe adds that Shawn asked him to bring Holly to the police station to make a statement. Rafe guesses they will be in touch to hear from Tate as well. Holly thanks Tate for being her hero today and says she will call him as soon as she’s done. Holly then leaves with Rafe. Tate then sees he got a voicemail from Sophia and learns that Sophia said she was in labor.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Xander was playing with Victoria. Sarah showed up to see Victoria. Xander let her see Victoria. When they put Victoria down, they talked about what they were going to do about her. Xander said he didn’t want to hurt Victoria and suggested they deal with it head on. Sarah said she was willing to figure things out, but they needed to talk about his anger. She said she knew he wouldn’t hurt Victoria, but leaving her with a man who could snap so easily scared her. Sarah said that was what was holding her back. Xander said he wouldn’t hurt Philip. Sarah told him that he hurt other people. Xander said if she didn’t trust him, they were stuck. Sarah said that wasn’t true. She advised him to take anger management counseling. He asked if she would agree to joint custody if he did. She said she would. Xander agreed to get counseling. He said he wanted a formal agreement and the only way to do that was to get separated. Holly went to the pub. Doug was happy to see her. She said it was his fault for not saying that the thugs were after him again. Holly was upset that he kept her and Arianna from each other. Doug said he was only after Arianna because he couldn’t have her. Holly said she thought something would happen between them but that was over. Doug apologized to her, but she told him to apologize to Arianna. He said he would do it before he left. She asked if he was leaving town. He said he didn’t want anyone else to be in danger and didn’t think the loan sharks would come after anyone else when he’s gone. Holly asked if he was going to talk to Julie to which he said he wasn’t. She told him he could give Julie closure. While they were talking, Arianna showed up and slapped Doug. Doug said he deserved that. Holly left the pub. Arianna said she cared about him and he almost got her killed. She said she wanted to forget about him and left the pub.

Tate asked Sophia where the baby was. Sophia said she was gone. She told Tate and Brady that the adoptive parents took the baby. Tate asked if she gave his baby away without asking him. He was furious and started yelling until Brady told him to calm down. Sophia said she and the parents being together when she went into labor was a sign that it was meant to be. She gave Tate the paperwork to sign, but Tate refused to sign them. Sophia said he had to sign them, but Brady said Tate had concerns about what happened. He said he did too. Tate yelled at Sophia for doing this without asking him. Sophia said he was at the lake. She said she tried calling him, but he didn’t answer. Tate said he was saving Holly’s life. He told her what happened. Sophia said giving birth in a strange place was scary for her. Tate apologized to her. He asked for the adoptive parents’ address so he could meet his daughter and would sign the papers. Sophia said he couldn’t do that. She said she promised the parents that they would have time to bond with the baby. Sophia said it was an open adoption, but they could back out. She took out her phone and showed him pictures of a couple holding a baby. Sophia said they struggled with the adoption and asked if he wanted to ruin it. Brady wanted to know something about the parents. Sophia lied about the parents. She said they could move on with their lives once he signed the papers. Tate agreed to go along with it. Gabi met with Tony at the DiMera mansion. She said she was intrigued by his business proposition. He said he wanted his company back and needed information. Tony said she could get information on Xander and Philip. Gabi refused to do it. Tony said he would give her the rights to Gabi Chic. Gabi said he would only do that if she did what he wanted. She said she would have done it before, but Xander has been nice to her and she didn’t want to betray him. Tony said she was never loyal to anyone and he admired that about her. When Gabi was about to leave, Tony offered to let her run all of DiMera Enterprises. Gabi wondered why he would do that for her. She thought he would want a DiMera to do it. Tony said she was a DiMera. He said he wanted input and would work behind the scenes. Gabi agreed to do it.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, July 22, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sarah and Javi were at the hospital and talked about what happened with Arianna and Holly. While they were talking, they mentioned Tesoro. He admitted that he wasn’t looking forward to giving up the baby. Sarah knew how he felt because she lost Rachel and now Victoria. Kayla was on the phone with Bo when EJ walked into her office. He thought it was a personal call. Kayla told him that he should want to know how the drug was doing. They went back and forth about the drug. EJ told her that he needed an office. He decided that he wanted her office. Kayla told him that he could use the morgue. EJ laughed and reminded her that she didn’t run the hospital because he’s in charge. He was the reason why it’s not bankrupt. Kayla wasn’t happy with him and yelled at him about what’s happening at the hospital. EJ told her to make it work. She warned him to get it together or she would resign. Kayla would have resigned, but she cared about the patients. She told him to accept her resignation or back off. He asked her if he could use her office for his meeting. She walked out of the room. Sarah called Xander and yelled at him for keeping Victoria from her. He didn’t cave so she told him off. Kayla overheard Sarah yelling and wondered what happened. Sarah told her about her issues with Xander. Kayla joked that she could have her brother send ISA agents scare Xander.

Sophia expressed to Melinda that she was worried about lying about the baby. Melinda assured her that she would remain by her side through everything. Tate called Sophia, but she wouldn’t answer. she thought he would be heartbroken. She was worried that Tate would see Tesoro and realize that he’s their baby. Melinda assured her that no one would find out the truth about Tesoro. She was going to take care of the paperwork. Sophia had to remember to do her part. Melinda advised her to live her life. Tate told Brady they had to leave because the baby was coming. He told Brady about the kidnapping. They also talked about Sophia and the baby. Tate wanted to go to Chicago immediately. Brady stopped Tate and told him that he would drive. Tate didn’t know what hospital Sophia went to. He was determined to find her. Sophia called Tate before they left the townhouse. She told him that she was on her way home. He was shocked, but she told him that she had the baby. The baby was a girl. Tate got off the phone with Sophia and told Brady the news. Brady was excited about becoming a grandfather. Tate told him that he wouldn’t be a grandfather for long. He wanted to meet her. Tate said he wasn’t ready to be a father. He knew that he was going on a trip near Sophia’s due date. Tate wondered why she didn’t wait for him. Sophia arrived at the townhouse. Tate wanted to know how she was back in Salem so fast and what happened to the baby.

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Days Update Friday, July 18, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Xander reads Victoria a story at the Titan office. Xander talks about them both having a long night and states that Gabi’s right that they need to get to know each other again because they haven’t spent much time together lately. Xander promises that’s all about to change because things are going to be different from now on.

