Days Transcript Friday, December 22, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

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Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

[light holiday music]

* Deck the halls with boughs of holly *

* Fa la la la la la la la *

[laughs]

And here are the rest of the Horton ornaments.

Yes. Each one…

[clicks tongue] Is ready to hang on our beautiful tree– a precious gem of our family history. Oh, my darling… a symbol of all the Hortons past and present.

Well, there they come, the Charge of the Light Brigade.

Where’s Addie?

I think she went upstairs.

Oh. Darling, would you go upstairs and call your mother? Tell her we want her down here for just one minute.

Mother?

Is the party about to break up, or is this the vigilantes approaching?

Just relax, my friend, just relax. Now, uh, I know everybody doesn’t know what I’m going to do. Um, I think you will all approve.

 

[clears throat] Fair warning, I bleed very easily.

Oh, there are plenty of doctors around–don’t worry. Oh, here she is.

What?

Addie’s here. Go ahead, start it off.

Pay attention, Addie.

All right.

 

[clears throat]

Uh, what is–what’s going on?

Doug, uh…

[chuckles] How do I begin? I-I suppose the most obvious way… how much we love you, how much, in the short time that we’ve known you, you–you’ve come to be practically a member of this family, perhaps the only family you’ve ever known, seeing that you were raised in an orphanage. Now, if you’ll look behind you on the tree, you’ll see ornaments with the names of everyone near and dear to us– all members of this family. But today we decided that we wanted to add another ornament… another name.

[soft music]

[light applause]

And just to make it official, though not exactly legal, Mickey’s drawn up a-a formal set of adoption papers here, which do not require you to change your last name.

[light laughter] Doug, I guess what we’re trying to say is that… Welcome to our family.

Just like a family, each one is a blessing.

And none more than you, my love.

You know, darling, you say that every year.

Well, it’s always true.

Oh.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas. I assume those are for Tate.

Yes, they are.

[gasps] Merry Christmas, my little honey bunny.

Mom, hey.

Oh.

[smooching] How are you?

I just thought I’d, um, pop by and bring you all your Christmas presents, since I know you’re going to be spending Christmas with your dad’s family.

Both sides, actually. We’re going to have brunch with Dad and Marlena, and then we’re going to have dinner at Kiriakis.

Yeah, well, I, uh– I won’t be at that dinner.

What do you mean?

I’m working at the Pub tomorrow.

You–you’re working on Christmas?

Why is the Pub open on Christmas?

Well, if–if I know Roman, he’s probably creating a haven for all the lonely souls of Salem. Um, well, I didn’t know he scheduled you, son.

I-I volunteered. Roman needed the help, so…

I see. Ah, it also gives you a really good excuse to get out of dinner tomorrow night.

Those Kiriakis dinners– they’re like, uh–they’re like those boring Greek tragedies we’re forced to read in English lit.

 

[laughs] That’s actually a pretty good analogy.

Well, I’m not going to be going either.

You were–you were invited?

 

[clears throat] Mm-hmm. By Alex.

By Alex?

Yeah. See, we’re actually not roommates anymore. We’re actually dating.

Oh, okay, right. Did that happen before or after… you found out that he inherited half the Kiriakis fortune?

[dramatic music]

Three of my favorite people just arrived. The party may now get started.

[both laugh]

 

[sighs] Well… Tommy, Charlotte, are you ready for Santa Claus?

I guess.

Well, I’m sure you’re ready for some Christmas cookies.

No, thank you.

Can we just go upstairs and play in our old room?

Yeah, sure. Go ahead. Run on up there.

I-I’ll let you know when it’s time to hang the ornaments and–and open your presents and–

[sighs] Oh, Chad.

Hi.

Christmas is hard for them, isn’t it?

It is. It is, yeah. They, um–they miss their mom.

Of course they do.

And Stephanie. You know, they’re missing her a lot, too.

Extra whipped cream. That’s how you like it, right?

Mmm. Thank you.

Well, it’s the least I could do, you agreeing to… talk business with me tonight. You sure I’m not keeping you from any holiday festivities?

No, you are not, and I can use the distraction.

Hmm.

Why are you working on Christmas Eve?

Oh, well…

[clears throat] I don’t celebrate Christmas, as you know.

Mm-hmm.

And Hanukkah is over. The two don’t coincide this year.

Oh, right. I remember lighting a menorah with you every night for eight nights our first Hanukkah we were together.

That’s right. And you said the blessing with me. Baruch atah Adonai. You remember that?

I do.

What are your plans tonight? Um, I mean after our–our meeting.

I’m, uh– I’m just going to watch my favorite holiday movie and go to sleep.

Your favorite holiday movie is… “Rudolph”? Is it “Rudolph”?

Yeah, when I was eight.

I don’t know– I seem to remember watching “Rudolph” with you when we were together. You couldn’t figure out why that doll was on the Island of Misfit Toys.

Well, what was wrong with her, anyway? She wasn’t a misfit.

I guess you’re right.

And, uh, for the record, “Rudolph” is not my favorite holiday movie. It just so happened to be on while we were wrapping presents.

Mm, I remember what it is. “Elf.”

A classic.

Total classic.

Mm-hmm.

So it’s you and Will Ferrell tonight, huh? No plans with family?

I’ll celebrate with them tomorrow. Tonight I just–I just want to lock myself in my room and watch my holiday movie. I just want a quiet night by myself.

[soft music]

The baby! Oh, Merry Christmas, Victoria Horton.

Ah, well, Victoria Horton-Cook, actually.

Uh, very well. Victoria Horton-Cook. You’re adorable, and we are so glad you’re here.

And thank you so much, Julie, for… having me, too.

Well, it is a special occasion. Baby’s first Christmas only happens once. And if her parents want to be together, then they should be.

That’s very kind of you. And, yes, we–we do want to be together… for Christmas with our– with our daughter.

[all chuckle]

Is my mom here yet?

Yeah, I think I heard her coming in. Ad she’s not alone.

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

Well, well, who have we here?

Uh, Julie, um, this is Konstantin Meleounis. Um, I hope it’s all right that I brought him. He’s a dear old friend of Victor’s, and he didn’t have any plans for tonight.

Of course it’s all right.

It is my honor to meet you both.

It’s our pleasure, sir.

Huh. Um, well, um, I really would like to excuse myself. I want to say hello to Sarah and Xander, okay?

Of course. Of course, dear.

Hi.

Do you want to hear something strange?

Sure.

That man, Konstantin, reminded me of my younger self.

Oh, in what way?

Well, I just saw something flicker in his eyes.

 

[whispering] Good flicker or a bad flicker?

Well, the latter, I’m afraid.

Merry Christmas, Maggie.

Oh, Merry Christmas.

 

[grunts]

Oh.

You look lovely as always.

Oh, thank you, Xander.

Um, Konstantin, may I borrow my mom for a few minutes?

“Borrow”?

Um, she wants to talk to me alone.

Ah, yes, of course.

For a moment.

[soft holiday music]

I trust your little one is well.

She is.

Mm.

Although, frankly, I’m not sure if that’s thanks to you or no thanks to you.

Well, it was such a nice surprise to see you brought Xander.

Oh, no, you win in the surprise department. Konstantin? I thought he was gone.

Ah, well, he was. He’s staying with a cousin in Ohio.

Mm-hmm.

But they had travel plans for the holidays, so, uh, he came back here. He’s staying in the Salem Inn, in case you’re wondering. I ran into him in the Town Square right after you left this afternoon, and we got to talking, and so I invited him here tonight. I mean, because I was raised that no one should be alone on Christmas Eve. Are you upset that I did?

No, no, I was–I was just surprised, like I said. I mean, look, Mom, I told you, I-I… I like the guy, and I’m always going to be grateful to him for rescuing my little girl.

As will I.

And, uh, when I saw you this afternoon, you were so sad, and now look at you– you’re smiling.

Ah, you’re back.

And how are the children doing?

Oh, they’re okay. They’re, uh–they’re on a video chat with Jack and Jennifer right now.

Well, that should lift their spirits.

Yeah.

It was so hard for them last Christmas, losing their mother. I-I was hoping this year– this year it would be a little better, but–

Yeah, well, I don’t think it is for–for any of us, especially because, you know, things with Stephanie and me ended so abruptly, the… kids never got to say goodbye.

Chad… darling, you know how much I love you, but this cannot stand. Honey, you got to do something about this, right now.

Well, I have taken up enough of your time tonight.

Oh, it’s no problem. It was a welcome distraction, as I said. Now I’m going to head home and cuddle up with “Elf.”

[laughter] You’re headed home, too, I hope, not going back to work.

Yeah, I was invited to this Christmas Eve thing, but, um, I don’t think I’m going to go.

Right. Well, enjoy your evening.

Thank you. You too.

[cell phone ringing]

[soft music]

Hello?

Hey, Steph, um, it’s me. I-I’m not interrupting anything, am I?

Uh, no. I was just having some hot chocolate. What’s up?

Uh, listen, um, look, I know it’s Christmas Eve, and it’s kind of last minute, but… could I ask you a really big favor?

You know, I am really tired of this perception you have of me, implying that I’m some sort of a gold digger!

I’m not implying a damn thing. I’m actually saying it flat out. Tate, where you going?

Anywhere but here.

Hey, no, no, no, no, no. You can’t go. It’s Christmas.

No, this–this is the nightmare before Christmas, and both my parents are a couple of jerks! Merry Christmas to me.

[dramatic music]

That is unacceptable, Tate. That is not okay.

Oh, but this is? You two fighting with each other, and on what, Christmas Eve no less?

 

[stammering] All right. You’re right. You are right. I’m sorry.

[dramatic music]

I’m sorry, too.

Son, please–please stay. Don’t go.

We, um–we’re going to get along…

Yeah. Yeah, yeah.

From now on. For reals, we’re going to get along.

Why would I believe that?

 

[stammers, sighs] Well, he’s right. Why would he believe that, right? You’ve heard it a million times, but this time Theresa and I… we’re going to prove to you that we’re sincere about this.

Yeah.

How?

Because we’re going to have Christmas Eve here, tonight, together as a family, right?

Yes, definitely. That’s what we’re going to do.

[indistinct chatter]

Um, thank you, uh, um, for–for doing this. Uh, I know it’s Christmas Eve and–and last minute. Uh, I didn’t–I didn’t, uh, stop you from doing anything important, did I?

No, no, you didn’t. I was–I was just working, actually… and, um, when you said it was about Thomas and Charlotte– I love those kids so much, and I’m so sorry they’re having a hard time.

They miss you a lot.

I miss them, too, and I hate that I didn’t say goodbye to them. I should have handled it differently.

Listen, no… I’m their father, and… I didn’t think about it at the time, but they–they… not only love you, they were attached to you. And when–when circumstances changed between us, I should have thought about their feelings first and foremost, and I didn’t do that. It’s on me.

We were both negligent. We were focused more on ourselves than on them, and that wasn’t right, so let’s try to fix it.

Okay. I mean…

[sighs] I was thinking that maybe we could just talk to them together.

Right. I-I brought them Christmas gifts. I picked them up on my way here. Should I give them to them after we talk, or is that–is that going to send the wrong message?

They’re going to– they’ll love them. And, uh–and I really appreciate you doing this.

She’s still out.

Can you believe it, with all this hullabaloo around her?

 

[chuckles] Well, I hope she wakes up for some of the party. Everyone wants to see her.

Hmm. My mom is very happy that you’re here.

Well, Maggie is one of my very favorite people, as you know– so kind and forgiving… maybe a little too forgiving sometimes.

Look, I know that you are not Konstantin’s biggest fan, but he has been a comfort to my mom, and if there’s one thing I have learned about her is that she’s a big girl. She may be especially vulnerable right now, but she’s smart and tough. I mean, hey, she kicked the guy out of the house, right, when she learned about his connection to the Greek Mafia?

True.

And if anything further erodes her trust, then I’m confident that she will know how to handle it. I have faith in her.

[holiday music]

I must tell you how much I am enjoying my first American Christmas and what a lovely family your first husband has.

What a lovely family I have. I have been an honorary Horton for as long as I can remember.

Maggie, honorary? That has nothing to do with it. You married in. You’re a Horton. You’ll always be a Horton. And the Hortons stick together like glue. You hurt one Horton, you hurt all of us.

And, Konstantin, when you watch us hang our ornaments, you’ll realize there are a lot of us.

[laughter]

[both sigh]

Konstantin, have you seen our beautiful angel?

Ah, yes. The word “angel” derives from the Greek goddess Angelia, the spirit of good tidings.

Hmm. I didn’t know that.

Tell me, did you really bring Victor here to celebrate Christmas?

I did. It took him a while, but eventually he grew to love the Horton family tradition.

This time of year without Victor must be terribly hard on you.

Huh, it is, it is. Um, remembering Victor on Christmas Eve, well, it warms my heart.

[chuckles] I think he would be very happy that you’re here with us tonight.

Oh, yeah.

Hey, hey. You just had dinner.

I know. I just want a taste.

But– Yeah, a taste. Yeah, and then you’ll eat half of it, right, Dad?

No, hey, I’m Switzerland on this one. No, no, no, no, no.

Mom, remember when Dad came out and we went to Universal Studios and you asked for a taste of my butterbeer and then you ended up drinking the whole thing?

Uh-huh.

And I got that brain freeze.

Yep. And then you know what you did? I got you another one, and you spilled it everywhere.

All over my pants.

Her pants, my pants. You were kind of a clumsy kid back then.

I was .

You were–

Served you right, though.

Oh, and–

And then I think I got butterbeers for everybody. How many butterbeers did I buy that day?

I don’t know. A lot.

?

And you got me those shorts, you remember, to change into? Actually, I still have those shorts. Those are really good shorts.

Those are nice shorts. So she got nice shorts. We all got butterbeer.

Mm-hmm.

All the memories weren’t so bad, were they?

Yeah, I guess not.

 

[sighs] Now, I just want a butterbeer.

 

[chuckles] Me too.

Oh, man, I want a butterbeer, too.

[laughter]

Ahh…

No, Dad.

Mom and I were just talking about you this afternoon, and what a coincidence– you show up.

For me, it is more of a Christmas miracle spending this evening in the bosom of your wonderful family. And, again, I-I must apologize, dear Sarah, if my past played any part in the disappearance of your–your sweet child. But it is all resolved now, thanks to Maggie.

[chuckles] Nothing for you to worry about.

Well, we will always be grateful to you for bringing our little girl back to us, but I think it will be a while before we feel safe.

Quite a while. So we’ll be keeping our eyes wide open, just in case.

[jazzy holiday music]

Steph, there’s something that I, um… I need to say to you.

Okay.

I owe you an apology… not because of Everett and the paper thing, although I am– I am very sorry about that. Um… I realize now that it was too soon for me to be with anyone after losing Abby… and that was unfair you. So… I’m sorry.

Well, you didn’t mean it to be, obviously. I do understand the pain that you’ve been in. You suffered a terrible tragedy, you and your kids.

Should we… go upstairs, talk to them?

Yeah, and I’ll–I’ll, um– I’ll give them their Christmas gifts upstairs, too. I don’t want to intrude on the family party.

You can’t stay?

It’s Everett. Come in, my boy. I’m so glad you could join us.

Thank you so much. It’s– it’s wonderful to be here.

 

[chuckles]

Thank you. Well, take off your coat and stay a while.

Thank you. Thank you.

[upbeat holiday music]

You invited Everett?

I did.

But he’s Stephanie’s ex-boyfriend.

He is?

I told you that.

Well, honey, I’m allowed to forget some things once in a while. I ran into him in the square, I invited him to join us for the holiday.

Oh, Doug.

What, “Oh, Doug”? He didn’t know a soul in Salem.

He knows one soul very intimately, Stephanie.

Oh.

Hey, everybody, look, Stephanie’s here.

Oh, wonderful. Yay.

[laughter]

She’s going to open presents with us.

I sure am. And I brought each of you a special Christmas gift.

You did?

Mm-hmm. I did, because I love you guys, and I’m so happy I get to spend Christmas with you.

We’re glad, too.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

This one is for you, Charlotte. And, Thomas, this one’s for you.

Can we open them now?

Uh, honey, it’s not quite time yet, so why don’t we just put them under the tree for now, okay?

Okay.

Uh… I have to admit, uh, I’m a little surprised to see you here, Everett.

Yeah, I was actually invited this time. Steph, I didn’t think you’d be here. What happened to Will Ferrell?

He’ll, um–he’ll have to be patient. Um, so–so this is the party that–that you were invited to?

Yeah, yeah. Um, Doug invited me. I ran into him at the bakery this morning. I was planning on working all night, as you know, and then I thought, I should go make an appearance at the Hortons. Doug was so kind to invite me. I hope that’s cool?

Of course.

[soft holiday music]

I didn’t know Stephanie was going to be here.

Well, I told Chad to call her, for the children’s sake.

Yeah.

And God bless her, she came over right away.

Well, it’s Christmas. The more, the merrier.

[laughs]

Are you guys excited to open gifts? both: Yes!

Yes!

I know I’m going to like what you got me. You give really good presents.

Aw. You know what? I already know what my favorite Christmas present is this year.

What?

Getting to spend Christmas Eve with you guys.

Will we always be together on Christmas Eve, Stephanie?

You know what? Let’s make a deal that every year at Christmastime, we pick a day, and the three of us meet up, and we exchange Christmas presents, and we watch movies, and we make cookies, and we have a dance party.

And jump on the bed.

Absolutely. Yeah.

[laughs]

[chuckles]

The ornaments are probably the Horton family’s most beloved tradition. If you’re born a Horton, it’s a given, and if you’re not, it’s something earned.

Or lost. There’s a whole box of “retired ornaments.”

So one can get removed from the tree?

No, all the ornaments past and present are still part of the family history, so nothing gets thrown away. Some are just down cellar.

“Down cellar”?

The basement.

 

[gasps] How about some cookies?

Oh, sounds delightful.

 

[laughs]

Hey, um… maybe I should go.

Why?

I just feel a bit awkward being here for the hanging of the ornaments, me not being family and all.

You will always be connected to this family through our daughter and through me, so that’s why you are always welcome here and why your ornament will never be down cellar.

 

[sighs]

So, Tater Tot, you got any holiday plans with Holly? Jolly Christmas?

 

[chuckles] Uh… No, that was a– that was a bust.

Oh. Sorry, bud. Um, what–what happened?

I don’t know. I guess I’m finally starting to accept that she’s not really into me. It’s, uh–it’s too bad, though. I already bought her a present. It’s a birthday-Christmas combo gift. I guess I won’t be needing it anymore.

Tate.

Are you crazy? What are you doing throwing this away? You save this, and you give it to the next girl, whoever that might be, because trust me, there’s going to be plenty more. I mean, come on, look at this gorgeous little face. You are such a catch, you know that? I’m sure all the girls are looking at you back home at school.

Mostly looking at themselves. I don’t know–they’re always taking selfies.

[sighs]

So, um… are you planning on going back to school after the holidays?

Um… nobody’s really texted me since I left. And I don’t know– it’d be kind of nice to come home after school every day. Salem’s cool, too, being near family, so…

You know, buddy, uh… the school you’re going to in California is probably one of the best college prep schools in the country. You know, you graduate from there, and you’re going to be set.

Uh, are you–are you saying I have to go back?

[dramatic music]

Well, actually, Tate when it comes to school, uh, your mother and I have decided… that you can make the decision.

Yes. You take your time, and you think about it.

I want to stay.

 

[scoffs] That was quick.

[chuckles] Are you sure?

Yes. Yes, I want to go to Salem High.

Oh, this is the best Christmas present I could have asked for.

[inhales deeply] Mm.

Are you, uh– are you disappointed?

Look at me. No.

[chuckles] I’m not disappointed. I’m actually really happy about it, because I have gotten really used to being around, buddy.

Thanks, Dad.

Gather round, everyone. It’s that time. Time to hang the Horton ornaments.

[soft holiday music]

 

[sighs]

You’re not the littlest anymore, Charlotte.

[laughter]

You’re still my baby, though. – * Peace on Earth * * Goodwill * * To men *

Oh.

Oh, thank God. This one’s not clothes. What a relief.

Hey, that was a really cool sweater.

Yeah, it was, and Tate appreciates it because it’s the thought that counts, right?

Yes, Mom. You are very thoughtful.

[laughter]

[paper rustling] Oh, cool.

Oh.

This is awesome. Thank you, Mom.

Of course. I saved the best for last. Mwah.

That’s going to be a tough one to top.

This whole Christmas is going to be tough to top.

Wow, did we– did we just get a compliment from our son?

‘Tis a Christmas miracle.

 

[gasps] Two in one night.

Three, actually. I, uh–I got to have a nice night with both of my parents. That’s the, uh–that’s the real Christmas miracle.

[holiday music] both: * Up on the housetop, click, click, click * * Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick *

[applause]

Oh, Julie, thank you so much for everything. It was a lovely Christmas Eve.

Wonderful. It was wonderful to have you here, darling.

Oh, honey. Aw. Mm.

And I am so grateful to have shared in this wonderful family celebration. I look forward to the opportunity of returning your kindness sometime soon.

Oh, a thank-you note will do, and you can send it from wherever you wind up.

 

[chuckles]

Thank you for doing this and for talking to the kids with me. I think it, uh– it really turned the night around for them.

I’m really glad you called.

Me too.

You know, just because we’re not together anymore doesn’t mean that we have to be strangers. If you ever need anything, any help with the kids…

I appreciate that.

Are you walking home, Steph?

Um, yeah.

Um, I’ll walk with you if you want. It’s dark out there, if you want company.

Yeah, sure. Thanks.

I should go round up the–the troops, get them home.

Hmm.

Happy holidays, Everett.

Same to you, boss.

And, uh, merry Christmas, Steph.

Merry Christmas.

Here.

Thanks.

 

[shivers]

[door closes]

Okay, so there’s a clean Christmas onesie in here. Will you please take photos of her in the morning?

I’m going to take videos of her all morning, and I’ll send them all to you. It’ll be like you’re there.

Okay. Santa’s going to leave you presents under Mommy’s tree, too, okay? I love you, pumpkin.

We’ll see you tomorrow, yeah?

Can’t wait.

Neither can I.

My dear, you did not need to ask your driver to deliver me here. I could have walked to the inn.

But it’s too cold to walk.

Yeah, but these stars are so beautiful, it makes up for the cold.

[both chuckle] Thank you again for bringing me along as a guest this evening.

It was my pleasure.

 

[speaking Greek] That means–

I know what that means.

 

[chuckles] Of course you do.

 

[giggles] Merry Christmas, Konstantin.

 

[sighs] I hope the year to come brings you much joy.

Same to you.

Until we meet again.

Hmm.

Honey bunny?

Yes, ma’am?

Do you suppose… when Grandma and Grandpa started these traditions all those years ago with just seven ornaments…

Yeah. They could have imagined the… the tree-ful we see before us?

My guess is no way.

 

[laughing] My guess, too. How proud they’d be… to know their legacy goes on.

Ah.

[monitor beeping]

Ho, ho, ho.

Merry Christmas.

Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!

Nobody listens to me. Thank heavens.

Of course not.

Oh, you have gotten around me with the on secret weapon that exists. You’re– Oh, my great-granddaughter.

She said, I want to spend Christmas with my grandpa.

Maybe we should hang her ornament on the tree first.

 

[gasps] Yes.

Oh, yes.

Oh, Abby, look at that. See that over there? All those ornaments have our names on them. We’re going to hang yours. Let’s see.

You have a hand free there?

Yeah.

Oh, you got to put Abby’s up there.

Look. Look at this one.

This is her first year.

Oh, look at that.

Oh, my gosh.

Her first year. There we go.

Yes.

How’s this one?

Oh. Hey, Dad.

No, you do it for me this year. Yeah.

Okay. Just happen to have a spot right here for you.

I’ll take it. I’ll take it.

On the top. That’s where it belongs.

Okay.

There you go.

Alice, right next to you.

We have Bill and Laura.

There’s Mom and Dad’s.

You want to do these?

Yeah, I’ll put up Mom’s.

[indistinct chatter] And Dad’s on his way home soon, we hope.

Yes.

Yeah. Is this close enough?

Yeah, that’s good.

We have Doug and Julie.

Doug and Julie.

Uh-huh.

Just does not seem like Christmas without them.

No.

I know, but, um, excuse me. Just a minute. I have another surprise.

What?

What is this surprise your grandmother has planned?

Grandpa, I promise you, I don’t know.

Who can keep up with her?

Nobody.

Tom Horton, you must be very high on Santa’s list, because I have another wonderful Christmas surprise for you.

Oh, my gosh!

[all clamoring]

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, Tom.

What a lovely surprise.

And, Grandpa, we have another surprise for you, too.

[person gasps]

We remarried in Switzerland.

[all cheering]

Now–now it really is Christmas.

[laughter]

[excited chatter]

Wow, you even wore the right colors, huh?

This is the end. This is it. Now I have everything.

I have everything now.

All of their traditions… all the memories.

Yeah.

All the love.

Yeah.

[inhales deeply] It goes on and on.

Right. From our hearts.

Yes. Yes. Merry Christmas, my love.

Merry Christmas, doll.

Merry Christmas… everyone.

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Days Update Thursday, December 21, 2023

Days of Our Lives Update

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Update written by Joseph

Holly sits alone in the living room of the DiMera Mansion. Johnny comes in and greets her, then asks where everyone is since the garage was empty. Holly informs him that Stefan went to visit Gabi in prison, Anna and Tony left the country, and EJ took Nicole to Green Mountain Lodge to spend the night together, so Nicole could get away from everything for awhile. Johnny tells Holly that he’s sorry her mom is having such a hard time. Johnny knows EJ is handling it a little better, but he knows that he’s hurting too which is to be expected since they lost their baby. Johnny asks how Holly is doing. Holly responds that she’s not great, but looking forward to distracting herself by watching It’s a Wonderful Life and invites Johnny to join her. Johnny says he’s sorry but he’s heading over to watch it at Chanel’s. Holly guesses she will be spending her birthday all alone then.

Marlena and Kayla enter the Brady Pub where Kate is setting up for the Christmas dinner with an angel theme. Kate says they had a hell of a year and she was feeling sentimental as this time last year, they lied dying of a virus and thought they were saying their final goodbyes to their loved ones. Kate toasts to another Christmas in Salem.

John and Steve walk outside the Brady Pub. Steve questions Andrew saying that the ISA can’t give them anything on the loser who tried to kidnap Sarah’s daughter. John thought for sure they could hone in on the security photo. Steve guesses they are back to square one. John says at least Maggie kicked Konstantin to the curb and plans to send him on a one way trip out of Salem. Steve says he’ll be glad when Konstantin is someone else’s problem. John agrees and suggests forgetting about him to focus on spending the holidays with their loved ones.

Chanel and Paulina walk through the town square together. Paulina talks about doing a podcast with a holiday message and credits Abe for his help. Chanel is glad Abe stopped by but she’s worried that Paulina is taking on too much, bringing up Paulina being asleep on the couch when she came home. Paulina talks about her schedule and having to be in the mall on Christmas Eve which she swore she would never do. Paulina then starts having pains so Chanel asks if she’s having a panic attack. Paulina thinks she just needs something to drink so Chanel sits her down at a table.

Johnny apologizes to Holly for forgetting her birthday and wishes her a happy birthday. Holly calls it a lame birthday this year and says since Nicole is still sad over losing the baby, no one is really in the mood to celebrate. Johnny says they are all sad about losing the baby but this is Holly’s special day, so it would be wrong to ignore it. Johnny proposes that they eat cake before he goes to Chanel’s. Holly calls that really nice of him but says she doesn’t need a pity party. Holly adds that she and Nicole do have plans tomorrow, but she just needed to get away for a night. Johnny asks what about Tate. Holly reminds him that Tate walked out on her at dinner last night, so it’s over between them. Johnny says he’s sorry to hear that. Holly says she has other friends but holiday birthdays suck because nobody is ever around. Johnny promises her that this one is not going to suck and tells her to wait there.

Kate, Marlena, and Kayla continue having drinks. Kate jokes that it may be the alcohol talking but she thinks the three of them should get matching tattoos as a tiny little symbol of their apparent trip to Heaven. Kayla suggests the three angels which Kate says could be their little secret. Kayla compares it to Charlie’s Angels. They laugh together as John and Steve enter. Steve comments that it looks like somebody is having a party. Kayla and Marlena hug them and remark on going through Hell. Steve responds that they know what it’s like from being without them. Roman comes down and joins them, saying he thinks they’ve earned the right to join this party. Kayla calls it so wonderful and thinks they should make this gathering a holiday tradition. Kayla asks what they should call it. Kate suggests The Grateful to Survive Another Crazy Year in Salem which they toast to.

Paulina has a drink of water and says that’s better but starts coughing. Chanel worries but Paulina says it just went down the wrong windpipe. Chanel comments on her looking so tired and questions how long she’s been having trouble swallowing. Chanel thinks she needs to see a doctor. Paulina calls it just a winter cold. Chanel is sure a doctor will put their minds at ease and says it’s the only thing she wants for Christmas. Paulina argues that her doctor is on vacation and will be back on the first of the year, so she promises to make an appointment then. Chanel then notices a lump in her neck. Paulina tries to blow it off as just a swollen gland. Chanel can’t believe she didn’t notice before. Paulina calls it nothing but Chanel declares they are going to the hospital right now.

Chanel brings Paulina to the hospital which Paulina calls a terrible idea, complaining about being in the ER on Christmas Eve and says she’ll be sick when they leave from all the germs around. Paulina argues that her case is not an emergency so they could be there for hours. Paulina repeats that she will make an appointment with her own doctor when he returns from vacation. Chanel tells her to stop being so stubborn and sit down because she doesn’t want to think about how long she’s been ignoring her symptoms. Chanel compares it to her uncle waiting months to go to a doctor and finding out he had lung cancer. Paulina argues that this is not that. Chanel argues that she still knows how important early detection is. Chanel declares that nothing is more important to her than Paulina.

Johnny has a cake delivered and puts 17 candles on it. Holly remarks that she’s practically an adult now and points out that 17 is the age of consent in the state. Johnny responds that as her protective older brother, he doesn’t want to know how she knew that. Johnny says he will sing her happy birthday and tells her to make a PG wish that doesn’t involve being 17 and legal. Johnny then gets a call from Chanel. Johnny apologizes for running late but promises to be leaving in a few. Chanel reveals that they will actually have to postpone their gift exchange because she’s at the hospital with her mom. Johnny asks what happened. Chanel explains that Paulina has been feeling bad for weeks now and has been trying to hide it until she couldn’t anymore, so she dragged her to the hospital and it’s very busy, so they are probably going to be there for hours. Johnny says he’ll be right there but Chanel tells him there’s nothing he can do. Johnny argues that he can at least be there for her, so he’s on his way. Johnny hangs up and tells Holly that he’s very sorry but asks to put this on hold as Chanel’s mom is sick. Johnny hates to leave Holly alone. Holly tells him not to worry as it’s obviously important. Johnny thanks her for being so understanding and tells her to try to have some fun tonight because she deserves it. Johnny then exits the mansion.

Steve toasts to another crazy year in Salem. Roman jokes about how many of those they’ve had together. Kate comments on some of the years they were presumed dead. Kayla says all that matters is they were there for each other through all of it. John acknowledges Steve as the first friend he made in Salem. Steve jokes that he’s known him longer than anyone, including his wife. John recalls it being right around this time of year as they flashback to their first meeting. Steve says John was like some valuable asset that everyone was fighting over from Victor to Stefan’s man Petrov and even the head of the ISA. Steve says they all said John was like a killing machine, but when he found him all wrapped up in bandages, he was like a lost puppy that he had to take care of. John is thankful that Steve got him away from them or he can’t imagine where he would be today.

Paulina finishes a work call as Chanel brings her a glass of water. Chanel comments that it’s Christmas Eve and Paulina is in the hospital, so she shouldn’t be working. Paulina argues that she’s just doing her job. Paulina knows Chanel is concerned and she appreciates it, but says now is not the time to be bossing around her mom. Johnny arrives and hugs Chanel. Paulina questions calling him. Chanel explains that she had to cancel their gift exchange for tonight. Paulina complains about cancelling plans and tells Johnny to go home and be with his family. Johnny responds that he would, but they are all out of town except Holly. Johnny adds that Chanel said there’s nothing he can do to help, but he disagrees. Paulina questions if he has some medical degree they don’t know about. Johnny says not quite, but he’ll be right back and walks away.

Holly sits at home and turns off It’s A Wonderful Life after complaining that it’s a crappy life. Holly gets up and sadly looks at the Christmas tree and then looks over at the alcohol. Holly remembers Johnny drinking some scotch. Holly then declares that no one will ever know if she has a small taste, so she pours herself a drink. Holly then takes a drink.

Steve plays Silent Night on his harmonica. Marlena comments on John looking miles away. John says he’s just thinking about how lost he was when Steve first found him and then Marlena really found him. John adds that he was also thinking about the time he gave her that charm bracelet which Marlena says she treasures as they flashback to that moment. Kate comments that it really is a lovely bracelet. Marlena thanks her and says it’s very meaningful to her. John says if he was told back then, that they would be here swapping memories as lifelong friends. Roman calls those hard times. John mentions not having memories of before he became John Black as he only knew what he was told and he didn’t want to know anything else until he found out who his real father was a couple months ago and that he didn’t come from that monster Yo Ling. John declares that thanks to that wonderful man coming in to his life, he feels so blessed to be surrounded by so much love here. John states that he is one lucky man. Roman goes to get he and Steve beers while Kate notices her wedding ring is gone. Kate recalls putting it down while baking pies earlier and then got distracted and worries that it could’ve gone in to a pie. Steve assures that he, John, and Roman will get on the case and find it. John then coughs out the ring and reveals that he found it. Kate can’t believe it got there while John jokes that Roman got her a big enough ring that it didn’t go down his throat. Kate talks about what the ring means to her and how she thought she lost it until Roman rescued her as she flashes back to them reuniting. Roman states that the ring made it through death and the great beyond. Kate insists it will never leave her finger again as she and Roman hug.

Johnny returns and tells Chanel and Paulina that they are all set with an exam room waiting for her. Paulina remarks that she’s the Mayor and didn’t get special treatment, so she questions what kind of strings he’s pulling. Johnny responds that it helps when there’s a whole wing of the hospital in his family’s name. Paulina guesses she was wrong when she said there was nothing he could do to help and thanks him. Chanel thanks Johnny for coming to the rescue. Johnny says that he wouldn’t be anywhere else.

Holly finishes her drink and then pulls out her phone to try coming up with a message to send Johnny. Holly decides against just telling him that she loves him or bringing up being his stepsister. Holly puts in text that the time Johnny said she looked pretty in her prom dress was the day she fell in love with him and goes through the details of that night. Holly writes that she’s sure Johnny is her soulmate and now that she’s 17, there’s nothing stopping them from being together and that she loves him. Holly then realizes she can’t send it and says it would ruin everything if he found out. Holly remarks that if Johnny loved her back, he wouldn’t have left her all alone just because Chanel called and he would’ve stayed to watch her blow out candles. Holly complains that nobody cares about her.

Chanel tells Johnny that they got Paulina set up in the exam room and hopes she doesn’t make a run for it. Johnny asks how she’s doing, then calls it a stupid question as he’s sure she is worried about her mom. Chanel comments on even being in the hospital on Christmas Eve. Johnny calls it the worst. Chanel asks if he’s talking from personal experience. Johnny reveals that he has a prosthetic eye. Chanel asks what happened. Johnny explains that he had a type of cancer when he was a kid and this is the time of year that he had his surgery. Chanel can’t believe she didn’t know about that. Johnny assures he is okay now and just has to get checkups for the rest of his life. Johnny admits he still gets nervous but he’s very lucky in so many ways. Johnny adds that she never even knew he was sick and hugs her. Johnny encourages that Paulina is a very strong woman and the doctors are amazing, so he tells her to keep the faith.

Roman talks about being up late for wrapping gifts for the kids toy drive if he doesn’t get help. Steve agrees to help if he doesn’t expect much. Kayla calls Steve the original secret Santa and talks about their first Christmas and how many Santa hats he has. Steve says that Kayla is no slouch as Santa either as they flash back. Kayla talks about thinking Victor would kill her if she didn’t come home for Christmas. Steve recalls Victor as being his first employer in Salem while John calls him a tough son of a bitch who basically owned him but then he became his father in law and friend. John knows for a fact that Victor knew everything about his past, but took all those secrets to his grave. John declares that he’s grateful to have those secrets stay there forever.

Johnny gets a call from Holly, who is drunk and questions if he even had her number saved. Johnny assures that he did or else he wouldn’t have answered. Holly tells him not to lie to her. Johnny asks if she’s been drinking. Holly tells him that she’s all alone in the house with enough alcohol for a cruise ship so she has been drinking. Holly complains that nobody cares what she does. Johnny tells her that he does care. Holly argues that if he cared, he wouldn’t have left her to go hold Chanel’s clammy hand. Johnny tells her to slow down and points out that Chanel’s mother is sick. Holly then accidentally drops her drink glass, smashing it on the floor. Johnny asks what just happened. Holly admits she broke a glass. Johnny tells her not touch it and leave it there for Harold to clean up. Holly says that sounds good to her. Holly adds that she called him to tell him that he’s a big fat jerk. Holly then hangs up. Chanel asks if Holly is okay. Johnny responds that he doesn’t think she is. Chanel says he should go home as it sounds like she needs him. Johnny feels he’s the last person she wants to see. Johnny explains that it’s Holly’s birthday, she’s all alone, and he ditched her. Chanel feels that Holly clearly needs someone and it seems like he’s all she’s got so he can un-ditch her. Johnny asks if she’s sure. Chanel assures that they will be okay here. Johnny tells her to call if she hears any news. Chanel promises to do so and says she loves him. Johnny tells her to take care of her mom as they kiss and then Johnny exits the hospital.

Holly worries about what she has just done. Holly then passes out on the couch. Johnny comes home and checks on her, waking her up. Holly tells him that she’s so sorry about the glass. Johnny tells her not to worry about it. Holly then falls back asleep so Johnny covers her with a blanket. Johnny then gets a call from Chanel, who asks how Holly is. Johnny responds that she’s knocked out and judging by the amount of alcohol, she’s gonna have a rough Christmas morning but she’s going to be okay. Johnny asks how Paulina is doing. Chanel responds that she’s waiting to see a doctor, so she just wanted to call and check in. Johnny sends his love. They wish each other a Merry Christmas and hang up.

Chanel sits with Paulina and tells her about the Christmas carolers at the hospital. Chanel suggests calling Abe to let him know what’s going on but Paulina says no as they don’t even know what’s going on. Paulina feels Abe has enough to worry about. Chanel reminds her that she invited Abe over for Christmas, so he should probably know to make other plans. Paulina refuses and declares that she will be home and Abe will be coming over for Christmas. Paulina promises that she’s going to be fine.