Rafe informs Gabi that Shawn is starting an investigation and he’s putting an APB out on Arianna and Holly. Rafe adds that Shawn is having the security footage from the town square pulled which might take about an hour. Rafe encourages Gabi to stay calm and not panic. Gabi questions how she can not panic when her daughter has only been in Salem for a few months and this is already the second time she’s gone missing. Rafe points out that she came back the first time so he’s sure she’ll come back this time too. Gabi wishes she could be sure.

Chad and Cat run in to each other outside.

Tate tries calling Sophia from the town square but she ignores the call. Tate leaves a voicemail that he just ran in to her mom, who told him that she’s in Chicago meeting a couple who might adopt the baby. Tate questions why she wouldn’t tell him this and asks her to call him back.

Sophia checks her phone and sees that Tate left a voicemail, then she puts the phone back down.

Cat tells Chad that she was just dropping Felicity off at gymnastics camp where she will be a counselor. Chad mentions that he also just dropped his daughter Charlotte off at camp. Felicity says she will help her which Chad says would be amazing. Felicity says she’ll see them later and walks away. Chad talks to Cat about it being Charlotte’s first time at camp. Chad says he’s glad Charlotte will have a friend in Felicity as her counselor. Cat offers to give Charlotte a ride home when she picks up Felicity. Chad thanks her but says that’s not necessary. Cat remarks that she couldn’t expect Chad to trust her with his kid.

Xander tells Victoria that he’s sorry it’s so boring for her to be stuck in the office with him all day but promises it’s only temporary. Xander declares that when Victoria is living with him full-time, he will set up the most fantastic nursery. Xander promises to be home with her every night because she’s more important than anything else in his life.

Gabi talks to Rafe about Arianna first running off with a random guy and now being kidnapped. Rafe encourages not going to the worst case scenario. Gabi cries about her missing and asks if Holly’s family knows. Rafe points out that Nicole is in France and Maggie is in Bermuda, so he thinks they should wait until they know more. Rafe adds that does still leave Marlena and the rest of Will’s family. Gabi doesn’t want to tell them yet either since they’ve been through enough lately. Gabi adds that if Arianna and Holly don’t turn up soon, they will have to tell Will and Sonny. Gabi asks what to do now, complaining that she can’t just wait around until they hear something. Rafe knows it’s hard but says right now there is nothing they can do. Rafe thinks Gabi should try to distract herself by staying busy with work. Rafe reminds Gabi that she said she had an important meeting today. Gabi cries that nothing is important to her right now other than finding her daughter. Rafe agrees that it’s pointless to tell her to stay calm. Rafe admits that he’s worried too. Gabi thanks him for admitting that. Rafe agrees not to tell her not to panic and says she’s totally entitled. Rafe tries encouraging her to remain positive. Gabi says she will try and talks about how they will find Arianna soon. Rafe reiterates that he’s positive they will find them soon as he hugs Gabi.

Melinda returns to Sophia in their hotel room and apologizes for how long it took. Melinda asks Sophia what’s wrong. Sophia responds that Tate just called but she panicked and didn’t answer. Sophia tells Melinda that she doesn’t think she can do this.

Tate meets Doug III at the Brady Pub and informs him that he has the money. Doug III explains that the loan shark should be there in ten minutes and they will hand him the money in a takeout bag. Doug III tries to promise Tate that he will pay him back but Tate says he doesn’t want his money. Tate argues that if Doug III would’ve asked for help weeks ago then Holly and Arianna wouldn’t be in danger. Doug III wishes he could go back and change what he did but he can’t. Tate agrees that all he can do is get the hell out of town when this is all over, so he doesn’t hurt either of them again. Doug III repeats that he would and tells Tate to get out before the loan shark gets there but Tate declares that he’s staying right here to make sure he doesn’t screw this up.

Chad tells Cat that what he meant was that he gave Charlotte his word that he would pick her up and she doesn’t react well to plans changing. Cat tells him that he doesn’t have to spare her feelings. Chad asks if this is about not inviting her to play catch with he and Thomas. Cat assures that he doesn’t owe her any explanations and that she will see him around. Chad stops her and invites her out for coffee while they wait for the kids which she accepts, so they walk off together.

Melinda tells Sophia that if she wants to go home and tell Tate and her family the truth about leaving her baby at the fire station, they can do that. Melinda assures that she fully supports whatever Sophia wants to do. Sophia responds that the problem is she doesn’t really know what she wants to do. Sophia informs Melinda about how she ran in to Leo and Javi with her son. Sophia cries about seeing her baby boy again and she just wanted to hold him while something deep inside of her was saying to take him back because he’s her baby.

Rafe gets a call from Shawn, who informs him of bad news as they found footage on the town square, confirming that Arianna and Holly were abducted from the park at gunpoint. Shawn asks if Rafe knows of any trouble that Holly and Arianna were in. Rafe says he has nothing concrete but he has some ideas so he’ll be in touch. Rafe asks Shawn to keep him updated and hangs up.

Tate sits at a table at the Brady Pub as the loan shark appears outside the door. Doug III takes the money and goes outside to meet with him. Doug III informs him that he will hand over the cash as soon as he knows that Holly and Arianna are free.

Chad and Cat have coffee in the town square. Chad says he’s sorry they haven’t found time for their make up dinner with Felicity as he still wants to do it. Cat tells him not to worry about it as she knows how busy he is. Cat adds that she’s been busy and hasn’t had time to socialize anyway. Cat talks about teaching Felicity to drive.

Melinda tells Sophia that she understands how confusing the situation can be and brings up how she left her daughter Haley back in China while constantly wondering if she made the right decision. Melinda talks about having to try hard to stop imagining holding her baby and after awhile, she persuaded herself that Haley was better off without her and she was able to shut down her feelings of heartache to get on with her life. Sophia asks how long it took to stop the heartache. Melinda wishes she could tell her, but says she really doesn’t remember. Melinda encourages that Sophia is strong and resilient. Melinda reminds Sophia that she has 14 days to reclaim the baby if she changes her mind. Sophia assures that she does not want to do that. Sophia worries that if Tate and her mom find out about the baby, they will be first in line to take him back from Leo and Javi and she would be forced to raise him which she’s not ready for. Sophia cries that her baby deserves parents who would be able to raise him and admits she didn’t how how hard it would be to see her baby again and walk away from him a second time.

Xander tells Victoria that they are giving up on waiting for Gabi and will go for a stroll. Gabi arrives, apologizing for being late. Xander tells Gabi to save her excuses and that she can rearrange with his assistant as he’s going to spend the rest of the evening with his daughter. Xander then notes Gabi being upset and asks what’s wrong. Gabi says everything as she reveals her daughter is missing.