Steve, Kayla, John, Marlena, and Kate wrap Christmas presents for the kids. Roman comes over and says he just got a call in for a last minute pie order. Kate asks why he didn’t tell them no until he reveals it was from Julie. Roman explains that Julie said she has some last minute guests coming over for Christmas and she didn’t bake enough. Roman remarks that he can’t blame Julie for being a little grouchy due to the presence of Xander and Konstantin, which shocks Steve, who says he thought Maggie already washed her hands of him. Roman says apparently not, as Julie told him that Maggie invited Konstantin to the Horton Christmas celebration. Marlena asks John if he’s okay. John admits that all the talk about the past got to him a little. John thanks everyone for a great evening and wishes them a Merry Christmas. Marlena thanks Roman as they all gather up their wrapped Christmas gifts.

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Days Transcript Thursday, December 21, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

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Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

[gentle music]

Hey, Holly.

Hey.

Uh, where is everybody? The garage was empty.

Oh, um, Stefan’s visiting Gabi at the prison. Anna and Tony just left for Barbados or Bermuda or some place that starts with a B. And your dad just took my mom to Green Mountain Lodge to spend the night, so she could get away from everything for a while.

Yeah. I’m, uh… sorry your mom’s having such a hard time, Holly. Now I know my dad’s– he’s–he’s handling it a little better, but, um, I know he’s hurting too, which is, I mean, totally expected. They–they lost their baby, our little brother. How you doing?

[sighs] Um, not great. But I’m looking forward to distracting myself by watching “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

[chuckles] Nice.

Yeah. And hearing your director’s commentary since you will be joining me, right?

Um, I’m– I’m sorry. I’m actually headed over to go watch that at Chanel’s.

I guess that settles it then. I’ll be spending my birthday all alone.

[sighs] “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”]

Oh, sweet.

What do we have here?

Well, we have angel-hair pasta, angel food cake, ambrosia, and heaven.

I am sensing a theme.

Yes.

Well, we had one hell of a year, right, last year– pun intended, and I guess I was just feeling a little sentimental.

Well, the holidays will do that to you.

Yeah, well, this time last year, we lay dying of that damn virus, and we thought we were saying our final goodbyes to our loved ones, our family, our friends. And yet, we were about to go on the most incredible journey of our lives, so here’s to another Christmas in Salem.

Hear, hear.

Hear, hear.

Cheers.

Cheers, girlfriends.

[exhales] So let me get this straight. Andrew Donovan says the ISA, with every image enhancement tool known to man, can’t give us anything on the loser who tried to kidnap Sarah Horton’s daughter?

Yeah, surprised me too. Thought for sure they’d be able to hone in on that security photo.

I guess we’re back to square one.

Well, you know, at least Maggie has kicked Konstantin to the curb, and she’s got plans to send him on a one-way trip out of Salem.

I’ll be glad when that guy is someone else’s problem.

Right. So let’s forget about him tonight. Let’s just focus on celebrating the holidays with the ones we love and love being with.

[chuckles]

Problem with these podcasts is, you have to record then rerecord and re-rerecord.

Yeah, no wonder you sound hoarse. Well, maybe you should rest your voice for a little while.

Me? Me, rest my voice?

Yeah, I take it back. That would be impossible. But that was a very nice holiday message, Ms. Mayor.

Oh, well, I couldn’t have done it without Abraham’s help.

Yeah, I’m glad he stopped by.

Mm.

But I’m worried that you’re taking on too much. I mean, you slept until noon. And then when I came back from shopping, you were sound asleep on the couch a few hours later.

Well, have you seen my schedule, baby? There’s a reason I’m in the mall on Christmas Eve night, which is something I swore I’d– I’d never do in my lifetime.

[clears throat, coughs]

Mama? Mama, are you all right? Are you having another panic attack?

Uh, I–I think I might– I just need to sit down for–for a minute, uh, get something to drink.

[exhales, coughs]

Okay. All right. Yeah, of course. Come on. Let’s just–come with me.

Oh.

[eerie music]

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

Holly, oh, my God. I am so sorry I forgot your birthday. Happy birthday!

Mm-hmm.

Happy birthday.

Lose the “happy.” Just a lame birthday this year. Since my mom is so sad over losing the baby, nobody’s really in the mood to celebrate.

Look, we’re all sad about losing the baby, but this is your special day. It would be wrong to ignore it. So this is what I propose– you and I are going to eat cake before I go over to Chanel’s, how ’bout that?

[scoffs] That’s really nice of you, Johnny, but I don’t need a pity party. I should have mentioned this earlier, but my mom and I have plans tomorrow. She just really had to get away for a day.

Okay. Well, what about Tate?

Didn’t you see him walk out on me at dinner last night? It’s over between us.

Sorry to hear that.

Yeah. And, I mean, it’s not like I don’t have other friends. It just– holiday birthdays suck since nobody’s ever around.

Well, you listen to me, okay? This one is not gonna suck, all right? I promise. You wait here.

[soft uplifting music]

So ladies.

[laughter]

I need more. I need more to drink. It may be the alcohol talking, but, somehow, I think the three of us should get matching tattoos.

[laughs]

Oh, you’ve gotta be kidding. Of what?

Well, maybe little wings, a halo band. I don’t know, something small, something discreet, just a–a tiny little symbol of our apparent trip to heaven.

Mm.

Hmm. Um, how about the three angels?

[gasps] Oh, yes, I like that.

Mm-hmm.

That could be our little secret.

Mm-hmm, kind of like “Charlie’s Angels.”

Mm, yeah.

But whose angels are we?

Well, we are our own, of course.

[laughs] Yes. Cheers to that.

Well, it looks like somebody’s having a party.

Oh, hi.

What, we weren’t invited?

[laughs]

Well, you didn’t go through hell.

Literally, for all we know.

[laughs] Uh, yes, we did.

Oh.

Yes, we did. It was hell on Earth without you, sweetness.

All right, I think we’ve earned the right to be invited to this party, don’t you think?

Yeah.

[claps]

Oh, hey.

You know, this is so wonderful. I think that we should make this gathering a– a holiday tradition, you know? What should we call it?

Um, well, how about the gr– grateful to survive another crazy year in Salem?

Oh my gosh. Hear, hear.

Hear, hear. Cheers.

Drink to that.

Yes.

Yeah.

Traditions.

And you.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Mmm.

Ah.

Mmm, mmm, mmm. Ah. Ah, that’s better. Oh.

[coughing]

Okay. Mama, Mama, Mama. I know you keep telling me that everything is okay, but I am really worried about you.

Went down the wrong windpipe, that’s all. Oh.

[coughs]

And you look so tired.

Oh, you know better than to say that to your mama, baby.

Okay, but you’ve been having trouble swallowing. How long has that been going on?

Oh, I don’t know.

Okay, well, long enough that you need to see a doctor.

Oh, it’s just a little winter cold.

Okay, well, then if that’s what it is, then I’m sure a doctor will help put our minds at ease.

[groans]

It’s the only thing I want for Christmas, Mama.

Oh, it’s too late.

[chuckles] I already bought you a– oh, wait a minute. Now look at me. I almost ruined the surprise.

Do you really think I’m gonna let you change the subject? Sticking your head in the sand and pretending that nothing is wrong isn’t going to help anything.

[sighs] My– my doctor is in the Caribbean on vacation. I’ll make an–he’ll be back the first of the year. I’ll make an appointment with him then, okay? I promise.

What is that?

What? What’s what? Uh, you know, I got something on my blouse from the water.

No. No, that. Is that a lump in your neck?

Oh, that? No, it’s nothing. It’s just–

Okay, would you please–

It’s a swollen gland.

[sighs] Okay. I-I can’t believe I didn’t notice it before.

No, it’s–it’s nothing.

Would you please stop saying that? Look, I’m–we’re going to the hospital, now.

No.

Yes.

No!

Right now.

[exhales]

[tense music]

This was a terrible idea. I mean, going to the ER on Christmas Eve, all these people coughing and sneezing. If I wasn’t sick when we got here, I sure will be when we leave, all these germs flying around.

Okay, well, Mama, at least they let us sit up here where it is a little less crazy.

Yeah, well, you heard what they said downstairs. I’m a non-emergent case. We’ll be here for hours. Chanel, baby, please. Now I will make an appointment with my own doctor when he gets back from vacation.

Mama, would you please stop being so stubborn and sit down?

Oh.

I don’t even wanna think about how long you’ve been ignoring your symptoms. You remember what happened with Uncle Stuart, when he had that cough for months? And then he didn’t go see a doctor, and then when he finally did, what happened?

He had lung cancer.

Mm-hmm.

This is not that.

Okay, still, you know how important early detection is. And I know you’re busy with work and Abe and getting ready for Christmas and God knows what else, but nothing– nothing is more important to me than you.

[heartfelt music]

Okay.

Voilà. I wished it, and you made it happen, like magic.

More like, uh– more like Grub Dash.

Mm.

Yeah. How many candles are we doing again?

Uh, . I’m pretty much an adult now.

Oh, is that so?

Mm-hmm. I mean, ‘s the age of consent in this state, you know?

No, I– I did not know that. And uh, as your protective big brother, I don’t want to know how you knew that. So I am going to just sing you “Happy Birthday,” and you’re gonna make a wish. Please keep it PG so it doesn’t involve any of that stuff you were just telling me about being and legal, okay?

[sighs] Okay.

Okay.

[cell phone rings] Just one sec.

[cell phone beeps] Chanel. Hey, uh, sorry. I’m running a little late, but I promise I’m gonna be leaving here in a few.

I was actually calling to tell you that we’re gonna have to postpone our gift exchange. I am at the hospital with my mom.

What? What happened?

Uh, she’s been feeling pretty bad for weeks now, and she’s been trying to hide it, but it finally got to the point where she couldn’t anymore, and, uh, so I dragged her down here against her will. And it’s very busy, so we are probably going to be here for hours.

Okay. I’ll be right there.

No, no, Johnny. There–there’s nothing you can do.

Well, I can at least be there for you. I’m on my way.

[cell phone beeps] Holly, I am very sorry, but can we put this on hold?

Um, what happened?

That was Chanel. Her mom’s sick. And look, I really hate to leave you all alone here, but–

No, of course, don’t worry. It’s obviously important.

Thank you for being so understanding. And hey, try to have some fun tonight, okay? You deserve it.

[sighs]

To another crazy year in Salem.

[laughs]

Hear, hear on that.

How many of those have we had together?

[glasses clink]

Well, if you count the years that some of us were presumed dead–

Yeah, the math gets just a little bit fuzzy.

[laughs]

Well, all that matters is that we were there for one another through all of it.

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

And you were the first friend that I made in Salem.

I’ve known you longer than anyone, including your wife.

[chuckles] You know, it was right about this time of year, wasn’t it?

Yeah.

[somber harmonica music] * *

[haunting music] Man, you were, like, some valuable asset everybody was fighting over. Victor Kiriakis, Stefano’s man, Petrov, even the head of the ISA. They all said you were some kind of killing machine. But when I found you wandering around, all wrapped up in bandages, you seemed more like a lost puppy dog. I just had to take care of you.

Well, thank God you got me away from them, or I can’t imagine where I would be today.

Yeah.

[glasses clink]

[sighs] Please, you–you– you need to increase patrols at the waterfront. Oh, yeah, thank you. And Merry Christmas.

[cell phone beeps]

[coughs] Mm. Whew, thank you, baby.

Mama, it is Christmas Eve, and you are in the hospital. You shouldn’t be working.

[clears throat] Baby girl, first of all, oh, I am at the hospital, not in the hospital. And second, I’m just doing my job.

[sighs] Now I know– I know you’re concerned about me and I appreciate it, but now is not the time to be bossing around your mama.

Hey.

Johnny.

Found you. Oh.

You called him?

Well, I had to. I had to cancel our, um, gift exchange for tonight.

Oh, if I’d known you were canceling your plans– Johnny, you should go home and spend Christmas Eve with your family.

Well, I would, but, um, they’re all out of town anyway, except Holly. Besides, Chanel said that there’s nothing I can do to help, but I beg to differ.

What, you got some kind of medical degree we don’t know about?

Uh, not quite. Um, I’ll be right back, okay?

[gentle music]

[sighs] It’s not a wonderful life, it’s a crappy life. Why am I still watching this?

[unsettling music]

You know what? I’m gonna add some scotch to this. Why not?

Oh, I’ll take some too.

[laughs] Yeah, right. Maybe in about five years.

Hmm. I mean, no one will ever know if I have a small taste.

[breathes deeply] Happy birthday to me.

[sputters]

[coughs] Oh, damn it.

[grunts]

[“Silent Night”] * *

You look a million miles away.

Yeah, I just– thinking about how lost I was when Steve found me. And then you really found me. I was also thinking about that time I gave you that bracelet.

The charm bracelet. I treasure it.

Yeah. That one. * * That’s it. Rip into it.

Go, go, go, go. Oh. Oh, John. What beautiful, beautiful charms.

No, not just charms. Those are good luck charms for your second chance at life.

Yeah?

Now look closely here. These two little stones are for the twinners. We have opals for Sami and Eric.

[gasps] Oh, their birthdays, yes.

Carrie, none other than the aquamarine.

Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm.

And a–and a star.

For light. We have an angel for protection and guidance.

And a life preserver?

Mm-hmm. For a safe journey. And we have an anchor– steadfastness. What the hell is this thing on the end? This is a, uh–

What is it? Looks like–

[laughs] it looks like a couch or a sofa.

Yeah, well, what the hell, you are a shrink, right? I figured with all the heavy-duty emotion running up and down this chain here, a little touch of whimsy is in order.

Oh.

[wistful music]

You know, it really is a lovely bracelet.

Thanks. It’s very meaningful to me.

You know, if you would have told me back then that we all would be sitting around here decades later, swapping memories as lifelong friends–

Those were hard times for all of us.

Well, for me, as you all know, I don’t have any memories of who I was before I became John Black. I only knew what I was told, and what– what I was programmed to know. And frankly, I didn’t wanna know any more, not until I unexpectedly discovered who my real father was a couple of months ago, and I learned that I do come from– from good people, and not that–that– that monster Yo Ling. And–and thanks to that wonderful, spirited man coming into my life, I’m finally feeling at peace with myself, and right now, I feel so damn blessed to be surrounded by so much love here. So that John Black guy, he is one lucky man.

[heartfelt music]

Here you go.

Thank you.

You know what? No offense, but I’m just gonna grab myself a beer.

What?

Hey, would you mind getting me one of those too?

What do you mean?

You got it.

Okay, fine. Fine. That’s all the more for us, right?

Yes.

I’ll go with that.

[gasps] Oh, my God.

What, what?

What–my ring is gone.

Hmm?

What in the world? I was baking pies earlier, and I took it off and I put it down. And maybe I got distracted. What if it ends up in a– in a apple pie?

Look, I’m sure you would have noticed it was gone before now.

Hey, hey, don’t worry. You got two PIs here and an ex-cop. We’re gonna find it. We’re on the case.

Oh, my God.

[coughs]

You okay?

Yeah, I think we just solved the case. I found it.

Oh. What?

What?

Oh, my goodness.

What in the– what was it doing there? What? I don’t understand…

[laughter]

All right.

What happened.

[coughs]

Oh, my God. Well, thank God you saw it before you swallowed it.

Thank God Roman got you a big enough rock, it didn’t go down my throat.

[laughter]

You don’t know what this ring means to me. When they took it away from me on the fishing boat, I thought I had lost it forever. And then that day when Roman put it back on my finger, it was just as magical as the first time you did it.

You stay here with me, you understand?

Why? You have big plans?

Yeah, matter of fact, I do need to show you something. And I’m pretty sure you’re not gonna want to miss it.

[romantic music]

Oh, Roman.

Katherine Elizabeth Roberts, will you again do me the honor of being my wife? That ring made it through death and the great beyond.

This ring has endurance, and it’s never going to leave this finger again.

Good.

[sighs] Okay. You guys are all set. There is an exam room waiting for you.

What? Well, I’m the mayor, and I didn’t get special treatment. What kind of strings are you pulling, young man?

Eh, it helps when there’s a whole wing named after your family.

[laughs]

Oh, I see. Well, I guess I was wrong when I said there was nothing that you could do here to help. Well, thank–thank you.

Yes, thank you, Johnny, for coming to the rescue.

I wouldn’t be anywhere else.

[gentle music]

[sighs]

[coughs] Ugh. Hmm. Maybe I should fill this with some water. Nah, I’ll just blame Harold.

[tense music] “Dear Johnny, I love you.” Nah, too abrupt. “Dear Johnny, “becoming your stepsister is the worst thing that ever happened to me because I’m in love with you.” Nah, no reason to bring up the incest thing. Come on, Holly.

[sighs] “Remember that day you told me I looked pretty “in my homecoming dress? “That was the day I fell in love with you. “Maybe you were just trying to be nice, “but you were a zillion times nicer than my immature date, “who ditched me at the dance “to go vape in the bathroom with his bros. “When I came home that night, “you ate rainbow sherbet with me “and told me he was an idiot. “You also let me listen to Taylor Swift in your car, “and you’re the only guy I know “that’s seen every Jane Austen movie. “You’re my soulmate, Johnny. I’m sure of it. “Now that I’m , “there’s nothing stopping us from being together. “I mean, I know you’re with Chanel now, “but I am so much better for you, and you know it. “For one thing, I would never leave you “for your twin sister, only if you had a twin brother. “JK, I would be loyal to you, and only you, forever and ever, “because I love you, Johnny DiMera.

[giggles] Oh, my God, I can’t send this. Ugh, that would ruin everything if he found out.

[sighs] Jeez.

[sighs] If he loved me back, he wouldn’t have left me all alone on my birthday just because Chanel called. He would have stayed and watched me blow out my candles. He doesn’t care.

[scoffs] Nobody cares about Holly.

Okay, she is having her vitals checked, so hopefully she doesn’t make a run for it.

[laughs] Yeah, hopefully. Um, hey, how are you feeling? Uh, that–that’s a stupid question. Obviously, I’m sure you’re worried about your mom.

Yeah. Yeah, I am. And, you know, just being in the hospital on Christmas Eve–

Yeah, it’s the worst, I know.

You say that like you’re talking from personal experience.

That’s because I am.

[somber music] You see this eye?

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, it’s not the, uh, original.

What? Wait. So it’s, like, a prosthetic or whatever?

Yeah, believe it or not.

But it looks so real. But why? What–what happened to you?

Uh, when I was a little kid, I had retinoblastoma, which is a type of cancer. And how do I know that it sucks to be in the hospital on the holidays? Because this is exactly the time of year that I had my surgery.

I-I can’t believe I didn’t know about that. But you’re okay? You’re okay now, right?

Yeah, yeah, I’m okay. You know, I have to go get checkups for the rest of my life. I still get a little nervous every time, but I’ve been very lucky in so many ways. And, hey, you’d never even know I was sick, right?

No.

So take heart in that, okay? Because whatever is going on with your mom, she is a very strong woman.

[chuckles] And the doctors here are amazing. So keep the faith, all right?

[soft music]

Hey, I hope you don’t mind if I put you to work, but Santa’s gonna be up very late wrapping gifts for the kids’ toy drive if I don’t get some help.

Well, I’ll help, as long as you don’t expect too much from my corners and bows.

Mm-hmm, especially after a couple of these.

Yeah.

Don’t listen to him. He is the original Secret Santa.

Am I?

Our first Christmas, he made me think that he was the most bah-humbuggiest kind of person.

[both laugh] You would not believe how many Santa hats this guy has.

Baby, you’re no slouch in the Santa department either.

I am not gonna let Kiriakis spoil my Christmas.

He’s gonna spoil a lot more than that if we don’t get back.

No, not until I see my family.

Kayla, you’ve got a new family to worry about. We got a baby coming.

Did you really think that Victor would kill you if you came home for Christmas?

You did not know him back in the day.

He was my first employer in Salem. I bit off more than I could chew when I took that job.

Yeah, he was one tough son of a bitch who basically owned me. Then he became my father-in-law and friend. But I know for a fact that that man knew everything about my past, and he took all those secrets to his grave with him. And I am grateful to have them stay right there forever.

[cell phone rings]

Uh. Hello?

“Hello”? It’s me, Holly.

[scoffs] D-do you even have my number saved? Wha–do you recognize my voice, at least?

What? Of course I have your number saved in my phone. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have answered.

Uh-huh. Whatever, Johnny. Don’t lie to me.

Holly, have you been drinking?

[laughs] Have I been drinking? Well, let me tell you, mister. I’m all alone in this big old house with enough alcohol to fill a cruise ship, so yeah, I’ve been drinking. And–and what is it to you? You don’t care. Nobody cares what I do.

Holly, I care.

Hmm. If you care, you wouldn’t have left me alone to go hold Chanel’s clammy hand.

Whoa. Hey. Slow down, all right? Her mother’s sick.

Yeah.

[glass shatters] Crap.

Holly, what just happened?

Uh, mm, I broke a glass.

Okay, all right. I want you to listen to me. Just don’t touch it. Don’t touch anything. Just leave it there. Harold will clean it up.

Sounds good to me. And–and just so you know, I called to tell you that– that you’re a big fat jerk, Johnny DiMera.

Is Holly okay?

Uh, no. No, I don’t think she is.

Well, you should go home. It sounds like she needs you.

Honestly, I think I am the last person she wants to see. Um, it’s her birthday, and she’s all alone, and I ditched her.

Okay, well, she clearly needs someone right now, and it seems like you’re all she’s got, so un-ditch her.

You sure?

Yes. We will–we’ll be okay here.

Okay, just, uh, promise you’ll call me if you hear any news?

Mm-hmm, I promise.

Okay.

I love you.

I love you too. Take care of your mom.

[gentle music]

[sighs]

[elevator dings]

[grumbling] Oh, my God. What did I just do?

[sighs]

[low piano music] Hey. Hey, Holly. Holly.

Johnny?

Yeah, I’m here.

I’m so sorry about the glass.

Just don’t worry about it, okay? It’s all right.

[laughs]

Gosh, Holly.

[exhales]

[sighs]

[cell phone ringing] Hey.

Hey. How’s Holly?

Uh, knocked out. Judging by the amount of alcohol she drank, she’s gonna have a rough Christmas morning, but I think she’s gonna be okay. How’s your mom doing?

Uh, she is waiting to see a doctor. But I just–I just wanted to call you to check in.

Give her my love.

I will. Merry Christmas, Johnny.

Merry Christmas to you too.

[sighs]

There’s carolers in the hall and they’re headed this way.

[grunts] Thanks for the warning.

[laughs] They sound nice.

[clears throat]

Hey, uh, maybe we should call Abe and let him know what’s going on–

No, no, no. Don’t you dare. Don’t you dare call him. I don’t even know what’s– what’s going on with me, and that man has enough to deal with without worrying over what’s probably– what’s probably nothing.

Okay, but you invited him over for Christmas, so he should probably know that he needs to make other plans.

Other plans? Oh, no, no, no way. Oh, no. I will be home, and he will be coming over for Christmas. Don’t look at me like I’m in denial. I am a very stubborn woman.

Yeah, you don’t have to tell me that.

Oh, honey, come on now. Look, I’m going to be fine, okay? That’s a promise.

[breathes deeply]

[sweet music]

Many hands make light work. That’s what my mother used to always say.

Yes.

There’s gonna be a lot of happy kids tomorrow.

Yeah.

Aww.

Well, look, I’m sorry to break up the party, but I just got a call for a last-minute pie order. both: What?

Why didn’t you tell them no?

Would you tell Julie Williams no?

No.

[laughs]

Yes.

Yeah, she said she’s got some last-minute guests coming over for Christmas Eve. She didn’t bake enough so, uh– and I can’t blame her for being a little grouchy, given the friends are Xander Cook and, uh, Victor’s friend, Konstantin.

Konstantin? I thought Maggie washed her hands of him already.

Well, apparently not. Julie told me she invited him to the Hortons’ Christmas celebration.

Oh, damn.

Wow. Are you okay?

Yeah, yeah, just, um, all this talk about the past has kind of– kind of got to me a little. Hey, everyone, thanks for a great evening. Merry Christmas.

Oh, yes. Merry Christmas.

This was sweet.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Thank you.

That’s some good wrapping.

Roman, thank you for this.

Oh, you did such a nice job here.

Oh, neat.

Oh, nicely done. Well done.

Thank you.

Yeah, okay. Thank you. Thank you for that.

Good wrapping.

Mm-hmm.

Okay, there we go.

[chuckles]

Back to the Days Transcripts Page

Back to the Main Daytime Transcripts Page

 

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Days Update Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Days of Our Lives Update

Days of Our Lives logo

Update written by Joseph

Tripp comes home to Wendy and apologizes for being late. Wendy says she understands his work but he’s here now and they get to spend their very first Christmas Eve together as they kiss. Wendy asks him what’s in his bag. Tripp responds that he picked up some stuff for tonight because their place could use a little Christmas cheer and she could too.

Maggie sits alone in the town square until Sarah approaches with baby Victoria. Sarah asks how she is. Maggie says she had some last minute Christmas shopping to do and wanted to see the lights and decorations before going to Doug and Julie’s tonight. Sarah sits with her and asks what’s wrong. Maggie cries that she misses Victor so much.

Alex exits the Brady Pub and runs in to Xander. Xander comments on noticing piles of unsold Bella magazines and how that must feel for him. Alex says he’ll see him around. Xander tells Alex to face that the new launch is tanking which is what he gets for putting a professional screw-up in charge, just because he’s sleeping with her.

Konstantin is in his room at the Salem Inn, complaining that Theresa thinks she can walk away with no consequences. Konstantin makes a call and declares this is not over yet.

Theresa sits in the park and rejects Konstantin’s call. Theresa’s brother Andrew then appears and greets her. Theresa hugs him and says she’s so glad to see him right now, right before Christmas. Theresa then stops and asks why he looks so sad. Andrew informs her that John and Steve asked the ISA to investigate the attempted kidnapping of Victoria from the Kiriakis Mansion. Andrew reveals that Shane passed the case over to him and they used technology to enhance some surveillance photos. Andrew tells Theresa to imagine his shock when the face in the photos was her.

Maggie tells Sarah that Victor would be so honored that she named her daughter after him, so it’s too bad he didn’t get a chance to know her. Konstantin appears in the town square and hides behind the Christmas tree to watch them. Sarah tells Maggie that she knows it must be hard as it’s her first Christmas without Victor. Maggie cries that she misses him every day, but especially the holidays. Sarah understands a piece of her heart is missing and she’s lonely. Sarah can’t help but wonder if that feels worse because Konstantin moved out.

Alex tells Xander to keep Theresa’s name out of his mouth and says she’s doing a spectacular job as new launches take time. Xander mocks that it will take forever. Xander says when he ran Titan, Bella was already on it’s last breath and that Maggie made the right decision in shutting it down while Alex made the wrong decision in resurrecting it. Alex tells Xander to focus on his third rate newspaper and keep his thoughts to himself. Alex questions why he would ever take business advice from the guy his father hired to mow his lawn.

At the police station, Rafe asks Jada if there’s a problem. Jada complains that she promised herself that she would solve the attempted kidnapping of Victoria by the end of the year but she can’t catch any breaks. Rafe tells her not to be so hard on herself as there hasn’t been any movement on that case in weeks and if the Greek mafia is involved, there probably won’t be any. Rafe adds that the baby is home safe and sound, so it’s not a pressing case and it won’t be solved by Christmas day. Rafe tells Jada that there is one mystery that he hopes they can solve right now. Rafe then asks Jada if she’s going to move in with him or not.

Andrew shows Theresa the photos and asks if it’s her. Theresa remarks that it looks like her, then admits that it is her. Andrew question what the hell she has gotten herself into. Theresa thinks back to Konstantin ordering her to kidnap Victoria. Theresa tells Andrew that she doesn’t know what to say. Andrew tells her that John and Steve think that Konstantin is somehow involved in the kidnapping and possibly even the Greek Mafia. Andrew questions why the hell Theresa would get involved with something like this. Theresa tells him that it’s not what he thinks and asks him to let her explain.

Tripp decorates he and Wendy’s apartment with Christmas decorations. Wendy thanks him for doing it. Tripp says she’s been through a lot so he knows it’s going to be a tough Christmas without her brother. Wendy cries that she misses Li so much while the rest of her family is halfway across the world in China. Tripp sits with Wendy and suggests she tell him about her Christmases growing up. Wendy talks about the Chinese not really celebrating, but spending time in Hong Kong and the US, they picked up some traditions while her parents did keep some Chinese traditions. Wendy informs Tripp that on Christmas Eve, they all give each other apples because in China it is believed that eating a peace apple means you will be blessed with a peaceful year ahead. Wendy recalls Li getting a saxophone one year for Christmas but he was horrible at it so his father made him give up on it. Wendy adds that Li later got a flute and was pretty good at that. Wendy admits she got sick of him playing it over and over, but she never told him that because he was proud of himself. Tripp is glad that she has these memories and says he wants to hear a lot more of them.

Rafe and Jada go in to the interrogation room. Jada tells Rafe that she’s been giving it a lot of thought and even started cleaning out her closet and getting rid of clutter in her room. Jada admits that she’s been going back and forth on the decision. Jada says her heart tells her to move in with Rafe and start their lives together with the man she loves, adding that she wants to get a moving truck and start this next chapter of her life. Rafe senses there’s a “but” coming.

Konstantin continues listening in as Maggie tells Sarah that Konstantin leaving has nothing to do with what she’s feeling now. Sarah asks if she’s sure since she knows Maggie was enjoying his company and his memories of Victor. Maggie says she was but it was time for him to go. Maggie thinks she honored Konstantin and Victor’s friendship by helping him and paying off his debts, but she couldn’t have him putting her family in danger, especially Victoria. Sarah points out that they don’t know for sure that Konstantin was a danger. Maggie wasn’t willing to take the risk. Sarah doesn’t want her to be unhappy because she’s trying to protect them. Sarah admits she thought Konstantin was trouble at first, but decides she likes him, especially after what he did to get Victoria back. Maggie thinks it’s best for him to keep his distance. Maggie says she’s glad that Sarah and Victoria are there as it’s just what she needed. Maggie invites her to join her in finishing Christmas shopping. Sarah says she has to meet Xander to go over Victoria’s Christmas schedule.

Xander tells Alex to do what he wants, but that he warned him about Theresa. Xander guesses he’s been warned by everyone who has had the misfortune of knowing Theresa. Xander then stops and says it is Christmas, so he assumes Alex and Theresa are going to Maggie’s Christmas dinner tomorrow. Alex says unfortunately. Xander says that Maggie probably wants them all to get along, so out of respect for Maggie and Victor’s memory, they can make peace for one day. Alex agrees they can put their differences aside, but remarks that Xander is the one who can’t keep his jealousy in check. Alex warns that they might break a lot more than bread if he keeps this up. Alex then wishes him a Merry Christmas and walks away.

Theresa informs Andrew that she met Konstantin in Greece and he was really nice to her, friendly and generous. Andrew asks if that means they are right that Konstantin is involved in this. Theresa says technically yes, but it isn’t some big mafia plot or something the ISA needs to worry about. Theresa says that Konstantin is just a sweet old man who really likes Maggie and wanted to impress her, so he came up with this saving the baby idea. Andrew calls it a hero complex. Theresa adds that Konstantin assured her that the baby would never be harmed and be returned immediately, so she agreed to play matchmaker and help him out since Maggie’s been so lonely. Theresa claims that she was just trying to help. Andrew says he’d call utter BS coming from anyone else, but admits this sounds like the kind of thing that she would get mixed up in. Theresa comments that he really does know his sister. Andrew calls her an accomplice and accessory to a kidnapping, then asks for one good reason not to turn her in right now.

Jada informs Rafe that she ran in to Stephanie yesterday and was surprised to learn that things didn’t work out for her and Chad. Jada says that Stephanie had just moved out and was very upset about it, so she felt the universe was sending her a sign as it brought up bad memories with her ex-husband, Bobby, and how she blamed her problems on moving too fast. Rafe notes that she had never mentioned his name before. Jada says she realized she didn’t know Bobby well enough before making that plunge, but they were madly in love and talked about growing old together so they got married but unfortunately, they didn’t know each other as well as they thought and for various reasons, they started to resent each other and then one day they decided it was over and done. Jada adds that she hasn’t seen or heard from him since. Jada mentions also running in to Eric yesterday and it was like the universe was giving her all these reminders of what can go wrong when she moves too fast.

Sarah tells Maggie that she should get going as Xander is waiting for her and she’ll see her at Doug and Julie’s tonight. Sarah calls it Victoria’s first Christmas and tells Maggie that she loves her and will see her later as she walks away. Alex then walks through the town square. Maggie greets him and wishes him a merry Christmas Eve. Maggie mentions meaning to call him as she’d like a word with him about Titan. Alex reminds her that it was her choice to not be involved in Titan. Maggie points out that she inherited half of Victor’s estate and she’s seen the numbers, so she was disturbed to realize the cost of the first issue of Bella far outweighed the ad revenues. Alex says it’s just startup costs and assures the next issues will have no trouble. Maggie understands he was resurrecting Bella to make a point to her, but says you don’t make business decisions based on emotion. Maggie argues that magazines are dying and everything is going computerized. Maggie adds that Alex not only brought it back but put someone unqualified in charge of it, just because he’s in a relationship with her. Konstantin continues to listen in.

Theresa sits with Andrew and tells him that she’s really sorry as she feels really terrible for what she did. Andrew responds that she always does, but nothing seems to change. Theresa cries that she doesn’t want to disappoint their parents and worries that everyone is going to hate her. Andrew asks what she expected and tells her that she’s so lucky the baby is okay and that Konstantin moved out. Theresa asks what Andrew is going to do. Andrew responds that he’s first going to tell John, Steve, and Shane that they were unable to reveal the kidnapper’s face. Andrew then says he’s going to tell Theresa what she’s going to do.

Tripp has two apples delivered to the apartment which Wendy calls so sweet. Wendy thanks him for the wonderful gift of peace apples. Wendy now wants to hear about Tripp’s Christmas traditions growing up. Tripp responds that he actually didn’t have any but he vaguely remembers his adopted mom always trying her best to make things nice when he was little, but after she died, he just tried to stay out of the way. Tripp says his adopted dad was abusive, so this isn’t the most cheerful topic for Christmas Eve. Wendy apologizes as she didn’t mean to bring up bad memories. Tripp says it’s okay as it’s in the past. Tripp declares that it’s time that they start making their own happy holiday memories.

Jada hopes Rafe understands that she really wants to be with him, but she really wants to take things slowly and do it right. Jada guesses that Rafe is disappointed. Rafe says he has a string of exes too and maybe if he took things slower, he would’ve avoided some heartache himself. Rafe tells Jada to set the pace of their relationship as he loves her and wants her to be at peace with the decision she makes. Rafe says she can let him know when she’s ready.

Alex tells Maggie that he thinks it’s better that he and Theresa don’t come to Christmas dinner tomorrow. Maggie argues that they have to come and apologizes for bringing up business now. Maggie promises to not talk business during Christmas dinner and tells Alex that Justin really wants to see him there and misses him. Maggie adds that Victor would want the family together on Christmas. Alex says he gets that, but all they do recently is fight, so he doesn’t care what it means if it’s just going to be another miserable experience. Alex tells Maggie to have a wonderful Christmas, but to consider him out, as he walks away. Konstantin watches with a smile as Maggie looks on disappointed.

Andrew tells Theresa that he needs no more funny business or antics from her and that she’s going to walk the straight and narrow from now on. Andrew tells her to stay the hell away from Konstantin. Theresa claims that he left town anyway so she’s never going to see him again. Andrew advises Theresa to stop getting involved in schemes that she knows are wrong which she promises to do. Andrew warns her to keep that promise because he will be watching. Andrew says this will be the last time he covers for her. Theresa hugs him and thanks him. Andrew adds that he’s only giving her this chance because she’s his sister and he loves her. Andrew asks her not to jeopardize his job or her future. Theresa assures that she will take his advice. Andrew says he has to get going as the ISA jet is waiting for him. Andrew wishes her a Merry Christmas. Theresa calls him the best and says she really loves him. Andrew then walks away.

Maggie complains that she made things worse on Christmas Eve. Konstantin then appears and greets Maggie, surprising her. Konstantin says it’s so wonderful to see her. Maggie didn’t know he was still in town. Konstantin says he hasn’t been in town and that he was staying with his cousin in Cincinnati but he went off with his wife’s family for Christmas, so he ended up back in Salem which he finds a very special place. Konstantin calls it very fortunate to run in to her and offers her egg nog as he invites her to have a Christmas Eve drink together. Maggie hesitates but agrees.

Alex finds Theresa in the park and asks what she’s doing here. Theresa says he scared her half to death. Alex asks if everything is okay.

Jada tells Rafe that she hopes they can keep having lots of sleepovers which Rafe agrees with as they kiss. Rafe surprises her with a gift of keys, even though they aren’t moving in together, so she can come and go as she pleases. Jada calls it the best gift she will get this Christmas as they kiss.

Xander and Sarah sit together at the Brady Pub. Xander thought it was his turn to have Victoria tonight but Sarah explains that she wanted to take Victoria to Doug and Julie’s for her first Horton Christmas and adds that Maggie’s been having a tough time without Victor. Xander says he understands and tells Sarah to drop Victoria off with him afterwards because it’s his first Christmas with her too. Sarah gets upset and points out that means she won’t get to spend Christmas morning with Victoria. Xander says one of them has to miss her first Christmas morning and he’s willing to give up her first Christmas Eve. Sarah decides this isn’t working.

Tripp brings out Jenga but Wendy thought they could play a different game and they start kissing until Wendy gets a phone call from her mom. Wendy says she knows it’s been difficult lately. Wendy says she’ll call her back later and to give her love to her dad as she hangs up. Tripp asks if everything okay. Wendy informs him that it was her mom, who is very concerned with her dad as he hasn’t been doing well since Li’s death and his health is declining. Wendy then reveals that her mom wants her to move back to China.

Jada suggests to Rafe that they take things elsewhere. Rafe agrees and jokes that it is Christmas Eve so they have to go to bed early as they exit the police station together.

Xander reminds Sarah that they agreed to shared custody. Sarah clarifies that it isn’t working tonight since Victoria is only going to have one first Christmas and she won’t remember it, but they will. Xander says that’s why he wants to spend time with her too and points out that she chose Christmas Eve, so he gets Christmas Day. Sarah then suggests Xander came to Doug and Julie’s with them. Xander questions participating in the hanging of the Horton Ornaments and said he would be honored, but asks if they would even have him. Sarah says of course and reminds him that they got married in their living room. Sarah tells Xander that it would mean so much to Maggie and her.

Konstantin and Maggie sit together in the town square as he tells her about his past Christmas traditions with Victor. Maggie asks what his plans are for Christmas. Konstantin says he has no plans at the moment as he doesn’t know much about American Christmas traditions. Maggie tells him that there is one unique tradition that is very special to her late first husband’s family. Maggie invites Konstantin to accompany her to the Horton tree trimming. Konstantin calls that unexpected and wonderful, saying he’d be most grateful to attend with her.

Alex asks Theresa what’s wrong. Theresa claims she’s just really feeling the Christmas stress as it’s already Christmas Eve and she hasn’t done her Christmas shopping. Alex tells Theresa that they aren’t going to Maggie’s because of family drama, so they can forget about it all and enjoy the holiday. Alex informs her that he made a reservation for them at the Bistro to enjoy a nice Christmas Eve dinner. Theresa says that sounds really nice, but she really does have Christmas shopping to do so she’s hoping the stores are still open. Alex tells her to go finish up while he goes home to change and he will see her soon. Alex then walks away.