Doug III orders the loan shark to call his boss and tell him to let Arianna and Holly go, but he says not until he gives him his money. Doug III then hands over the money. The loan shark says he’s going to count it to make sure but Rafe approaches. The loan shark warns Doug III that he told him no police and runs away. Tate then runs out from the Pub and yells for Rafe to go stop that guy as he’s got Holly and Arianna so Tate and Rafe chase after him.

Melinda understands Sophia is overwhelmed after being through a terrible ordeal. Melinda encourages that she is strong, pointing out that she gave birth all by herself with no one there to help her and she can’t imagine the courage that took. Melinda adds that it took a tremendous amount of courage to leave her baby at the fire house and on top of that, she’s keeping this very big secret from everyone she loves. Sophia admits it’s been hard for her not to tell Tate and her mom. Melinda promises that she’s not alone and that she will help her through this. Melinda says she’s here for whatever she needs.

Xander sits Gabi down and asks if he can get her anything. Gabi says she’s good and thanks him for being so nice to her. Xander says he’s a father and a missing child is a parent’s worst nightmare. Xander brings up how little Victoria was when she was kidnapped. Xander asks when Gabi last saw Arianna. Gabi says yesterday, she was going to the lake on the Salem High senior trip but never got there. Xander questions what Gabi is doing here then.

At the police station, Rafe informs Tate and Doug III that Shawn is in the interrogation room with the loan shark, hoping to get information on where Arianna and Holly are. Doug III argues that if he just let him pay him, he would’ve told them where they are. Rafe questions how he doesn’t know he wouldn’t have just taken the money and run. Rafe adds that if he had just been honest in the first place and told them or just stayed away from Holly and Arianna, none of this would’ve happened. Doug III says he’s sorry. Rafe responds that sorry doesn’t bring the girls back. Tate asks what to do now and how they get the girls back. Rafe says they are going to do whatever it takes to find out where they are.

Shawn is in the interrogation room with the loan shark. Shawn informs him that they have him on video taking the girls and warns that they have enough evidence to put him away for a very long time. Shawn says if he wants to make things easier for himself, he will tell them where the girls are.

Doug III shows Rafe the photo of Holly and Arianna that he was sent but he has no idea where it was taken. Rafe thinks he knows someone who can help them and says he’ll be right back.

Chad gets a call from Leo, informing him about his jury duty. Chad laughs off the idea of writing him a letter to get him out of it and says they’ll just send another reporter to cover the trial. Chad tells him to have a nice day and hangs up. Cat then gets a call which Chad sees as from “James Smith”. Cat steps away to answer the call from Rafe, who says he sent her a picture and with her ISA resources, she can pin point where it was taken. Cat asks if he needs this right now. Rafe confirms it’s an emergency. Cat goes back to Chad and tells him that there’s something she has to take care of right away. Cat asks if Chad can pick up Felicity when he picks up Charlotte and bring her back to the Bakery for her shift. Chad says no problem. Cat says she owes him one and she will be there to pick her up when she’s done at the Bakery. Cat thanks Chad and walks off, leaving Chad confused.

Melinda encourages Sophia that she did nothing wrong and can’t let anyone else make her think otherwise. Melinda says she made a difficult choice in a terrible situation and adds that she’s here for whatever she needs. Sophia doesn’t know what she would do without her. Melinda recalls wishing for help when she was pregnant with her daughter, so it would do her heart good to be that for Sophia. Sophia cries that she can’t thank her enough. They agree to eat, watch a movie, and think about something else for a while.

Xander tells Gabi that he knows he can be a tough boss, but her daughter is missing so she didn’t have to come in today. Gabi says that Rafe told her to stay busy, so she figured she needs to stay out of the way while the cops do their job. Xander complains about the cops in Salem and questions relying on them to find her daughter. Xander thinks Gabi should be out kicking down doors and demanding answers. Gabi admits it’s taking everything in her not to charge in to the police station, but she trusts her brother and she knows Rafe is as determined to find Arianna as she is.

Rafe tells Tate and Doug III that hopefully they will have a lead on Arianna and Holly’s location soon. Shawn comes out from the interrogation room and tells them that the loan shark is not talking. Rafe threatens to go in and jog his memory but Shawn stops him and says he can’t do that as he’s too emotionally involved. Rafe argues that he’s holding people he cares deeply about. Shawn says they have to do it by the book and to let him do his job. Tate questions waiting around. Rafe argues that Tate could’ve tipped them off while Tate argues that he said no cops and Rafe is FBI, so he could’ve hurt the girls. Rafe agrees and tells Tate the best thing he can do is go home. Tate agrees since he has somewhere to be and asks Rafe to call him if he hears anything as he exits the station. Shawn then tells Doug III to come with him. Doug III asks if he’s arresting him.

Xander asks Gabi why she doesn’t just go home. Gabi won’t feel any better doing nothing. Xander encourages her to rest while he puts together a reward for information on Arianna’s whereabouts. Gabi is surprised that he would do that and thanks him, saying that’s very kind of him. Xander tells Gabi that he’s happy to help and to let him know anything he can do. Gabi cries that she just wants her daughter back and she can’t lose her daughter as she hugs Xander.

Shawn tells Doug III that he’s not arresting him but warns him not to leave town. Shawn then takes Doug III to give his statement. Rafe gets a call back from Cat, who reveals that she got a location on the girls. Rafe tells her to text it to him.

Sophia and Melinda finish their movie and dinner. Melinda tells Sophia that now it’s time. Sophia declares she needs to call Tate back and tell him the cover story. Sophia asks what if he doesn’t believe her. Melinda encourages that he will and that she can do this.

Chad brings Felicity and Charlotte back to the town square. Chad thanks Felicity for taking care of Charlotte. Chad offers them frozen yogurt but Felicity says she has to get to work. Felicity tells Charlotte that she will see her tomorrow and heads to the bakery. As Chad walks off with Charlotte, Tate comes through the town square, so Felicity rushes up saying she needs to talk to him.

Sophia calls Tate but he doesn’t answer, so she leaves a voicemail saying she’s sorry she missed his call and she just wants him to know that she’s in Chicago and she’s in labor.

Tate tells Felicity that he’s sorry he can’t talk as he has to go somewhere but Felicity reveals that she found something of Holly’s while she was at gymnastics. Felicity presents Tate with Holly’s class ring and asks him to return it to her.

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Days Short Recap Monday, July 21, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Leo and Gwen ran into each other at the town square. Gwen asked him about the paper. Leo said it was going well. He said she was being vindictive and petty about the necklace. Gwen said she had other reasons for being back in Salem, but she wasn’t telling her plans to a backstabber like him. Leo was okay with her not telling him. He said if she was doing something illegal, he would expose her. Gwen found his threat laughable. Leo said he could uncover scoops like her going in the Salem Inn with Xander. She didn’t care if he exposed it since Xander and Sarah were having problems. Leo said Xander and Sarah always found their way back to each other. He said she shouldn’t go after Xander again. Leo said he didn’t want to see her get hurt even though she hated him. Gwen said she hit rock bottom with Xander, but Leo was the one who broke her heart. Leo understood that he hurt her and said he was trying to apologize to her. He said he would do anything to get her to forgive him if it would help. Gwen said it wouldn’t. Leo said it was okay and that Dimitri screwed them both. Gwen got money and Leo moved on. She said Leo and Javi were lucky to have each other. Leo ended up leaving. At Titan, Gabi told Xander that she didn’t want to go home yet. She said she was happy that Arianna wanted to come home but now she wished she didn’t since Salem has been horrible for her. Gabi blamed herself for what happened to Arianna and called herself a terrible mother. Xander let her know that she was a good mother. He said he was able to see how much she loved Arianna. Xander said he and Sarah went through the same thing when Victoria was kidnapped.

Johnny told Philip that his trial started tomorrow and he might have to miss work. He told Philip that he would understand if he wanted to fire him for the company. Philip said he knew Johnny was innocent and would be back at work. Johnny thanked him and got recording equipment for Philip and Xander’s statement. Gabi left the office and told Philip that she had to leave. He went to Xander’s office and wondered what he did to Gabi. Xander was upset that Philip accused him of being the reason why Gabi was upset. Johnny came in the office. Xander said hiring Johnny was poor timing. He said Johnny was hired to undermine his father, but thanks to Philip, Johnny and EJ were closer than ever. Johnny said he was loyal to the company. Philip wanted to be alone with Xander. He told Xander that he couldn’t fire Johnny because he made up with his father. Philip said they needed to unite for the good of the company. Xander and Philip recorded the statement and continued fighting. Holly tried to pick the lock with a bobby pin but it didn’t work. Arianna noticed an air duct and was able to see daylight. The girls opened the air duct and Arianna crawled through. Arianna ended up getting stuck. Tate was at the alley where Holly and Arianna were taken. Rafe showed up and wondered why Tate was there. Tate showed him Holly’s class ring and suggested they split up and look through the warehouses. Rafe said it was too dangerous. He wanted Tate to wait for the police while he searched the warehouses. When Rafe left, Tate went to one of the warehouses and called out Holly’s name. Tate got to the door and heard Holly. He kicked the door open. Rafe showed up and sent Tate and Holly out so they could tell everyone where they were. Rafe called out to Arianna and heard her screaming. When Rafe called out to Arianna, she didn’t hear him because she passed out. He ended up rescuing Arianna.

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Days Update Thursday, July 17, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the Hernandez home, Gabi informs Rafe that she sent Arianna five texts yesterday and she hasn’t responded to any of them. Gabi guesses she’s having fun at the lake but thinks she could at least send her a message to let her know she’s alive…

Holly and Arianna remain locked in the warehouse, wondering if it’s morning yet and talk about not sleeping at all. They get up and find a bag left at the door. Arianna finds a bottle of water inside and says she could really use it after screaming for help all night but Holly rushes to stop her.

Doug III is in his room and makes a call to be connected to Gwen’s room at the Salem Inn and finds out she’s not there. Doug III hopes she left her necklace in the room this time and declares that he’s going to get Holly and Arianna out of this mess.

Amy Choi walks through the town square and calls Sophia. Amy asks if she’s okay, pointing out that she didn’t answer when she knocked on her door and then she opened the door and she wasn’t there. Amy asks if Sophia is home now. Sophia reveals that she’s in Chicago. Amy questions what she’s doing there. Sophia claims she’s there to meet with a couple who would like to adopt her baby which shocks Amy.

Tate talks to Belle at home about jury selection and says he knows it can’t be easy for her to prosecute her own nephew. Belle says it’s not easy, especially since she thinks Johnny is innocent. Tate says that’s good because he thinks so too. Belle adds that she still has to prosecute the case to the best of her ability, whether EJ likes it or not.

EJ sits at home in the living room of the DiMera Mansion and has a flashback of hearing the gunshot.

Amy questions Sophia as to what couple and where she found them. Sophia reveals her new lawyer did. Amy questions when she got a new lawyer. Sophia says it was pretty recently and she just spoke this morning and decided to drive down together to meet the parents. Amy questions why she didn’t tell her any of this. Sophia says the baby is due any day now and she knew if she consulted with her, it would only hold her up. Amy argues that this is a life changing decision that should not be made on a whim. Amy gets an alert that she is supposed to report to jury duty but she tells Sophia that she’s going to skip it and come to Chicago because she needs to be with her and Tate when they meet with the couple. Sophia then admits that Tate is not there because he’s at senior lake week and this was all last minute. Sophia says she just figured she could handle this on her own. Amy finds that ridiculous and asks where she is exactly and she’ll head out there now. Sophia tells her that she won’t and declares that her mom already ruined one adoption for her so she won’t let her ruin another. Sophia then hangs up on her, leaving Amy frustrated.

Tate guesses it’s a good thing that Johnny and Chanel didn’t adopt he and Sophia’s baby as it would’ve been a huge mess given that Sophia is due to give birth any day. Belle asks how Sophia is doing. Tate admits Sophia has been acting weird lately, ignoring his calls, and seeming to be in a rush to get off the phone. Tate mentions Sophia being cool with him joining Holly at the lake, but Holly didn’t show up and he hasn’t heard from her. Belle questions Holly not texting him. Tate says now that the whole night has gone by, he’s started to get really worried.

Holly warns Arianna that the bottled water could be poisoned but Arianna reminds her that he wants Doug III’s money and if he wanted them dead, he wouldn’t have given them blankets to sleep. Holly guesses she’s right and wishes he would let her call Maggie so she could get the cash and then they could go home. Arianna complains about waiting on Doug III instead and wonder how long their kidnapper is willing to wait. Holly wonders if their families even know they are missing.