Konstantin was starting to worry that he would be alone this Christmas but thanks to Maggie, he has reason to celebrate. Maggie says she’s happy he’s still there and that they ran in to each other, calling it an unexpected gift. Konstantin tells her that he will pick her up at her place and they will go to Doug and Julie’s together. Maggie says she will see him later and walks away.

Theresa makes a call about a Christmas gift. Theresa then hangs up as she gets another call and it’s Konstantin, who says he didn’t appreciate her hanging up on him earlier. Konstantin warns that he can make her life very difficult if she does not cooperate. Theresa says there’s nothing she can do for him and tells him not to call her again. Theresa adds that she cannot help him with Maggie at all. Konstantin responds that she can and she will.

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Days Transcript Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

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Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

There you are.

Sorry that I’m late.

No, it’s okay. I just thought your shift was running late.

Yes, well, you know, this is the time of year people indulge themselves a little too much, and then we’re there to pick up the pieces.

Right, I understand. But you’re here now, and we get to spend our very first Christmas Eve together.

Mm-hmm.

So what’s in the bag?

Well, after my shift, I had a little time to pick up some stuff for tonight.

Mm. Wait, some stuff?

This place could use a little Christmas cheer and, uh, so could you.

[sweet music]

Mom?

Oh, Sarah. Oh, Victoria. How lovely to see you.

Everything okay?

Yes, everything is fine. I just, um– I had some last-minute Christmas shopping to do and– and I wanted to see the lights and enjoy the decorations before I go to Doug and Julie’s tonight.

What’s wrong?

It’s just, Sarah, I miss Victor so much.

[sighs] Oh, hey there. What are you, looking to get the hot scoop on how much chowder the pub’s selling on Christmas Eve?

Actually, I was looking to have some chowder, but Alex, I must say, I’ve been noticing piles and piles of unsold “Bella” magazines all over town in newsstands and grocery stores. That must be very discouraging for you.

Mm, I’ll see you around, Xander.

Face it, Alex… the new launch is tanking, which is what you get for putting a professional screwup in charge just because you’re sleeping with her.

This little bitch can think she can walk away with no consequences whatsoever? Ha ha.

[speaking language]

[line trilling] This is not over yet.

[tense music]

[cell phone ringing]

Hi, sis.

Andrew? Oh, Andrew. Oh, Andrew, I’m so glad to see you right now, right before Christmas.

[ominous music] What, why–why do you look so sad? Andrew. Andrew, talk to me.

John and Steve asked the ISA to investigate the attempted kidnapping of Sarah Horton’s baby from the Kiriakis mansion.

Oh, and?

Well, Dad passed the case on to me. John and Steve sent in some surveillance photos to be enhanced by our technology. Imagine my shock when the face in the photos was yours.

[suspenseful music]

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

Thank God for this little angel. You know, Victor would be so honored that you named her after him. It’s too bad he didn’t get a chance to know her.

[gentle holiday music]

Yeah, I can just see him doting on her and spoiling her.

[laughs] Yeah.

Mom, I know this has to be hard. It’s your first Christmas without him.

I miss him every day, but the holidays, everywhere you look you see love and family and… you know, I cry at commercials.

[both laugh] It was those Christmas movies where people– people fall in love trying to save a Christmas tree farm.

You had a Christmas tree farm?

[laughs] No. You know what I mean.

Yes, I do. Of course I do. A piece of your heart is missing, and you’re lonely. But I can’t help but wonder maybe if that feels worse just because Konstantin moved out?

How ’bout you keep Theresa’s name out of your mouth? She’s doing a spectacular job. New launches take time.

Oh, yeah. And this one’s probably gonna take forever? See, when I ran Titan, “Bella” was already gasping its last breath then. Maggie made the right decision when she shut it down, and you made the wrong one when you resurrected it.

Why don’t you focus on your little third-rate newspaper and keep your thoughts to yourself, okay? And why would I ever take business advice from the guy my father hired to mow his lawn?

[sighs]

Hey. Is there a problem?

Nothing but problems. I promised myself that I was gonna solve the attempted kidnapping of Victoria Kiriakis by the end of this year. But I can’t catch a break. It’s all dead ends.

Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey. You gotta take it easy on yourself, okay? There hasn’t been any movement on that case in weeks. And if the Greek Mafia is involved, there probably won’t be any. Besides, the baby’s home safe and sound, so it’s not a pressing case, and it’s certainly not gonna be solved by Christmas Day. There is, however, one mystery which I hope we can solve right now.

[romantic music] Is Jada Hunter gonna move in with Rafe Hernandez or not?

This is you, isn’t it?

Uh. Well, uh, it looks like me.

[unsettling music] It is me.

Damn it, Theresa. What the hell have you gotten yourself into?

Okay, I’m here.

And here is our little friend, Victoria.

[sighs] I don’t think this is a good idea.

And I don’t really care. You made your bed, Theresa, and now you know what you have to do. Take the baby.

[sighs] I-I don’t know what to say.

Well, then I’ll talk. John and Steve think that Victor’s old friend, Konstantin, is somehow involved in the kidnapping, possibly even the Greek Mafia. So why–why in the hell would you get involved in something like this?

Look, it’s not what you think, okay? Just–just–just let me explain.

Okay, so we have some elf gnomes here. We have, uh, you know, a T. rex Santa. Everything’s a little pretty kitschy and weird, huh?

[laughs] I love them.

Well, I’m glad because that’s all they had left at the cent store, you know, it being Christmas Eve and all.

Yeah, slim pickings, I’m sure.

Mm.

[laughs] Tripp, thank you so much for doing this.

Yeah, you– you’ve been through a lot. I know this is gonna be a tough Christmas, being without your brother.

I miss Li so much, not to mention the rest of my family halfway across the world in China.

Well, here. Tell me about your, uh– your Christmases growing up.

Okay. Well, the Chinese don’t really celebrate Christmas the same way the rest of the world does, although we spent a lot of time in Hong Kong and here. So we adopted many Western traditions. But my parents definitely kept some Chinese traditions going.

Okay. Such as?

Well, on Christmas Eve, we all give each other apples.

Apples?

Yep, apples. You see, in China, it’s believed that if you eat what’s called peace apple, then you’ll be blessed with a safe and peaceful year ahead. And, of course, all that apple giving drives the prices of apples way up on Christmas Eve.

Oh, that’s very capitalistic.

Exactly. both: Yeah.

And also, Santa plays the sax.

What, the sax?

Yeah.

Oh, that’s–that’s cool.

No, I know, right? And that’s exactly why Li asked for a saxophone one year for Christmas when we were kids, and he got one, of course.

Mm. But, oh, my God, when he started practicing it, he was so horrible at it. No, no, I’m serious, like, it was torture hearing him play.

Oh, so he gave up on it pretty quickly then, huh?

Well, actually my father made him give up on it.

Hmm.

Yeah.

[as her father] Li Shin, it is time to face reality. You have no talent for this instrument. You should put your energy into something you can excel at.

Wow. Okay. Your dad was obviously very direct.

[as self] Yeah, that’s one word for it. And I think Li was, like, ten years old? So at first, he started crying. But then he got real defiant and asked for a flute, which he also got.

Mm.

And, uh, he was actually pretty good at it. Yeah, he would–he would play for me all the time. “Hot Cross Buns” was the one he mastered. both: Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm.

I just got so sick of hearing him play it over and over again. I never told him that… because he was really proud of himself.

Well, I’m– I’m glad that you have these memories, okay? Because I wanna hear a lot more of them.

[gentle music]

So I’ve been giving it a lot of thought…

Mm-hmm.

Us moving in together. I even started cleaning out my closet and getting rid of some of the clutter in my room.

Mm, less to pack?

Well, that was the idea, yes. But I gotta admit, I’ve been going back and forth on my decision. And my heart, my heart tells me yes, move in right now…

Mm-hmm.

You know, and start our lives together, and live with a man that I love. I just want to pack up all of my stuff and get a moving truck and just start this next chapter of my life.

Right. Ooh. Why am I sensing there’s a “but” in there?

Konstantin? No. His leaving, it had nothing to do with what I’m feeling now.

Are you sure about that? ‘Cause I-I know that you were enjoying his company and memories he shared of Victor.

Yes, I was, but it was time for him to go. I think I honored him and Victor’s friendship by helping him with his predicament, paying off his debts, but I couldn’t, um– I couldn’t have him putting my family in danger, especially this sweet little girl.

Yeah, but we don’t know for sure that Konstantin was a danger.

Well, I wasn’t willing to take the risk. And what is that look?

Well, I just– I don’t want you to be unhappy because you’re trying to protect us. I mean, did I think that Konstantin was trouble at first? Yeah, but I don’t know, I mean, I like him, especially after what he did to get Victoria back.

Yeah, me too, honey. But trust me on this, I think it’s best for him to keep his distance from us. Anyway, I’m glad the both of you are here. It’s just what I needed. And I still have to finish that Christmas shopping. So, um, would you like to join me?

I really would, but I have to meet Xander to go over Victoria’s Christmas schedule.

Oh, okay.

[sighs] Fine, Alex, you’re a big boy. Do what you want, but don’t say I didn’t warn you about Theresa Donovan, although I’m guessing you’ve been warned by literally everyone who’s had the misfortune of knowing that woman.

Mm. Merry Christmas, cuz.

Wait.

What?

You’re right, it’s, uh– it’s Christmas. I assume you and Theresa are going to Maggie’s Christmas dinner tomorrow?

Unfortunately.

Well, it’s not unfortunate for Maggie, is it? She–she wants us all there, and she probably wants us to get along, doesn’t she? So out of respect for her and Victor’s memory, I’m hoping that you and I can break bread in peace…

[scoffs]

Put our differences aside, you know, just for one day.

Mm, yeah. Well, you’re the one who can’t keep his jealousy in check, mate. And as for breaking bread, well, there might be a lot more things to get broken if you keep this up. Merry Christmas.

[sighs]

I met Konstantin in Greece, and he was really nice to me. He was, um, friendly and generous.

So they’re right? Konstantin is involved in this?

Technically, yes, yes. But this is–it wasn’t, like, some big mafia plot or whatever. I mean, this isn’t something that the ISA needs to worry about. He’s just a sweet old man, and he really liked Maggie, and he wanted to impress her. So he came up with this saving-the-baby idea.

[scoffs] So you’re talking a hero complex? Create a crisis, and then swoop in to save the day?

Yep.

Got it.

That’s right.

Okay.

Uh-huh. But he assured me that the baby would never be in harm’s way and would be returned immediately. And so–I don’t know. I thought I would play matchmaker and try and help him out because Maggie’s been so lonely. I was–Andrew, I was just trying to help.

Mm. Coming out of anyone else’s mouth, I would call utter BS. But this does sound exactly like the kind of thing that you would get mixed up in.

You really do know your sister, don’t you?

I know my sister is an accomplice and an accessory to a kidnapping. So give me one good reason why I shouldn’t turn you in right now.

Well, I ran into Stephanie Johnson yesterday. So my surprise, things didn’t work out with her and Chad, and she actually moved out. She was very upset–a mess– about it. I don’t know, it just seemed like the universe was just sending me a sign.

A sign?

Just it brought up bad memories of my breakup with my ex-husband and how I would always blame my problems with Bobby on me being too impulsive, you know, moving too fast.

Bobby? You never even mentioned that name before.

Yeah, well, that was his name.

Oh.

Anyways, as I was looking back and thinking, I realized that I didn’t know him well enough before I took that plunge. And we were–we were crazy in love. I mean, we talked about growing old together, about watching our children and grandchildren grow up. And so we just got married. But, unfortunately, we did not know each other as well as we thought. And for various reasons, we started to resent each other. And the one day, we both decided that it was over, done. And I haven’t seen or heard from him since.

I see.

And also, I ran into Eric yesterday. And I don’t know, it was just like the universe was just giving me all these reminders on what can go wrong when I move too fast.

Well, I should probably get going. Xander is probably waiting for me.

I love you, darling. Will I see you at Doug and Julie’s tonight?

Oh, yes, of course, I wouldn’t miss it. It’s a special night. It’s Victoria’s first Christmas.

Mm-hmm, and we’ll all be doting on her.

Oh, I don’t doubt it, not one bit. I love you.

I love you, sweetie.

I’ll see you later.

Okay.

[sighs] Alex. Merry Christmas Eve?

Hey, Maggie, good to see you. Merry Christmas Eve to you too.

Oh, well, I’m glad I ran into you. I’ve been meaning to call you. Um, do you have a minute?

Of course.

I’d like a word with you about Titan.

With all due respect, Maggie, you’re not involved in Titan, which was your choice.

Well, nonetheless, I inherited half of Victor’s estate, just as you, and I think it’s incumbent of us to be good stewards of his estate. I’ve seen the numbers. I was disturbed to realize that the cost to produce the first issue of “Bella” far outweighs the ad revenues.

Right, I-I know. That’s because there’s a lot of start-up costs. That’s a one-time deal, and I assure you the next issues will not have any trouble falling under budget.

Look, I understand your resurrecting “Bella” magazine was to make a point to me. But one of the many things I’ve learned from Victor is you don’t make business decisions based on emotion. Look, magazines are dying. Everything is getting computerized, and it’s been going on for years. And not only did you pour time and money into relaunching a dying commodity, but you put someone unqualified in charge because you’re having a relationship with her. I mean, God knows I love Theresa, but she is not cut out for the job.

[instrumental “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” playing]

Andrew. Andrew, I’m so sorry. I feel really terrible for what I did.

I know. You always do, and yet nothing seems to change.

Please, come on, I– I don’t want to disappoint Mom and Dad again. Everybody’s gonna hate me.

[laughs] What did you expect, Theresa? You are so lucky that that baby is okay and that Konstantin moved out of Maggie’s house.

I know. I know. I know. Andrew, what are you gonna do?

[low suspenseful music]

First of all, I’m going to… tell John, Steve, and Dad that… the enhancement was unable to reveal the kidnapper’s face. Now let me tell you what you’re gonna do.

Man, can you imagine how inconvenient it was to shop on Christmas Eve before delivery?

[chuckles] Perish the thought.

[sentimental music]

Tripp, this is so sweet. Thank you for my wonderful gift of peace apples.

My pleasure.

Now I want to hear about your Christmas traditions growing up.

Me?

Mm-hmm.

Well, actually, I– I didn’t really have any. Um, I vaguely remember my mom–my adoptive mom– always trying her best to make things nice when I was a little kid, but, uh, after she died, I just tried to stay out of the way. ‘Cause I’ve told you before, my Dad, he was abusive. And, uh, this is probably not the most cheerful topic of conversation for Christmas Eve, though, huh?

Well, not for you. And I’m sorry, Tripp. I didn’t mean to bring up bad memories.

It’s okay. It’s in the past. And hey, it’s, uh–it’s time that we start making our own happy holiday memories. So to a safe and peaceful year ahead.

[chuckles]

Rafe, I hope you understand. I really want to be with you. It’s just that living together so soon– I just really wanna take things slowly, you know, do this right. You’re disappointed, aren’t you?

No. No, I’m not. Look, I have a string of exes too. And, you know, maybe if I’d have taken things slower, I’d have avoided some heartache myself. Anyway, I want you to set the pace for this relationship, Okay, Jada? I love you. Okay? I love you. And I want you to be at peace with the decision that you make. And then you just let me know when you’re ready. Okay?

You know, Maggie, given how you feel about me and Theresa, I think it’s better if we don’t come to Christmas dinner tomorrow.

What? You’ve got to come. I’m–I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have brought up business now. Tomorrow, I will leave the business talk behind and just focus on family. Justin really wants to see you. He misses you. And Victor would want the family together on Christmas.

Yeah, and I understand that, I do. But all we do recently is fight, Maggie. And quite frankly, I don’t care if it means a lot to you and to Justin if all it’s gonna be is another miserable experience for all of us again. Have a wonderful Christmas. Consider me out.

[instrumental “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” playing]

[sighs]

So here’s what I need from you. Are you listening?

I’m listening.

No more funny business. No more Theresa antics. You are going to walk the straight and narrow from now on, and you are going to stay the hell away from Konstantin. Am I being clear?

Yes, I’m gonna stay away from him. He left town anyway, so I’m never gonna see him again.

Good. And stop getting involved in schemes that you know are wrong.

I promise.

And you damn well better keep that promise because I will be watching from wherever I am. This is the last time I’m covering for you, do you understand?

Yes. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Andrew. Oh.

I am only– I’m only giving you this chance because you are my sister and I love you. So please, please, do not jeopardize my job or your future.

No. Of course not. I will heed your advice. Or I should say I will accede to your demands.

[chuckles]

I have to get going. The ISA jet is waiting for me. Merry Christmas, Theresa.

Merry Christmas, Andrew. You’re the best. I really love you.

[mysterious music]

Why did I have to make things worse, and on Christmas Eve?

Hello, Maggie.

Konstantin.

[eerie music]

It is so wonderful to see you.

And it’s good to see you. I didn’t know you were still in town.

Well, I haven’t been in town long. I was staying with my cousin Dino in Cincinnati, and he went off with his wife’s family for Christmas. And they are all trelí,crazy. So I was drawn back here to Salem. I really don’t know why, but I find this a very special place.

Yeah, I agree. Oh, well, well, welcome back.

Well, thank you! And this is so fortunate for me to run into you. And in the spirit of the season, may I treat you to a cup of egg flip?

Egg flip? You mean eggnog?

[laughs] Of course, eggnog. That is what you Americans call it. Whatever, eggnog, egg flip, it is the perfect drink for which we can have a, uh, Christmas Eve drink together, yes?

Um, yeah, um, sure. Um, sure. I’ll have an egg flip.

[both laugh]

Hey.

[gasps]

What are you doing here?

Oh, Alex, you scared me nearly half to death.

Theresa, is everything okay?

Alex, I–

You what?

[soft tense music]

I hope I didn’t ruin your Christmas.

No. No, of course not.

And, Rafe, if it’s all right with you, I hope we can keep having a lot of sleepovers. Lots and lots of sleepovers.

I think we can do that. Mm.

[laughs] What? We said no Christmas gifts.

Would you just open it? If you don’t like it, I promise I’ll take it back.

[gentle music] Yeah, I know we’re not moving in together, but I just figured it’d be good if you had your own set of keys. That way, you can come and go as you please. It might come in handy.

Definitely. You know, I think this might– no, mm-mm. This will be the best gift that I get this Christmas.

But I thought it was my turn to have Victoria tonight.

I know, but it’s Christmas Eve. So I wanted to take her to Doug and Julie’s so she could have her first Horton Christmas. And my mom really is struggling. She’s missing Victor, and it seems like the only thing that cheers her up is seeing her granddaughter.

No, I understand. And of course, that’s fine. It’s just–just drop her at mine on your way home, yeah? It’s my first Christmas with her too.

Tonight? But that–that means I won’t be with her for her first Christmas morning.

Right, well, one of us has to miss her first Christmas morning. And I was willing to give up her first Christmas Eve.

[laughs] This isn’t working.

Hey, what do you say, for old time’s sake?

Wow.

Mm-hmm, mm-hmm.

You are full of surprises tonight.

Mm-hmm.

Okay. You know I’m always a sucker for Jenga, but I was thinking…

Mm.

We could play a different game for new time’s sake.

Mm.

[cell phone ringing]

[somber music]

Is everything okay?

That was my mom. She’s very concerned about my dad, says he hasn’t been doing well since Li’s death. His health is declining. She wants me to move back to China.

Mm. As nice as it is to mix business with pleasure, why don’t we take this elsewhere? I’ve had enough of this place anyway.

It sounds good to me. And you know, it is Christmas Eve, and Santa likes all good boys and girls to go to bed early.

And all bad girls and boys too.

[laughs]

Uh, unless I’m mistaken, we agreed to shared custody, right, /?

We did. Oh, I mean, tonight. That this isn’t working tonight. Victoria is only gonna have one first Christmas. And I know that she won’t remember it, but we will.

Right, which is why I wanna get some time with her too. I mean, you chose Christmas Eve, so I get Christmas Day.

Or I have an idea. What if you came to Doug and Julie’s with us?

Really? Participate in the hanging of the Horton ornaments? I’d be so honored. Would they even have me?

Of course they’d have you. I mean, we got married in their living room. Xander, it would mean so much to my mom and to me.

[laughs] Yes. And my dear late mother, Anastasia, would make vasilopita every New Year’s. Now vasilopitais a fluffy white cake with a coin hidden inside. And whoever finds the coin in their piece of cake gets good luck, you understand? So Victor, he had a habit of making his own luck for himself, even when we were children. So how did he do it? Well, without anybody looking, he would poke little holes at the bottom of the cake with a toothpick to see exactly where the coin might be.

[both laugh]

That sounds like something Victor would do.

Yes.

Victor never mentioned vasilopita? Did I say that correctly?

Perfectly.

Oh.

[laughs] That’s a lovely word. It sounds like a wonderful tradition.

You have many different traditions here. In Greece, we do not get gifts on Christmas Day.

I know. I know. Victor told me the gifts were exchanged on New Year’s day. Konstantin, um, what are your plans for Christmas?

I have no plans at the moment. I do not know about your American Christmas traditions very much.

Right. Well, um, there’s one very special tradition that’s unique to my late first husband’s family.

Family traditions are the best.

Yes, I agree. Well, uh, you know, if you’d like to be a part of ours this Christmas, um, perhaps you could accompany me to the Horton tree trimming.

Maggie that–that is unexpected and wonderful. I would be most grateful to attend with you.

What’s wrong?

[sighs] I just… I’m just really feeling the Christmas stress, you know? I mean, like, where did the time go? It’s already Christmas Eve, and I haven’t even done my Christmas shopping. I have so much to do. It’s really embarrassing. And I still have to get napkins and hors d’oeuvres for Maggie’s and–

Well, you can scratch that off your list because we’re not going.

What? Why?

Just the usual family drama. So let’s just forget about all of this, hmm, and novel idea– enjoy the holiday. I made a reservation for the two of us at the Bistro tonight. We enjoy a nice Christmas Eve dinner. I think we deserve that. How’s that sound?

That sounds really nice. But, um, actually, I really do have Christmas shopping that I still have to do. I’m hoping the stores are still open. Maybe I can get some, like, candles or gift cards.

Yeah, yeah, you go finish up whatever you need to do. I’m gonna go home and change. And I will see you soon, okay?

Okay.

I was starting to worry that I was going to be alone this Christmas. Thanks to you, I have reason to celebrate, Maggie.

Likewise. I’m happy you’re still here. I’m glad we ran into each other.

Yes.

What an unexpected gift.

Yes, for me too. And, um, so I will pick you up at your place, and then we will go to Doug and Julie’s together, yes?

Yes, and if it isn’t too much trouble, could you bring some of that delicious-sounding “vessel la copia”?

Vasilopita.

Okay.

[laughs] I-I could use that lucky coin.

[laughs] Well, the problem is, there is only a microwave in my hotel room, and…

Oh, of course.

If I was to make the vasilopita, I would dishonor the memory of my dear mother.

Well, in that case, just, um–just bring yourself. And, um, I’ll see you later.

Okay, great. And you still have it in stock? Can you gift wrap it? Um, I’m getting another call, sorry. Uh, thank–thank you very much.

[unsettling music]

Hello, Theresa.

Konstantin?

I really did not appreciate you hanging up on me earlier. You know, I can make your life very, very difficult if you do not cooperate.

There’s nothing I can do for you. Do not call me ever again. And I really, really cannot help you with Maggie ever again.

Oh, yes, you can. And you will.

[dramatic music]

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Days Transcript Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

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Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

So how are you guys doing? Did you, um, finish your Christmas shopping?

Nah, no, not me. No, not yet.

No, me neither. No.

[soft festive music]

Well, this is, uh, a bit awkward.

[inhales sharply] It doesn’t ha–I mean, it doesn’t have to be. You know, we’re gonna– we’re–we’re all gonna run into each other from time to time.

Yeah.

Yeah, most likely. I mean…

And, you know, I– I just want you to be happy, Steph.

Same.

Hey, Chad, Alex. Uh, happy holidays. Uh, Steph, um, looking forward to our hang later. Um, I made a– a reservation at the Bistro. Does that– does that still work?

[phone ringing]

Poughkeepsie?

[sighs] Can you take me off of your list, please? Or I’m gonna report your number. Konstantin?

[mysterious music] What do you want from me? Look, I don’t care if Maggie kicked you out. That is not my problem. And kidnapping babies, that is way more than I signed on to do, which I have told you repeatedly. I can’t do anything for you anymore, so don’t ask me. Lose my number.

Rummaging through trash cans and taking mysterious phone calls. That is the Theresa that I know and love.

[tense music]

Damn it, damn it, and damn it.

Oh. Scotch on the rocks?

Rocks? Give me the bottle.

So I’m afraid to ask.

Got a call from the prison infirmary. Gabi has a broken leg.

[sighs] I’m so sorry.

Yeah. Obviously Clyde’s sending us a message. That plan we have to get rid of him, Ava, needs to be ramped up. That bastard needs to be stopped.

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

[mysterious music]

So who were you urging to lose your number?

Well, not that I owe you an explanation, but I’ve had this spam caller who won’t stop harassing me the past couple days.

Mm-hmm. Well, you’re right. You don’t owe me any explanation whatsoever. I concede that, but, Theresa, you do owe it to our son to stay out of trouble–

Hey.

Okay?

No. Excuse me. Do not tell me what I owe our son. I am the one who raised him when you came out here, having a grand old time sleeping with all the women in Salem.

All the wo–

[laughs] Okay, I’m not–wow. I’m not gonna dignify that with an answer. What I am gonna say to you is that we are raising our kid together, right? So we should make an effort to try to be civil with one another so we can be a good example to Tate.

Oh, right, because you’re setting such a good example by being a sex addict.

Oh, my God, Theresa, unfair, untrue. I’ve been in several relationships in this town. Okay? They haven’t all worked out obviously, okay? But I’ve loved every woman that I’ve been involved with. It hasn’t only been based on sex. And by the way, this conversation is crass and demeaning. I really want to, you know, end it. So why don’t you just have a really good day?

Oh, I intend to do that. Thank you. Happy holidays, Brady.

Yeah, sure. Ho, ho, ho.

[soft festive music]

The Bistro? Um, I’m actually not that hungry. I had a big breakfast.

Yeah. Well, um, we can just take a walk or something–

Actually, right now I’d rather be alone. Uh, take care, you guys.

All right, see you.

See you.

I’m just gonna–

Uh, yeah, I’m pretty sure she said she wanted to be alo… That guy’s a stalker. There’s something real weird about him.

So weird.

There you are.

Hey, there.

Are those for me?

Oh. Who else?

Mmm. Um, so I have to do something at Titan for which I could really use some help. So, Chad, do you mind if I steal him?

Nope.

Merry Christmas.

You too.

Well, see you, Chad.

Take care.

[soft jazzy music playing]

Okay, what had happened exactly? Do you have any more details?

Just that she has a broken leg in two places. And she, uh…slipped and fell.

[laughs drily] Yeah, right.

My wife walks down runways wearing six-inch heels. She doesn’t slip and fall on anything. Clyde must have heard about the returned shipment.

Yeah, right. And the bastard did this as a way to get a warning to both of us.

Bingo.

Mm-hmm. But damn it, come on, Stefan. Clyde has to know that it wasn’t our fault. I mean, the buyer was hauled off to jail before the shipment got there, and the warehouse was shut down. I mean, my God. We got it back before the feds even knew about it. Clyde should be thrilled.

Yeah, well, obviously he’s not. I mean, come on, Ava, think about it. It’s tens of thousands of dollars worth of product. We are running drugs out of the back of this restaurant, we are laundering money, and on top of it all, you are dating a cop. That is not gonna help our situation.

Yeah, you keep saying.

You know it too. Unless we start using him to get insider information…

Okay, you forget about that. I’m not gonna use him that way or any way, okay?

Well, then you need to think long and hard about your involvement with him.

[chuckling] Hey, Harris. Hey.

Interrupting something?

No.

[clears throat] Ava and I were just, uh, discussing some boring business stuff. But, uh, I think we have it all sorted out. See you later.

So I, uh, hope the opening’s going well.

Opening. Yeah, no, yeah, it–it– it was great. It was, um, uh, very–

[chuckles] Very, very busy, and, um, everyone was thrilled that we were back up and running, and, um, yeah. How about you? Um–oh, did you end up, uh, finishing that book you were so determined to finish?

[chuckles]

Uh, no, actually, I didn’t– I didn’t read last night.

Oh! Oh. Oh, so it did end up being a date with Mrs. Davis?

No, the truth is, I, um– I ran into Jada and Stephanie at the pub.

Oh. And?

And, you know, they insisted that I join them for a drink, and I got a little drunk, and, you know, those two were pretty wasted by the time I got there, and it just kind of all went downhill from there.

Oh. How so?

Well, um, Stephanie was in no shape to go anywhere, and she ended up crashing at my place. And…

And?

You know, she was really drunk. I–I was drunk, and– and, you know, we kissed.

Oh. Wow.

It didn’t go any further. It didn’t mean anything. And–and it never will.

Okay, so, um, why are you telling me all this?

Because we never really said that we were exclusive, but it just felt– it just felt wrong. And I just wanted to be honest with you. I’m sorry. And I know I don’t deserve it, but I hope that you can accept my apology.

Um… No, Harris, I can’t.

[knocking on door]

Mm. Oh.

[gasps] Abraham. I–I wasn’t expecting you, uh, obviously.

Is this a bad time?

No, not at all. I was just resting. Uh, didn’t sleep well last night. But I’m so happy to see you. Come on in. Come in.

Thank you.

[tender music]

Uh, well, you know, I wish I’d known you were coming over. I would have put on something nicer, maybe even brushed my hair.

[chuckles] Well, you look beautiful as always. But I do get a sense that you’re not your usual lively self. Is everything okay?

Oh, no, everything– everything’s fine, fine– now that you’re here.

[soft festive music]

Must be five o’clock somewhere, huh?

That’s what I’m counting on. Waiter, another drink.

Want to tell me what’s wrong?

Really? You can’t guess?

No, I, uh–I–I can actually probably guess, yeah. I’m sure it’s been hell with Gabi not around.

[laughs] That’s a hell of a euphemism there, “not–not–not around.” Like she, uh, went for a walk, to the mall, to–to the grocery store. No, no, no, see, Gabi is not in any of those places because she is in prison, which is bad enough without a broken leg.

What? Broken leg? What happened?

You don’t want to know, and you can’t know. so–so why don’t you just…

[clears throat] Leave me alone. Okay? Go away. Waiter, another drink! Please!

[sighs]

There you are.

[chuckles] I left the square when you did, but somehow you managed to, uh, elude me. You okay? Stupid question. I can tell you’re not.

[sighs] No. I’m not. And I’m sorry that I said that we could have lunch, and then I canceled on you.

That’s fine. I, uh–I understand. Can you talk about it, whatever’s got you so upset?

[soft dramatic music]

Well, it’s nothing that you’ll find surprising. Chad and I… we ended things between us.

Oh, my gosh.

[exhales deeply] Wow. I’m sorry. No wonder you’re having a tough time.

But, Everett, I– I hope you know that just because Chad and I are over, that it doesn’t mean that I’m–

I–I don’t assume it to mean anything, all right? Other than that you’re hurting and that you’ll need time to heal, to recover.

Yeah, I will. And also, I… Well, I need to take a break from relationships.

I get that. I get that. What about friendships? Are you abstaining from those too, or, um, can I still be your– your bestie?

[both chuckle]

Ugh.

Did you find what you’re looking for?

Oh.

[laughs]

[chuckles]

No. And actually, I’m supposed to get it to accounting over the holiday. Why they want hard copies of receipts, I’ll never know.

I don’t know why either. I mean, that seems very last century to me. But I have come to the rescue.

[gasps] You really are my knight.

Mm.

You’re the best, you know that?

No argument there.

Hey.

Hey.

Hey, Brady. What’s going on?

Oh, nothing. I’m just checking on things. I mean, this is my first official day back…

Yeah.

With Basic Black in the building.

[phone ringing]

Oh, excuse me, guys. I have to take this. I’ll be right back.

Okay.

Play nice.

Mm.

Hello.

[tense music]

[sighs] So I am curious, um, I mean, is he under the impression that now you are completely reformed? Did you persuade him that being with him, it’s just gonna be drama-free, and it’s gonna be just a big pile of joy? Or…

Why do you care what Alex thinks?

I don’t care what Alex thinks. What I do care about is the messes that you could potentially be getting yourself into which may affect our son.

Yes, because you are such a doting father.

Theresa, I’m very concerned about what I heard on the phone outside the pub. You were nervous; you were squirrelly. And I know you. That usually means there’s a Mexican drug lord or someone who’s equally as dangerous that’s getting ready to come out of the woodwork or something. Come on.

Okay, Brady, Brady, I’m so sorry to disappoint you, because I know you thrive on my transgressions and my failures, but all is well. I am fine. I’m just preparing for the holidays. And I hope that all is well with you too since I don’t thrive on your problems. Really, though, I– I do feel happy when I know you’re well. I do care about you. Brady, you’re– you’re our son’s father. And I have some very fond memories of our time together.

Well, I do too.

Okay, um… Well, I have a few stops I have to make before day’s end, so will you just tell Alex that I’ll– I’ll see him at our place?

Yeah, um, sure.

Brady… I really do hope you have a wonderful Christmas.

[exhales deeply] Same to you.

And you don’t need to worry about me, honestly. Everything’s fine. Really.

Why don’t I believe you?

[chuckles] No, I’m not giving up on friendship. Of course not.

Whew. I’m, uh–I’m relieved.

It’s just I’m, uh–

[sucks teeth] Well, I already said it. I’m–I’m taking a break from romance.

I get that. I get that. And if it makes you feel any less uneasy around me, I mean, um, I am too.

Really?

Really. Please don’t take this the wrong way, and I hope it doesn’t sound manipulative when I say that, um, I don’t think I can feel romantic about anyone but you. Which you may have deduced when you discovered that I was still carrying around the engagement ring that I was gonna propose to you with. But since you’re not available in that way, I, too, am only interested in friendship… for now.

Well, I’m glad we’re on the same page. And, um, I have to say, you are a really good listener, Everett. You always were.

Nah. I’m a reporter. Goes with the territory.

Well, all joking aside, um…

[tender music] It’s really lifting my spirits just talking to you.

Steph, you are always lifting my spirits. Just seeing you smile… Listen, I just want to say something just so that there isn’t any doubt about it at all. Okay? Um… I really like living here in Salem. I do. I really like my job a lot. But more than any of it, I love…being your shoulder and your friend. I just want you to know that there won’t be any pressure from me to be anything more. I swear. No pressure.

Mmm. Whoa. Oh! Abraham, these look just wonderful. You actually made these yourself?

Yeah, from a recipe on the internet. Chanel won’t be offended, will she, that I didn’t get these from her bakery?

No, of course not. Mmm. Mmm! I’m guessing she’ll want you to share that internet recipe, because these are delicious.

And wh-where is Chanel right now?

Mm, she’s holed up in her room wrapping Christmas presents. And speaking of, uh, I’m trying to come up with the mayor’s Christmas speech, um, for my podcast. I’m having serious writer’s block.

You?

Mm-hmm.

Well, that’s hard to believe.

Why, because I talk a lot?

[laughter] Well, let me tell you, talking is a whole lot less challenging than writing. So, um, any chance you could help me?

Me?

Yeah, of course you.

[tender music] So?

[splutters] Well, what do you say, Abraham? Will you be my writing partner?

So you can’t tell me why you think Gabi fell and broke her leg, and you want– you want me to go away? Okay, Stefan.

[soft festive music]

Okay.

[splutters] I’m sorry for telling you to– to go away. Just–just come back, come back.

No, thank you. Actually, I much prefer the company over here.

So emotional. So how are you and Stephanie? Any fun holiday plans?

Actually, we broke up.

I thought you guys were happy.

We were, until we weren’t.

I know how that goes. I’m very sorry.

Okay, this is your turn.

For what?

To, uh–to open up, you know, vent, to talk about whatever the hell you want to talk about that’s gonna stop you from drinking yourself into a stupor.

Okay. Actually, no amount of…

[clears throat] Venting or opening up is going to change the fact that my wife is in prison and that she is in a lot of danger.

Okay. Why is she in a lot of danger? What’d she do, mouth off to a– a guard, another inmate?

No, it’s that son of a bitch Weston.

[tense music]

Clyde Weston?

Waiter!

Answer me, Stefan! Was it Clyde Weston? Is he the one going after you and Gabi?

Answer me, Stefan.

Leave it alone, Chad.

Why the hell would I leave it alone? That man killed my wife.

[tense music] Answer me!

There are some things happening that Weston is unhappy about.

What things?

I’ve already said too much, and, uh, I need to go.

Stefan. Stefan. Stefan.

No. Put his on my tab.

Stefan, that man killed my wife. Stefan, he killed my wife!

So the challenge in this speech is to give people hope, um, while also being honest about, well, the limitations of what can be done.

Well, you’ll meet that challenge.

You think so?

Oh, I know so. You’re Paulina Price. You are a spirited, soulful woman with a heart of gold…

[both chuckle] And a wonderful way with words.

[tender music]

[sighs] Well, that’s very kind of you, Abraham.

I’m not being kind. It’s the truth. I mean, you are– you are the Paulina that I’m getting to know again. So let’s say we put pen to paper and get this show on the road, hm?

[sighs] You’re on. Okay.

All right. We are all set and ready to go.

All right, well, Theresa’s gone. She said she will meet you back at the apartment.

Oh. She’s probably just finishing up her Christmas shopping.

Yeah. Hey, Alex, um, don’t screw her over, okay?

Whoa. That was a hell of a non sequitur.

She’s–

[soft dramatic music] She’s the mother of my kid, you know? I’m worried about her; I can see that she’s stressed out, and that can be a trigger for relapse. I don’t know if she’s doing the work. I don’t know if she’s going to her meetings, talking to her sponsor– I’ve got no idea.

No, I mean, I have no idea either, man. What I do know is, Theresa has a great work ethic. She’s excited. She’s very motivated. I think we should just see how the two of you do, how the two of us do, and just take it a day at a time. Hm?

All right.

Have a good evening, man.

Thanks.

I know I will.

Well, listen, as your friend, I gotta say, I’m a little worried about all the pressure you’re– you’re putting on yourself.

Hm. Not sure what you mean.

Well, maybe it’s more something I’ve sensed than something that you’ve actually expressed.

Okay.

Like, you’re such an amazing person, you know, but I guess, since I’ve been back in Salem, I just feel like you’re too hard on yourself. You know? And driven, which of course, can be a good thing, but not if it’s undermining your peace of mind. Does that make sense?

Mm. It does. And, I mean, I guess that’s true. I am hard on myself. I mean, I’m– I’m ambitious for sure. I want to– I want to have a good career, and I want to be able to support myself, and someday I want to buy a house and have a family.

Those are super reasonable goals. But you got time for that, especially the owning a house and having a family part.