Gabi points out that Arianna said she would call her when she got to the lake but she never did. Gabi wonders if Arianna is punishing her for embarrassing her by giving her a box of condoms before she left. Gabi argues that the last thing the family needs is an unexpected pregnancy. Leo comes in and agrees, saying things are crazy enough with Tesoro and can’t imagine another baby in the mix. Leo talks about finally being responsible and reporting to jury duty. Rafe offers to watch over Tesoro. Leo says Tesoro is coming with him which Gabi questions. Leo explains that it’s his plan to get sent home from jury duty as he exits with Tesoro.

EJ wonders why he can’t remember.

EJ goes to court and takes his place opposite Belle in the room. EJ tells Belle that he didn’t seduce her so that she would drop the charges against Johnny and clarifies that he made love to her because he wanted to. Belle argues that it was also because he wanted her to drop the charges against Johnny. EJ states that he also wanted her.

Outside the court room, Amy is on the phone, complaining that she told them that she had a pregnant daughter and they didn’t give a damn. Leo is nearby with Tesoro and asks her to keep it down a little because Tesoro is sleeping. Amy tells her husband Sam that they told her she’s put off jury duty too many times, so she asks him to drive to Chicago and find their daughter. Amy hangs up and apologizes to Leo, hoping she didn’t wake the baby. Leo confirms that he’s still sleeping. Amy talks about how much easier it is when they are that age compared to when they grow up and you have little control over them. Leo says he’s only fostering the baby temporarily. Amy comments on it being a newborn. Leo explains that he was dropped off at the firehouse safe haven.

Rafe tells Gabi that he’s a little disappointed that Leo didn’t take him up on his offer because it would’ve been nice to spend time with Tesoro. Gabi acknowledges that Rafe always wanted a child of his own. Rafe guesses it wasn’t in the cards. Gabi encourages that it could still happen while Rafe thinks he’s running out of time. Gabi says either way, he’s been a wonderful uncle to Arianna. Rafe isn’t sure after he ratted her out for flirting with Doug III. Gabi is glad she wasn’t the overprotective one that time. Rafe jokes that she’ll regain the title when Arianna gets the 500 text messages that Gabi has sent. Rafe encourages Gabi to give Arianna space or else she will rebel. Gabi takes it that she shouldn’t drive up to the lake to track down her daughter in front of her friends.

Arianna tells Holly that she has no doubt that Gabi has had a complete meltdown since she was supposed to call her when they got to the lake. Holly points out that it wouldn’t be unusual for Arianna to blow her off. Arianna guesses that’s coming back to bite her in the ass. Arianna hopes Gabi’s anxiety is in full force so that Rafe will be out looking for them right now. Holly hopes Rafe finds her class ring or someone already did so that Rafe can figure out where to find them. Arianna suggests they try to relax. Arianna encourages Holly to eat the breakfast bars left for them, pointing out that they have no idea what they are up against and could be fighting for their lives.

Tate goes to Doug III’s room and demands to know where Holly is. Doug III repeats that he doesnt’ know but Tate thinks he does because he was acting nervous and weird like he’s hiding something. Doug III says he was imagining that but Tate accuses him of lying then and now. Doug III says he doesn’t have time for this but Tate says he’s not leaving until he tells him the truth.

Belle tells EJ that she thinks it’s best if they keep things strictly professional in the court room. EJ jokes with her and says he would like to talk to her about this later in private because he doesn’t want there to be a rift between them. Belle doesn’t either but thinks it would be wise to keep space between them in public until the trial is over. EJ admits he’s not keen on that. Belle reminds him that it’s for Johnny’s sake so EJ reluctantly agrees. Belle declares that starting now, they both have a job to do that will put them on opposite ends of the case, so in the court room, they are no longer lovers but adversaries.

Amy watches over Tesoro while Leo jokingly laments over his childhood but Amy remarks that she’s not a fan of jokes. Leo says he can tell that Tesoro really likes Amy. Amy says he’s the only thing keeping her from going out of her mind with worry. Leo encourages that Tesoro is spreading joy everywhere. Leo adds that with any luck, Tesoro will be his ticket out of jury duty.

Rafe suggests Gabi call the hotel to see if Arianna checked in. Gabi wonders why she didn’t think of that. Gabi remarks that she fully intends to count the number of condoms Arianna brings home. Gabi then calls the hotel to inquire about Arianna and Holly, but she is informed that they never checked in.

Holly says Arianna sounded pretty grim when she thought she was convinced the loan shark wouldn’t hurt them. Arianna says that’s only if Doug III comes through and he’s not exactly reliable. Holly encourages that it’s not like Doug III wanted this to happen. Arianna questions Holly defending him after everything.

Doug III tells Tate that he’s way off base. Tate says he won’t let him gaslight him. Doug III tells Tate to get the hell out but Tate refuses to leave until he tells him what he knows. Doug III grabs him and says he will toss him out. Tate tells him not to put his hands on him and shoves off. Tate then sees the envelope that was delivered to Doug III and finds the photos of Holly and Arianna that he was sent. Tate questions if Doug III is stalking them and calls him a sick pervert. Tate declares he’s calling the police. Doug III stops him and says he has it all wrong. Tate gives him two seconds to explain so Doug III reveals that he didn’t take the pictures but someone sent them to him. Tate questions why. Doug III then informs Tate that Holly and Arianna are in trouble and it’s all his fault.

Amy takes her seat in the courthouse and faces off with EJ, realizing that she’s on the jury for The People vs. Johnny DiMera. EJ acknowledges her dealings with his family and questions if she can be impartial. Amy says no and calls EJ a miserable excuse for a human being and says she’d like to tear him limb from limb for all the trouble he’s caused her daughter. Belle interrupts to question if Amy can be impartial when judging the defendant. Amy says definitely not and declared that EJ’s trigger happy son ruined everything for Sophia. EJ and Belle then both dismiss Amy from the jury.

Leo remains outside the court, commenting on the jury selection until Amy comes out from the court room. Leo asks how it went. Amy informs him that she got dismissed after telling the truth. Amy wishes Leo luck and hopes he catches a break. Amy says goodbye to Tesoro and says they didn’t hang out long but she felt a connection with him.

Belle comments to EJ that Amy Choi isn’t the only juror who feels they can’t be impartial when it comes to the DiMeras. Belle adds that it’s not surprising since everyone knows the checkered past of EJ’s family, so they automatically assume the worst. EJ remarks that includes her. Belle says that’s not true as she loves Johnny, Sydney, and Theo. EJ points out that his name was left out. Belle reminds him that they are in the court room. Leo then enters with Tesoro and asks if he’s in the right place as he questions what they are doing here.