Mm, yeah, not– not that much time. I don’t know, uh– I don’t know if you’ve heard, but, um, we women have a much more limited amount of time to procreate than you men do.

Mm.

And, um, although a lot of my friends are totally fine with waiting to have kids till their s, I don’t know, I–if I’m lucky enough to be a mom, I– I want to be a young one.

Like your mom was.

Yeah.

[tender music] Yeah. She had me in her s, still worked at a really important job. And now she has it all, including the perfect man for her.

[chuckles]

You can have all that too, Steph.

You think so?

I know so.

[soft jazzy music playing]

[sighs] So you just–just keep– keep me hanging like that, that you can’t forgive me?

Um, this–this place– this place has to be my focus…

I know but, what’s that got–

Right now–okay, no, please. Please, you know, just– just hear me out, please.

[scoffs] I have a lot to prove here to everyone, okay, and most importantly, I–

[exhales sharply] I need to protect myself.

Okay. So what– what are you getting at?

What I’m getting at is, I need to protect myself from you.

Fr-from me?

Yes. Look–look, Harris, if–

[laughs drily] If you are seeing somebody else, then this–this– this is not gonna work–

I’m not involved with anybody else.

Okay, but now that I know that there has been a kiss with Stephanie, I mean, you can say that, but now I just–I– I got an uncomfortable feeling. All right, and I–and I’ve had that feeling before, God knows, with Rafe and with Steve, and I–I got– I should have listened to it, and I didn’t, and I got hurt. Got hurt really bad. And with my mental illness, I– That kind of pain could cause a relapse, and I can’t have that. So as much as I really, really like you, I– I can’t risk that. I–I can’t, I can’t. I can’t do that again.

Yeah, but– but the kiss with Stephanie was nothing. It was nothing.

To you maybe, but to me… It was a deal breaker. I’m sorry.

Ava, listen, I–I’m sorry. Please.

Okay, you know what? I don’t want–I just–I can’t. I can’t hear it. I can’t.

So… So you’re saying that it’s– that it’s over? That–that this is it, right here?

Yeah.

[firmly] I am. This is it. Please leave. Just go!

[sighs]

[crying]

So not to be all psycho-babbly, but, um, I know that I gotta stop being so codependent and needy, because I know that to feel secure in a relationship, I need to feel like I like myself, respect myself, and– and to feel like I’m okay on my own. Not that I’m, you know, ready for that relationship. Um, I already said that I’m, uh–I need a break.

You did. Yeah, you did say that, and I’ve–I’ve– I’ve committed it to memory.

Ooh, I’m repeating myself a lot, huh?

I do not mind the repeating yourself, and I–I sort of like the psychobabble too.

Mm.

[laughs] Okay, well, even so, I will stop blathering on, and, um, I will just say that I’m really glad that you’re my friend, Everett.

[tender music] And I hope you know, I’m here for you too.

I do know that. I do know that, and I– I hope you find what you’re looking for, Steph. And I also hope that you come to realize what an amazing person you are. You’re funny. You’re smart. You’re kind. You’re loyal. You’re– I’ll stop going on and on, but I feel very lucky to know you.

Thanks. I feel lucky to know you too.

[both chuckle]

Well, um… Have a wonderful Christmas Eve.

You too.

Okay.

[phone ringing]

[sighs] What now, Konstan– Andrew? Hi. Sorry, it– I thought it was a spam call. I’ve been getting them all day. Hi. Merry Christmas, big bro. What? When did you get to Salem? Well, of course, I always have time for you. Tonight? Yeah, I was just heading home. Oh, alone? Uh, okay. I-I can wait for you in the– in the park by the town square.

[soft jazzy music playing]

[sighs] Hey.

Hey. How’d your call go?

[sighs] My call?

[chuckles drily] I got a whole lot of nothing from the warden. Gabi slipped and fell, and that…is the story.

Sorry.

Are you okay? What’s going on?

Mm, well, um, I just kicked a really great guy out of my life.

Oh. So you and Harris are, uh…

It’s over. We couldn’t risk being found out by him. So… as much as this really hurts now… I did what had to be done.

Hm.

[soft festive music]

I came here so many times with Abby over the years. Seeing this plaque, it always made her smile. She loved her family very much. And I know you– it wasn’t easy for all of you to accept me at first. But you did eventually. And I know that’s because you saw how much I loved her… And how much she loved me. I was a better man because of her… And because of the strength and love passed down from you. Clyde Weston took her away from me… From my children… From all of us. And as God is my witness, I will make him pay. I promise you that. I will make him pay.

[sighs] Okay. Tell me what you think. Oh, maybe not.

Well, I’m sure it’s perfect. Look, I would rather hear it than read it. So please, stand up at the podium, Madam Mayor.

Oh. Oof. Okay, then. Oh.

[chuckles] To the wonderful people of Salem, many of whom I now know and love…

[tender music] Today is a day to reflect on and be grateful for all the beauty and joy that surrounds us all. Even in these uncertain times, we can see our glittering Christmas lights on our street, the joyful carols being sung, and most important of all, people opening up their hearts to each other. Now, will Santa bring us everything we want this year? Can he bring us peace and joy and–and hope and banish all evil in the world? Of course not. But we can nurture peace and joy and hope in ourselves. So to all of you, those I’m lucky enough to know, those I hope to get to know…

[chuckles] I wish you a– a joyful and blessed holiday filled with love. Take care of yourselves and each other.

It’s perfect.

[laughs]

Perfect, perfect, perfect.

[sighs]

Merry, merry Christmas, Paulina.

Oh. Merry Christmas, Abraham.

[sighs]

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Theresa was shopping when Konstantine called her. She let him know that she couldn’t work with him anymore. Theresa wanted him to lose her number. Brady approached her, but he didn’t hear her phone call with Konstantine. They ended up arguing over Tate and Brady’s personal life. Stefan told Ava that Gabi was in the infirmary. Someone broke her leg in jail. Stefan felt it was a message from Clyde. Stefan felt they needed to step with their plan to take Clyde down. He thought Clyde found out about the returned shipment. She said it wasn’t their fault. The buyer was sent to jail before the shipment arrived and the warehouse was shut down. They got the shipment back before the police found it so Clyde should be happy. Stefan told her that he wasn’t happy since it cost him money. He felt that Ava dating a cop wasn’t helping their situation. He thought they could use him as an insider. She didn’t want to do that. Harris walked into the Bistro and Stefan left them alone. Harris told her about kissing Stephanie. He told her that it didn’t mean anything. Harris thought it was wrong to keep it from her. Hopefully she would accept his apology. Ava told him that she couldn’t do it. Paulina woke up to find Abe at her place. He noticed that she wasn’t acting like herself. Abe wondered if she was okay. She felt better now that he was there. Paulina told him about having trouble with her speech. She wanted his help writing it.

Chad ran into Stefan at the pub. He noticed Stefan’s mood and tried talking to him about it. Stefan was upset about Gabi getting her leg broken in prison. Chad tried to help, but he didn’t want him involved. Stefan said no talking would change the fact that Gabi was hurt because of Clyde. Chad demanded to know if Clyde Weston was the one who hurt Gabi. Stefan wanted him to leave it alone. Chad reminded him that he killed his wife. Brady and Theresa saw each other at Basic Black. He was concerned about her attitude when he saw her on the phone. She told him that she was fine. Theresa hoped he was good too because she’s concerned about him. She cherished the moments they had together. He cherished the moments too. She walked out the room. Brady wasn’t sure he believed her. Ava told Harris that she needed to focus on the restaurant. She also wanted to protect herself from him. Harris kissing Stephanie made her feel uncomfortable. She had the feeling before, but she ignored it. He assured her that the kiss didn’t mean anything. Ava felt like the kiss was a deal breaker. She wanted him to leave. He walked out the restaurant. She held back tears. Stefan returned to the Bistro and noticed Ava’s reaction. She told him that she broke up with Harris. Ava couldn’t risk Harris finding out what they were doing. Chad was at the Square and looked at Tom and Alice’s plaque. He knew they couldn’t accept him at first, but they knew how much he loved Abby. Chad vowed to make Chad pay for what he did to Abby.

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Days Short Recap Monday, December 18, 2023

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

EJ found Nicole in the tunnels with the baby. Nicole apologized to him. He reminded her that she accepted the fact the wasn’t theirs. Nicole told him that she saw the baby alone because Sloan left him there. She wanted to save him from a life with Sloan. EJ felt they should take the baby back to his parents. She didn’t want to take him back. Nicole wanted him to use his money to hide him. He reminded her about the pain of losing a child. They couldn’t keep Jude from his parents. EJ and Nicole decided to do the right thing and give Jude back to his parents. Harris told Eric and Sloan there was a lead about Jude. He received a tip about who took the baby. Sloan wanted to tell Eric something important, but they were interrupted. Harris explained that a witness saw someone in a hoodie push the stroller away. Rafe arrived and wondered how Nicole and the baby were missing at the same time and it is not connected. Eric remembered what happened when Sarah baby was kidnapped. The person wore a black hoodie. They couldn’t tell if the person was a man or a woman. He wondered if the person who took Jude was the same person who took Victoria. EJ and Nicole arrived at the station with the baby. They wanted to explain privately. Eric and Sloan left to tell Roman and Marlena the baby was found.

Chad went to see Stephanie. He apologized for jumping to the wrong conclusion about Alex. She accepted his apology. Chad officially ended their relationship. He didn’t want to end things, but he realized he messed up. Chad knew Stephanie wanted a bigger commitment than he wanted to make. Stephanie agreed that it’s better for them to end their relationship. He knew it would be hard for the kids. Chad promised to earn her trust again. For now, it was better for them to go their separate ways. He wanted to resign, but she thought they could work together. Chad thought it would be too hard. He let her know that rehired Everett. Harris texted Stephanie so they could meet.  Rafe interrogated Nicole about what happened. She admitted that she took Jude. Nicole didn’t think Sloan deserved to be a mother. She saw Sloan leave Jude alone and thought it was the right thing to do to take him. Sloan and Eric walked in the interrogation room. Nicole admitted that she didn’t find the baby. She took him. Sloan got angry and Nicole apologized. She wanted Nicole to go to prison. Sloan wanted to call the state attorney, but EJ wouldn’t allow it. Eric wanted to go home. He wanted Sloan to show compassion and be thankful their son was returned. Eric felt like Nicole would get help and be healed. Rafe let Nicole know that he had to arrest her. He was about to read her rights when Sloan walked in the room. She told Rafe it wouldn’t be necessary. Harris and Stephanie met at the park. They discussed what happened when they got drunk. He told her they kissed each other, but nothing else happened. She was relieved that nothing else happened. He wanted to tell Ava the truth. She wanted him to leave her name out of it. Stephanie told him Ava used to be a mafia princess who tried to kill her mother. She didn’t want her to do anything to her. Harris believed she would understand once he explained what happened. Sloan said she told her to babysit Jude. Rafe understood what she was trying to do, but he felt like Nicole needed help. Nicole agreed to get help. EJ left to talk to Nicole. Sloan threatened Nicole. She told her to stay away from her baby.

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Days Update Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Days of Our Lives Update

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Update written by Joseph

In the town square, Stephanie asks Alex and Chad how they are doing and if they finished their Christmas shopping. Both say they haven’t. Stephanie admits this is a bit awkward. Chad feels it doesn’t have to be since they are all going to run in to each other from time to time. Chad tells Stephanie that he just wants her to be happy. Everett approaches and wishes them a happy holidays. Everett tells Stephanie that he’s looking forward to hanging out later and mentions making a reservation at the Bistro.

Theresa walks past the Brady Pub with shopping bags and gets a call from Konstantin. She asks what he wants from her and says Maggie kicking him out is not her problem. Theresa adds that kidnapping babies is way more than she signed on to do. Theresa declares that she can’t do anything more for him and tells him to lose her number. Brady approaches and comments on Theresa rummaging through trash cans and now taking mysterious phone calls.

Stefan goes to the Bistro and tells Ava to give him a bottle of scotch. Ava says she’s afraid to ask. Stefan informs her that he got a call from the prison infirmary and found out that Gabi has a broken leg. Ava says she’s so sorry. Stefan says that obviously Clyde said he had a message. Stefan declares that their plan to get rid of Clyde needs to be ramped up because he needs to be stopped.

Brady asks Theresa who she was urging to lose her number. Theresa claims it was just spam. Brady warns her that she owes it to their son to stay out of trouble. Theresa argues that she’s the one who raised Tate while Brady was sleeping with all the women in Salem. Brady argues that they are raising their kid together, so they should be civil with each other to try and set an example for Tate. Theresa calls Brady a sex addict. Brady disagrees and argues that he’s been in several relationships and loved every one of them but it hasn’t all been based on sex. Brady decides he wants to end this conversation and tells her to have a really good day. Theresa sarcastically wishes him happy holidays as they walk off in opposite directions.

Stephanie tells Everett that she’s not that hungry as she had a big breakfast. Everett suggests they can just take a walk then but Stephanie decides she’d rather be alone right now. Stephanie tells them to take care and walks away. Everett goes after her as Chad tries to say that she wanted to be alone. Chad remarks that Everett must be a stalker and there’s something weird about him. Theresa then joins Alex and they kiss. Theresa mentions having to do something at Titan and needing to steal Alex away. Theresa wishes Chad a Merry Christmas and walks away with Alex.

Ava sits with Stefan and asks for more details on what exactly happened to Gabi. Stefan says she has a broken leg in two places after she supposedly slipped and fell but Stefan doesn’t believe it. Stefan says that Clyde must have heard about the returned shipment. Ava guesses he did this as a warning to them. Ava argues that Clyde has to know that it wasn’t their fault since the buyer was hauled off to jail before the shipment got there and the warehouse was shut down, but they got it back before the Feds even knew so Clyde should be thrilled. Stefan says it’s tens of thousands of product and they are running drugs through the Bistro. Stefan adds that Ava dating a cop is not going to help their situation and she knows it, unless they start using him for insider information. Ava refuses to use Harris in any way. Harris then arrives at the Bistro and asks if he’s interrupting. Stefan says they were just discussing boring business stuff but he thinks they have it all sorted out, so he then exits. Harris tells Ava that he hopes the opening is going well. Ava says it was great and very busy but everybody was thrilled that they were back up and running. Ava asks if Harris ended up finishing the book he was determined to finish. Harris reveals that he didn’t actually read last night because he ran in to Jada and Stephanie at the Pub. Harris says they insisted he join them for a drink, so he got pretty drunk and they were pretty wasted so it all went downhill from there. Ava asks so. Harris explains that Stephanie was in no shape to go anywhere and ended up crashing at his place. Harris adds that they were both drunk and they kissed. Harris assures it didn’t go any further, didn’t mean anything, and never will. Ava asks why he’s telling her all of this. Harris points out that they never said they were exclusive, but it felt wrong and he just wanted to be honest with her. Harris apologizes and hopes she can accept it. Ava tells Harris that she can’t.

Paulina is woken up on the couch by a knock at her door. She answers the door to see Abe with a present. Paulina says she wasn’t expecting him. Abe asks if it’s a bad time. Paulina says not at all and she was just resting as she didn’t sleep well last night. Paulina says she’s happy to see him and invites him in. Paulina wishes she knew he was coming as she would’ve put on something nicer. Abe tells her that she looks beautiful as always but senses that she’s not her usual lively self. Abe asks if everything is okay. Paulina claims everything is fine now that he’s here.

Chad goes to the Brady Pub and finds Stefan having a drink. Chad remarks that it must be 5:00 somewhere. Stefan says that’s what he’s counting on and calls for another drink. Chad asks him what’s wrong. Stefan asks if he can’t guess. Chad admits he probably can as he’s sure that it’s been hell with Gabi not around. Stefan argues that Gabi isn’t just not around, she’s in prison which is bad enough without a broken leg. Chad questions what happened. Stefan says he doesn’t want to know and he can’t know, so he tells Chad to leave him alone and go away as he shouts for another drink.

Stephanie sits in the park. Everett catches up to her and says he can tell she’s not okay which she confirms. Stephanie apologizes for saying they could have lunch and then canceling on him. Everett says he understands and asks if she can talk about what has her so upset. Stephanie says it’s nothing he will find surprising, but she and Chad ended things between them. Everett tells her that he’s sorry and it’s no wonder she’s having a tough time. Stephanie hopes he knows that just because she and Chad are over doesn’t mean anything. Everett assures he won’t assume anything other than that she’s hurting and will need time to heal and recover which she confirms. Stephanie decides that she needs to take a break from relationships. Everett says he gets that and asks what about friendships and if he can still be her bestie.

Theresa searches the Titan office for a receipt that she’s supposed to get to accounting. Alex reveals that he found it and they start to kiss until Brady arrives. Brady says he’s just checking on things since this is his first official day back. Alex gets a call and tells them to play nice as he steps out to answer it. Brady asks Theresa if Alex is under the impression that she’s completely reformed and that she can persuade him that being together will be drama free. Theresa asks why he cares. Brady responds that he cares about the messes that Theresa could get in to which may affect their son. Brady says he’s very concerned about what he heard from her on the phone because she was nervous and he knows it usually means there’s a Mexican drug lord involved or something. Theresa tells him that she’s sorry to disappoint him since he thrives on her failures, but claims that all is well and she’s fine. Theresa says she’s just preparing for the holidays and hopes all is well with him too. Theresa insists that she does feel happy when she knows he’s well because she does care about him. Theresa says she has very fond memories of their time together. Brady admits that he does too. Theresa says she has a few stops she has to make before the end of the day. Theresa tells Brady to just tell Alex that she will see him at home. Theresa tells Brady that she really does hope he has a wonderful Christmas. Brady says same to her. Theresa adds that he doesn’t have to worry about her because everything is fine. Theresa then exits the office. Brady wonders why he doesn’t believe her.

Stephanie tells Everett that she’s not giving up on friendships which relieves him. Stephanie repeats that she’s taking a break from romance. Everett says he gets that and if it makes her feel less uneasy around him, he is too. Everett doesn’t think he could feel romantic about anyone but her and comments on her finding his engagement ring. Everett decides that since Stephanie is not available in that way, he is also only interested in friendship for now. Stephanie is glad they are on the same page and admits he’s a really good listener. Everett credits it to being a reporter. Stephanie admits it’s really lifting her spirits just talking to him. Everett tells her that she is always lifting his spirits. Everett says he really likes living in Salem and his job, but more than any of it, he loves being her shoulder and her friend. Everett swears that there won’t be any pressure from him to be anything more.

Abe brought cookies that he made which impresses Paulina. Abe asks where Chanel is. Paulina says she is in her room, wrapping Christmas presents. Paulina mentions trying to come up with the Mayor’s Christmas Speech for her podcast, but she’s having serious writer’s block. Abe calls that hard to believe. Paulina asks if there’s any chance Abe could help her and be her writing partner.

Chad questions Stefan being unable to tell him how Gabi broke her leg and he wants him to go away. Chad says okay and moves to the next table over. Stefan apologizes for telling him to go away and tells him to come back but Chad declines. Stefan mocks him being so emotional. Stefan then asks how Chad and Stephanie are and if they have any fun holidays. Chad reveals that they broke up. Stefan thought they were happy. Chad responds that they were until they weren’t. Stefan says he knows how that goes and he’s very sorry. Chad tells Stefan that it’s his turn to open up, vent, and talk about what he wants to talk about to stop him from drinking. Stefan responds that no amount of venting or opening up will change the fact that his wife is in prison and in a lot of danger. Chad questions why she’s in a lot of danger and if she mouthed off to a guard or another inmate. Stefan then spills that it’s that son of a bitch Weston. Chad then gets up and questions if Clyde Weston is the one going after Stefan and Gabi. Chad demands an answer. Stefan tells him to leave it alone but Chad shouts that Clyde killed his wife as he continues to demand an answer. Stefan responds that there are some things happening that Clyde is unhappy about. Chad wants more but Stefan says he has to go. Chad tries to stop him but Stefan says no. Chad repeats that Clyde killed his wife as Stefan exits the Pub.

Paulina tells Abe that the challenge in her speech is to give people hope while also being honest about the limitations of what can be done. Abe encourages that she’ll meet that challenge. Abe calls her a spirited soulful woman with a heart of gold and says she has a wonderful way with words. Paulina calls that very kind of him. Abe says it’s the truth and calls her the Paulina that he’s getting to know again. Abe suggests putting pen to paper and getting this show on the road.

Alex returns to the Titan office and says they are all set and ready to go. Brady informs him that Theresa left and said she will see him at home. Alex guesses she’s finishing Christmas shopping. Brady warns Alex not to screw Theresa over because she’s the mother of his kid and he’s worried about her as he can see she’s stressed which can lead to a relapse. Brady says he has no idea if Theresa is doing the work or seeing her sponsor. Alex admits he doesn’t know either but says that Theresa has a great work ethic, is excited and motivated. Alex suggests just seeing how they do and taking it a day at a time. Alex tells him to have a good evening and exits the office.

Everett tells Stephanie that he’s a little worried about all the pressure she’s putting on herself. Stephanie isn’t sure what he means. Everett says it’s something he’s sensed. Everett calls her an amazing person but feels that she’s too hard on herself. Everett adds that being driven can be good but not if it’s undermining her sense of mind. Stephanie admits she is hard on herself and wants to have a good career, to be able to support herself, buy a house someday and have a family. Everett calls those reasonable goals but says she has time for that. Stephanie talks about women having less time to procreate than men. Stephanie says some of her friends have no problem waiting until their 40s to be a mom but says if she’s lucky enough to be a mom, she wants to be a young mom like her mom was. Stephanie talks about how Kayla had her in her 20s, still worked a great job, and now has it all including the perfect man for her. Everett encourages that she can have all of that too.

Harris questions Ava being unable to forgive him. Ava argues that the Bistro has to be her focus right now. Ava tells him that she has a lot to prove to everyone and she needs to protect herself from him. Ava argues that if he’s seeing somebody else, this is not going to work. Harris insists that he’s not. Ava argues that now that she knows he kissed Stephanie, she got an uncomfortable feeling that she had before with Rafe and Steve. Ava says she didn’t listen to that feeling before and got hurt really bad. Ava brings up her mental illness and worries that kind of pain could cause a relapse and she can’t have that. Ava declares that as much as she really likes Harris, she can’t risk that again. Harris repeats that the kiss with Stephanie was nothing. Ava calls it a dealbreaker. Harris apologizes but Ava says she can’t hear it. Harris asks if she’s saying it’s over and this is it. Ava confirms that this is it and asks Harris to leave. Harris then sadly exits the Bistro. Ava then starts to cry.

Stephanie tells Everett that she knows she has to stop being so co-dependent and needy and needs to feel like she likes and respects herself to feel like she’s okay on her own. Stephanie adds that she’s not ready for that relationship and repeats needing a break. Stephanie tells Everett that she’s really glad he is her friend and she’s here for him too. Everett hopes she finds what she’s looking for and that she comes to realize what an amazing person she is. Everett feels very lucky to know her. Stephanie says the same about him. Everett tells her to have a wonderful Christmas Eve and walks away.

Theresa walks through the park and gets a call from her brother Andrew. Theresa wishes him a Merry Christmas and is surprised to learn he is in Salem. Theresa says she was just heading home but agrees to meet him in the park.

Stefan returns to the Bistro. Ava asks how his call went. Stefan responds that he got a whole lot of nothing from the Warden other than the story that Gabi slipped and fell. Ava says she’s sorry. Stefan asks if she’s okay and what’s going on. Ava informs him that she just kicked a really great guy out of her life. Ava confirms that she and Harris are over. Ava adds that they couldn’t risk being found out by him, so as much as it really hurts now, she did what had to be done.

Chad walks through the town square and stops at the Christmas Tree in front of the Tom and Alice plaque. Chad recalls coming there so many times with Abigail over the years and how the plaque always made her smile because she loved her family very much. Chad knows it wasn’t easy for them all to accept him at first, but they did eventually and he knows that’s because they saw how much he loved Abigail and how much she loved him. Chad states that he was a better man because of her and her family’s strength and love. Chad declares that Clyde Weston took her away from him and his children. Chad promises to make Clyde pay.

Paulina finishes writing her speech and asks Abe to tell her what he thinks but then pulls it back. Abe is sure it’s perfect but says he’d rather hear it than read it, so he suggests she stand up and practice. Paulina stands up and begins reading her speech to Abe. Paulina finishes by wishing everyone a joyful holiday. Abe calls it perfect and wishes Paulina a Merry Christmas and they hug.

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Days Update Monday, December 18, 2023

Days of Our Lives Update

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Update written by Joseph

Chanel goes home and tells Paulina about the holiday rush at the Bakery. Chanel questions Paulina still being in her robe. Paulina responds that she just had a hard time waking up. Chanel comments that it’s the middle of the afternoon, it’s not like her to sleep in, and she still looks tired. Paulina responds that she’s fine and that it’s nothing a strong cup of coffee can’t fix.

Stephanie is at home and pours a cup of coffee until the doorbell rings. Stephanie answers the door to see Chad.

Sloan paces in the interrogation room and thinks back to arguing with Leo on the phone. Sloan tells herself that Leo took the baby to blackmail her, so now she has to tell them the truth as she exits the room. Eric tells Sloan that he was getting worried and asks what’s going on. Sloan tells Eric that there is something she needs to tell him. Harris announces a lucky break and that he just got a tip on who might have taken the baby, relieving Sloan.

EJ goes down the tunnels to the wine cellar searching for Nicole. EJ enters the wine cellar and finds Nicole with baby Jude. Nicole tells EJ that she’s so sorry as he hugs her. EJ thought she accepted that this child was not their baby. Nicole responds that she did and she still does, but complains that Sloan left him. Nicole explains that she saw Sloan walk away from the stroller and leave him all alone. Nicole declares that she saved his life. EJ understands she did what she thought was right in making sure that the child was safe, but now he needs to go back home. Nicole tells EJ no and that the baby needs them. Nicole argues that EJ has all the money in the world and that he knows people who could hide them to help them start a whole new life with the baby. Nicole states that he could be their little boy.

Paulina gives Chanel a cup of coffee too. Chanel mentions that her work is not over yet since she has to go back to the Bakery to prepare for tomorrow and then do some shopping after that. Chanel suggests Paulina join her so they can shop together but Paulina says she already slept half the day and has a lot of work, so she should probably get to City Hall. Chanel asks if Paulina wants anything while she’s out. Paulina suggests Christmas lights. Chanel promises to get her a fully functioning set. Paulina mentions getting Abe some bourbon toothpicks for his stocking. Chanel jokes about getting them some mistletoe but Paulina says not to get ahead of themselves. Chanel agrees to leave that out for now as she then exits the apartment. Paulina drinks her coffee and complains that it’s still hard to swallow but says she is too busy to get sick now.

Stephanie asks if Chad came to search the place and see who else she’s getting busy with. Chad says he deserves that, but he came to apologize because he was out of line yesterday for accusing her and Alex of being together. Stephanie agrees and mentions her headache but says she’s fine. Stephanie accepts Chad’s apology and asks if there’s anything else. Chad thinks it’s time that they both say out loud what they are both thinking which is that it’s time they officially end things between them.

Eric and Rafe ask about the tip. Harris says a woman saw another woman in a hoodie walking away from the town square with a stroller. Rafe asks if there’s any leads on Nicole but Harris says nothing yet. Rafe questions Nicole and baby Jude going missing at the same time and asks how it can’t be connected. Eric brings up when Sarah’s baby Victoria was kidnapped and wonders if it could be the same person who kidnapped his son.

EJ tells Nicole that she knows what it’s like to lose a child and that’s what Eric and Sloan would be feeling now. Nicole argues that it’s different because their baby died while Eric and Sloan’s baby is safe with them. EJ knows the pain that she suffered over the loss of their son but says they can’t ease the pain by taking another couple’s baby. EJ declares that it’s time to do the right thing and take the baby back to his parents. EJ decides they will do it together.

Alex walks through the town square while on the phone with Theresa. Alex says he’ll be home later as he’s doing a little Christmas shopping. Alex tells her that she will find out what he got for her on Christmas and hangs up. Alex runs in to Chanel, who notes that it’s been awhile. Chanel says she’s been mostly good and asks about Alex. Alex mentions that things have been complicated so Chanel offers to talk about it.

Stephanie questions Chad wanting to end things. Chad clarifies that he doesn’t want to but he understands that she doesn’t trust him because he did something stupid which he deeply regrets. Chad wishes he could take back going after Everett but it’s done. Chad adds that Stephanie is ready for more than a commitment than he’s able to give right now, so he seems like he would just continue to disappoint her and he doesn’t want to do that. Stephanie decides that if that’s the way he sees it, then she agrees that it’s best for them to go their separate ways. Chad tells her that it all makes him sad, especially for the kids because they love her. Stephanie says that is what’s making this so hard for her. Chad suggests maybe things will change in time and he’ll be able to get over his past and be there for her fully and maybe she’ll be able to trust him again. Stephanie says maybe in time. Chad repeats that he thinks it’s best that they just let each other go. Chad tells her that she’s welcome to keep their apartment while he and the kids can move back to the DiMera Mansion. Stephanie argues that the kids shouldn’t be uprooted since it’s their home too and they are dealing with enough big changes in their life. Chad thanks her and says he will e-mail her his official resignation from SJPR. Stephanie says that’s not necessary as they are responsible adults and can still work together. Chad thinks it would be too much right now and mentions that he hired Everett back at the Spectator because he has to work with the best. Stephanie calls Everett a talented journalist. Chad apologizes as he knows he’s responsible for blowing up their relationship. Chad acknowledges that he allowed his jealousy to make him so extreme, devious, and stupid. Chad admits that he lost sight of what was right and wrong and he wishes he hadn’t. Stephanie says she does as well.

Harris tells Rafe that he sent a car to get the witness to the police station and the sketch artist is standing by. Eric encourages Sloan that Sarah’s baby was found fine so he knows that Jude will be too. Sloan prays that he’s right. Eric asks Sloan what she was going to tell him earlier before the tip came in. Nicole and EJ then arrive with Jude. Nicole hands Jude back to Sloan. Sloan and Eric are relieved as EJ says they can explain everything and asks to go somewhere private. Sloan refuses and demands to know what happened because she has a right to know. Rafe says they will handle this and takes EJ and Nicole in to the interrogation room. Harris says he knows they are overwhelmed and frustrated but the important thing is that the baby is alright. Eric mentions calling to tell Marlena and Roman the good news. Sloan offers to go with him so they exit the station together. Harris then checks his phone and sees a voicemail from Stephanie.

Rafe tells Nicole that it’s obviously a tremendous relief for all of them that she and the baby are both safe, but it’s also very concerning. Rafe asks what happened. EJ starts to explain but Nicole just says that she took him which Rafe questions. Nicole explains that she saw the baby was alone and she took him.

Alex tells Chanel about no one having any idea that he was Victor’s son until it was put in his will and blew everything up. Chanel asks why Victor would do that. Alex says they may never know. Chanel says her family had their own parent swap and it was as hard for Lani. Alex calls it crazy but says he’s learned that just because somebody gave you life, doesn’t mean they are a parent. Alex declares that as far as he’s concerned, Justin is always going to be his dad.

Chad tells Stephanie that she’s going to do great. She thanks him and then her phone rings with a call from Harris, who says he got her message. Harris says he’s sorry he had to rush out this morning but the good news is that they found the baby. Harris asks if she’s free to talk. Stephanie says she will be soon. Harris asks if she wants to call him back but Stephanie thinks it’s better if they do this in person. Harris says things are settling down at the station and suggests meeting at the park in ten minutes. Stephanie says she’ll see him there and hangs up. Chad says it sounds like she has to take care of something. Stephanie calls it just a little fire that she needs to put out. Stephanie asks Chad if there’s anything else. Chad guesses not and tells her to take care. Chad thanks her for how good she was with his kids as he holds back tears. Chad hopes she will still spend time with the kids. Stephanie says she would love that as she misses them already. Stephanie tells Chad to explain to the kids that they had nothing to do with this and it was all on them. Stephanie tearfully thanks Chad for sharing those great kids with her for awhile and says it meant so much to her, as Chad did too. Chad calls her a beautiful person inside and out. Chad says he will treasure the memories of the good times they had together. Chad starts to cry as he then exits. Stephanie then begins to cry as well.

Eric and Sloan return to the police station. Eric tells Harris that Nicole seemed off and asks about her. Harris tells him that Rafe is handling it. Sloan tells Eric that in the meantime, their baby could use his attention so Eric asks what he can do.

Rafe questions why Nicole would take the baby. Nicole argues that Sloan doesn’t deserve to be a mother. Rafe tells her that isn’t her call. EJ tells Nicole to just explain what happened. Nicole explains that she went out for fresh air and saw Sloan in the town square, walking away from her baby and leaving the stroller unattended. Nicole adds that she knows it’s not her baby and she’s accepted that, but when she saw him all alone, she felt a bond that she can’t explain and declares that taking him home felt like the right thing to do.

Chad goes to see Paulina and says he was in the area so he figured he would drop some papers off. Paulina says she’s glad to see him as she was wondering if he took her advice and talked to Stephanie. Chad confirms that he spoke to her, so Paulina asks what happened and if they are back on good terms.

Harris meets Stephanie in the park. Stephanie is glad that he found the missing baby. Harris calls it a huge relief. Harris asks how she is. Stephanie admits she’s a little freaked out and confesses that she doesn’t remember how she wound up in his bed or much of anything after they left the Pub last night. Harris is not surprised as she was wasted. Stephanie reveals that she remembers they kissed which Harris confirms. Harris notes that he was a little drunk too and he shouldn’t have let it happen. Harris tells Stephanie that it was a mistake and he’s sorry.

Sloan tells Eric that she wants to hear Nicole’s story but she is exhausted so she just wants to go home with their baby. Eric says he understands and says he can handle things here. Rafe then comes out of the interrogation room and calls Eric and Sloan in, telling them that they need to hear this. Rafe asks if Nicole wants to tell them what happened. Nicole admits to them that she didn’t find the baby, she took him.

Alex asks Chanel what’s going on in her world. Chanel informs him that she and Johnny are back together. Alex calls that great. Chanel says she really loves him still but she has one worry that he has to keep between them. Chanel notes that Johnny always has some other girl after him and that he can be a player, but admits that she can be too. Alex jokes that he is the #1 player in the universe but that doesn’t mean they can’t be good guys too sometimes. Chanel says she often thinks about the very interesting time that she, Alex, and Allie had. Alex agrees that it was certainly interesting and calls it pretty great which Chanel agrees with. Alex tells her that he still feels bad about what happened between he and Allie afterwards as he’s sure she really misses her and he does too. Chanel admits that she does miss Allie, but says sometimes things just aren’t meant to be.

Paulina is sorry to hear Chad and Stephanie have broken up as she was praying they would work things out. Chad says he was too but the truth is he knew that because of his stupid mistakes and issues about being in a serious relationship, he knew it was over and it just took him time to accept it. Paulina points out that they will still see each other at work so maybe they will feel different but Chad reveals that he resigned from SJPR which Paulina says she’s sorry to hear, but she understands. Paulina says she will miss working with Chad since he’s smart, talented, and makes her laugh. Chad says that anybody who gets to work with Paulina or be in her orbit is very lucky.

Harris and Stephanie sit together in the park as Harris explains that he took Stephanie to his room since he couldn’t take her to Jada’s room since she was passed out. Harris notes that Stephanie was in no shape to travel and could barely make it up the stairs. Stephanie questions waking up in his t-shirt which Harris explains was because she threw up all over her clothes. Harris says he gave her his shirt, she changed, he put her to bed and they both passed out. Stephanie asks if nothing happened between them then. Harris realizes what she thought but assures that nothing happened and he wouldn’t lie to her about that. Stephanie asks if they can keep this between them and forget that it ever happened. Harris responds that he’s sorry but he can’t.

Sloan questions Nicole taking her baby as she thought they were done with her thinking their baby was her baby, but she’s clearly still totally deluded. Nicole says she just saw the baby all alone and she lost control. Nicole knows it was wrong and swears it will never happen again. Sloan agrees because she’s going to be behind bars. Sloan declares that she doesn’t care that Nicole is EJ’s wife, she wants her prosecuted. EJ suggests they all take a breather but Sloan refuses as she wants Nicole in prison. Sloan warns that if EJ won’t make that happen, she will call the state attorney general.

Paulina gives Chad coloring books for his kids as a parting gift from the mayor’s office. Chad says they will be thrilled as they’ve been having a rough time since Stephanie moved out. Paulina encourages that they are lucky to have such a loving and caring dad. Chad thanks her but he’s concerned he’s not enough. Paulina suggests that at some point when he’s ready, he can get them a mom. Chad doesn’t know since he couldn’t make it work with Stephanie, so maybe it’s time to accept there is no one else for him and he will never be able to get over Abigail as she was just his one great love. Paulina tells him to stop talking nonsense. Paulina knows he’s been through Hell and that the pain of losing his wife is something he’ll never completely get over. Paulina adds that they are not meant to live their lives alone and says he needs someone to love and for someone to love him. Chad argues that lots of people get by fine being alone. Paulina brings up raising Chanel on her own after her father died, so she knows what he’s going through and she thought she could do it all on her own too but she was miserable. Paulina says once she got another chance at love with Abe, she got to fully experience again how great life can be. Chad assures that he takes her words seriously but his only thoughts right now are to be the best father he can be and he will have to hope that’s enough.

Stephanie doesn’t understand why she and Harris can’t forget what happened yesterday. Harris points out that he and Ava are dating and if their relationship is going to grow, it has to be based on honesty and trust. Stephanie asks if he can keep her name out of it since she doesn’t want the mafia princess who tried to kill her mom finding out that she made out with the guy she’s dating. Harris assures that Ava won’t react bad once he explains the circumstances. Harris believes that 100% transparency is the way to go in any relationship, so he has to tell Ava. Stephanie calls him a good man. Stephanie wishes he was like the rest of the people in Salem with deep dark secrets, but totally respects that he wants to be honest with Ava and says she’ll just have to deal with that. Harris tells her to take care of herself and to stick to club soda tonight. Stephanie assures that she learned her lesson and wishes him luck with Ava. Stephanie then leaves the park. Harris calls Ava and says he’s coming to the Bistro because they need to talk about something.

Chanel returns home from shopping and finds Paulina asleep on the couch. Chanel remarks that Paulina said there was nothing to worry about.

Alex runs in to Stephanie in the town square and swears that he feels like he’s running in to everyone he knows today as Chad then appears as well.

Baby Jude wakes up crying. Eric suggests to Sloan that they step outside to talk so they don’t upset Jude as he worries that he can sense their stress. Eric and Sloan exit the room. Rafe then announces that he’s sorry but under the circumstances, he has to arrest Nicole.

Eric tells Sloan that he doesn’t believe Nicole did this with malicious intent. Sloan asks how he can say that when she stole their baby. Eric suggests Nicole could’ve prevented a tragedy if someone else would have taken the baby. Sloan asks if he’s saying this is her fault. Eric says no and just thinks they should show compassion to Nicole and be grateful that their son was brought back safe and unharmed. Sloan argues that Nicole could come and take their baby anytime she wants. Eric assures she won’t do it again and believes that she’s going to get help. Eric declares that Nicole is going to heal and they need to as well. Eric insists that forgiveness leads to peace as he hugs Sloan.