Rafe encourages Gabi not to freak out. Gabi begins to worry about if Holly and Arianna were in some kind of accident. Rafe says they would’ve been notified and suggests maybe they made a pit stop. Gabi argues that it would make no sense since they were so excited to go to the lake and questions why they would stop somewhere else. Rafe agrees but points out that the police can’t do anything because it hasn’t been long enough yet, but he will unofficially put some feelers out and see if he can find them. Gabi thanks him and tells him to let her know as soon as he hears anything. Rafe encourages that it will be okay as he exits.

Holly tells Arianna that when Doug III first told her about how badly the loan sharks beat him up, it was pretty clear that he was in over his head which is why she gave him the money. Arianna questions them still coming after him. Holly is sure Doug III wishes he never got involved with them. Arianna remarks that she wishes she never got involved with him. Holly thinks Doug III was trying to protect them, pointing out that he was pushing her away recently. Arianna relates to him doing the same with her.

Doug III informs Tate that the loan shark told him that if he didn’t get the money by today, he would hurt Holly and Arianna. Tate questions him not calling the police. Doug III explains that they warned him not to. Tate suggests calling Rafe but Doug III feels it’s too risky to get anyone else involved because these guys are really dangerous. Tate worries that Holly and Arianna must be terrified. Doug III complains that he’s done everything he can and admits he almost took money from the cash register at the Brady Pub but Roman already emptied the till. Tate questions why he didn’t just ask him. Doug III argues that Tate is a trust fund baby and would have to ask his dad which he couldn’t risk. Tate calls him an idiot as he points out that he has his own savings account. Tate says he’s been saving up to buy a car so he probably has enough and asks how much he needs. Doug III questions if Tate would help him. Tate clarifies that he would be helping Holly and Arianna as he will do anything to bring them home.

Leo tries telling EJ and Belle that he has Tesoro who requires all of his attention. EJ points out that he didn’t mention this in his jury form while Belle adds that Leo has four other adults living in his home, questioning if they can’t take care of the baby and reminding Leo that he is under oath. Leo argues that he’s a journalist but EJ says the law states he would be prohibited from speaking about the case a member of the jury. Leo complains while EJ asks if Leo has been influenced by anything to have preconceived notions about the defendant’s guilt. Leo admits that he thinks there’s a number of people that could’ve shot EJ. Belle asks if Leo can be impartial. Leo talks about being open minded so they welcome him to the jury against his wishes.

Arianna tells Holly that even if Doug III was trying to protect them, he’s still a jerk for not telling her about what was going on with he and Holly. Holly argues that there was nothing to tell since they never hooked up. Arianna complains that he still knew they were friends and never said anything which she calls lying by omission. Arianna feels he was trying to keep his options open. Holly guesses she’s right and says she’s just grateful she’s back with Tate. Holly worries that Tate thinks she stood him up. Arianna says they have to worry about more important things like getting out of here and not being killed.

Tate is shocked by how much money Doug III owes and questions how he racked up that much debt. Doug III says they are loan sharks and trying to bleed him dry. Tate says that he does have enough and he will go to the bank to get the cash. Tate says he will return in an hour but if the loan sharks lay a finger on Holly or Arianna, the deal is off. Doug III responds that he doesn’t know how to thank him. Tate states that he can thank him by packing a bag and getting out of Salem because he doesn’t want him near Holly or Arianna ever again. Doug III tells him it’s done as he will do anything to get out of this mess.

EJ and Belle talk about jury selection not going too bad. EJ complains that the trial shouldn’t be happening and questions the police not arresting Chanel after the video was found. Belle feels it’s not a smoking gun while EJ complains they don’t have much more on Johnny. EJ believes the Salem police department have given up on finding the true culprit. Belle questions him thinking it’s Chanel. EJ responds that he hasn’t ruled it out. EJ calls it so frustrating because the answers are all inside and the key to exonerating his son is simply recalling what happened that night. Belle is surprised that EJ hasn’t told the police that he remembers who shot him even if he doesn’t. EJ admits the thought crossed his mind, but he knows first hand what it’s like to be wrongfully accused. Belle asks if it’s him having sympathy or that he’d look bad when the truth comes out. EJ feels they are both good reasons. Belle has an idea that might help him unlock his memories from that night.

Gabi calls Arianna and leaves a message, asking her to call her back when she gets the message so she knows she is okay. Leo comes home with Tesoro and complains that Gabi won’t believe this nightmare as he got selected for jury duty in Johnny’s case to determine whether he shot his father. Gabi asks why this is bad since Leo’s been obsessed with the case. Leo argues that he was as a journalist but now he can’t even gossip about it. Leo adds that he has one more card left to play.

Sophia calls Melinda and asks what’s taking so long as she thought she would be back with their food by now. Sophia informs her that her mom just called so she told her that she’s in Chicago and she flipped out, but she stuck to the cover story. Sophia admits she’s freaking out as their plan is so risky, so she questions if Melinda really thinks they will be able to pull it off.

Tate runs in to Amy in the town square. Amy asks if he’s heard from Sophia but Tate says he hasn’t. Amy reveals that Sophia just told her that she’s in Chicago, meeting with a couple to adopt the baby. Tate is shocked and questions why she wouldn’t tell him. Amy guesses Tate was too busy partying up with his friends at the lake. Tate argues that Sophia knew he was at the lake and that he would want to be at the meeting. Amy says there might still be time but Tate says he has an urgent matter with a friend in trouble. Amy asks what about his baby. Tate responds that he cares very much about the baby and Sophia but remarks that it’s not like she’s given birth yet. Tate tells Amy that he’s sorry that he has to go and promises to help sort this out at a later date. Tate repeats that he’s sorry and he has to go as he rushes off, leaving Amy in disbelief.

Doug III texts the loan shark that he will have the money in an hour with the warning that if he hurts his friends, the deal is off.

Rafe returns home and informs Gabi that he hasn’t found Arianna yet but he does have news, revealing that Holly’s car is still parked by the town square and the girls’ bags are still in the trunk, so it appears they never left Salem. Gabi is panicked and questions where her daughter is.

Arianna tells Holly that they can’t just wait around for Doug III or their families to save them. Holly argues that they can’t give up but Arianna declares that they have to find a way out of here now.