Nicole argues that she brought the baby back and was just trying to protect him. EJ adds that Rafe knows damn well what Nicole has been through lately. Rafe states that what happened is still a kidnapping so he’s going to have to read her rights. Sloan and Eric then return to the room with Jude. Sloan declares that won’t be necessary and claims that she asked Nicole to babysit because she was tired and there was no crime here. EJ says that’s good enough for him as district attorney. Rafe gets what they are trying to do and says he feels bad for Nicole too, but tells EJ that she needs help. Nicole insists that she will get it. Eric declares they are done here as he and Sloan exit with Jude. Rafe then follows them out. Nicole asks EJ what just happened. EJ responds that he has no idea.

Sloan asks Eric to take Jude to the car while she stops to use the restroom so Eric puts Jude in the stroller and exits.

EJ tells Nicole that he will make sure everything is good with Rafe and then they will go home. EJ kisses Nicole and exits the room. Sloan then storms back in and tells Nicole to shut up and listen to her. Sloan swears that if Nicole ever comes after her child again, she will make her life hell in ways she cannot even imagine. Sloan then storms back out.

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Days Transcript Monday, December 18, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

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Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

[sighs]

[dramatic music]

[sighs] God, my feet.

[sighs] Oh, much better.

[sighs]

Oh, oh, oh. Hey, honey. Did you just get home?

Yeah, a couple minutes ago. Oh, Mama, this holiday rush is gonna make me rush into an early retirement.

Mm.

What about you?

What about me?

You’re still in your robe.

Mm, had a hard time waking up is all.

But it’s the middle of the afternoon. It’s not like you to sleep in so late. And you still look really tired.

Mm, honey, I’m fine. Nothing a strong cup of coffee can’t fix. Excuse me.

Ugh, hair of the dog. No, thanks. Ugh!

[doorbell rings]

[sighs] So loud.

[doorbell rings] OK, I’m coming. My God.

[sighs]

[tense music]

[suspenseful music]

What do you want?

Your head on a platter, for one thing.

I’m with the baby. I can’t talk right now.

With the baby? Oh, you mean you’re with Nicole’s baby. Well, let me tell you what I found out from my baby, meaning the love of my life.

Look, it really isn’t a good time right now.

Oh, well, it is going to be much worse if you don’t listen and listen hard, Miss Lying, Baby-Stealing Sack of You-Know-What.

It was Leo. Leo took the baby to blackmail me. And now… I’ve got to tell them the truth.

Hey, there you are. I was getting worried. Sloan, what’s going on? Eric, I have to tell you something.

Lucky break. Just got a tip on who might have taken the baby.

[gasps]

[dramatic music]

Nicole. Oh, my God.

I’m sorry, EJ. I’m so sorry.

Hey, hey.

[sighs]

Darling, I thought you accepted the fact that this child wasn’t ours.

I did. And I still do, EJ. It’s just that she left him. Sloan left him.

What?

When I was out…

[sighs] I saw Sloan with the stroller, and I saw her walk away and leave it there, and he was in it. This precious little boy, she left him all alone, and God only knows what would have happened to him if I hadn’t shown up, EJ. I saved his life.

Nicole, darling, I understand you did what you thought was right. You made sure that the child was safe. And now he needs to go back home.

No, no, no, EJ. No. He needs me. He needs us.

[sighs]

Look, you have all the money in the world. You know people that can hide us, who could help us start a whole new life… With this little boy, with our little boy, EJ. He could be ours.

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

Mm. I figured you might need a pick-me-up, too, after going to the bakery so early.

Oh, thanks, but my work is not over yet. I still have to head back and prep for tomorrow, and I want to get in a little shopping before that.

Oh.

Hey, why don’t you get dressed and then we can do some shopping together?

Oh, I’d love to, baby, but, you know, I already slept half the day away, and I got a ton of work ganging up on me. In fact, I should probably get over to city hall now.

OK.

Mm.

[sighs]

Well, is there anything you want me to grab for you while I’m out?

Oh, how about some Christmas lights?

Don’t you already have those?

Mm-hmm. I do, but, you know, I never understand those darn things. They’re OK when you pack them away after the holidays, and then you take them out again, and they don’t work.

Right. OK, well, I am glad to get you a fully functioning set of Christmas lights.

Mm-hmm, and if you see any of those bourbon toothpicks anywhere, you know, Abe loves them, you know. I want to put them in his stocking.

Mm, maybe I should get you a little mistletoe while I’m at it.

Mm, don’t get carried away.

[laughs] OK, OK. Fine, I will leave the mistletoe out for now. All right, Mama, I got to go.

Mm-hmm.

Mwah.

Mwah, mwah, mwah.

Love you.

Later, darling.

Bye.

[dramatic music]

Mm! Oh, it’s a little hard to swallow. Hoo. Hoo, hoo, enough of this. Ooh, I’m too busy to get sick right now. Ooh, come on, girl. Girl, get it together. Mm, hoo.

Did you just get out of bed?

Actually, I just got out of the shower. So…did you come here to search the place, see who else I’m getting busy with? I deserve that. I actually came over to apologize. I was out of line yesterday, accusing you and Alex of being together.

Yeah, you were definitely out of line.

[sighs]

Are you OK?

Yeah it’s just a headache. I’m fine. And apology accepted. Anything else?

Yeah. Actually… I think it’s time we both say out loud what it is we’re–what I know we’re both thinking.

And what is that?

That it’s time that we officially… ended things between us.

A tip from who?

Yeah, what’d they say?

Eyewitness phoned it in. She saw a woman in a dark hoodie pushing the stroller away from Horton Town Square, and the stroller matched the description of yours.

OK, did the witness say which way the kidnapper was headed?

And how do they know it’s a woman? Are they sure?

No, they’re not sure. We’ll know more once the witness comes in.

Any leads on Nicole?

Still missing without a trace, sorry.

Yeah, so Nicole and baby Jude go missing at the same time. How can these two disappearances not be connected?

OK, it’s just a thought, but… you know, when Sarah Horton’s baby was kidnapped, I read that it was wearing a dark hoodie and they couldn’t tell if it was a man or a woman.

Yeah?

Well, what if that is the same person who kidnapped my son?

You know that this isn’t right, Nicole.

[sighs]

You also know all too well what it’s like to lose a child…

[sighs]

The heartbreak you suffered, the countless nights that you cried yourself to sleep. This is exactly what Eric and Sloan are going through right now–

No, no, no, no, it’s–no. No. It’s different. Our baby died.

[sighs]

And their baby is safe… with us.

Nicole, my darling, I know the pain you’ve suffered over the loss of our son. I know that because I’ve suffered it too. But this, this, trying to ease the pain this way by taking another couple’s baby–

[sighs]

No.

[smooches] Come on.

[smooches] It’s time to do the right thing and take him back to his parents. We’ll do that together, my love, together. Come on.

[sighs]

I’ll be home later. Just doing a little Christmas shopping.

[holiday music] Theresa Donovan, you know damn well I’m not gonna tell you what I got you for Christmas. You will find out on Christmas. No, no, no, no hints either. I will see you later. Bye. Chanel.

Alex.

Hey.

Hey, happy holidays.

Same to you.

It’s been a while.

It has. How’s things?

Good, mostly. And with you?

Good. Complicated.

Mm.

But I know you’re familiar with complicated.

Oh, yeah.

Mm.

You know what? And I also wouldn’t mind getting off my feet for a little while, so shall we talk about it?

So you want to end things?

No, I don’t want to. It just–it seems… you don’t trust me, which I understand. You know, I did something stupid, which I deeply regret. You know, going after Everett, someone who you have history with, with whom you obviously care a lot about. You know, and as much as I wish I could take it back, it’s done. And also, you’re ready for more of a commitment than I’m able to give right now. So it just seems as if I would continue to disappoint you and make you feel shortchanged. And I don’t want to– I don’t want to do that.

[dramatic music]

Well, if that’s the way you see it, then I have to agree that… the best thing for us to do is go our separate ways.

And I have to say that I would hope that you… would already know this, but… you know, I feel no relief in this. It all makes me sad, especially for the kids. They love you, Stephanie.

I love them too. That’s what is making this so hard for me.

Maybe things will change, you know, in time… and, you know, I’ll be able to get over my past and I’ll be able to be there for you fully. And maybe you’ll be able to trust me again.

Yeah, maybe in time.

So, then, and– And I just–I think that it’s best that we just– We just let each other go. I know you just moved… All your stuff in here, so… you’re welcome to keep the apartment. I think you–yeah.

Me? But the kids.

No, we’ll move back to the DiMera mansion. They love it there, and they love hanging out with their cousin, so they’ll be there.

Even so, they shouldn’t be uprooted. The apartment is Thomas and Charlotte’s home too. They’re dealing with enough big changes in their life.

OK. Thank you. I’ll email you my official resignation from SJPR.

That’s not necessary. We’re responsible adults. we can still work together.

Yeah, I know. I’m sure we could make it work. But I just think it’ll be too– Too fraught, at least for now.

Right.

I hired back Everett, by the way.

Really?

Yeah, if I’m gonna make a go at this, I got to work with the best.

Makes sense. He’s a talented journalist.

Yeah. I’m sorry, Steph. I know I’m not responsible for blowing up this relationship. More than blowing it up. I mean, I– It doesn’t matter. I just–what I did, having Everett fired and allowing my jealousy to… turn me into– Make me so extreme, devious, so stupid… I’m ashamed. I lost sight of what was right and wrong for a little while, so… And I wish to hell I hadn’t.

So do I.

Let’s get that witness down here and a sketch artist.

Already sent a car. The artist is standing by.

Sloan, it’s gonna be OK. Sarah’s baby was found safe and sound, and I know that Jude will be too.

I pray you’re right.

Hey, listen to me. Hey, reminds me. You wanted to say something to me earlier before the tip came in. What was that?

That’s my baby. That’s Jude. That’s–this is his blanket. Give him to me. Give me–give me my son.

Easy, easy, easy.

Oh, Jude, baby.

Oh, my God.

Oh, thank God you’re OK. Mommy was so worried.

Are you kidding me? Thank God.

We can explain everything. Can we go somewhere private?

Private? Like hell, you’re not going anywhere private. I want to know what happened.

Sloan, take care of your boy.

No, I have a right to know.

We will handle this. We’ll handle this, OK? Harris?

Yeah, got it.

Come on.

Hey, look. I know you’re both overwhelmed and frustrated, but all that matters is, the baby is safe.

Yeah. Listen, I’m gonna call my mom and dad and share the good news.

Well, wait. Jude and I’ll come with you. Come on, little angel. Let’s go tell Grandma and Grandpa you’re all right.

OK.

[phone beeps]

Nicole… it’s obviously a tremendous relief for all of us that both you and the baby are safe. But it’s also very concerning. So you want to tell us what happened?

Nicole was at the town square, and she happened to–

I took him.

Excuse me?

You heard me. I saw that he was alone, and… I took him.

Are you for real? So no one had any idea that you were Victor’s son?

Salem’s best-kept secret.

Yeah, until he put it in his will and blew everything up. Why would he do that?

I’m sure he had his reasons. But maybe we’ll never know.

Yeah. Well, my family had our own parent swap, and if it was as hard for you as it was for Lani–

Oh, for sure. It was crazy, really.

[holiday music] But, you know, I’ve learned that… just because somebody gave you life doesn’t mean they’re a parent. Right? As far as I’m concerned, Justin is always gonna be my dad.

I closed out some of Paulina’s accounts, so, you know, I can drop off the files if you want to hold on to them.

I’m good. But thanks for doing that.

Did she reach out to you about the healthy Salem thing?

Yeah. I’m on it.

OK. You’re gonna do– you’re gonna do great.

Thanks.

[phone rings] Let me just grab this.

Yeah.

Hello.

Stephanie, I got your message. Look, I’m sorry I had to rush out this morning. But the good news is that we found the baby.

That’s great news.

It is. Are you free to talk?

I will be in a few minutes.

You want to call me back?

Actually, I think it’s best if we do this in person.

You know, things are settling down here. How about I meet you at the park in ten?

See you there.

Sounds like you got to take care of something.

Just a little fire that I need to put out.

[sighs] Anything else?

I guess not.

[dramatic music] Take care, Steph. Thank you for– Especially with my kids, how good you were with them, and… You know, hopefully you’ll– you’ll spend some time with them still.

I would love that. I miss them already. And make sure that you explain to them that they had… nothing to do with this, that it was all on us.

I will.

Thank you for sharing those great kids with me for a while. It meant so much to me. You meant so much to me too.

Me too. You’re a beautiful person, Steph… Inside and out. And I know it’s cliché, but I am going to– I’m gonna treasure the memories… Of the good times that we had together.

[sobs]

[sniffles, sighs]

Hey, Nicole seemed off. Is she OK?

Rafe’s dealing with it.

Well, in the meantime, our baby could use your attention.

Yeah, sure. What can I do?

Nicole, you took the baby? Why would you do that?

Well, because… Sloan doesn’t deserve to be a mother.

OK, but you know that that’s not your call.

Just explain what happened, sweetheart. That’s it.

Well, I went out for some fresh air. And I saw Sloan at the square walking away from her baby. She just left the stroller there with him in it unattended. OK, and I know. I know he is not my baby. I know that, and I have accepted it. But when I saw him all alone, I just– I felt this bond. And I don’t know, I can’t explain it, but… taking him home, it just felt like the right thing to do.

[sighs]

I was right in the area, so I figured I’d stop by, drop these off. Is–I should have texted. Is it a bad time?

No, no, no. No, it isn’t. I’m actually glad to see you. I’ve been wondering if you’d taken my advice and patched things up with Stephanie.

Well, I spoke to her, as you advised.

And what happened? Well, are you two back on good terms?

[dramatic music]

Hey. So I’m glad you found that missing baby.

Yeah. Yeah, it’s a huge relief. How are–how are you?

To be honest, I’m a little freaked out. I have to confess, I don’t remember how I wound up in your bed Or much of anything after we left the pub last night.

Yeah, well, I’m not surprised. You were wasted.

I was. But I do remember one thing. I remember that we kissed.

[sighs] Yeah, we did. I was a little drunk too. And you– I shouldn’t have let it happen. It was a mistake. I’m sorry.

Look, as much as I want to hear Nicole’s story, I’m exhausted. I’m physically and emotionally exhausted. I just want to go home with our little boy.

Listen, I understand. I can deal with things here. Let me walk you two out.

Mm.

Sloan, Eric. Wait a second. You need to hear this. Nicole, you want to tell them what happened?

I didn’t find the baby. I– I took him.

[holiday music]

Enough about me. Tell me what’s going on in Chanel’s world.

OK. Well, wait for it. Johnny and I are back together.

Ooh, that’s great. Assuming that’s–that you think it’s great too.

Yeah. Yeah, I do. I really love him still. And my only worry is– you know, never mind. You don’t want to hear this.

Oh, yes, I do. Tell me. Maybe I can help.

OK. But you have to keep it between me and you.

Come on. Of course.

All right. Well, Johnny, he always has some other girl after him, and he can be a player.

Mm.

Well, I guess I can too.

Hey. You are looking at the number one player in the universe. And in our defense, that does not mean that we can’t be good guys too.

[chuckles]

Sometimes.

Yeah.

[chuckles]

Yeah, well, I often think about the very interesting time that you, me, and Allie had.

It was… certainly interesting. Pretty great too, actually.

Yeah. Yeah, it was.

[sighs]

[clears throat] Chanel, I got to tell you, I still feel bad about what happened between Allie and me after the whole interesting time. I’m sure you really miss her. Hell, I miss her.

Yeah, I do. I miss her. But sometimes… things just aren’t meant to be.

Oh, Chad, I’m sorry. I was praying that you and Stephanie were gonna work things out.

Yeah, me too. But, you know, the truth is, I knew that– because of my stupid mistakes and my issues… About being in a serious relationship, I knew it was over.

Mm.

It just… took me some time to accept it.

Well, you’re still gonna see each other at work, so maybe, maybe you’ll both feel differently later.

No, our split was personal and professional. I actually resigned from SJPR.

[gasps] Oh, no. I’m sorry to hear that. But…I understand, although I’m certainly going to miss working with you. You’re not only smart and talented, but you make me laugh.

[laughs] And to quote my Big Mama, when a person’s funny, they have my heart.

[laughter]

Well, you know, you have my heart too, Paulina. I mean, really, anybody who gets to work with you or even just… be in your orbit is very lucky.

[chuckles]

[clicks tongue] Oh, honey.

Yeah.

[chuckles]

[dramatic music]

Yeah, so last night, I took you to my room because, well, I couldn’t take you to Jada’s room because she was passed out and I didn’t want to wake her up. And I would have gotten you home, but you were in no shape to travel at all. Like, we could barely even get up the stairs.

I remember I woke up in your T-shirt.

Because you threw up all over your clothes.

Oh, God.

Yeah. So I gave you my shirt. You changed. Put you to bed, and we both passed out.

So… nothing happened between us?

Wait, you thought–

Yeah.

No. No. No wonder you freaked out this morning. No, nothing happened.

You’re sure?

,%. I wouldn’t lie to you about that.

Right. But…I do have to ask you something. Or request, rather.

OK. What is it?

Can we keep this between us, you know, forget that it ever happened?

[sighs] I’m sorry. I can’t.

[sighs]

You took my baby? How dare you? What the hell is the matter with you?

He’s back. It’s OK.

I thought we were done with this whole fiasco of you thinking that our baby was your baby. Clearly not. You’re still totally deluded.

No, I’m not.

Ah-ah.

It’s just… when I saw that sweet baby all alone, I just lost control, OK? I know it was wrong. It will never happen again, I swear.

You’re damn right. My baby’s gonna be safe because you’re gonna be behind bars. I don’t care that she’s your wife. I want her prosecuted.

Maybe we could all take a breather.

Nobody’s taking breathers here, not with this baby snatcher still on the loose. I want her in prison. And if you won’t make that happen, DA DiMera, I will call the state attorney general.

Oh, before you go, I have a parting gift from the mayor’s office.

Those are coloring books?

For Thomas and Charlotte.

Aw, that’s really thoughtful. They’re gonna be thrilled. They’ve been having a rough time since Stephanie moved out, so…

Mm, yeah, I’m sure. But kids are very resilient.

[chuckles] And they’re lucky to have such a very loving, caring dad.

Thank you. Yeah, I’m just concerned I’m not enough.

Well, if you feel that way, you know, at some point, when you’re ready, you can get them a mom.

[laughter]

Yeah. Yeah, I don’t know. If I– if I can’t make it work with Stephanie, who’s such a great person, I don’t know, maybe it’s just time for me to accept that there’s no one else for me… And that I’ll never be able to get over Abigail, that she was just my one great love.

Mm.

[sighs]

What was that for?

To get you to stop talking nonsense.

Excuse me?

Chad, you listen. Listen to me, OK? Now, honey, I know you’ve been through hell and that the pain of losing your wife so suddenly, so tragically, well, you’re never gonna completely get over that. However, and this is a big however, we are not meant to live our lives alone. Now, you need someone to love and for someone to love you.

Lots of people get by just fine being alone.

[scoffs] Well, I’m not talking about most people. I’m talking about you. Look, I raised Chanel on my own after her father died. And, you know, I know. I know what you’re going through. I thought I could do it all on my own too. But I was miserable. And it wasn’t until I got another chance at love with Abe that I got to fully experience again how great life can be.

[dramatic music]

I take your words very, very seriously. I promise you, I do.

OK.

My only focus right now and in the near future is just gonna be to be the best father that I can be. And I’m gonna have to hope that that’s enough.

[sighs]

I don’t understand. Why can’t we forget what happened last night? Actually, you said nothing happened.

Yeah, right, right. Nothing happened. But, you know, Ava and I, we’re dating. We’re not that serious yet. But if that relationship is gonna grow into something– and I want it to– I think it’s got to be based on honesty and trust.

Well, can you at least leave my name out of it? I’d rather the Mafia princess who tried to murder my mom not know that I had a make-out session with the guy she’s seeing.

She’s not gonna react badly once I explain the circumstances. But I believe % transparency is the way to go in any relationship. So…I just got to tell her.

You’re a good man, Harris. Right now, I wish you were like the rest of the people in Salem with their deep, dark secrets.

Well, sorry to disappoint.

That’s OK. I totally respect that you want to be honest with Ava. And I’ll just have to deal with that.

Just take care of yourself. And you know what? Maybe stick to club soda tonight.

Oh, I’ve learned my lesson. You too.

Yes.

Good luck with Ava.

Thanks.

[phone beeps]

[line rings] Hey. Where are you? All right, you’re at the Bistro? I’m on my way. We need to talk about something.

Mama, I got your lights and the toothpicks. And I know you said no mistletoe–

[sighs] And you said there’s nothing to worry about.

[sighs]

[holiday music]

Hey, Steph.

Alex.

Wow, I swear to you, it feels like I’m running into everyone I know today.

[dramatic music]

[baby cries]

Hey, listen. Why don’t we step out and talk? I don’t want to upset Jude, and I feel he’s sensing our stress. Come on.

Look. I’m sorry, but under the circumstances, I’m gonna have to arrest you, Nicole.

Look, I am just as upset with Nicole as you are, but I don’t believe she did this with malicious intent.

How can you say that? She stole our baby.

Well, maybe she prevented a real tragedy. I mean, what if somebody else would have taken him?

[scoffs] Oh, my God. You think this is my fault?

No, I’m just saying that we need to show some compassion for Nicole and be grateful that our son was brought back to us safe and unharmed.

Eric, do you understand that there is a woman out there that could come and take our baby anytime she wants?

Yes, and she’s not going to do it again. She’s going to get help, and I have to believe that. She’s gonna heal, and we need to heal too. Hey, come on. Forgiveness leads to peace… both getting and receiving it.

[sighs]

But I brought the baby back. I was just trying to protect him.

Rafe, you know damn well what Nicole has been through lately.

I do. But what happened, it’s still a kidnapping.

[sighs]

So… I’m gonna have to read you your rights now, Nicole.

That won’t be necessary. I asked Nicole to babysit.

You what?

I was tired. I forgot I had. But yes, I gave her permission to take the baby. There’s no crime here.

Well, as DA, that’s good enough for me. I see no reason to press–

All right, look, OK, fine. I get what you’re trying to do here. I do. I feel bad for Nicole too, but… EJ, she needs help.

And I’ll get it.

Then we’re done here. Sloan, let’s go home.

[door slams]

[exhales sharply] What just happened?

I have no idea.

Hey, would you take Jude and get him settled into his car seat? I would like to use the ladies’ room.

Yeah, sure, no problem.

OK.

There you go. OK. Here we go, buddy.

I’m gonna make sure that everything is good with Rafe. Then we’ll get out of here. OK?

OK.

[both smooching]

[chuckles]

[sighs] Sloan–

Shut up and listen to me. If you ever come near my child again, I swear to God, I will make your life a living hell in ways that you cannot even imagine.

[door slams]

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Days Nitpicks & Flubs For The Week Of December 11, 2023

Nitpicks & Flubs

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Lucas

Monday

Leo tried to stall to keep from telling Nicole about her baby. If he wanted to tell her the truth, he could have said it.

The DiMeras need to close off their secret entrances since Leo keeps getting into the mansion.

How did Lucas find out about Nicole’s baby? Who told him about it and why would he care that she lost him?

Tuesday

It’s strange that Alex wanted to defend Chad to Stephanie.

Jada didn’t say anything to Rafe about the anniversary of her father’s death.

Wednesday

Theresa could have got rid of the hoodie by throwing it out for the garbage. Why would she bury it when anyone could see her?

Abby wasn’t a reporter very long so it’s not likely that Everett knew about her skills as a reporter.

Thursday

Why did Xander take Victoria to the hospital when Sarah was working? Why didn’t he take her to the mansion to her nanny?

The DiMera mansion was suddenly decorated with Christmas decorations.

Friday

You would think Sloan would be more careful with her wallet. She should have known that she left it at Sweet Bits.

Why would Sloan leave Jude in the middle of the square to find her wallet? She made it easy for Jude to get kidnapped.

Winter doesn’t start until the 21st, but Nicole said it was a beautiful winter morning.

 

Theresa

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 December 11, 2023

Opinion Article

 

by Michele & Cheryl

EJ Nicole and Leo

Dimitri told Leo the truth about the baby
We got some movement in the Nicole/EJ/Eric/Sloan/Dimitri/Leo storyline. Dimitri told Leo that Nicole’s baby didn’t die. He let him know that Sloan claimed the baby as her own. We’re glad that he told him what she did. She doesn’t need to get away with what she did. The writers seemed to enjoy putting the blame on Melinda for the plan. Sloan was okay with going along with the plan. She is just as responsible for what happened as Melinda. Dimitri informed Leo and he wanted him to blackmail Sloan. Hopefully Leo will make Sloan squirm when he reminds her that she took Nicole’s baby. She didn’t have the right to take the baby when he didn’t belong to her. It’s hard to feel completely sorry for Nicole because she’s getting her karma, but that’s a conversation for another time. We wanted to focus on Dimitri telling Leo the truth. This storyline is the only one starting to move along and we’re curious to see how it plays out.

Leo tried to tell Nicole and EJ about the baby
Speaking of the baby storyline, Leo tried to do the right thing. He wanted to tell Nicole and EJ the truth, but they didn’t want to listen to him. Nicole wouldn’t let him talk about it for some reason. She had a feeling that her baby was alive, but she didn’t want to hear what he had to say. Leo didn’t have a reason to see Nicole since the baby was gone. The only thing he would have told her was the baby was alive. If she listened to him, she would have had her baby. Maybe Nicole should listen to people when they try to tell her something. It’s a writer’s troupe that Nicole kept interrupting Leo when he tried to tell her the truth. The writers had to find a way to keep the storyline moving. Leo decided to continue blackmailing Sloan. As much as we enjoy watching Sloan backed into a corner, what’s the point of doing that? Nicole and EJ didn’t believe him so they wouldn’t listen to him when he wanted to tell the truth.

Sloan gets away with everything got out of the call from adoption lawyer
Sloan is a true villain on the show. She always manages to escape trouble. Sloan could have been busted this week when the adoption lawyer called Eric. If you guessed that Sloan got out if it, you’re right about that. Sloan managed to lie to Eric to get out of the call. Let’s back up a bit. The lawyer called Eric to apologize about the adoption falling through. You would think Sloan’s goose was cooked. We weren’t surprised that she avoided getting caught. She came up with a lie and managed not to get caught.

Theresa wanted to cover her tracks
Theresa might need to take lessons from Sloan on how to cover her tracks. She decided to get rid of the hoodie she wore when she kidnapped Victoria. For some reason, she chose to bury the sweater in the park. If you’re thinking she’s an idiot for doing that, you aren’t alone. Brady and Tate almost spotted her doing that. She got lucky they didn’t see her burying the sweater. Theresa could have thrown the sweater in the garbage, but she chose to hold on to it. There were so many ways to get rid of the sweater, but she didn’t do it.

Jude was kidnapped
Sloan was careless when she took Jude out for some air. She chose to leave him in the town square unattended. What do you think happened? That’s right. Someone took the baby and the stroller from the town square. The baby got kidnapped in broad daylight and no one saw anything. There’s always people milling around outside, but no one saw who took the baby. The kidnapper managed to take him without the baby crying. Could that mean he knows the person who took him? Nicole turned out to be the culprit. She didn’t believe that her baby died and took the baby. Nicole must be fast because she took Jude and managed not to get caught leaving the stroller at the pub. She also took the baby to the DiMera tunnels without the staff seeing her.

Random moment of the week
We added a random moment because we didn’t see this coming without reading spoilers. Stephanie and Harris ended up going to bed together. They got drunk and woke up together. Stephanie had her reasons to drink, but why did Harris do it? He didn’t get into a fight with Ava, so he didn’t have a reason to drink. We were shocked when we found out they were going to be in bed together. He told her that he would explain later. The writers chose to recycle the story. Shawn and Talia had a drunken encounter earlier in the year and now Stephanie and Harris did the same thing.

 

Stephanie Jada and Harris

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 Transcript Friday, December 8, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

Days of Our Lives logo

Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

Hey, don’t forget to take your employee discount now.

Yeah, all right. I will, thanks. Oh. And Uncle Roman– I was just wondering, could I– could I talk to you for a minute about my work schedule?

Uh, yeah. If you make it quick. I’m heading out to meet my new grandson.

Oh, and congratulations on that by the way. I was just wondering if maybe I could take tomorrow night off?

Well, let me guess. Big plans with Holly Jonas.

Holly?

Yeah. Johnny told me you two are seeing each other.

[nervous chuckle]

[Christmas music]

These all look so good. I really shouldn’t.

Girl, you definitely should.

OK, jeez, twist my arm. I’ll take two for the road.

OK.

Oh, I think you gave me an extra scone by accident

No, no accident. It’s my way of saying I’m sorry for thinking that you had a crush on Johnny. I was wrong. My bad.

It’s OK, really. I mean, I get it. Crushing on my own stepbrother, that’d be cringey, right?

Yeah, definitely cringey. Although you did say that you were hot for your stepdad at one time.

I don’t think I ever said hot, OK? And besides, that was eons ago, before EJ and my mom were even married. It’s completely different now.

Hey, Dad. Dad, you OK?

Son. Sorry. Good morning.

Where were you just now?

Suffice it to say, I was somewhere that no father or husband wants to be.

Dad, I, uh– I’m sorry. I wish–I wish you didn’t have to go through this. You know, Holly told me about the DNA test.

Yes, they completed it.

And? How’d it go?

The test proved that Eric and Sloan’s baby was, in fact, not ours. So Nicole has no other choice but to accept that our son is deceased.

“Dimitri von Leuschner admits all.” Well, not all.

[baby coos] Thank God I got him that deal for his little lover boy Leo to go free, huh? Now with Dimitri behind bars, he’s never going to tell anyone who you really are.

Oh. There you are, my love. I was up all night tossing and turning, imagining you in here. Oh, I made a list of survival tips. It’s based on my previous experience in this dank dark hellhole. It’s a little mushy. Soaked by my tears.

Leo, I’m fine. Really, I’m, uh–

[sighs] I’m holding up. I mean, this place is a far cry from the Ritz, but– I’m going to be OK. Although I will take any tips that you might have. So what’s on this list?

Hold on. Before we get around to this, we need to talk about that bomb you dropped at my feet yesterday. What exactly did you mean when you said EJ and Nicole’s son isn’t really dead?

[tense music]

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

Uh, no, I don’t have plans with Holly tomorrow night. And actually, my dad doesn’t really want me dating anyone right now. He’s all school, school, school, and harping on me and my debts and all that boomer stuff, you know.

[chuckles] Tate, your dad is nowhere near boomer age.

Whatever. I–I guess I just wanted to keep my dating life on the DL, you know. But stupid me, I forgot to– I forgot to mention that to Johnny.

You don’t have to worry about me. My lips are sealed.

I’m glad things worked out for you and Tate.

Yeah, me, too. He’s, uh, really great.

Yeah, he is. And I’m super stoked that he’s going to be on staff here at Sweet Babe, so that means we’ll be seeing more of you, too, right?

Right. I guess so.

You know, your mom used to stop by every morning for a jelly donut. Strawberry berliners were her favorite. You should–you should take one for her.

Thanks, but that was kind of a cravings thing. I wouldn’t want to remind her of her pregnancy. Not that she isn’t thinking about it every minute already. You know, she’s having a really hard time right now.

Yeah. Yeah, I get that. My sister lost a baby a few years back. And even though she did go on to have more children, she says that you never really get over the loss of a child. So I can only imagine what you all are going through right now.

I am so sorry, darling. I didn’t mean to leave you in suspense. Trust me, I would have never dropped that kind of shocking news on you if I knew the Commissioner Hernandez was going to storm in and drag me out of there.

No, please. I was relieved. I mean, when I learned that that tiny little miracle had– You know, I was devastated. But what I don’t understand is that if he’s not that word that I cannot say right now, then where the hell is he?

[baby coos]

(SOFTLY) Sweet boy. You’ve only been with us a few days. Already, I can’t imagine my life without you.

[baby gurgles]

And you were worried you didn’t have a maternal bone in your body.

No.

You’re loving every side of this, aren’t you?

I’m just glad he stopped wailing every time I pick him up.

[laughs] We did have our first fight last night, though.

What?

Oh, yeah. He copped an attitude with me by falling asleep during story time.

[chuckles] Well, maybe he’s making a stand for himself. Alice in Wonderland isn’t quite his thing.

You know, my mother read that to me every night, and look how I turned out.

[chuckles] I’m really loving this side of you.

I’m actually loving exploring this side of me.

Good.

But I have to admit, I do regret not taking maternity leave.

Yeah?

I just– I couldn’t. Work’s just been too crazy.

Hey, I read an article about your client Dimitri, that he turned himself in. If the murder charges are dropped, I mean, he’s still at fault for Nicole’s baby’s death, right?

[curious music]

I’m sorry, Dad.

I know, son.

I just– I feel so helpless. You know, I wish there was something I could do other than just say sorry over and over again.

The truth is I never expected the test results to come back any other way. But Nicole was so convinced that somehow Eric and Sloan wound up with our baby.

She really took it pretty hard, huh?

Yeah.

I mean, of course she did. I don’t know how else you could take it. You, uh– Do you think she at least is now accepting reality?

Yes. She appears to have. But I thought she’d accepted it before. So I don’t know if it’s going to stick. Lately, Nicole’s behavior has been rather erratic.

Erratic?

[tense music] Oh, I’m erratic, am I? What, do you think I’ve gone off the deep end? Just say what you mean, EJ. You think I’m crazy.

When you left the accident site with the baby, you were supposed to take him straight to the hospital. We both know you didn’t do that, because at first nobody could find you.

I did go straight to the hospital. The place was crawling with cops. I panicked, and so I went to Sloan’s house instead. I figured since she was your lawyer, she might be able to help. Leo, I didn’t know what to do. I was running out of time. I couldn’t deal with the baby. Rolf was waiting on us. We needed to get out of town. And then just like that, Sloan and Melinda Trask agreed to bring the baby to the hospital for me.

Melinda Trask? That ice queen was a part of this?

Yeah, She was at Sloan’s house when I got there. Anyway, I left town. And naturally, I just assumed that Sloan would bring the baby to the hospital like she said she would. But then I got back to Salem and I figured that she kept the baby for herself.

That lying illegal eagle.

I know. And now she’s passing him off as her adopted son while EJ and Nicole are mourning their dead baby.

Nicole, good morning.

Um, I should, uh– I should probably get going. I’ll see you later, Dad. And Nicole, I– I am sorry.

I’m–I’m sorry, too.

So what, you think I’m crazy to question whether our baby was really dead?

I never said that.

And now you think that even though I’ve seen the evidence in black and white, it might– the DNA might not be enough proof to convince me, because what, I’m not living in reality, because I’m a hormonal, erratic, crazy mess?

I certainly do not think that you are crazy, Nicole. I think you’re grieving. You’ve been through so much, and I am very worried about you.

[sighs] The first time I lost our child, I did go off the rails. Then I stole Sami’s baby, and I tried to pass her off as my own. And when I accused Sloan of doing the same thing, maybe I was projecting. You can call off the men in white coats, EJ, because I’m not going to lose it. I just needed to know for sure. And now that I do, I– (SOFTLY) Oh, God. This is it. This–this is my life again. And I will try to find a way to get through it. I will wake up every day, and I will put one foot in front of the other, just like I always have, over and over again.

I think every day about the babies that we have lost. We will never, ever forget them. But right now, the pain is excruciating. It eclipses everything. But Nicole, someday, someday you will feel joy again.

Will I, EJ?

Yes.

A part of me knows you’re right. But right now in this moment, it doesn’t feel like it.

[sobs] Oh, it hurts.

You know, yesterday– yesterday you said that you had given up hope of feeling a baby kicking inside you, of giving birth, of bringing a child home from the hospital. So… I was thinking… maybe we could try again.

[ominous music]

Talk about multitasking. Do you want me to take him for you?

Uh, if you haven’t noticed, I’ve got this. We make quite the little team, don’t we, Jude?

[baby coos] Oh.

Hey, what smells so good?

I put cookies in the oven for your dad’s visit.

So career, baby, and homemade cookies?

Oh, don’t be too impressed. They’re the, you know, ready-to-bake kind. Slice ’em, dice ’em, and stick ’em in the oven.

Yeah, but that was still a very nice thing of you to do.

[knocking on door] Mm.

[sighs] Dad.

Hey! Hey, dad yourself.

[laughs] Hi, Sloan. Where is this grandson of mine? Let me see. Oh, my God. He’s beautiful. He’s beautiful. Look at that face. You know what? He reminds me a lot of you when you were a newborn. I don’t know, something about the eyes. But then I guess I could just be imagining it. You know, the resemblance, I mean.

Hey! Ooh, good thing my Uncle Roman isn’t here. Seeing you bring someone else’s eats into his establishment.

Well, maybe your Uncle Roman should put cronuts on the menu.

So you–you want a coffee or something? Some candy cane eggnog?

What I want is for you to leave me alone.

So–so you’re mad at me?

No. I’m not mad.

You sound mad. I think you’re mad.

And I think you’re a genius.

Oh, OK. So would you mind telling me what it is that–

Why I’m mad? Huh. I don’t know, Tate. Oh, wait. Could it be because you slipped your arm around me without my consent and then you jumped on the opportunity to give the entire world the impression we were dating?

Holly–

No. Why would I be mad about that? Hm?

Good morning, beautiful.

Ooh, you look like you need coffee.

Uh, yeah. I didn’t get my regular fix at home. I had to hightail it out of there.

Why? What happened?

Nicole overheard my dad and I talking about her mental state and got pretty upset.

Oh, man. Poor Nicole. Holly was just here, and I was talking to her, And she was telling me that her mom is having a really tough time right now. And god. Obviously, she just lost a baby and then she got her hopes up thinking that the baby was still alive. And I was hoping that the DNA test that Holly set up would help her accept the truth.

Yeah. I think she does accept it now. You know, it’s just I can’t imagine. It’s like getting your heart ripped out all over again. You know, I feel– I feel so bad for her. You know, for my dad. I mean, nobody should ever have to go through that, ever. You know, let alone three times. It’s just–yeah.

Sloan kept Nicole’s baby?

OK, let me back up a bit. So Sloan and her husband were trying to adopt. So they hired Melinda Trask as their attorney. They got matched with a kid. But in the last minute, it fell through. Lo and behold, that is exactly when I serendipitously show up on their doorstep with a little baby boy in my arms. Sloan must have thought it was, I don’t know, destiny. Because as soon as I left, she and her attorney concocted some kind of crazy plan to kill off Nicole’s baby so she could keep it and say that it was her adopted baby all along.

[tense music]

My God. I am flabbergasted. My mind is literally blown. But pookie bear, my love, just one little question for you. Why didn’t you tell me about this before?

So what are we calling this little guy? Does he finally have a name?

He does. Dad, I want you to meet Jude Roman Brady.

[tender music]

Jude Roman Brady. That does have a nice ring to it. Yeah, yeah.

Would you like to hold your namesake?

Oh, you bet I would. Yes. Nothing would make me happier.

Aw. Here you go.

Oh, my God. Oh. Hey, Jude. You know what? Beginning to think I was never going to meet this little guy. And the delay had me a little worried. You know, because, you know, when Rex told me he didn’t want me to meet Victoria, it turns out she wasn’t his kid. But that is not the case with Jude. I know he is your baby and my grandson. Right, Jude? You’re mine, right? Big guy. Huh? You bet. You bet on it.

Another baby?

I’m not saying right away. I realize that there is no replacing the child we just lost. But now, thanks to modern medicine, we know that you can carry a baby to term. So I see no reason why you can’t fulfill your dream of giving birth to a child–

Stop, EJ. Just stop it. Don’t you get it? It’s over for me, forever.

[dramatic music]

And how are you doing, boo?

Me? I’m–I’m fine. Yeah.

Yeah? You did lose a baby brother. And that’s your pain, too.

I know. It’s just–it’s like I told my dad, you know. I just feel so helpless.

Yeah, I get that. And hopefully you and Holly can be there for each other since you guys are both going through this.

You’d be OK with that?

Yeah. Yeah, of course. I’m–I’m just glad that I was wrong about her having feelings for you.

You weren’t maybe just a little jealous, were you?

Jealous? Me? Never.

Bummer. Bummer.

Yeah, and you know what? I’m really glad that she moved on from your dad to Tate.

Oh, yeah. You mean, since he’s actually her age, not married to her mother. Yeah, it’s a pretty big step up, I’d say.

Yeah, yeah. You know, I was all over the place when I was her age, too. Hell, I was all over the place when I first got to Salem not too long ago. So she will get it together. And I really hope things work out for her and Tate, because they’re really cute together.

Yeah. Hey, you know who else is really cute together?

No. No idea. Do tell.

I’ll do you one better.

[Christmas music]

Holly, I didn’t mean to like–

Of course you meant to. You knew I only told Chanel I liked you so she wouldn’t know I like Johnny. You took advantage.

OK, fine. Yeah, maybe I took advantage a little bit. You got me. Whatever. I’ll just tell them that I talked to my dad and that he totally flipped out, and now we have to break up, OK?

Don’t you dare.

Sweetheart, I– I’m sorry I upset you. I didn’t mean it. I understand it’s too soon to talk about. Too soon to even think about.

EJ, this isn’t about timing. We can’t try again. We didn’t try in the first place. It just happened. It was a miracle I even got pregnant. And when I found out I might be able to carry this baby to term, I mean, all I could think about was when was the other shoe going to drop? I mean, I was a nervous wreck my whole pregnancy. And then when I heard the baby cry… and I held him in my arms, I thought, oh, my God, I finally broke the curse. But I was wrong, EJ. (SOBBING) I was– I was so wrong.

[somber music] And I just–I need you to hear me when I tell you this. I’m never going to have your child, EJ. And if you can’t accept that, then I don’t know where to go from here. Oh, God!

[sobbing]

Hon, you OK?

Yes. I was just thinking I should go check on those cookies.

Cookies, yeah. I thought I smelled something good.

Hey, um, let me take him. Oh. I’m sorry you haven’t gotten to meet Jude sooner, I just– I did stop by the pub as soon as he came home.

Where was I?

I don’t know. Although I did run into Nicole in front of the pub. And you know, she wanted to see the baby.

Oh, my God, that had to be tough on her.

Yeah. It was. You know, she had this whole idea that Jude was her son.

Oh no.

Yeah. So I don’t know. She just had this idea that Sloan, she pulled off some epic baby switch. And I agreed to do a DNA test to prove that it wasn’t true. And Sloan, she kind of freaked out about it.

Sloan freaked out? Why?

Because I didn’t tell her at first. She thought I was giving credence to the idea that she was a kidnapping nutcase.

Well, it’s not a great way to start out parenthood. But everything seems to be good between you two now, right?

Yeah. I think she just feels better that Nicole’s finally accepted the truth that her baby’s dead.

I can’t believe you didn’t tell anyone that Nicole’s baby is still alive. We were almost charged with felony murder and the kid isn’t even, you know, gone. And Sloan knew the whole time!

I don’t know. Maybe because I didn’t feel like pissing off our lawyer was the wisest strategy at the moment. Besides, it wouldn’t make any difference for me. There were already so many other charges against me. So I figured I’d just pool all my energy into saving you. And in the end, Sloan was able to get the murder charges dropped and make a deal for you in exchange for me keeping my mouth shut.

Well, now you’ve opened it. Big time.

Right. And now this little nugget of information is far more useful to you than it is to me. Leo, I want you to choose your moment wisely and tell Sloan exactly what you have on her. She will do anything to keep this truth from coming out. And I mean anything.

So you’re mad that I said we were dating, but now you want us to date?

No, I don’t want us to date. Look, I ran into Chanel earlier today, and she’s totally bought into this fable that you and I are actually a thing. So I’m thinking, let her keep thinking that. That way, she won’t be suspicious. And she’ll never see it coming when I swoop in and steal Johnny right from under her.

You’re still on this whole Johnny thing?

Uh, yeah. Why wouldn’t I be?

Because it’s a crash and burn, Holly. The guy is in love with someone else.

You know what? You’re a glass-half-empty guy, Tate.

[laughs]

Johnny just needs a little help to see me as a romantic interest. And get this. I have the perfect opportunity. He wants me to help him arrange some surprise dinner for his wedding gagiversary to Chanel, even though they’re divorced.

Why did he ask you?

Oh, he wants a woman’s touch, and I don’t know, I guess he trusts me.

OK, but you do get that they are going to be the ones attending this romantic dinner together, right? So how is that going to help you?

Well, that’s where you come in.

That’ll be $ plus tax.

What? I would have thought that dating the baker comes with some perks.

Oh yeah, it definitely comes with perks.

[giggles]

Uh, wow. OK. Who needs caffeine?

Oh yeah, I know how to perk you up.

Right here, in the square? Can I come by later?

I would say yes, but Mom is going to be there.

What about your place?

Chez DiMera is a bit of a funeral home at the moment, so.

Well then, I guess we will just have to wait.

[groans] Wait is a four-letter word. But hey, I actually did want to ask you, do you have any plans next weekend?

I–I don’t think so. Why?

Well, it will be two years since we got married in Italy. And if it’s OK with you, I’m planning something kind of special to celebrate our would-be anniversary.

Bet they don’t make cards for that occasion. Happy this-would-be-our-wedding anniversary if we hadn’t gotten a divorce.

OK. Yeah, yeah. All right, you think it’s weird?

No. No, I think it’s sweet. So what did you have in mind?

It’s a surprise.

[Christmas music]

Nicole, as much as I would love to have your child… I completely understand your feelings. I have two beautiful children. You, you have the light of your life, Holly. And we have each other. Our lives are already full. I mean so full. I was just trying to make you feel better. And I made you feel worse.

[tender music]

I wish there was something that could make me feel better.

I know.

That could make us feel better. So I guess we’re just going to have to get through this one day at a time.

Mm-hmm. Together.

Together.

Sloan, these are so tasty.

Roman, thank you. That’s very kind for you to compliment my baking as it is, especially after the whole infamous clam chowder incident.

[laughs] Look. I wanted to say– OK, I want to say this. I know I haven’t been the most supportive guy when it comes to your relationship with Eric.

Bit understated.

But now you’re married. You have a child together. And I know that it was devastating when you miscarried. And I know that it was your idea to adopt. And now Eric is a father because of you. And he’s also very happy, and I have you to thank for that as well. So Sloan, seriously, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you so much for bringing so much joy into my son’s life.

[tender music]

This is a lot.

I know. So many options.

I don’t know if I can keep this secret. And what about EJ and Nicole? They’re mourning a baby who’s alive.

Oh no. Leo Stark is suddenly developing a conscience.

Oh. Nobody is more surprised than I am. It’s like I’ve been given Willy Wonka’s golden ticket of blackmail, and I’m throwing away the whole chocolate bar.

Pookie bear, keep the golden ticket.

They are quite rare.

I’ve given up my freedom for you. So please make the most of it.

OK. I’ll try.

Have a wonderful life.

“Have a wonderful life”? Hey. You’re talking like this is some kind of goodbye.

I know. I–I just don’t know when I’m– when I’m going to see you again.

I’m going to come back here and see you again.

Let’s just make this moment count, OK?

[somber music]

I will see you again soon.

OK. Well, you know where to find me. Have a wonderful life, Leo Stark.

Ooh, a surprise. OK, let me guess. You are going to recreate the dinner that we had in Rome with gnocchi and tiramisu and wine followed by more wine.

Maybe.

And then we’re going to take a stroll through a beautiful garden.

In December?

And then we’re going to go discover all the nooks and crannies of a quaint church. Am I getting warm?

That’s a very nice try, a very nice try. But not a chance. I’m not going to ruin the surprise.

Come on. Just a little hint.

My lips are sealed.

Oh. I think you underestimate me, G. I know how to unseal those lips.

Yes, you do.

Well?

OK, look, I’ll say this. It is going to be a night that you will never forget.

[Christmas music]

What now, Holly? You know, this is starting to get pretty old.

Hey you’re the one who agreed to help me break up Johnny and Chanel, remember? Plus, you owe me for that little stunt you pulled yesterday.

OK, fine. What do you want me to do?

You’re going to help me make sure that Chanel never makes it to that dinner with Johnny. What, why aren’t you saying anything?

Because it’s kind of a big ask, Holly. Me keeping Chanel from her own, what, gagiversary dinner, whatever you called it. So you know what, I think I deserve something in return.

All right, OK. Just say it. What do you want?

To go on a date with you– a real one.

Well, I must say that I think my dad’s opinion has finally turned the corner about our relationship.

Me, too. I’m just glad he’s finally so supportive.

Yeah, me, too.

You know what? I should actually get going. Jude is going to be ready to scarf down another four ounces in an hour.

All right, I’m on it. I missed a call. It’s from the attorney that Melinda was dealing with.

[tense music] He wanted to apologize for the adoption falling through. He’s sorry we didn’t get the baby. What’s he talking about?

I think maybe I’m going to go take a bath or lie down for a little while or maybe go for a walk. I don’t know.

You know, I have a thought. If you feel up to it, I’d love to take my wife out for her favorite meal later on. Or if it’s too soon or I’m trying too hard, please say so.

That would be nice, actually. Thank you.

Yay. Well, I better get ready for the day, get out of this robe and pajamas. I love you, Nicole.

[kisses]

I love you, too. Hey, are you all done with your iPad? Hate to admit it, but I missed my morning fix of Lady Whistleblower.

Oh, don’t we all? It’s all yours.

[doorbell rings]

I’ll get it.

[tense music]

Hi there. Bad time?

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Days Short Recap Thursday, December 14, 2023

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sarah talked to Marlena about Xander. She told Marlena that she was afraid of making a mistake with Xander. Although she and Xander make great co-parents, she’s concerned about her daughter. She didn’t want to make the same mistake again. Marlena suggested she stay in the moment and enjoy watching Victoria grow up. John and Xander ran into each other at the hospital. Xander asked John for advice since he and Marlena had a successful marriage. John told him he wasn’t a good person, but he believed people had the ability to change. He encouraged Xander to change for his daughter. When Sarah showed up, Xander suggested he walk her and Victoria home. She agreed to do it. Johnny and Holly spent time together. While they were talking, Tate sent her a text asking if they were going out. She let him know she had other plans. Holly asked Johnny if he wanted to order out. He said he had plans with Chanel. After he told her his plans, she suggested he and Chanel go out another night. He didn’t agree with her and told her to go out with Tate. She said boys like Tate had one thing in mind so she wanted a mature man. When Johnny left to take a shower, she texted Tate and told him her plans changed and they should have dinner together.

Chanel asked Paulina about her opinion on her dress. Paulina said she was happy for her but hoped she wasn’t moving too fast with Johnny. Chanel said Johnny planned a surprise for her. She asked Paulina if Abe got his memory back. Paulina said he didn’t but she invited him over for Christmas. Chanel said she would invite Johnny over too. She said Eli, Lani, and the twins were coming too. Paulina said she had bad news. She said she talked to Eli. He said Lani’s release was delayed because of paperwork. Chanel decided to call Johnny and tell him they were ordering out instead of going out. She didn’t want to leave Paulina alone. EJ told Nicole he was happy to see her feeling better after giving Eric and Sloan a gift. She said she felt like she was coning out of her darkness and needed to be grateful for Holly. She said she wished Holly would hang around kids her own age. EJ said Johnny told him something was going on between Holly and Tate. When they went home, Johnny told them they got a package. The package came from the funeral home. Nicole wanted to open it but EJ didn’t think it was a good idea. Despite his objections, she opened the package. They found their baby’s ashes. She said whenever she feels better something makes her feel worse. He suggested they lay their son to rest. It might give them closure. He wanted to arrange the funeral service and have their son in the DiMera mausoleum. She said she wanted it to be just the two of them and wanted to spread his ashes. Holly and Tate were about to go out when she spotted Johnny and Chanel going to the Bistro. Holly suggested they go to the Bistro. Chanel was surprised to see Holly and Tate at the Bistro. She told Johnny she thought she was wrong about Holly being interested in him but now she wasn’t sure. Johnny suggested they forget about Holly and Tate and have a good time. Tate realized why Holly wanted to go to the Bistro. He accused her of using him. She said she didn’t know Johnny was going to be there. Tate said he was done playing games. He said Johnny would never see her the way she saw him. Tate walked out leaving Holly alone. She saw Johnny and Chanel kissing.

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Days Short Recap Friday, December 15, 2023

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Harris woke up next to Stephanie. He woke up filled with regret over what they did. Stephanie woke up too and wondered what happened. He promised to tell her what happened later. She snuck out of the pub, but Leo saw her leaving. He became suspicious of her sneaking out of the pub. He saw Harris walk out of the pub too. Roman and Marlena talked about Eric and Sloan at the pub. They wondered if she would be too busy to take care of their grandchild. Sloan and Eric woke up to Jude crying. She offered to take care of him, so she took him out for a walk. While she was in the square, Leo called her and went off because Dimitri was sent to maximum prison. She said there was nothing she could do about it. He demanded money and power. Sloan wanted more time to figure things out. Leo threatened to expose her secret. She begged him not to tell it. After their conversation, she realized she didn’t have her wallet. She went back to Sweet Bits to get it. When she got back, she realized Jude and the stroller were gone. Sloan called for help and said someone stole her baby. Eric arrived at the square. Rafe and Harris also showed up at the square. They wanted to get a statement from Sloan. She explained what happened. Rafe wondered if Sloan knew who would have taken him. She didn’t know who did it. Eric told Rafe that Nicole took a baby once. He hated the idea that she could have taken him. Rafe decided to go to the DiMera mansion to talk to her. Eric called Marlena and told her that his baby was kidnapped.

At the station, Sloan blamed herself for what happened to Jude. Marlena assured her that it wasn’t her fault. She thought it was important that they find the baby. Leo showed up at the station with the stroller. Sloan accused Leo of taking the baby, but he denied doing it. He said he found the stroller in the alley without the baby in it. Leo said she was his lawyer and got him out of jail. He had no reason to do it. Leo believed he owed her everything. When they were alone, Sloan confronted Leo about taking her child. Leo said he was innocent. He told her that if she thought that, she would have told the police. She would have told the police what his motive would be for taking Jude. He said she wouldn’t do it because everyone would know the truth. Leo could tell her where the baby was, but he refused to do it. He told her the time was ticking. EJ received an alert that a baby was missing. He tried to call Nicole, but she didn’t answer. He was about to call her again when Rafe arrived. He wanted to talk to him about Sloan and Eric’s baby being kidnapped. EJ assured him that Nicole didn’t kidnap the baby. He got upset when Rafe assumed she did it. EJ tried to locate Nicole’s phone, but it was still in the house. Rafe noticed her car was parked outside. He realized the square was near the lake. EJ thought his wife was kidnapped too. He demanded that Rafe find her. Later, Rafe went back to the station. He updated Harris about what happened at the mansion. Sloan realized it was time to confess. Nicole found EJ in the tunnels with Jude. She apologized to EJ for what she did.

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Days Update Friday, December 15, 2023

Days of Our Lives Update

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Update written by Joseph

Harris wakes up in bed with Stephanie and wonders what he has done..

Nicole joins EJ in the living room of the DiMera Mansion and tells him that she’s going for a walk around the lake to get some fresh air. EJ offers to go with her but Nicole assures that she will be fine on her own as she is feeling a bit better this morning. Nicole admits last night was hard but says now that she knows their baby is at peace, she is at peace too. Nicole says she will be back soon and kisses EJ. EJ tells her to have fun and sits down with his phone as Nicole exits the mansion. Nicole stops and looks at the spot where she and EJ scattered the ashes and thinks back to last night.

Eric and Sloan are woken up by Jude crying. Eric starts to get up but Sloan stops him and says he did all the changing and needs his sleep. Sloan decides taking Jude for a walk might put him to sleep so she brings him to the stroller. Sloan tells Eric that she will stop by the bakery for coffee and donuts. Sloan then takes Jude and exits as Eric tries to go back to sleep.

Leo sleeps on a park bench until he’s woken up by kids throwing something at him. Leo complains that they ruined a great dream where an evil demon was about to get her comeuppance. Leo declares that she will get it in real life because Sloan has it coming and it’s going to come on hard.

Sloan walks through the town square with her baby Jude until she gets a call from Leo. Sloan asks what he wants. Leo responds that he wants her head on a platter. Sloan says she’s with the baby and can’t talk right now. Leo remarks that she means she’s with Nicole’s baby. Sloan repeats that it’s not a good time. Leo warns that it will be much worse if she doesn’t listen. Leo knows she already knows that Dimitri was sent to super max, so he doesn’t know when or if he will see him again. Sloan says she’s really sorry but there’s nothing she can do in a federal prison. Leo argues that she should’ve done something before he was sent there because she promised that if he turned himself in, she would have the most serious charges dropped. Sloan tells Leo to stop yelling and asks what he wants from her. Leo says he already told her that he wants money and power which still won’t make up for the fact that he’s not with Dimitri, so he will hate her for the rest of his life. Sloan gets that he’s upset but says she needs time to figure things out. Leo threatens to put it out to the world that the baby’s real parents are Nicole and EJ. Sloan pleads with him. Leo warns to get him everything he requested or he will make sure she is suffering the same pain that he is suffering right now. Leo then hangs up.

Marlena and Roman sit together at the Brady Pub, talking about how they’ve never seen Eric so happy. Marlena calls it wonderful to have a new grandchild. Roman jokes about going through the toy store daily. They relate to scrolling through pictures of the baby. Marlena talks about having so much to look forward to. Marlena knows they were skeptical in the beginning about the relationship since Eric had broken up with Nicole and they had their concerns about Sloan, but she thinks they are going to do all they can to make this relationship work. Roman states that they are a family now, so he hopes they can for the baby. Marlena hopes they can really enjoy the happiness that a new baby brings.

Sloan gets baby Jude to fall asleep. Sloan looks through her purse and realizes she left her wallet at the Bakery. Sloan leaves Jude in his stroller and goes back to the Bakery to get her wallet. After she walks away, someone appears in black gloves and steals the stroller. Sloan returns and begins to panic, shouting for help as someone stole her baby.

Harris gets upset by a text message which wakes up Stephanie. Stephanie wakes up confused, questioning what happened. Harris tells her that they can talk later as he has to go to the police station because there’s been a baby abduction.

Eric is woken up by a phone call from Sloan, who tells him that the baby is gone. Sloan cries that someone took him after she took her eyes off of him for five seconds. Sloan tells Eric that she’s in the town square and someone stole their baby boy.

Marlena tells Roman that she wonders how Sloan will handle everything with her career. Roman states that he can’t see Sloan giving that up as she’s very ambitious and driven, but raising an infant is a very demanding job. Marlena gets a call from Eric and says they were just talking about him. Eric informs her that Jude has been kidnapped.

EJ remains at home when he gets an alert on his phone about another missing baby.

Rafe and Harris walk through the town square. Rafe says he’ll get Sloan’s statement while Harris interviews witnesses. Sloan cries for Rafe to help her and explains that she left her baby in the stroller as she went in to the Bakery for five seconds and when she came back out, he was gone. Sloan cries asking where her baby is as Rafe hugs her. Eric then arrives and hugs Sloan, asking what’s going on. Sloan explains that she went back to the Bakery to get her wallet and questions what kind of mother leaves her baby. Eric tells her to calm down and answer Rafe’s questions. Rafe asks if she saw anyone nearby. Sloan cries that she didn’t and says she was on the phone with a coffee in her other hand so she was distracted. Sloan talks about how Jude had just went to sleep she didn’t want to wake him up and left him alone. Harris comes over and says he interviewed a few people but they didn’t see anything. Harris asks if Sloan has any idea who might have done this. Sloan claims she doesn’t know anybody. Eric asks to talk to Rafe so they step aside. Eric tells Rafe that he hates to even think it, but brings up Nicole once taking Sami’s baby. Rafe says he will head to the DiMera Mansion now to talk to her.

EJ calls Nicole and leaves a message, saying she must be having a nice walk as she’s been gone a long time. EJ suggests they have brunch when she gets back and asks her to check in as he’s getting a bit worried.

Stephanie comes downstairs at the Pub and sneaks out the back door which Leo sees as he enters the Pub with the baby stroller. Leo calls that interesting, questioning why Stephanie would spend the night at the Pub.

Stephanie runs in to Tripp in the park and tells him that she had a rough night and did something really stupid. Tripp asks if she wants to talk about it since his shift doesn’t start for awhile. Stephanie calls that kind of him but says it’s kind of fuzzy so she doesn’t want to get into it. Stephanie adds that she has a massive headache and a wicked hangover. Stephanie asks if Tripp has a cure to recommend. Tripp brings up a smoothie that Wendy swears by but Stephanie feels that will make it worse. Stephanie says that’s enough about her stupidity and asks how Tripp has been. Tripp says he’s been good and working long hours. Tripp mentions that Steve told him that she was moving back in with he and Kayla. Stephanie complains about Steve telling everyone everything. Tripp points out that he is her brother, so he should know these things. Stephanie agrees and apologizes as she just feels awful about it. Tripp asks what made her move out of her place with Chad since Steve didn’t give him the details on that. Stephanie informs him that Chad was insanely jealous of her ex, Everett, who came to Salem, sort of to find her but also for a job at the Spectator. Stephanie explains that she and Everett started working together and Chad didn’t like that, so he bought Gwen’s half of the paper just to fire Everett. Tripp calls that pretty extreme and crappy. Stephanie says for her, it was the last straw.

EJ answers the door at the DiMera Mansion to see Rafe. Rafe asks if Nicole is there and says he’s called but it’s gone straight to voicemail. EJ informs him that she went for a walk and asks how he can help. Rafe mentions the kidnapping which EJ says he saw the alert. Rafe informs him that it was Eric and Sloan’s baby that was taken from the town square. EJ is shocked and says they just saw them last night. Rafe asks if he has any idea when Nicole will be back. EJ says he’s not sure but questions if Nicole is a suspect in the kidnapping. Rafe says he’s just trying to find the baby. EJ questions if he thinks Nicole is capable of this when they just scattered the ashes of their baby last night. EJ states that for the first time, Nicole is at peace and went to give Eric and Sloan a gift last night, to say sorry for the pain she caused. Rafe says he’s glad she’s at peace but he still needs to talk to her. EJ argues that Nicole doesn’t need this right now as she’s been through enough already and declares that she had nothing to do with the kidnapping. EJ yells at Rafe to go find the actual culprit and leave them the hell alone.

Sloan and Eric meet Roman and Marlena at the police station. Sloan asks them not to judge her as she knows she shouldn’t have left her baby alone. Marlena encourages that no one is blaming her and she doesn’t want her to blame herself. Marlena says the important thing is finding the baby and that should be everyone’s focus right now. Harris sits with Sloan and says they will be posting photos up everywhere. Sloan doesn’t understand how a baby just disappears and cries that she turned her back for just a few seconds. Leo then arrives at the station with the stroller. Sloan can’t believe it was him. Leo then claims that he just found the stroller in an alley but there was no baby inside. Leo claims he wishes he had found her baby since she’s his lawyer and got him out of jail, so he owes her everything.

Rafe understands that EJ has been through his own personal Hell in losing his son but clarifies that he’s not accusing Nicole of anything and just needs to talk to her. Rafe tells EJ to just be rational and that he’s just doing his job. EJ says okay but points out that Nicole is not around. EJ remembers putting a locator on her phone and uses it to find out where she is. EJ then discovers that her phone is still in the house which means she left it and that’s why she’s not answering his calls. Rafe points out that Nicole’s car is still in the driveway which EJ notes doesn’t make sense since she said she was going to the lake and she would’ve had to have driven there. Rafe points out that the lake is next to the town square. EJ repeats that Nicole did not kidnap that child. EJ asks where Nicole would’ve taken him without a vehicle. EJ tells Rafe to focus on trying to find Nicole instead. EJ wonders why she left her phone and where the hell she could’ve disappeared to.

Tripp tells Stephanie that he’s so sorry for what she’s going through. Tripp questions Chad feeling so threatened by Everett that he’d resort to getting him fired. Stephanie doesn’t think Chad would be as threatened if they weren’t already having serious problems. Tripp didn’t know that as they seemed so happy together. Stephanie responds that they were, but Chad’s still grieving Abigail and still thinks of her as the love of his life. Tripp knows that had to be very tough on her which Stephanie confirms. Stephanie adds that she just found out a couple days ago that before the accident, Everett was going to propose and bought an engagement ring for her, so when he came to Salem, he thought he’d put it on her finger but she was with Chad. Tripp asks if now she thinks she and Everett might get back together now that she and Chad have broken up or if she’s hoping that she and Chad can work things out.

Harris thanks Leo and says he’ll have the stroller dusted for prints. Harris tells Leo to let him know if he remembers anything to help find the baby. Leo remarks that he’s so sorry about this turn of events and says he’ll be praying for all of them as he leaves the station. Sloan claims she needs to go freshen up, so she exits. Eric tells Roman and Marlena to go home and rest, but Roman doesn’t think they will rest much until they find the baby. Marlena encourages Eric to stay positive as she hugs him. Eric says he’ll keep them posted if he hears anything. Roman encourages that they will find the baby as he hugs Eric. Roman and Marlena then exit together.

Sloan confronts Leo in the interrogation room, accusing him of stealing her baby to get her to concede to his blackmail demands. Leo questions how that makes sense when he brought the stroller in. Sloan argues that he’s trying to deflect suspicion from himself. Leo insists that he brought the evidence in so that the child could be found. Leo adds that if Sloan really thought he had the baby, she would’ve told the police that and explained what his motive would be, but she couldn’t do that because then she’d have to admit it’s not her baby and her entire world would be blown up. Sloan declares that she’s done talking to him. Leo remarks that she’s not fit to be a mother, calling her mean and selfish. Leo adds that maybe he does know where the baby is. Sloan demands Leo tell her. Leo asks why he should tell her when he asks and asks but doesn’t receive. Sloan asks what he wants. Leo says a place to live would be nice along with a boyfriend and savings account. Leo warns that all he has is her dirty little secret which he can blow out of the water any time he chooses. Leo tells her that the clock is ticking and then storms out.

EJ tells Rafe that the servants are searching the house for Nicole’s phone but there’s no sign of it yet. Rafe adds that he made some calls and she didn’t take public transportation. EJ notes that her clothes are still there. EJ knows Rafe is thinking it’s too much of a coincidence that Nicole and the baby went missing at the same time, especially given Nicole’s history. EJ insists that someone must have taken Nicole to get to him, suggesting Clyde Weston or Ava. EJ tells Rafe to find his wife and bring her back to him. Rafe assures that he’s doing his damndest and decides he’ll try to have Wendy geo locate her. Rafe says he’ll be in touch and exits. EJ wonders where Nicole could be. EJ then looks over at the tunnels and wonders if it’s possible, so he goes to enter the secret passage.

Stephanie tells Tripp that she’s really worried about Chad’s kids, Thomas and Charlotte, as she loves them so much and they already lost their mom so suddenly and tragically. Stephanie says they didn’t love her in the same way, but she knows she was like a mother figure to them. Tripp tells Stephanie that she has to do what feels right for her and no one else. Tripp knows the kids will be really sad for awhile but encourages that they will be okay. Tripp goes over Stephanie finding out that Everett hadn’t ghosted her and planned to propose, but she stayed with Chad. Stephanie assures that she loved Chad and that she would be fickle to fall out love with him and in with someone else. Tripp asks if she’s talked to Chad. Stephanie explains that he came to see her last night but Alex was there and Chad jumped to the wrong conclusion and acted like a jerk, so she left the two of them there. Stephanie thinks back to kissing Harris. Tripp asks her what happened. Stephanie says she had too much to drink and that’s how she ended up in the state she’s in. Tripp says Chad showed up so he must have had something to say and asks if she wants to know what that was. Tripp suggests she call Chad and talk to him. Tripp says they are both really good people and seemed to have something great going on, so he encourages her not to throw it away so easily. Stephanie thanks him for the brotherly advice. Tripp wants her to be happy and tells her to take care of herself which means no drinking tonight. Tripp says he has to get to work as they hug. Tripp then walks away. Stephanie then pulls out her phone and calls Everett. Stephanie asks how he’s doing and says she hoped they could grab a coffee.

Rafe returns to the police station and tells Harris that there’s no news on the baby and no luck at the DiMera Mansion while now Nicole is missing. Harris asks if he thinks Nicole took the baby. Rafe says he would suspect that but her car is still at the house along with her clothes and her phone.

EJ goes down the tunnels to the wine cellar searching for Nicole.

Sloan paces in the interrogation room and thinks back to arguing with Leo on the phone. Sloan tells herself that Leo took the baby to blackmail her, so now she has to tell them the truth as she exits the room. Eric tells Sloan that he was getting worried and asks what’s going on. Sloan tells Eric that there is something she needs to tell him.

EJ enters the wine cellar and finds Nicole with the baby. Nicole tells EJ that she’s so sorry as he hugs her.

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Days Transcript Thursday, December 14, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

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Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

[peaceful music]

[gasps] Oh! There she is! How’s my little girl?

Out like a light, which will switch back on at any moment if we’re not quiet.

Aw. I don’t care. Oh God, I missed her so much. It’s really hard to be away from her for two days.

Yeah, it’s hard for me, too, knowing that I’m not going to see her for the next two days.

[sighs] Though… I do look forward to setting eyes on her mum for the hand offs.

I did. I sent your prescription over to your pharmacy, but I’d like you not to rely on that. I’d like you to try some of the meditation apps we talked about. Good. That’d be great. Okay, then I will– I will see you next week. Bye-bye.

[phone beeps]

[door opens]

Surprise!

[soft dramatic music]

[chuckles]

Okay, that was great. For a newbie, you’re definitely going to make your school fencing team.

Well I owe it all to my excellent teacher. You will keep coaching me, won’t you?

Yeah, of course, of course, are you kidding? It’ll be great to have a zealous opponent in the house.

[laughs]

Um–I’m going to grab us some waters.

Olé!

Oh! Hey, hey, that’ll teach me to turn my back on you.

Mm-hmm.

[upbeat jazzy music]

Now, Mama, which one of these do you think? This one or this one?

Well, I’m sure you’ll look beautiful in both. What’s the occasion?

Johnny and I are going to dinner at the Bistro.

Oh, you and Johnny sure are spending a lot of time together these days.

[chuckles]

Yeah, we are.

Oh. Oh, I know that look. I hope you’re not getting serious too fast. And you know, I like him. I like Johnny. But I think you need to guard your heart a little bit more.

Okay, Mama, Johnny and I have been very open and honest with each other about everything that’s happened, and we both think that there’s something still there between us, and it may be something that is worth fighting for.

Mm.

[sighs]

And–oh, drumroll please.

[laughter]

[hands drumming on table] Johnny is planning a surprise for what would have been our second anniversary.

Oh, surprise? What kind of surprise?

Well, it wouldn’t be a surprise if I knew, now, would it? But I can’t wait! Oh, I just–it feels so good to put all the drama and dark days behind.

[soft dramatic music]

Mmm.

You didn’t even want dessert, and then you said you were only going to have one bite.

Well, you’re just discovering this about me now?

[laughter] I do this all the time. Stop it.

[chuckles] You’re right. I’m a slow learner.

Yes, you are.

[chuckles]

Mmm.

Oh, it warms my heart to see you smile, Nicole.

I must say, um– bringing that baby gift over to Eric and Sloan’s, it did lift my spirits.

[chuckles] I’m glad. I… I hope you know how much I admire your strength and resilience.

Thank you. I am starting to feel like I’m coming out of the dark a little.

[EJ chuckles]

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

Well, thank you for bringing Victoria to the hospital. It saves me a trip to your place.

Oh, it’s no problem. And you know you’re welcome there anytime.

[soft dramatic music]

A-anything I should know?

Oh, yeah. She slept through the night.

Stop. She did not.

A full seven hours straight. It counts in my book.

She never does that for me! What’s your secret?

Well, it’s actually kind of embarrassing, and I don’t know for sure that has anything to do with why she slept so long.

No. Come on, tell me.

Okay. I sang her a Scottish lullaby.

That’s so sweet!

[laughs] And it lulled her to sleep?

Well, either that or it was so bad that she just couldn’t take it anymore and passed out.

[laughs]

The lyrics are a call to the angels to protect the child from evil fairies that are trying to kidnap her.

I’m definitely going to have to learn that one.

[laughs] God, I hope she does sleep through the night tonight. We had…

[sighs] We had three ODs and a head-on collision, so I am wiped.

Well I’m here to help, Sarah. Any time you want it, just say the word, whatever you need. I’m here for you.

[soft dramatic music]

Oh, what a nice surprise!

There she is!

What are you doing here?

Well, I got your text that you were going to be working late, so I just thought I’d swing by and see if I can get you dinner or maybe something else you need?

I need more time in my day.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. No, I understand that it’s just so doggone hard for you to say no to people who need your help. But honey, come on, sometimes you need to–

I need a balance. I know, I know. I’ve got to find the balance…

Yeah.

Between my patients’ needs and my needs.

Oh, there you go.

But it’s so difficult this time of year. Oh, people are so depressed. They’re-they’re anxious. People are struggling with addiction. They’re– they’re self-medicating. It’s just hard. And some people find it an impossible season, and other people find it simply joyous.

[John sighs]

You know, it is pretty festive in here. Maybe we should have gotten a tree. I do have to remember all the things that I am grateful for, especially Holly. She deserves a good birthday and a Merry Christmas. I just I haven’t been there for her much lately.

I’m sure she understands.

But she’s a kid. How much could a kid understand what an adult is going through? I am glad that she’s had Johnny to lean on, but he’s much older. I just wish she would get out there and hang out with kids her own age.

Well Johnny did mention that there’s something brewing between Holly and Tate.

Really? Hmm. She’s got her eye on Tate, huh? Hmm.

Thank you.

Mm-hmm. Ah, that was invigorating. I’m actually kind of sore. I guess I must have worked out some muscles I haven’t used in a while. You know what? I’m going to add some scotch to this. Why not?

I’ll take some too.

[laughs] Yeah, right. Maybe in about five years?

[phone beeps]

[soft suspenseful music]

[sighs] Well, I don’t know about you, but I really worked up an appetite. What do you say we order in?

Mm, that sounds great, but I’m actually headed out tonight. I’m taking Chanel to dinner at the Bistro.

Hmm.

Oh, thank you, baby. Oh, I swear, I couldn’t even muster up the strength to walk to the kitchen myself.

[sighs]

Mm.

[sighs] So how is Abe doing, Mama? Is his memory coming back?

No. Although I did–I invited him to join us for Christmas, and he said yes.

Okay! Well that’s good, I’m glad. Oh, you know what? I’m going to invite Johnny too, and then we have Eli and Lani and the twins coming home. Oh my God, this is going to be the best Christmas ever.

[soft dramatic music] What is it, Mama?

[sighs] Chanel, honey… I’m afraid I have some bad news.

What is it, Mama?

[sighs] I called Eli today.

[soft dramatic music] Well, Lani’s release has been delayed. Some nonsense about paperwork being backlogged. Oh, he doesn’t think she’ll be processed out before Christmas.

Are you serious?

[sighs] That is some BS.

I know. I’m no stranger to bureaucratic backlogs, but for that to keep a person in prison when they should be free? Oh, keep your sister away from her family for this time of year?

[sniffles] It’s wrong! It’s-it’s-it’s so wrong!

[crying]

Oh, Mama.

[shushing gently]

You know, our parents are going to the Bistro tonight. Might be a little weird to be on a hot date with Chanel with them right there in the room.

[chuckles] Yeah.

Maybe you can go another night?

I don’t really mind my dad and Nicole being there. Besides, they’ll probably be done by the time we get there anyway.

Mm.

Hey, maybe you could, I don’t know, call Tate, hang out with him. He’s a pretty good kid.

Yeah. But boys his age, all they can think about is one thing. I prefer a guy who’s a little more mature.

Oh shoot. Um, you know what? I got to hop in the shower. I’m going to be late. I’ll see you later. Oh. Good work.

Mm-hmm.

[jazzy mischievous music]

[sighs]

[sighing] Wow, what a beautiful night.

There is only one beautiful thing I see.

[both chuckle]

Ooh. Nicole, look.

[soft upbeat music]

[both sigh] both: Aw.

[Nicole chuckles]

You know, I’ve been holding on to this all day long, waiting for you to come home so I could give it to you. But you know what I was thinking? Maybe you’d like to keep this in your office?

[gasps] Oh, no!

[laughs]

Oh, wow. Boy, that makes it all worthwhile, doesn’t it? I’m just so– I’m so happy for Eric and– you know, so–

Grandkids are the best, aren’t they, Doc?

Eric had the baby at the hospital the other day.

Ah, for the DNA test.

Yeah.

Mm.

I mean, I-I-I feel for Nicole. It’s just that by claiming to be the baby’s mother, she’s caused so much upheaval.

Yeah, yeah, well you know, maybe with the results of the DNA test, you know, put all that to rest. You know, there’s no arguing with the cold, hard facts, are there?

Yeah, and I think she’s accepting it. I just hope that she gets the help she needs to see this thing through.

Mm.

[suspenseful music]

You know, Sarah, if you need more time to finish up here, I don’t mind hanging out for a bit.

No, I just signed out actually, so I’m all good to go. Gosh, she has changed so much in the two days. You know, she’s starting to look like you.

God, I hope not. I’d much rather her look like her mother.

Actually, I read this study that says fathers bond more with their children if they see a resemblance.

A load of nonsense. I’d bond with my child regardless of who she looked like.

[soft dramatic music]

So you don’t mind if her eyes turn brown?

Nothing would thrill me more than for our daughter to have your deep brown, beautiful eyes.

[chuckles softly] Um–

Sarah, I, um–

I–I have to just check on a patient really quick.

No, no, no, wait–

I’ll be right back, I’ll be right back.

[breathing deeply] It’s okay now. I’m fine.

You are not fine.

I’m just feeling overwhelmed today, between the news about Lani and work.

You know what? I am going to call Johnny and I’m going to tell him to come over. We are going to order in because I am not leaving you alone tonight.

Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. I am–I am fine. I’m fine. I feel better just getting it all out. You and Johnny you go have a nice evening. Ooh, I’m just going to go to that bed and just conk out. I’m so tired, I can barely hold my head up.

[soft dramatic music]

[sighs]

Are you sure?

I am positive. I just, you know, need a good night’s sleep. You go get ready. Go get ready for your date. Mm-hmm.

Okay.

[exhales deeply]

We never forget those who we’ve loved and lost. Especially our little angels.

[Marlena sighs]

[John sighs]

Marlena, are you– I am so sorry, I’m interrupting.

No, no, no. That’s all right, come in.

No truly, it can wait.

No, that’s not necessary. In fact, I was just going to get some coffee. Would you two like some?

No.

Okay, okay.

Thanks. All right. What’s going on?

I’m just– I’m terrified that I’m making a huge mistake.

Yes, you definitely look more like Sarah, don’t you? Go on.

[chuckles]

[indistinct chatter] Oh, hello.

[soft suspenseful music] Hey, um… tell me to get lost, but can I ask you for some advice?

All right.

Oh, okay.

Okay, calm down. I’ve got you. No-no peeking.

Don’t let me fall down.

I will not let you fall down. No peeking. Stop cheating.

I’m not peeking.

[laughing] I’m not peeking!

Okay, ready?

Yes.

And open your eyes.

[gasping] Wow! Wait, where did that come from?

I texted the staff when you were in the ladies room before we left the Bistro.

Oh, wait, is that why we drove around that neighborhood with all the Christmas lights?

Oh, partly.

Mm-hmm. Well, Santa’s little elves are going to get an extra holiday bonus.

[laughs]

Oh, thank you, EJ. It’s beautiful.

Mm.

[smooches]

Christmas tree?

Hey! Where’d this thing come from?

Uh, Santa’s elves were here.

All right.

I thought we weren’t doing the whole tree thing this year. Didn’t you cancel Christmas?

No, I didn’t cancel Christmas, I just thought I couldn’t do Christmas the way I normally do. And yes, since Christmas didn’t turn out the way I thought it would, I do know that I am incredibly blessed to have you in my life, my beautiful daughter, Holly. And–and that goes for you too, Johnny.

[chuckles]

My beautiful daughter.

Yes, yes.

[laughter]

And EJ.

[chuckles] And we have each other and we’re all here together as a family.

[smooching]

[Nicole chuckles]

[sighs] Uh… well, I hate to cut this lovely moment short, but I actually have a date with Chanel. So–

[groans]

Yeah, I have to go too. I’ve got my own plans.

Plans that’ll have you home by :, I’m sure?

Don’t worry Mom. Okay?

Mm-hmm.

Mm.

[Nicole chuckles]

Okay, bye.

Oh, you know what? I almost forgot. A package arrived for you today. It’s on the coffee table. Hand-delivered.

Oh.

See ya.

Okay.

Bye.

Bye.

I bet we’ve received our first gift to put under our beautiful tree.

[chuckles] Who’s it from?

[soft dramatic music]

Don’t worry, it’s not an–

That’s from the funeral home.

[exhales deeply]

Open it.

We don’t have to do this tonight, darling.

EJ, just open it, please. It’s his ashes. It’s our baby’s ashes.

[Nicole exhales deeply]

It’s happening. I’m doing it again.

What are you doing?

I’m allowing myself to get sucked in by Xander again. It’s like he has this electromagnetic pull. And I mean, how many years have he and I known each other? And yet every single time he looks into my eyes, my stomach does a triple back flip. And I just– you would think that I’d have learned my lesson by now. Because every time I let my guard down, I regret it. And now we have a child together, so the stakes are so much higher.

I’m glad you recognize that.

And then…

[soft dramatic music] We are–we work so great together now as friends, and we are we’re successfully co-parenting, and Xander is a wonderful father. So why would I want to change any of that? Maybe I should just stick to status quo.

Is that what you want to do?

[sighs]

I know it’s a bit out of the blue, me asking you for advice, but it’s just– you and Marlena have such a storied history. You’ve overcome tough times, reunited after being torn apart. Your relationship is the stuff of romantic legend. I–I was just hoping maybe you would be willing to give me some tips?

Tips?

Well, I’ve heard that you weren’t always the man you are today, that you… had your dalliance with the dark side. Most people here believe that I’m a bad person, myself included sometimes.

Well, personally I– I think you’re an ass. And a screw up. But I’m also a firm believer that people grow and change. Because I did.

[upbeat holiday music]

Hey!

Hey.

Hey, I’m glad you could make it. You look– you look great.

Thanks.

What happened to your other plans?

I decided I’d rather hang with you tonight.

Good choice. You’ll be glad you did. I’ve been given the basic black gold card.

Oh, so he says. Is that like the keys to the castle?

Yeah, pretty much. I could fly you to Paris. We could take a walk along that– that river, the um–

Seine?

Yes.

[laughter] Yes, or we could jet off to San Francisco and check out the holiday lights at the Fisherman’s Wharf. We could take a limo to Chi-Town and wander through Christkindlmarket. Whatever you want.

Yeah, no that– that all sounds cool but I can’t just jet off somewhere. I mean, I have to be close to my mom now with everything that’s been happening. So let’s just have dinner at the Bistro?

Okay, but, uh, not too exciting.

It will give us something to work our way up to. You know, for next time.

Right.

[chuckles] They just reopened, and I hear they have a new menu. I’d kill for a shrimp cocktail.

Whatever you want. The sky is the limit.

[laughter]

[sighs] What looks good? I meant from the menu.

[both chuckle] What are they doing here? This isn’t exactly a hopping teen hangout.

Huh. You’d think she would have mentioned that to me when I told her we were coming here.

Wait, you told her we were coming here? Well, that would explain it.

Okay, come on. I thought that we had finally accepted the fact that you were wrong about her having a crush on me.

Yeah, well, so did I. But now, I’ve got to say I’m not % convinced.

Well, I am convinced. All right? She’s like my little sister, okay? And she’s on a date with Tate. I think you’re reading way too much into this.

Every time I feel like there’s light at the end of the tunnel, there’s another blow. I mean just tonight, I feel like maybe there’s a chance for me to move on and move forward, and maybe I could go back to work. But now, no, I can’t EJ, I can’t do it.

Darling, Nicole, look at me.

[soft dramatic music] Maybe this is God’s way of helping us.

[Nicole sighs softly] By showing us a way to have a– a sense of closure. By laying our darling boy to rest. If you want, I could arrange a service. We could inter him in the DiMera mausoleum surrounded by family.

[sighs] No. I just want it to be the two of us. And I want to spread his ashes somewhere where he feels close by.

I know the perfect place.

[somber music]

No. No, that’s not what I want at all. I mean, how could I ever be just friends with Xander? There’s so much history between us.

Does he feel the same way?

I think so. I mean, I’m getting all the familiar signals. And I know what you’re going to say.

You do?

[laughing] yes.

What am I going to say?

You’re going to tell me to make a mental checklist of all the pros and cons of us getting back together, which I’ve already done.

Good for you.

[sighs]

So clearly, you’re aware of the situation. You’re checking on your feelings. You’ve looked into the past history. Sounds to me like you’re taking this very seriously.

Yeah, I am. Thank you for listening, Marlena.

Absolutely.

I wish I knew what the future held.

Well, of course if you did, that would make decisions like this so much easier, wouldn’t it?

[chuckles]

There is something that I would like to suggest for you. Do what you can to stay in the moment. You’ve got such an amazing life right now. You’ve got a baby girl. Just enjoy her, because it goes so fast.

[soft dramatic music]

Xander, you and Sarah have created a beautiful child together. You need to do right by that child, which means for you, you got to turn over a new leaf. And this time for good, not just for your sake, but especially– especially for Sarah and little Victoria.

Sorry. I’m interrupting again.

Oh, not at all. I was just telling this new father here what a precious little daughter he has.

Thank you. We think so.

And I’m going to go see if Marlena is ready to go also, so why don’t you three enjoy your evening?

Thanks, John.

Hey, I was wondering if maybe you might be okay with, um, me walking you and Victoria home?

Um… I would like that very much.

You know what? Let’s just–let’s forget about them, okay? And everybody else in this restaurant. I just want, tonight, to be focused on us. So how was your day?

It was actually really crazy. I think I’m going to get carpal tunnel from all the Christmas cookies that I’m decorating.

Well, I’d offer to help. But I am artistically challenged, as you know.

Oh, you’re creative in your own way, Mr. Movie Director.

What about your mom? Can she help?

I can’t ask Mama for anything right now. She’s even more exhausted than I am with Abe and her job and Lani.

What’s going on with Lani?

Her prison release is being delayed, so she’s not going to be home in time for Christmas, and Mama was really excited to have the whole family together, so she’s pretty down about it.

Maybe I could ask my dad to pull some strings.

Your dad is the DA of Salem, so I don’t think there’s anything that he can do. Lani is in federal prison in DC.

Eh, I don’t know. My dad always says never underestimate the DiMeras. We have our ways.

You’re not eating your shrimp cocktail.

I–I know what’s going on, you know.

What?

[sighs] I-I quite literally offered you the entire world, and you choose the Bistro because of– because of him.

Come on. I had no idea that he was going to be here, okay?

[chuckles]

Well, if there’s anything that you can do to help Lani get released, go for it. Mama’s connections obviously don’t spread as far as they need to, and so I’m sure she could use all the help she could get.

Hey, I’m happy to help my former mother-in-law. Especially because… you never know when your former might be your future.

[soft dramatic music]

[EJ sighs]

What about this? Will this work?

Yes. It’s perfect. It’s beautiful. EJ, would you mind going inside and getting my scarf? I’m a little cold.

Of course. Be right back.

Okay.

[soft dramatic music]

[Nicole sighs] Lord, um… I know it’s been a while since I’ve checked in with You, and I’m sure You’re not thrilled with all the sins I’ve committed and all the people I’ve hurt… but I’m asking for Your forgiveness. And I pray that You give me the strength to heal. But most importantly, I beg You to look after my precious boy until the day, by Your grace, that we reunite. Amen.

[sniffles I will see you again, my angel. And your brother and your sister. And until then, you– you will be here always, in my heart.

[door closes]

[Nicole sniffles]

Sorry darling, it took me a minute to find it.

It’s okay.

[sighs]

Beautiful.

[sighs] Are we ready?

[sighs] Oh, God.

[crying]

[sniffles and exhales deeply]

Okay, I’m back.

Oh, hi. There you are. Hi, nice to see you.

I just saw that Sarah left, and I’m hoping that you’re ready to do the same.

Oh, sweetheart, I’ve got a lot of paperwork–

No, no, no, no. I think that you’re finished for today.

Oh, you’re the one who’s in charge of my workflow. I get it.

No, Doc, I’m not in charge of anything you do. But if you decide to come home with me right now, you will discover that I have a few surprises waiting for you.

[sighs] I’d be glad to come home with you.

[Marlena sighs] You’re my everything, Doc.

[soft dramatic music]

And you’re mine. Oh, we are so lucky.

[chuckles] Well, that was a disaster.

Epic proportions.

Do you think we scarred her for life?

Oh, no, I’m sure it’s a rite of passage to cry your eyes out on Santa’s lap during your first photo together.

Yeah, I guess so. And hey, remember Mickey did the same thing?

[chuckles]

You’d think we would learn from the past or something.

Maybe we have.

[soft upbeat holiday music]

Maybe we have.

Oh, my God, Xander, look at that beautiful dollhouse!

Oh, that is fantastic, isn’t it? There’s little bits of furniture in there. There’s even artwork on the walls.

And a bookshelf with teeny-weeny books! both: I’m going to buy it for her.

No, no, no, you– you should buy it for her for–for Christmas.

No, it’s all right. You should get it.

We could both get it for her. It could be from Mom and Da?

I’d like that very much.

Yeah, I would too. Obviously she’s too small to play with it, but we could put it in her room. As a symbol of family.

Do you think I’m stupid or something?

No, of course not. I–

Yeah, well, I think that you do, okay? And I’m done with you using me to get closer to Johnny. I cannot wait to get back to school.

Do you really have to go back?

Beats living here. What do you care anyway?

Well, it’s just that not that many people in Salem really get me, like friends and stuff, you know.

So what? You’re saying you actually like having me around?

A little. But you did say you would help me with Johnny though. Just saying.

Yeah, well, now I’m just saying that I won’t, Not anymore. And you know what, Holly? You need to wake up. It’s never going to happen between you two. It’s just some crazy fantasy.

Really? Is that why he spent almost two hours teaching me fencing today?

He looks at you like a sister, Holly. And that’s all you’ll ever be to him. And not to mention that he’s too old. Like two to ten in the pen old.

[sighs]

You know what? I’m out of here.

You may have forgotten that there are certain perks to marrying into a rich and powerful family.

Oh, and you may have forgotten that I come from a rich and powerful family myself. One with a rich, powerful single mother at least. And I have to say I’ve grown a lot since I came to Salem, and I realized that it’s not material things that make me happy. You know, I need to be courted, romanced, wooed,

Mm. Wooed, huh?

Mm-hmm.

So what you’re saying is you don’t necessarily need to live like a queen, you just need to be treated like one.

[chuckles] Yeah, something like that.

Well then, Queen Chanel, I metaphorically bow down to you, as you are the ruler of my heart.

[smooching]

There you are, my darling. This should warm us up.

Thank you.

Are you all right?

I think so. Being outside under the stars, it gave me a sense of peace.

I like to think our little boy is one of those stars shining down on us.

Oh, EJ. I think he’s closer than that. What’s that?

Oh. Here, give me that.

Oh, okay.

Open it.

[sighs] Aw.

[soft dramatic music] EJ.

[gasps and sighs] How?

I ordered it for you yesterday.

Oh, my God. If I haven’t told you already, I don’t know how I would have gotten through this without you.

I feel the same way about you. Shall we hang it on the tree?

Yeah.

[somber music] Okay.

Mm. Every year, we’ll hang this ornament together, for our son.

And we will never, ever forget him.

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Days Update Thursday, December 14, 2023

Days of Our Lives Update

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Update written by Joseph

Xander brings baby Victoria to the hospital which excites Sarah, who says she missed her so much and that it’s hard to be away from her for two days. Xander relates to it being hard for him too to be away from her for the next two days, but admits he likes seeing Sarah.

Marlena is in her office and finishes a call with a patient. John then arrives to surprise her.

Johnny and Holly come in to the DiMera Mansion after practicing fencing. Holly credits Johnny for being her teacher. Johnny goes to get them some water as Holly smiles at him.

Chanel asks Paulina which dress she should wear as she and Johnny are going to dinner at the Bistro. Paulina comments on them spending a lot of time together these days. Paulina hopes they are not getting too serious too fast. Paulina likes Johnny but thinks Chanel needs to guard her heart a bit more. Chanel states that they have been very honest about everything that’s happened and they both think there is something between them that may be worth fighting for. Chanel then informs her that Johnny is planning a surprise for what would’ve been their second anniversary and she can’t wait. Chanel declares that it feels so good to put all the drama and dark days behind.

Nicole and EJ eat together at the Bistro. EJ jokes about Nicole not wanting dessert but then eating it. EJ says it warms his heart to see her smile. Nicole admits that bringing a baby gift to Eric and Sloan did lift her spirits. EJ tells her that he admires her strength and resilience. Nicole admits she’s starting to feel like she’s coming out of the dark a little.

Sarah thanks Xander for bringing Victoria to the hospital and saving her a trip. Xander mentions her being welcome to come over any time. Xander adds that Victoria slept through the night which surprises Sarah. She asks what his secret is. Xander admits he sang a Scottish lullaby which she calls so sweet and jokes that she will have to learn that. Sarah talks about being wiped out from work. Xander says he’s there to help and for whatever she needs.

John says he got Marlena’s text that she’s working late so he came to see if she wanted dinner or anything else. Marlena wishes she had more time in the day. John understands it’s hard for her to say no to people who need her help. Marlena knows she needs to find a balance between her patients’ needs and her needs, but says it’s so hard at this time of year because people are depressed, anxious, and struggling.

Nicole wonders if they should’ve got a Christmas tree and says she needs to remember to be grateful for what she does have like Holly. Nicole feels Holly deserve a good birthday and Christmas and she hasn’t been there for her. EJ is sure she understands. Nicole comments that Holly is a kid and wonders how much a kid can really understand what an adult is going through. Nicole adds that she is glad that Holly has had Johnny to lean on, but he’s older so she wishes that Holly would get out and hang out with people her age. EJ mentions that Johnny said something about something brewing between Holly and Tate which surprises Nicole.

Johnny adds some scotch to his water. Holly jokes that she’ll take some too but Johnny says maybe in about five years. Holly then gets a text from Tate, asking if they are on for tonight. Holly responds not tonight because she has plans. Holly suggests she and Johnny order food but Johnny informs her that he’s taking Chanel to dinner at the Bistro.

Paulina tells Chanel that she couldn’t muster up the strength to walk to the kitchen. Chanel asks if Abe’s memory is coming back. Paulina says no, but she did invite him to join them for Christmas and he said yes. Chanel is glad to hear. Chanel decides she’ll invite Johnny too and if they have Eli, Lani, and the kids coming home, it will be the best Christmas ever. Paulina then informs Chanel that she has some bad news. Paulina reveals that she called Eli today and found out that Lani’s release has been delayed because of paperwork being backlogged, so he doesn’t think she’ll be out before Christmas. Chanel calls that BS. Paulina complains about Lani being kept in prison when she should be free and being kept away from her family at this time of year. Paulina cries that it’s so wrong as Chanel hugs her.

Holly tells Johnny that EJ and Nicole are going to the Bistro tonight, so it might be a little weird to have a hot date with Chanel when they are in the room, so maybe he could go another night. Johnny says he doesn’t mind EJ and Nicole being in the room and figures they’ll be done by the time he gets there anyway. Johnny suggests Holly call Tate and hang out with him, calling him a pretty good kid. Holly remarks that boys his age only think about one thing and she prefers a guy that’s more mature. Johnny says he has to shower or he’s going to be late, so he’ll see her later. Johnny then heads upstairs. Holly pulls out her phone and texts Tate that plans have changed and suggests they have dinner.

EJ and Nicole head home to the DiMera Mansion. Nicole calls it a beautiful night and EJ points out the mistletoe hung at the door, so they kiss.

John tells Marlena that he’s been waiting for her to come home to give this to her but decides maybe she wants to keep it in her office as he presents her with a framed photo of baby Jude. Marlena is excited and talks about being so happy for Eric and Sloan. Marlena mentions Eric having the baby at the hospital the other day for the DNA test. Marlena says she feels for Nicole but claiming to be the baby’s mother caused so much upheaval. John says maybe the DNA test put all that to rest since there’s no arguing with facts. Marlena thinks Nicole is accepting it, so she hopes she gets the help that she needs to see this through.

Xander tells Sarah that he can hang out for a bit if she needs more time to finish up. Sarah informs him that she just signed out so she is good to go. Sarah comments that Victoria is starting to look like Xander. Xander jokes that he’d rather her look like Sarah. Sarah holds Xander’s hand but then pulls away and says she has to check on a patient real quick so she’ll be right back.

Paulina tells Chanel that she’s fine and just feeling overwhelmed between the news about Lani and work. Chanel decides she will call Johnny to come over so they can order in because she doesn’t want to leave Paulina alone. Paulina insists that she’s fine and tells Chanel to go out with Johnny and have a nice evening while she goes to bed because she’s so tired. Chanel asks if she’s sure. Paulina says she’s positive that she just needs a good night sleep and tells Chanel to go get ready for her date.

John tells Marlena that they never forget those they loved and lost, especially the little angels as he hugs her. Sarah walks in and hopes she’s not interrupting but they tell her to come in. John offers to get them coffee as he steps out. Marlena asks Sarah what’s going on. Sarah responds that she’s just terrified that she’s making a huge mistake.

Xander talks to baby Victoria about her looking more like Sarah. John approaches, so Xander greets him but John just walks on to the coffee. Xander goes to John and says he can tell him to get lost, but asks if he can ask him for advice.

EJ brings Nicole in to the living room where he surprises her with a Christmas tree, explaining that he had the staff set it up while they were out. Nicole says they will have to get an extra holiday bonus. Nicole thanks EJ and says it’s beautiful. Holly and Johnny come back in, surprised to see the Christmas tree. Holly thought they weren’t doing that this year and that Nicole cancelled Christmas. Nicole says she didn’t and explains that she just thought she couldn’t do Christmas like they normally do this year and admits that this Christmas didn’t turn out like she thought it would, but she knows she is incredibly blessed to have Holly in her life along with Johnny and EJ. Nicole declares that they have each other and they are all together as a family. Johnny hates to cut the moment short but says he has a date with Chanel. Holly mentions that she has her own plans too. Nicole tells her to be home by 10. Johnny remembers that a package was hand delivered today and points it out on the coffee table. Johnny and Holly then exit. EJ bets they got their first Christmas present and goes to look but finds out that it’s from the funeral home. EJ says they don’t have to do this but Nicole asks him to just open it. Nicole pulls out the box that is believed to be their baby’s ashes.

Sarah tells Marlena that she’s allowing herself to get sucked in by Xander again. Sarah talks about how many years they’ve known each other and how her stomach feels when he looks in to her eyes. Sarah says she would think she learned her lesson after always regretting letting her guard down, but now they have a child together so the stakes are so much higher. Sarah points out that they work so great together as friends and are successfully co-parenting. Sarah asks why she would change any of that and wonders if she should just stick to the status quo. Marlena asks if that’s what she wants to do.

Xander tells John that he knows asking him for advice is out of the blue but talks about how John and Marlena have been through so much, reunited after being torn apart, and their history is the stuff of romantic legend. Xander hoped maybe John would be willing to give him some tips since he’s heard that John wasn’t always the man he is today and had his dalliance with the dark side. Xander says that most people think he’s a bad person, including himself sometimes. John admits he thinks Xander is an ass and a screw-up, but he’s also a firm believer that people grow and change because he did.

Holly joins Tate in the town square. Tate says he’s glad she could make it and she looks great. Tate asks what happened to her other plans. Holly claims that she decided she’d rather hang out with him. Tate tells her that she’ll be glad she did and mentions having the Basic Black gold card. Tate tells Holly they can do whatever she wants, joking that they could jet off to Paris or San Francisco or take a limo to Chicago. Holly sees Johnny and Chanel walking through the town square and then tells Tate that she can’t just jet off somewhere since she has to be close to her mom with everything that’s been happening. Holly then suggests they just have dinner at the Bistro. Tate feels that’s not too exciting. Holly claims they’ll work up to something for next time. Holly mentions hearing the Bistro just opened and has a new menu so she’d kill for a shrimp cocktail. Tate tells her whatever she wants as the sky is the limit and they walk off together.

Chanel and Johnny sit down for dinner at the Bistro. Tate and Holly then arrive. Chanel questions what they are doing here as this is not exactly a hopping teen hang out. Johnny figured Holly would’ve mentioned that when he told her they were coming. Chanel says that would explain it. Johnny thought they had finally accepted that Chanel was wrong about Holly having a crush on him. Chanel says she’s now not 100% convinced. Johnny insists that Holly is like his little sister and she’s on a date with Tate, so he thinks Chanel is reading too much in to this.

Nicole tells EJ that every time she feels like there’s light at the end of the tunnel, she gets another big blow. Nicole talks about how just tonight she was feeling better and like maybe she could go back to work but now she can’t do it. EJ tells Nicole that maybe this is God’s way of helping them, by showing them a way of having a sense of closure and laying their baby to rest. EJ offers to arrange a service in the DiMera Mausoleum, surrounded by family but Nicole says she wants it to just be the two of them and she wants to spread his ashes somewhere where he feels close by. EJ responds that he knows the perfect place.

Sarah tells Marlena that the status quo is not what she wants and questions how she could ever be just friends with Xander when there’s so much history between them. Marlena asks if he feels the same way. Sarah says she thinks so as she’s getting all the familiar signals. Sarah feels she knows Marlena will tell her to make a mental check list of the pros and cons of getting back together which she’s already done. Marlena states that she’s clearly aware of the situation so it sounds like she’s taking this very seriously. Sarah assures that she is and thanks her for listening. Sarah wishes she knew what the future held. Marlena suggests that Sarah do what she can to stay in the moment as she has an amazing life right now with a baby girl. Marlena encourages her to enjoy her baby because it goes so fast.

John tells Xander that he and Sarah have created a beautiful child together, so they need to do right by that child which means he has to turn over a new leaf and for good this time, not just for his sake but especially for Sarah and Victoria. Sarah comes over and apologizes for interrupting again. John says he was just telling Xander what a precious daughter he has. Sarah thanks him and agrees. John decides he will go see if Marlena is ready to go, so he tells them to enjoy their evening. Sarah thanks John as he walks away. Xander asks Sarah if she’d be okay with him walking her and Victoria home. Sarah responds that she would like that very much.

Johnny tells Chanel to just forget about Holly and Tate and everyone else in the restaurant as he just wants tonight to be focused on them. Johnny asks how her day was. Chanel says it was actually really crazy with all the Christmas cookies she was decorating at the Bakery. Johnny asks if Paulina can help. Chanel says Paulina is even more exhausted than she is with Abe, her job, and Lani’s prison release being delayed so she won’t be home for Christmas. Chanel says that Paulina was excited to have the whole family together, so she’s pretty down about it. Johnny offers to ask EJ to pull some strings. Chanel points out that EJ is the district attorney of Salem so she doesn’t think he can do anything about Lani being in federal prison in Washington DC. Johnny says he doesn’t know since EJ always says to never underestimate the DiMeras as they have their ways.

Holly and Tate sit down for dinner at the Bistro. Holly comments on Tate not eating. Tate angrily tells her that he knows what’s going on, complaining that he offered her anything in the world and she chose the Bistro because of Johnny. Holly claims that she had no idea he would be there.

Chanel tells Johnny that if there’s anything he could do to get Lani released, he can go for it since Paulina’s connections don’t spread as far as she needs and she could use any help she can get. Johnny responds that he’s happy to help his former mother-in-law, especially because she might be his future.

EJ and Nicole exit the DiMera Mansion with the box of what they believe is their baby’s ashes. EJ suggests a spot next to the mansion which Nicole calls perfect. Nicole asks EJ to go inside and get her scarf because she’s cold so he heads back inside. Nicole begins to talk to God and says she knows it’s been a while since she’s checked in and she’s sure he’s not thrilled with all the sins she’s committed and the people she’s hurt. Nicole asks for God’s forgiveness and prays that he gives her the strength to heal. Nicole begs him to look after her baby until the day they reunite. Nicole declares that she will see her baby again along with his brother and sister. Nicole cries that until then, he will always be in her heart. EJ comes back out with her scarf and apologizes for taking a minute to find it. EJ then asks if they are ready, so they open the box and EJ removes the bag from inside. EJ takes Nicole’s hand and then scatters the ashes.

John returns to Marlena’s office and mentions just seeing Sarah leave, so he hopes she’s ready to do the same. Marlena responds that she has a lot of paper work. John thinks she’s finished for today. Marlena jokes that he’s in charge of her work. John says he’s not but if she decides to come home with him now, she’ll discover a few surprises waiting for her. Marlena says she’d be glad to come home with him as they hug. John calls her his everything. Marlena declares that they are so lucky.

Xander and Sarah walk through the town square with Victoria. They joke about Victoria crying during her first photo with Santa. They talk about learning from the past. Sarah spots a beautiful dollhouse. They both state they are going to buy it for Victoria. Sarah tells Xander that he should but Xander says Sarah should, so they compromise that they can both get it for her from mom and dad. They agree that they would like that very much. Sarah says Victoria is too small to play with it, but they can put it in her room as a symbol of family.

Tate asks if Holly thinks he’s stupid. Holly says of course not but Tate declares that he’s done with her using him to get closer to Johnny. Tate remarks that he can’t wait to get back to school. Holly asks if he really has to go back. Tate says it beats living here and questions why she’d care anyway. Holly comments that not that many people in Salem get her. Tate questions if she’s saying she actually likes having him around. Holly says she does a little, but reminds him that he did say he would help her with Johnny. Tate declares he’s now saying he won’t anymore. Tate tells Holly to wake up because it’s never going to happen between them and is just some crazy fantasy. Holly brings up Johnny spending two hours teaching her fencing today. Tate argues that Johnny looks at her like a sister and that’s all she will ever be to him. Tate adds that Johnny is too old and storms out of the Bistro.

Johnny reminds Chanel that there are certain perks to marrying into a rich and powerful family. Chanel reminds him that she comes from one as well with a rich and powerful single mother at least. Chanel says she’s grown a lot since coming to Salem and she realizes it’s not material things that make her happy. Chanel feels she needs to be courted and romanced. Johnny asks if she’s saying she doesn’t need to live like a queen, but just to be treated like one. Johnny jokes that he bows down to her as the ruler of her heart as they kiss. Holly watches on in disappointment.

EJ and Nicole go back in to the living room. EJ asks if she’s alright. Nicole says she thinks so and that being outside under the stars gave her peace. EJ feels their baby is one of those stars. Nicole feels he’s closer than that. EJ then surprises Nicole with a gift of a Christmas ornament representing their son. Nicole tells EJ that she doesn’t know how she would’ve gotten through this without him. EJ feels the same as they kiss. EJ and Nicole hang the ornament on the tree and declare that every year they will hang it for their son and they wil never forget him.

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Days Update Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Days of Our Lives Update

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Update written by Joseph

At the Bistro, Harris asks Ava if there’s anything he can do to help. Ava says there’s not so Harris plans to go home and read a book. Harris asks Ava if he’s sure she’s alright since the last time she seemed this nervous, EJ had a hit out on her. Ava responds that she’s fine and she just needs everything to go perfect tonight.

In the town square, Stefan is on the phone with Clyde. Stefan says he heard him loud and clear but that was not part of their original deal. Stefan warns him about anything happening to Gabi but then says he’s not threatening him. Stefan questions Clyde saying he will go nuclear. Stefan then hangs up and screams in frustration.

Jada runs in to Stephanie at the Brady Pub. Stephanie tells her about dropping a water bottle on her foot and then fleeing the scene of her two jealous exes. Jada informs her that she’s cleaning out her closet and organizing. Stephanie asks if there’s any reason in particular. Jada reveals that Rafe asked her to move in with him. Stephanie asks if she said yes. Jada says she told him that she would think about it. Stephanie invites her to have a drink with her and take a break. Jada says she usually stays away from day drinking but agrees to join her.

Everett is at the Spectator with the article up about there being no leads on Victoria’s kidnapping. Chad arrives. Everett greets him and says he’s surprised to see him since he thought he was the kind of boss to stay in a mansion and be hands off, then comments on the money not coming in. Everett questions why Chad is hanging on to the Spectator now that his reason for buying it is moot. Chad responds that he thrives on a challenge so he’s going to make the Spectator a success again, which is why he plans to be very hands on.

Theresa walks through the park with a bag with the hoodie she wore while kidnapping Victoria. Theresa then stuffs the bag in the trash as Brady and Tate approach. Brady asks Theresa if times are really tough. Theresa claims that she threw a coffee cup away and her phone fell in the trash so she was just getting it out. Brady doesn’t want to know what she’s doing but says he’s glad he ran in to her since he texted her like six times. Theresa claims that she’s been busy and greets Tate. Brady explains that he’s been trying to get Tate’s school to give him another chance, so they need to jump on this opportunity. Theresa says she doesn’t have his immunization records and tells him to stop harassing her about it. Brady points out that he doesn’t have Tate’s doctor’s name but says he wanted to have a discussion with her about setting Tate up for success this time around. Brady then remarks that it seems like Theresa wants to turn everything in to an argument. Alex then arrives and tells Brady that it sounds like he’s the one looking for an argument.

Everett tells Chad that he doesn’t have a lot of time to chat as he is on a deadline. Chad acknowledges that Everett is a solid reporter. Everett mocks Chad not having much knowledge of reporters. Chad warns him about shooting his mouth off when he just gave him his job back. Everett argues that he only did it to help himself and because he has an ulterior motive, not because it’s the right thing to do. Everett calls that glaringly obvious and guesses that Stephanie forgave him. Chad reveals he hasn’t been able to tell her yet that he hired him back, because she moved out. Everett admits he’s not sorry to hear that at all.

Jada asks if Stephanie is having second thoughts about moving out. Stephanie says no but then says maybe. Stephanie talks about being so over the moon to move in, thinking it would be a lovefest. Stephanie then clarifies that she’s not implying it’s a bad thing to move in with a guy. Jada calls it a helpful reminder that she needs to take her time to decide.

Stefan goes to the Bistro and asks if he’s interrupting. Ava says she and Harris were just saying goodbye. Harris encourages her and wishes Stefan luck with the opening as he then exits. Ava tells Stefan that he’s not the only on one edge and assures that she can handle money laundering. Ava declares that they will get through this and get Clyde off their back. Stefan wishes it was that easy but reveals that he got a call from Clyde this morning and things have changed.

Everett states that he knows Chad blames him for things blowing up between he and Stephanie. Everett adds that Stephanie confided in him that things weren’t rosy between them when he arrived. Everett advises Chad to go easy on the fellow routine. Chad argues that he’s not jealous. Everett knows Chad plans to lean on him and warns that it’s not going to work on Stephanie. Chad acknowledges that Everett is good but reminds him that he’s the boss. Chad warns that Everett might know journalism, but he knows business and when it comes to the Spectator, if he has to be ruthless, he will be.

Brady tells Alex to stay out of this as it’s none of his business. Theresa declares that the conversation is now over and she will give Brady the name of Tate’s pediatrician because he apparently decided that Tate is going back to boarding school, but complains that Brady expected her to do all the leg work to get him re-enrolled. Brady argues that he asked her for one thing. Tate asks if they can just go which Brady agrees with, so they walk away. Theresa remarks to Alex that she doesn’t know what she ever saw in Brady and decides she doesn’t want to talk about him anymore. Theresa asks if Alex is ready to go. Alex says he’s been thinking about it all day. Theresa can’t believe he’s never been to a Christmas tree farm before.

Ava asks Stefan what happened. Stefan informs her that Clyde called him this morning and plans to start moving product about the back. Ava complains that she never agreed to that and they will have every addict hanging out around back. Stefan worries about headlines writing about the head of DiMera being caught in a drug operation while Ava worries about if someone dies from the drugs they are pushing. Ava declares that she’s worked too hard to get her life back and is not having this hanging over her head. Ava says she won’t do it so Stefan asks what she plans on telling Clyde Weston then.

Stephanie jokes with Jada about men leaving their socks around and the toilet seat up. Jada talks about how her ex used to walk around the apartment with one sock because he couldn’t find the other one. Jada says she’s been on her own since the divorce and admits that she loves having her own space. Stephanie can’t wait to have her own place and declares that she is giving up on men, maybe forever. Jada points out that she said that too, especially after breaking up with Eric. Stephanie talks about her break up with her Seattle ex and how she thought he ghosted her but it turned out that he was in a coma. Stephanie explains that he came to Salem looking for her, found out that she had dated Alex and Chad, then remarked that she really gets around. Jada calls him a jerk. Stephanie wonders how many women he’s been with, noting that he’s an introvert and a workaholic. Jada remarks that he sounds like her ex. Stephanie points out that their families are so close but she doesn’t know anything about her ex. Jada responds that he’s not worth talking about. Stephanie toasts to hating him then. Jada clarifies that she doesn’t really hate him, but things just didn’t work out. They joke together as Jada states that he was everything she wanted until he wasn’t. Stephanie asks if she has a picture of him. Jada confirms that she was just looking at a photo of him earlier and brings up the picture of her and Everett on her phone. Jada goes to show it to Stephanie but Harris arrives and greets them. Jada asks if Stephanie has met her partner. Stephanie confirms that they meet in Greece where Harris helped rescue her mom. Jada invites him to join them as Stephanie offers to buy him a drink for all of his help with her family. Harris says that sounds tempting but he’s going to read upstairs. Stephanie insists that he sit down for one drink.

Everett asks Chad if he has any experience in the newspaper business. Chad says he has more than Xander and Gwen did when they bought the paper. Everett calls the bar low then. Chad informs him that his late wife had his job and shared hundreds of stories with him. Chad adds that Abigail told him that it was her civic duty to give the paper everything she had, so he plans to do the exact same for her and her memory. Everett hears what he’s saying and says he wants the paper to be the best it can be too. Everett adds that he wants Stephanie to be happy too, so he hopes they can work together and find some common ground. Everett asks if Chad thinks they can do that.

Brady and Tate sit together in the town square. Brady knows it upsets him when he and Theresa argue. Brady apologizes but says they have gotten in to a pattern and Theresa doesn’t listen which frustrates him. Tate calls it nothing knew. Tate then suggests there’s a reason that Theresa didn’t get him the paper work and that maybe she doesn’t want him to go back to school. Tate declares that maybe he doesn’t want to go back either and asks if Brady even thought to ask him.

Alex and Theresa return home with a Christmas tree. Alex points out that he doesn’t have ornaments and has never done the whole tree thing before. Theresa suggests the old fashioned way of using popcorn instead. Theresa calls her childhood like a fairy tale after her mother got over her personality disorder and her parents got married for the third time. Theresa remarks that she was the black sheep.

Stefan warns that Ava can’t back out now because Clyde will kill her son and his wife. Ava asks what they are supposed to do then. Stefan doesn’t know but warns that if Clyde even thinks they are coming after him, he will go nuclear. Stefan declares that he doesn’t care what has to be done because his wife’s life is on the line, so he is going to get rid of Clyde Weston, permanently.

Brady doesn’t understand since Tate was really upset about leaving school and being forced to move back to Salem, so he just assumed he wanted to go back. Tate points out that Brady went to boarding school and didn’t like it. Tate asks if they can just have one normal lunch without Brady ragging on Theresa, so Brady agrees not to talk about her at all. Tate complains that he knows Brady hates her. Brady says that he doesn’t but repeats that he won’t mention Theresa at all unless absolutely necessary and that’s the way it has to be which Tate agrees with.

Alex tells Theresa that he can relate to the whole black sheep thing. Theresa thinks his pales in comparison. Theresa points out that they don’t have mistletoe. Alex remarks that he never really needed an excuse for someone to kiss him. Theresa says she didn’t either as they kiss.

Stefan asks Ava if she’s sure she’s ready to do what it takes to get rid of Clyde. Stefan understands she’s reluctant and wishes it hadn’t come this far but declares that they can’t have any part of selling drugs. Ava remarks on Stefan reminding her of his twin brother Jake and says it gets to her that she works with someone that looks like Jake but isn’t him. Stefan asks if she misses Jake. Ava says of course she does as he was the closest thing to a normal relationship with a guy that she ever had. Stefan asks about Harris and says he seems normal, but warns that dating a cop right now is dangerous since Clyde already made her compromise him once with stealing his keys. Ava argues that she and Harris aren’t even officially a couple and questions Stefan getting onto her about her love life as she accidentally calls him Jake.