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Days Short Recap Friday, July 18, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Rafe let Gabi know that Shawn was starting an investigation into Arianna’s disappearance. He told her that they needed to stay calm. Gabi couldn’t relax knowing that her daughter was missing. She didn’t think that Arianna would come back. Gabi wondered if Holly’s family knew what happened. Rafe told her that Nicole was in France and Maggie was in Bermuda. He didn’t think Holly’s family needed to know. Rafe wanted her to distract herself by working, but she didn’t want to do that. Shawn called Rafe and told him that he went over the CCTV footage, and Arianna and Holly were held at gunpoint. Shawn wanted to know if Arianna and Holly someone who would do that to them. Rafe had a few ideas. Xander told Victoria that he would get to know her again since they would be spending more time together. He said that she was the most important person in the world to him. Xander was getting tired of waiting for Gabi and that’s when she walked in the room. He was upset that she was late. She told him that her daughter was kidnapped. Xander understood how she felt because he’s a parent. He wanted to know why she was at the office. She told him that Rafe wanted her to keep busy.

Tate left a message for Sophia, but she didn’t answer the phone. He wanted to know why she didn’t tell him about the couple in Chicago. Sophia saw the message, but she didn’t answer the phone. Melinda came in the room and noticed something wrong with Sophia. Sophia told her that Tate called, but she didn’t answer. She wasn’t sure she could go through with it. Melinda supported any decision she made about the baby. Sophia didn’t know what to do. She told Melinda that it broke her heart to see her baby when she saw him with Leo and Javi. Melinda told her how she felt when she gave her daughter up. She told her that the feeling wouldn’t last. Sophia wanted to know how long it would take, but Melinda didn’t know. Melinda said that she had time to change her mind about the baby, but she didn’t want to do that. Sophia wasn’t ready for motherhood and wanted her baby to have parents who were ready. Tate gave Doug money and didn’t want the money back. He said that Doug could have asked for the money a while ago, and Holly and Arianna would be okay. Tate wanted Doug to leave town. Doug agreed to leave town. Tate planned to stay to make sure that Doug didn’t screw up the meeting. The loan shark arrived at the pub. Doug told the guy that he would give him the money once he knew Holly and Arianna were okay. Rafe arrived and wanted to talk to Doug. The henchman ran off and Tate left the pub to tell Rafe to stop the guy. He told Rafe that he was the one who kidnapped Holly and Arianna. Rafe and Tate chased the henchman. Rafe, Tate, and Doug met at the station. Rafe blamed Doug for everything that happened. He thought Doug should have said he was being threatened. Doug showed Rafe the picture of Holly and Arianna that the henchman showed him. Shawn questioned the guy about the kidnapping. He said the mask didn’t hide anything because they have footage of him. Shawn warned him that he would go to prison for the rest of his life. He wanted to know where Holly and Arianna were.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, July 17, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Rafe found Gabi panicking because she hadn’t heard from Arianna. She thought Arianna was upset with her for embarrassing her. Gabi told Rafe about the condoms she bought for Arianna. He was surprised to hear that. Leo walked in the room with Tesoro and let them know that he had to go to jury duty. He thought the baby was his chance to get out of jury duty. Leo took the baby along to annoy the people at the courthouse. Rafe was disappointed because he wanted to look after the baby. Gabi knew how much Rafe loved kids and thought he still had time. Arianna adored Rafe. He warned her not to keep sending Arianna messages because she’s a teenager and needed space. Rafe advised her to call the hotel to see if she checked in. Gabi followed his advice and called the hotel. She found out that Arianna and Holly didn’t check into the hotel. Gabi panicked more once she found that out. Rafe tried to calm her down, but it didn’t work. Holly and Arianna woke up in the storage room. They noticed a paper bag with water in it. Arianna wanted to drink it, but Holly warned her that it could be poisoned. She told Holly that they were hostages, and the kidnapper would have killed them if he wanted to do it. Holly believed her grandmother Maggie could have helped. Arianna didn’t think any of their families knew where they were. She hoped Doug came through for them. Arianna was upset with him for getting them involved in his mess. Holly tried to defend Doug to her. She told her that Doug paid them so there was no reason for them to go after them. Her comments didn’t change Arianna’s opinion about Doug. Tate talked to Belle about Johnny’s case. He was surprised that jury selection started. They believed Johnny was innocent. Belle still had to prosecute his case. They changed the conversation and talked about Sophia’s pregnancy. Tate thought she was acting weird. He said she was okay with him going to the lake, but it didn’t matter since Holly didn’t show up. Tate was started to get worried about her.

Doug called Gwen, but she didn’t answer the phone. He planned to break in her place and take the necklace. Before he got a chance to leave, Tate showed up at her apartment and demanded to know where Holly was. He knew Doug was lying. Tate refused to leave until Doug gave him answers. Doug tried to force Tate out of the room. Tate found an envelope with pictures of Holly and Arianna. He accused Doug of stalking them. Doug denied stalking them, but he knew someone was doing it. Holly and Arianna were in trouble, and he blamed himself for what happened. Doug told him what he knew. He warned him not to tell the police or Rafe about what happened. Doug had to get the money to the henchman. Tate had some money to help him. Doug was relieved, but Tate wanted him to get out of town for good. He agreed to leave town and leave Holly and Arianna alone. Amy checked in with Sophia, and she told her that she was in Chicago with a couple who wanted to adopt the baby. Sophia told her that her lawyer found a new couple fast. She didn’t want to waste time talking things over because the baby was due any minute. Amy wasn’t having it, but she got a notification to report to jury duty. She wanted to skip jury duty and meet the family. Sophia thought she could handle it on her own, but Amy wouldn’t hear of it. She wanted to be there for her daughter, but she didn’t want that. Sophia felt like she ruined one adoption and wouldn’t do it again. She hung up the phone. EJ looked through pictures from the shooting and heard a gunshot in his mind. He jumped when he heard it. EJ didn’t understand why he couldn’t remember anything. He went to the courthouse and saw Belle there. She didn’t want to talk to him until he admitted that he didn’t seduce her. He made love to her. She thought he did it because he wanted her to drop the charges against Johnny. He flirted with her, but she wanted to keep things professional. Amy walked in the courthouse and yelled at her husband on the phone. She told him about Sophia’s situation. She saw Leo with a baby and apologized for yelling. He told her that he was fostering a child after he got dropped off at a firehouse. Amy looked at her grandson. EJ and Belle questioned Leo and Amy to see if they would work for the jury. Leo tried to get out of being picked, but EJ and Belle were okay with him being on the jury.

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Days Update Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, July 16, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Kayla went to Stephanie’s apartment to see her. Stephanie let her know that was trying to work for the hospital. She thought EJ wouldn’t want to talk to her if he wasn’t ready to make her an offer. Stephanie asked if Kayla thought she should take it. Kayla said the hospital would be lucky to have her, but she should run the other way. She told Stephanie that the hospital was EJ’s and that he was making big changes. She thought being EJ’s PR would be tricky. Stephanie said she wanted to help the hospital. At Titan, Xander had trouble calming Victoria down. When Gabi came to his office, she offered to help him. Gabi was able to get Victoria to calm down. Xander was afraid that Victoria forgot about him. Gabi said they needed to be reacquainted. She said she had to do that with her daughter. After they talked, they started working. Xander was frustrated with Johnny not showing up when he should. Gabi thought he should give Johnny a break since he knew what it was like to be charged with attempted murder. Xander reminded her that the charges were dropped. She told him everything would be okay.

Cat went to Rafe’s office. She took out the flash drive with EJ’s finances and gave it to Rafe. They talked about how the ISA and FBI were working together to take down the DiMeras. It was the best time to strike. Rafe said he knew EJ didn’t buy the hospital out of the goodness in his heart. He wondered where EJ got the money. Since Versavix wasn’t going to make money for a while, Rafe wondered what EJ’s plan was. Cat wanted to know why it was so personal for Rafe and wondered about their history. Rafe told her what happened between him and EJ. He said EJ was a sociopath and needed to be stopped. Cat didn’t want to do this since the hospital saved her sister’s life. She said she didn’t know that EJ was a bad guy since he was Chad’s brother. Rafe let her know that Chad knows his family’s history. He said Chad was a good DiMera. Rafe said Chad wouldn’t stand in their way. Cat said she wasn’t worried about Chad. She was worried about her siblings getting hurt because of the investigation. Rafe understood how she felt. He said the career was a calling for him. Cat said the hospital was why she wanted to help, but she wasn’t ready for field work. Gwen went to the DiMera mansion and told EJ that she couldn’t pick a room. EJ let her know she wasn’t moving in. He said she had to wait. While they were talking, he noticed that she was wearing Julie’s necklace. He thought she was going to return the necklace, but she said she wasn’t. Gwen said she hated most of the Hortons ever since Laura sent her away. EJ said there were two sides to every story. When Chad and Thomas came in, Thomas asked her why she had Julie’s necklace and why she hasn’t given it back. Gwen said there was a disagreement about the necklace’s owner. When Thomas left, Chad told her he was only nice to her for Thomas’ sake. He said he wanted her to give Julie back the necklace and then leave Salem. Gwen told him that wasn’t happening. She said she was moving into the mansion. Rafe and Cat looked through EJ’s finances and noticed red flags. They realized the only way he could have bought the hospital was with a silent partner.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, July 15, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Belle and EJ talked about being on opposite sides in court. They were on opposite side, but they wanted Johnny to go free. Belle wanted that, but she planned to do it by the book. She wished that the judge didn’t put her back on the case. Belle wished the ADA was on the case because it would look like favoritism if he was let go. EJ wasn’t worried about it because people knew that she had integrity. He felt like there was enough evidence for reasonable doubt and for the charges to be dropped against Johnny. Belle was shocked that he wanted the charges dropped. She felt like it would look bad if Johnny’s not exonerated in court. Belle felt like he seduced and manipulated her to get her to drop the charges against Johnny. She stormed out of his room. Kristen went to see Brady to let him know that there was a new suspect in EJ’s shooting. She felt like it was good for Rachel. Kristen told him that Chanel was the suspect. Kristen was glad because Rachel wouldn’t have to testify after all. Brady felt that it was a no-win situation for Johnny. Johnny did it or his wife did it. Kristen thought Chanel deserved what was coming to her since she was going to let Johnny take the blame for her crime. Brady thought Kristen would do the same thing Chanel did if she could protect someone she loved. Kristen agreed, but she wouldn’t let the man she loved go to prison for her crime. She was thankful that Rachel wouldn’t have to be involved in the case since EJ wanted her to convince Rachel to lie on the stand. Tate checked his phone as he waited for Holly. He tried to call Holly, but her phone went to voicemail. Brady wanted to go after EJ, but Kristen stopped him. She warned him that EJ was desperate and dangerous. Brady agreed to drop it for now. Tate arrived at the townhouse, and Brady was surprised to see him. Kristen slipped out of the townhouse while Brady and Tate were talking. Tate told Brady that Holly never showed up at the lake. He hadn’t heard from her at all. Tate thought Holly might have changed her mind about them being together. Brady tried to make Tate feel better. Johnny let Philip know that he couldn’t make it to work. Chanel couldn’t believe that he was being so calm about their worlds falling apart. People were going to think one of them shot EJ. Johnny wasn’t worried about it since they were innocent. They had to figure out who shot his father. He didn’t trust the police. Johnny felt like they weren’t interested in finding other suspects. He let Chanel know that he believed in her. Johnny knew she would never allow him to go to prison for her crime. They went through the list of suspects. Ava, Gabi, and Kristen were the people they suspected. Johnny wanted to write their names down. While he looked for something to take notes, he noticed that she used Sweet Bits as collateral for his bond. He didn’t like how she did that because she could lose her business. Chanel wanted him to know that she supported him 100 percent. He wished he didn’t keep things from her like wanting to kill his father.

Arianna and Holly were held in a room at gunpoint. A henchman let them know that once a friend gave them the money, they would be let go. If he didn’t pay the money, things would get complicated for them. They wouldn’t die if he didn’t pay. The thugs would ransom them to their families. After the guy left, Arianna and Holly began to panic. They tried to get the door open, but it wouldn’t open. Holly apologized to Arianna for the mess they were in. She helped the guy the thug was talking about. Arianna hooked up with someone like that. After they talked, they realized they were talking about Doug. Holly told her how she knew Doug, but she didn’t sleep with him. She was glad since she’s back with Tate. Arianna wasn’t happy that Doug got them in the mess they’re in now. She felt like a fool for getting involved with him. Arianna thought that Doug was with her because he couldn’t have Holly. They knew Doug didn’t have money but hopefully he could fix things. The girls tried to figure another way out of the room. Holly remembered dropping her ring in the alley. She thought someone would notice and help them. Doug saw the thug at the pub. He grabbed him and demanded that he let the girls go. The guy would do it once Doug gave him the money. Doug said he didn’t have the money. The guy was giving him one more day to get the money. Doug would be responsible for anything happening to them. He didn’t want the cops to be involved. Doug was tempted to take the money out of the register at the pub. He was about to grab it when Tate arrived. Tate wanted to know what happened to Holly. Doug pretended not to know anything about it. He said he hadn’t heard from her.

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Days Update Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Days Update Monday, July 14, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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