Everett knows civil is a loaded word and says he means they can barely tolerate each other but be polite. Chad says it wouldn’t be the first tumultuous partnership in the Spectator’s history. Everett reveals that he thought Abigail was an amazing reporter and that he actually wrote her a fan letter once. Everett recalls Stephanie talking about how cool, smart, and talented that her cousin Abigail was. Chad gets a call from his son Thomas. Chad says he left him snack money on the table but forgot his lunchbox account. Chad asks if he can share with someone today but Thomas hangs up. Everett notes that his son sounds angry and asks if he wants to bring him something from the office. Chad says he’ll be fine and admits that Stephanie was handling all of the lunch stuff but he probably had her doing too much. Chad talks about his kids being through a lot since losing their mom. Everett calls it a terrible tragedy and says he’s really sorry.

Harris sits with Stephanie and Jada for a drink. Stephanie rambles while drinking. Jada informs Harris that Stephanie has sworn off men. Jada brings up being in a relationship with her boss. Harris finishes his drink and says it’s been a pleasure but now he’s heading up. Stephanie tells him that he can’t leave because they have a very important question to ask him. Stephanie asks Harris how he is with socks. Harris calls that the weirdest thing anyone has ever asked him in his life. Stephanie says he doesn’t have to answer, but he can’t leave because the party is just getting started as her and Jada laugh together.

Ava tells Stefan that she’s sorry she called him Jake but it’s understandable since he looks just like him. Stefan says he has Jake’s heart but that’s where the similarities end. Ava agrees since Jake was kind, generous, and took him in when she had nowhere to go. Ava can’t imagine Stefan being so kind. Stefan says she’s damn right, otherwise they wouldn’t be able to solve the Clyde Weston problem.

Brady tells Tate that he remembers what it was like to be his age. Brady states that he was an entitled jerk to Marlena and gave her crap on a daily basis. Brady says if he was that much of a trainwreck, Tate’s damage to the school gym is nothing. Brady asks Tate to tell him about school and his friends. Brady asks if Holly is one of the reasons that Tate wants to stick around. Tate admits that he really likes her, but she’s not in to him. Tate adds that Holly said she would go out with him, but has blown him off so far. Brady suggests it’s time they fix that. Brady hands Tate his gold card and declares that he wants Tate to have fun on him.

Alex and Theresa decorate their Christmas tree. Alex asks what else they need to do to make the place Christmas ready. Theresa suggests stockings but Alex says he doesn’t have any, so she says he can use socks. Alex jokes about not keeping track of his socks. Alex mentions that his family really cared a lot about Christmas too, especially Adrienne and Victor. Alex calls Justin his dad but corrects himself. Theresa then kisses Alex and tells him to just shut up and make love to her right now.

Stephanie tells Harris that this is better than reading a book. Harris calls it a definite 180. Stephanie suggests ordering another drink while Jada thinks she should slow down. Stephanie instead takes Jada’s drink and toasts to love in life being overrated.

Alex and Theresa have sex on the floor in front of the Christmas tree.

Tate questions Brady wanting him to have fun with his credit card. Brady says within reason. Tate excitedly thanks him. Brady tells him to call Holly and have a great time. Brady says he’ll see him later and walks away. Tate then calls Holly and reminds her that she agreed to go on a date with him. Tate reveals that he has a gold card that is ready to start tapping and asks if tonight would work.

Everett tells Chad that he hates to cut their bonding short but he does have six stories to edit. Chad clarifies that they weren’t bonding as he still doesn’t like him and is sure that Everett doesn’t like him. Everett says no comment. Chad states that Everett is back on board but warns that he will be watching him and if he makes one wrong step, he’ll make his life Hell. Everett responds that if he means what he thinks he means, then he will just have to fire him. Chad responds that he would love to. Chad declares that he and Stephanie may be separated but they belong together. Everett points out that if it wasn’t for his accident, she and Chad would’ve never crossed paths as they were in a fully committed relationship. Chad repeats that his eyes are open. Chad then tells Everett that he’s at his desk so he’s going to need him to move his stuff somewhere else. Chad then exits the office.

Ava tells Stefan that maybe Clyde was just screwing with him and trying to keep him in line since he never had them run drugs through before. A man then arrives with six cases of canned tomatoes, courtesy of Clyde Weston and asks if they want them in the back.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Theresa went to the park to get rid of the hoodie she wore when she kidnapped Victoria. Tate and Brady showed up at the park and almost caught her. Brady teased her about times being hard for her that she rummaged through trash. She lied and told him that she was looking for her phone. Brady wanted to talk to her about Tate going to school. They got into an argument about it. Stefan got into an argument with Clyde because he tried to change their deal. Clyde wanted more from Stefan and Ava. He backed down when Clyde threated to hurt Gabi. Ava was frantic because of the Bistro’s reopening, Harris offered to help, but she had everything under control. He left and Stefan arrived. Stefan told her about Clyde’s new demands. He let her know that Clyde wanted them to run drugs out of the restaurant. They didn’t want to do it. Ava and Stefan got into an argument about it. During their argument, she called him Jake. He assured her that he’s nothing like his brother. She believed him. Ava wondered if Clyde was serious about his demand. A delivery man had cases of tomatoes from Clyde. They realized they didn’t have a choice and had to do what Clyde wanted.

Everett was at the paper when Chad arrived. He told Everett that he planned on taking a hands-on approach at the paper. Chad knew how much the paper meant to Abby. Everett admired Abby’s skills as a reporter. Thomas called Chad because he messed up his money for school. Chad realized how much he let Stephanie handle and didn’t know what he would do now. He was about to leave, but he warned Everett not to get out of line. Chad had no problem firing him if he messed up. Stephanie and Jada talked to each other at the pub. Jada told her that Rafe asked her to move in with him. The ladies started drinking and talked about the men they were with. Stephanie told her that she was threw with men, but Jada didn’t want to do that. Jada told her about her ex-husband. Stephanie wanted to see a picture of him. She was about to show Stephanie the picture when Harris arrived at the pub.

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Days Transcript Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

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Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

[sighs]

Okay. Are you sure there’s nothing I can do to help you?

Oh, no, it’s just too many cooks and all that–

Okay, great. I’ll get out of your hair. I have a book on my nightstand calling my name.

Oh, come on.

What?

I know you’re gonna– you’re gonna be bingeing “Mrs. Davis” without me.

Uh, well, while you’re here hard at work, I will be reading several chapters of the latest tier-one thriller, but I will wait to watch “Mrs. Davis” with you tomorrow night. How’s that?

Deal.

Deal.

Yeah. Hey, are you sure you’re okay?

Yeah.

I mean, the last time I saw you this nervous EJ DiMera had a hit on you.

I know. I’m fine. I am. I just–

[sighs] I really need everything to go perfectly tonight.

Yes, yes, I heard you loud and clear, Weston. But that–that was not part of our original deal, and I swear to God if anything happens to Gabi, I–

[inhales deeply] No, I am not threatening you. What–what do you mean, “You’ll go nuclear”? I– Damn it! The hell are you looking at?

Jada. Hey.

Oh, hey. What happened to you?

Oh, I dropped a water bottle on my foot, and then I fled the scene of a head-on collision with my two jealous exes.

Ouch.

[sighs]

Nothing broken, I hope?

No, I don’t– I don’t think so. The pain’s easing up a bit.

[laughs] So what’s with the box?

Uh, I’m just cleaning out my closet. You know, organizing things in general.

Any reason in particular?

Yeah, actually. Uh, Rafe asked me to move in with him.

Oh. And did you say yes?

I told him that I’d think about it. So this whole cleaning and organizing thing, it’s sort of preemptive.

Well, come think with me. Better yet, have a drink with me.

[laughs] Sounds like you’ve already started.

Just one. Come on. Take a little break.

I usually like to stay away from day drinking. Yeah, what the hell?

Yeah, yeah.

[laughs]

[sinister music]

Hey there.

[door clicks shut]

Chad.

You seem surprised to see me.

Uh, just wasn’t expecting you, that’s all.

Last I checked I’m the boss.

Yeah, but I guess I thought you were more the stay-in-your-mansion, hands-off, count-your-money sort of boss.

What money?

Oh, that’s right.

[laughs] Guess there isn’t enough to count anymore, is there? So given that your purpose for investing in the paper is now moot, um, why are you hanging on to it, if you don’t mind me asking?

I do mind you asking. But I’ll answer you anyway. I thrive on a challenge, and I’m gonna make “The Spectator” a success again, which is why I plan to be very… very hands-on.

[curious music]

Times are really tough, huh, Theresa?

[soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

Uh, I threw a coffee cup away and my phone fell in with it at the same time. Oh, ha, look at that. I found it.

Really, really, really?

Yeah.

Okay, you know what? I don’t even wanna know what you’re doing, but, um, I’m glad I ran into you, ’cause I’ve texted you, like, six times.

Mm-hmm. I’ve been really busy. Hi, honey.

Yeah.

Hey, Mom.

Look–yeah, look, you have no idea how many strings I’ve had to pull to try to get his school to give him another chance, so we need to jump on this opportunity right now.

I’m not giving you the runaround. I don’t have his freaking immunization records, okay? I mean, you can call his pediatrician just as well as I can, so stop harassing me about it.

Theresa, I don’t have the doctor’s name, okay?

Oh, of course, you don’t.

“Of course”– what do you mean, “of course”? You’ve been , miles away, and then I figured you were handling his doctor’s visits and things. This is not about his immunization records. I wanted to have a discussion with you about setting him up for success this time around.

That’s what this is then? A discussion?

Well, obviously not ’cause you seem to wanna turn everything into an argument these days.

Sounds like you’re the one looking for an argument, Brady.

Hi.

Well, if you’d like to pull up a chair while I eat my sandwich, you’re more than welcome, but I don’t have a lot of time to chit-chat because I’m on a deadline with six stories to edit.

Yeah, no, I, um–I, uh– I checked out your stories, and you are a solid reporter. Hell, you might even give Bob Woodward a run for his money someday.

Hmm. I’m more of a Bernstein guy, but thank you. Let me guess, that’s sort of the extent of your knowledge of crack journalists? No contemporaries to reference?

Yeah, yeah, keep, uh, shooting off your mouth, pal, to the boss who just gave you your job back.

Only because you wanted to help yourself, not because it was the right thing to do.

Yeah? And what’s that supposed to mean?

It means that you had ulterior motive, Chad. That much is glaringly obvious. I take it Stephanie forgave you.

Actually, I haven’t had a chance to tell her that I hired you back yet. She moved out.

Oh. I’m sorry to hear that.

No, you’re not.

No, you’re right. To be perfectly candid, I’m not sorry. Not at all.

So you’re having second thoughts about moving out?

Mm, no. Well, maybe. God, I was so over the moon to move in. I thought it was gonna be one big peachy, rosy lovefest.

[upbeat ambient music] Oh, God, not that it’s– not that it’s a bad thing to move in with a guy. I didn’t mean to imply.

No, no, no, no. This is good. This is good. You know, this is just a helpful reminder that I need to take my sweet time to decide.

Sorry, am I, u, interrupting something?

Oh, no. We were just, um–

Saying goodbye. Remember, the only easy day was yesterday. Okay, knock ’em dead.

Oh, yeah. Hopefully not literally this time, right?

Good luck with the opening.

Thanks.

[exhales heavily] Okay, I need to hit something, and I need to hit something hard.

Okay, okay, you are not the only person on edge here, okay? But we–I can handle this, Stefan. I have been laundering money since I was old enough to open up a lemonade stand. We will get through this, and we will keep Clyde Weston off our backs.

If only it were that easy.

Oh, come on. What does that mean?

I got a call from Clyde this morning. I got some bad news.

[tense music]

I know that you blame me for things blowing up between you and Stephanie, but I got the distinct impression– actually, it was more than an impression. Stephanie actually confided this in me that things weren’t exactly rosy between the two of you when I arrived on the scene. So if I may presume to give you some unsolicited advice, um, I’d go easy on the whole “Othello” routine if I were you. Shakespeare.

Oh, yeah. No, thank you. I’m–I’m familiar with “Othello,” and I’m not jealous over a handkerchief nor am I seeing things that aren’t there.

No, but you are jealous. I’m guessing that your plan is to lean on me, hoping I’ll disappear. But I’ve known Steph a long time. Manipulating her isn’t gonna work. She’s smarter than you. She’s smarter than me.

Yeah. I, um–I worked for Stephanie for the better part of a year. I know how smart she is. But unlike you, I knew who my boss was. I’m keeping you here because you’re good, but you will know who’s in charge. You might know journalism, but I know business. And when it comes to “The Spectator,” if I have to be ruthless, I will be.

[slurps]

Alex, stay out of this, all right? It’s not your business, man.

And this discussion or this argument, as you’ve characterized it, is now over because Brady’s gonna call Tate’s pediatrician. We’re gonna get the medical records. I’m gonna give him the name and number because he’s decided that our son needs to go back to boarding school.

Oh, so Tate’s going back, huh?

Mm-hmm, apparently, but he’s hoping I’m gonna do all the legwork to get him reenrolled.

Damn it, Theresa. I asked you for one thing.

Dad, can we just go?

Yeah, yeah, let’s go.

Ah, I don’t know what I ever saw in that man.

Well, you know what they say, “There’s a thin line.”

Yeah, well, that thin line is getting thicker by the minute. I don’t want to talk about Brady anymore. Are you ready to go?

Absolutely. I’ve been thinking about it all day.

I can’t believe you’ve never been to a Christmas tree farm before.

I’m from Arizona. There’s not a lot of tree farms in the desert.

Yeah, so I hope that you’re not looking to chop down one of those trees yourself, because I could really use a few whacks with an ax myself.

[laughs] No. I’m gonna be holding the tree while your ax goes to town.

Mm-kay.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, what–what–what happened? What bad news?

Clyde called me this morning. Apparently the Bistro is not just gonna be a drug front. Oh, no, no, no, Clyde is gonna start moving the product out the back.

No, no, no, no, no, I did not agree to that. Good Lord, we are gonna have every addict within miles from here hanging out back now.

Yeah, and I’m the owner on record. Okay? I can see the headline now. “CEO of DiMera Enterprises caught up in massive drug operation.”

[laughs] Well, never mind that. What if somebody dies because of the products we have been pushing through here? No, I have worked too hard to turn my life around. I’m not having this over my head. No, uh-uh. I won’t do it. Mm-mm.

Oh, no?

No.

When are you planning on telling that to Clyde Weston, huh?

Oh, my God, and the socks. What is it with men leaving their socks around everywhere? Like random places, right? Like behind the toilet.

Ew.

Like– and, of course, the seat’s always up.

[laughs]

Oh, God.

And losing socks. You know, my ex, he used to walk around the apartment wearing shorts and one knee sock.

No.

Yes, and I would be like, “Where is your other sock?” And he’d be like, “I don’t know. I can’t find it.” And he was just, like, walking around.

[both laugh] I–I’ve been on my own, you know, since the divorce and I gotta say, I really love having my own space.

Mm, I can’t wait to have my own place. As of this moment, I’m giving up on men and their socks…

Mm.

Maybe forever.

You know, I said that too, especially after Eric. You know, breakups can do that to you.

Yeah. Yeah. No.

[laughs] My breakup with my Seattle ex was a real gut punch. I, uh–he ghosted me, so I thought– turns out he was in a coma.

[gasps]

Mm-hmm. I know. I know. It sounds like it’s right out of a bad movie, right? Uh, yeah. He moved to Salem, was looking for me, found out that I’d been dating both Alex and Chad while he was Rip Van Winkling, and, uh, you know what he said to me? Hmm?

He said, “Wow. Two guys in one year? You really get around.”

[gasps] What a jerk.

Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. Like how many women has he been with?

Right.

Well, maybe not so many; he was comatose. And he is an introvert. He’s a real workaholic.

I don’t know. He sounds like my ex.

It’s weird. Our families are so close, but I don’t–I don’t know anything about your ex.

Yeah, not worth talking about.

Mm. Got it. We hate him.

[both laugh]

Well, I don’t really hate him. Things just didn’t work out.

Well, I mean, of course not. The guy was walking around with one sock.

[both laugh] Come on. At least tell me he was cute.

Mm, in a Jason Biggs kind of way.

So he’s a Cumberbatch.

Cumberbatch? What’s that?

Someone who’s not classically handsome, but still knows how to light your furnace.

Ooh.

[both laugh] Well, okay. I would say he was in the– he was in the Cumberbatch family.

Mm.

Yeah, yeah. I mean, he was everything that I wanted until he wasn’t.

You got a pic?

Uh, yeah, actually I do. I was just looking at a photo earlier.

Ooh.

Let’s see here. I’ll get to it.

[upbeat ambient music]

[eerie music]

Here he is. His name’s–

Hey, ladies. What’s going on? : already?

Oh, my gosh. Hey. Um, Steph, have you met my neighbor and partner, Harris Michaels?

I have. We met in Greece. He helped rescue my mom.

Oh, that’s right.

Glad you’re, uh, enjoying some R&R.

Would you like to join us?

Yes. Yes. Let us buy you a drink for all your help with my family.

Uh, you know, that sounds– sounds tempting, but I have a book upstairs that’s calling my name.

Oh, come on.

Yeah.

That book can take care of itself. Have a seat. Just one drink.

Business, right. And just so I’m clear, um, do you have any experience in the newspaper business?

More than Xander Cook and Gwen Rizczech did when they bought the paper.

Yeah. Okay. So the bar is low?

My late wife had your job, and she shared hundreds of stories with me. She told me that it was her civic duty to give this paper everything that she had, and I plan to do the exact same for her and for her memory.

Look, I hear what you’re saying, okay? I want this paper to be the best it can be. As do you, it sounds like. And I want Steph to be happy, as do you. So I’m hoping that there is a way that we can work together and find some common ground and work together in a civil fashion. Do you think we can do that?

Look, Tate, I know when your mother and I argue it’s upsetting for you. I get it, and I’m sorry about that. It’s just we’ve gotten into this pattern of arguing and she doesn’t listen to reason and–

Well, it’s–

And I get frustrated and we–

Dad, it’s nothing new. Did it ever even occur to you there’s a reason why Mom didn’t get you that paperwork that you’ve been hounding her for? That maybe she doesn’t want me to go back to school?

Yeah, I did get that.

And maybe I don’t want to go back either. I mean, did you ever even think to ask me?

[soft holiday music]

All right.

Okay.

[grunting] I just lay it down?

Mm-hmm. Yep.

All right.

[grunting]

[squeals]

[groans] Wow. We made it.

Yeah.

So now what?

Well, now we put it in the stand.

Oh, the tree stand’s in the car.

Okay, I’ll go get it, and you just get the ornaments.

All right. Wait, the ornaments?

Ornaments. You don’t have ornaments?

Theresa, I’m a bachelor. I’ve never done the whole tree thing before.

Okay. Um, okay. We will do it the old-fashioned way, and we’ll string popcorn around it. Actually, my family used to do that. We’d put cranberries all around. The whole nine yards.

Straight out of Charles Dickens.

Yeah. Guess it kind of is. Yeah. You know, my grandmother actually used to hang tinsel on the tree one strand at a time. I mean, can you imagine how many hours that took…

No.

[groans]

Her to make it perfect?

I guess my childhood was kind of like a fairy tale. Mm-hmm. That is, um, after my mom got over her multiple personality disorder and my parents got remarried for the third time.

Oof. Well, still, that’s all very sweet and wholesome.

Mm-hmm. Except for me, though. I was the black sheep.

Was?

[sighs] You cannot back out now, Ava. You can’t. Clyde will kill your son and my wife if we don’t follow orders.

Okay, okay! Okay. So what are we supposed to do?

I don’t know, but he made it abundantly clear that if he gets the slightest whiff that we’re coming after him, he will go nuclear.

Okay, and what does that mean?

Do you want to find out?

Okay. So what are you saying? You saying we need to back off?

I’m saying that I don’t care what has to be done. I will do anything and everything. My wife’s life is on the line, so I am gonna get rid of Clyde Weston permanently!

[uneasy music]

I don’t–I don’t understand. You were really, really upset about having to leave your school and being forced to come back here. I just assumed that you would want to go back.

You–Dad, you went to boarding school. Did you like it?

Yeah, it was–

[sighs] No, not really, not really. But from what your mom was saying, I just deduced that you–

You know what? Dad, can we just have one normal father-son lunch where you don’t spend the entire time ragging on Mom?

Yes, and I wasn’t ragging on her. I’m not ragging on her. It’s just that she– okay, okay. All right. I’ll stop. I’m not gonna–I’m not gonna mention your mom again at all.

Thank you. Look, I know you hate her, but I don’t.

Tate, I don’t hate–I don’t– I don’t hate her. I don’t hate her. I’m doing it again, right? I’m talking about her. I… all right, listen. I’m gonna do better at this. I will not mention your mother at all unless it’s absolutely necessary, okay?

Dad.

Hey. That’s–that’s the way it has to be. Deal?

Deal.

Deal.

Mm, there. Yep.

I’m gonna tell you what, I certainly can relate to the whole black sheep thing.

Well, I can tell you right now that your moves pale in comparison to my black sheep moves.

Oh.

[both laugh]

I’m gonna go start popping popcorn.

All right.

Um… actually, you know what else we don’t have?

What’s that?

Mistletoe.

Mistletoe?

Mm-hmm.

People still hang that stuff?

Yes, it’s a British custom.

Oh.

My dad was all about it.

Oh. Well, I don’t mean to brag, but I never really needed an excuse for somebody to kiss me.

No? Neither did I. Oh, to hell with the mistletoe.

You sure you’re ready to do what it takes to get rid of Clyde Weston, Ava?

I guess.

You gue– okay, I understand that you’re a little reluctant here, and I wish like hell it hadn’t come this far, but selling drugs, uh-uh, that is the underbelly of crime that I can’t have any part of. I just can’t, and I know you can’t either, obviously. What? Why are you looking at me like that?

You just–you just–you– what you just said there, that expression. I’m sorry, it just reminded me of Jake, okay? Not that you don’t always remind me of him. I mean, it’s still–it gets to me, all right? I work every day with somebody who looks like him but is not him.

[exhales] Do you miss him?

Of course I do. God, he was the– he was the closest thing to a normal relationship that I have ever had with a guy.

Hmm, what about this Michaels dude? He seems like a pretty stand-up guy. I mean, when he’s not brainwashed.

Look who’s talking.

Okay. Okay. Do I really need to state the obvious here, Ava? Dating a cop right now is dangerous. I mean, Clyde already made you compromise Harris once by stealing his keys to the evidence–

Okay. All right. First of all, Jake, Harris and I are not officially a couple, okay? And secondly, are you really gonna get on me about my love life because it’s none of your business, okay? What is with that face? What?

You just called me Jake.

[mysterious music]

I know “civil’s” a loaded word, a lot of connotations, so just to be clear, I mean it in the barely tolerating each other but generally polite sort of way.

Well, you know, ours wouldn’t be the first tumultuous dynamic in the history of “The Spectator.”

If it means anything, I thought your wife was an amazing reporter. I actually wrote her a fan letter once.

Really?

[laughs] Yeah. Some people love Marvel movies, others love hard-hitting journalism. It was Steph who started it. She was always talking about how cool her cousin Abigail was, how smart, how talented.

[cell phone ringing]

Sorry, I just have to take this. Give me a second, yep? Hey, buddy. What do you mean you don’t have any snack money? I left it for you on the table. Lunch box account? What? Thomas, Thomas, I’m sorry. Can–can you share with somebody today? I guess not.

Your son sounds angry. You want to bring him something from the office?

He’ll be, um– he’ll be fine. Steph used to handle all the lunch stuff. Uh, honestly, she probably, um– I probably let her do too much of the school stuff.

Well, Steph was great with kids.

Yeah, and my kids were very attached to her. They’ve been through a lot since they lost their mom.

It’s a terrible tragedy, Abigail’s death. I’m–I’m really sorry.

Yeah, me too.

You know, Harris, you are way too chiseled to be a Cumberbatch.

Uh, that is really good to know.

You know what? It doesn’t matter to me because I am “inbiterrent.” Indifferenchy?

She’s sworn off men.

Oh.

Mm-hmm.

I have not. I mean, because I’m in a relationship with my boss.

Yeah. Okay. I do–I do know that.

Mm.

All right, ladies. One and done. It’s been a pleasure. Heading out.

Oh, no, no, no, no, no.

What?

You can’t leave because we have a very important question to ask you.

Very important question.

Oh, okay.

Harry. Can I call you Harry?

No, there’s no Harry here. Absolutely no Harry.

How are you with sex?

With–with–with sex? both: Socks.

S–with socks? How am I with socks?

[crunches]

That is probably the weirdest freaking thing anyone’s ever asked me in my life.

Okay, okay, well, you don’t have to answer, but you can’t leave because the party’s just getting started.

[both laugh]

[sighs]

I’m sorry I called you Jake, but it’s understandable, right? You look just like him.

Oh, wow. Startling discovery, Ava, considering we were identical twins. Look, I have the guy’s heart beating in my chest and that is where the similarities end, okay?

Oh, okay, yeah. You are right about that, because Jake was kind and generous, and he took me in when I had nowhere to go, and you know what? He actually let me sleep in his bed while he slept on the floor.

Mm.

Oh, and I cannot imagine Stefan DiMera actually being so kind to a soul in need.

You’re damn right about that, and it’s a good thing. Otherwise, we wouldn’t be able to solve this albatross of a problem known as Clyde Weston.

[tense music]

You know, I actually remember what it was like to be your age.

Oh, God, here we go.

No, no, hear me out. Hear me out. I was an entitled jerk, and I was a real jerk to your grandmother.

Grandma Marlena?

Mm-hmm. Oh, yeah, yeah. The smartest, kindest, most wonderful woman on the planet, yeah. I gave her crap on a daily basis. So if I was that much of a train wreck, what’s K in damage to a school gym?

You’re–you’re being sarcastic, right?

No, actually I’m not.

[laughs]

But tell me about school. You got some friends or what?

Some. Yeah.

Mm-hmm. And Holly Jonas? She by chance one of the reasons that you want to, uh, stick around?

Maybe.

Mm-hmm.

Okay. Yeah. Yeah, I really like her, but she’s not into me. She said she’d go out with me, but so far she’s blown me off.

Mm. Ah. Well, maybe it’s time we, uh, fix that.

Dad, that’s your gold card.

Yes, it is.

I want you to have fun, on me.

[soft holiday music]

All right. What’s next? We got the tree. We got the popcorn stringy thing.

Yeah.

What else do we need to do to make this place Christmas ready?

Okay. Hmm. Well, we could hang stockings on a fireplace.

I’m oh for three here. Uh, no stockings, no ornaments, no fireplace.

Ah. Ha ha. Okay. Um, that’s okay. That’s okay. Because historically, stockings were just stockings. You know, like long socks?

Okay.

So you could just hang some socks on your bedpost, although I’m starting to doubt that you even have a bed, Mister.

Oh, I got a bed, Miss, um–

[clears throat] But do I have socks that match, is the question. I’m not too good of keeping track, you know, my socks.

That’s okay. Mismatched works.

Okay. Good. Good. And just so you know, um, my family really cared a lot about Christmas too, especially Adrian and Victor. I mean, he had the huge tree, all the Greek customs going all the way through New Years. And my dad, he would… Justin, he would–

Yeah.

[intriguing music]

Wow. Um, twice in one night? Who needs mistletoe?

Just shut up and just make love to me right here, right now.

See, Harry? Isn’t this better than reading a book all by your lonesome?

[laughs]

It’s a definite .

I need another drink.

Uh, Steph, maybe it’s time to, you know, you should just maybe slow–

Ooh, there’s one right now. So to new love, old love, and everything else in life that’s way overrated. Mm.

[unsettling music]

So you want me to “have fun” with your credit card?

Yeah. Uh, hey, within reason, all right?

Thank you, Dad. Thank you so much–

Hey, buddy, you don’t have to thank me. Just–just call Holly up, have a great time, all right?

Definitely.

All right. I’ll see ya later.

Holly, it’s, uh–it’s Tate. Remember how you said that you would go on a date with me? Well, I have in my hand a gold card, and it is ready to start, uh, tapping, so, um, would– would tonight work?

Well, hate to cut our bonding time short, but, um, I do have six stories–

Oh, six stories to edit. Yeah.

[clears throat] And for the record, we weren’t bonding. I still don’t like you, and I’m sure you don’t like me.

No comment, Chad. No comment.

And I’m keeping you on board, but my eyes are open, and I’ll make your life a living hell if you take one wrong step.

If by one wrong step, you mean what I think you mean, you’re just gonna have to fire me.

And I would love to. Stephanie and I, we may be separated at the moment, but we belong together, okay?

Actually, you know, if I hadn’t been in that accident, you two never would have even crossed paths. And before that we were in a fully committed relationship. Just saying.

Yeah. And I’m just saying, again, my eyes are open, okay? Uh, yeah, that desk, it’s my desk, so I’ma need you to move your stuff, set up shop somewhere else.

Oh.

So long, champ.

Look, maybe Clyde was just screwing with you. Maybe he was just trying to scare you to keep you in line. Look, he never had us running drugs out of here before. I mean, why would he start now?

We’ve got six cases of canned tomatoes here.

Oh, no, no, no, no, that must be some mistake. We’re fully stocked–

Courtesy of Clyde Weston.

[tense music] You want ’em in the back or what?

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Days Transcript Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

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Transcript provided by Thane and Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

Unbelievable. Same story’s run five times with nothing new to report. [inhales sharply] We have to do better. [“Deck The Halls” playing]

Hey, man.

Alex.

Look, I know you were avoiding me in the gym this morning. You obviously don’t want to talk about it. I don’t blame you. But I just want to tell you that I am sorry about you and Steph. Truly.

Huh. Oh, no. [sighs] OK, break time. I think I’m going to take a walk and get some fresh air. Would you like to join me?

Thanks, but I’ve got a lot to do.

OK. Stephanie, I know you don’t want to talk to your papa about what happened with Chad, but let me just say one thing.

[sighs] I’d rather you didn’t, but you will anyway, so let’s hear it. [soft music]

I know you were hoping Chad was the one. Your mom and I were too.

No kidding.

Anyway, what’s important is that you gave it a good go. I mean, you put your cards on the table. You told Chad the kind of commitment you expected.

So did you.

Yeah, I did, and that was a mistake. But the point is, Chad didn’t deliver. And if that’s not gonna change anytime soon, then moving out was the right thing to do. Baby girl, you deserve someone who’s gonna give you exactly what you want and what you need.

[chuckles] Hey, guess what? You know, right over there, your Great Grandpa Shawn, he used to take us fishing. Right there, I know. One day, I’m gonna take you fishing down there. [baby grunts] What’s the matter? Oh, no, no, no, no. You lost your binkie. OK, all right. Here you go. There you go. All right.

Oh, my darling, it was the last thing either one of us needed, Leo Stark darkening our doorstep. [suspenseful music]

My son is dead, and there’s nothing you can say that will bring him back.

But what if that wasn’t true?

What could he possibly have meant about our baby, saying it’s not true that he died?

Whatever he meant, I don’t believe a word of it. The guy is bad news. Obviously, a grifter. I’m sure he was trying to exploit, in some way, our grief for his own personal gain.

But even if that’s true, how could anyone be so cruel?

You just got out of jail yesterday. What kind of trouble could you have already gotten into?

Well, as you can tell by the state of my previously adorable punim and my strong, though now bruised, jawline which is throbbing as we speak, I was assaulted and humiliated because of you. This is all your fault, Sloan Peterson. [soft orchestration] announcer: Like sands through the hourglass, so are the “Days of Our Lives.”

[scoffs] You’re so full of it.

What?

Come on, man, you’re not sorry about Stephanie and me.

OK. I’ll be more specific. I’m sorry that Stephanie got hurt.

Yeah, that I believe.

What’d you do?

I didn’t do anything. It’s none of your business.

Then why’d she move out?

[scoffs] OK, you know what? Since you–since you think I did something, and I would really love to disabuse you of such an insulting assumption, I’ll tell you why she moved out. ‘Cause this ex of hers, he’s been lurking around since he came to Salem, and even admitted to me that he was still in love with her, and he wanted her back. So like any normal human being, I refused to tolerate that.

And you, being a man of action–

Bought Gwen’s half of “The Spectator,” and I fired his ass.

[chuckles] Ruthless. And then what, you thought maybe they wouldn’t find out it was you behind it? You know damn well Stephanie’s a smart girl. Everett’s an investigative reporter.

Yeah, I know who and what he is.

But come on, dude. What? You didn’t learn anything from my mistakes? I thought it was firmly established, the whole jealous caveman aesthetic wasn’t what Stephanie was into.

OK. You know what? Just stop. I really don’t need your take on it, especially knowing you’re just gonna swoop in.

Oh, give me a break, man. You know, relax. First of all, I’m with Theresa now.

When has that ever stopped you? Hell, you might even be able to get another threesome out of it.

Oh, for God’s sake– does the whole town know about that? Chill out. I don’t want Stephanie. You want Stephanie, and you screwed it up. Do not take that out on me.

You’re right. I’m taking it out on you. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I blew it. And–and the only person that I can be mad at is myself.

Dad, I know I did the right thing, especially after the way Chad treated Everett. I mean, my God, he was willing to turn the guy’s life upside down.

Out of jealousy.

Right. And, Dad, he had no reason to be jealous. I told him multiple times that I wasn’t interested in getting back together with Everett because I was fully committed to my relationship with him.

And… you still love Chad, I assume?

That is– that is not relevant at the moment.

Baby girl, that is always relevant. I mean, if you love him and he did what he did because he loves you and he didn’t want to lose you, maybe you can give him another chance.

Jada.

Hi. It looks like you have your hands full.

[chuckles] Yeah. Mm.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

An adorable baby. What’s his name?

Ah, this is Jude.

Jude?

Mm-hmm.

Sweet name.

Jada, I–

Stop. You don’t need to say anything. I’m just glad that things worked out for you. Jude here is a very lucky kid. I’m very happy for you.

Thank you. And thank you for being–

Could we maybe change the subject?

[chuckles] Yeah, yeah. Hey, what’s all this?

Well, Rafe asked me to move in with him.

I see. I assume that means you said yes.

No, I can’t help wonder what would Leo have to gain by telling us that our baby is alive?

Who knows what scheme that loser dreamed up this time with the encouragement of my degenerate nephew, no doubt. Look, Leo is destitute. No job, no home, no income, and his true love was just put away for the better half of the next decade. I’m sure he was just trying to extract some cash from the DiMera coffers.

That must be it, yeah.

And such horrible timing, trying to give you false hope when you’ve just accepted the truth. You’re not wavering on that anymore, are you?

No, I mean, we– we saw it in black and white when we did the DNA test. Just, I can’t stop myself from wondering–

What? Tell me.

[sighs] Are you sure there couldn’t be anything to what Leo said?

[sighs]

Hmm. So this is my fault that you got into a fight because I got you out of going to prison? Well, that’s just quite a stretch.

I’ll tell you what isn’t a stretch. I got clobbered because I had a rare attack of conscience. I was willing to make a huge sacrifice, do the right thing, and all I got for it was a black eye and a bruised jaw.

Look, I’m going to explain this to you, that whatever it is that you think that I did–

Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. I don’t think, I know. See, the love of my life, who I miss with every cell of my being, told me your dirty little secret about your baby. Or should I say Nicole’s baby?

Nicole, my darling, I’m sure there is no truth to whatever Leo was trying to tell us. The man was recently incarcerated, facing felony murder charges for our son’s death. If there was any chance our baby was still alive, he would have sung like a canary long ago to save his own pathetic ass.

Yeah, you’re right about that.

The nerve of that little heathen. He was so intent on peddling that lie he was telling us, he snuck back into the house using the underground tunnels just after you left.

What? You’re kidding.

No. I had to punch him in the face just to get rid of him.

Oh, my God, EJ, I’m so sorry you had to deal with this.

[sighs heavily] It didn’t do my blood pressure any good, I can tell you that. Damn, I knew– I knew I shouldn’t have agreed to cut that deal with Sloan Peterson to get those charges dropped against that conniving bastard. Leo Stark does not deserve to be free, and you don’t deserve to see him around town, not after what you’ve been through.

EJ, honey, it’s OK. I’m fine, really. [soft music]

Is that why you were upset a while ago?

No. It’s because I saw Eric and the baby right before you got here.

[sighs] I see. [kisses]

It’s just–it’s– it’s just too much for me. But I am happy for Eric and that he’s a dad to that sweet little baby boy, but I can’t help but feel compelled to want to do something for him and Sloan. I just feel terrible for what I put them through.

Nicole, no. No, no, no. You shouldn’t. You’re the one that’s been through hell.

Even so. You know what? I’m gonna go to the town square. I’ll be right back.

Oh, I’ll come with you.

No, honey. EJ, this isn’t something you can help me with. [soft music]

[sighs]

I really don’t know what you’re talking about.

Oh, please. Don’t con a conner. Dimitri told me everything, starting with how he gave you Nicole’s baby to bring to the hospital the night that child was born, and how then, after that child mysteriously died, you brought home your own little bundle of joy.

My God. He promised me.

Well, he also told me if I were to use this against you, you’d give me anything I wanted in the entire world, you’d be so desperate to hang onto that little boy. But see, the thing is, I delivered that baby. I saw that little miracle come into the world, and it changed me forever. And for once in my life, I was willing to do the right thing, and this is what that got me. I tried to tell EJ and Nicole the truth.

You what? What?

But did they listen? No! EJ just threw me out. Then I bravely went back, he punched me out. I–he wouldn’t believe a word out of my mouth. He just assaulted and insulted me. I never even got so far as to say that the baby is alive.

Oh, my God. Well, thank God.

Oh, no, no, no. No, no. Don’t thank God just yet, sweet lips. See, I’m here now because I’ve decided that fate is telling me that I should use the information about Nicole’s baby as Dimitri intended: to blackmail the hell out of you.

I haven’t given Rafe an answer about moving in with him. You know, just cleaning out my closet. That way, if I do decide, then it’ll make packing easier. And if I don’t, then I’ll get a head start on spring cleaning.

Or making room for more Christmas presents.

Yeah.

Listen, I’m just glad things are going well with you and Rafe.

And I hope to keep it that way. [sighs] I mean, I haven’t lived with anyone since my ex-husband, and you know how that ended. So I just want to be very intentional with my decision.

Which is always a good thing.

I hope so.

Hey, it was really good catching up. You know I wish you all the best.

I wish you the same.

Yes, Xander, I know Everett is a great editor-in-chief. So everyone keeps telling me, anyway. That’s why I hired him back. Yeah, restoring the reputation of “The Spectator” is important to me too ’cause it was important to Abigail.

Chad?

Uh, let me call you back.

Oh, well, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt.

No, no. No worries. What can I– what can I do for you, Mayor Price?

Oh! You can do plenty. [chuckles] You and Stephanie both.

Dad, for now, for the foreseeable future, anyway, I just want to focus on my work, on–on doing some things that I’ve been putting off, friendships I’ve neglected, stuff like that.

Good plan. And I hope you know, you’re welcome to stay here as long as you like. Stay here for the next year or until whenever. I’m happy to have you. Your mom, on the other hand, might have designs on the spare bedroom.

[chuckles] I appreciate that, Dad. And no offense, but I hope I’m out of here long before then.

OK. And I hope that you make peace with whatever decisions you make about where to live, about Chad. OK, I’m gonna take my walk. Will I see you at dinner?

Definitely. And I’ll cook.

Great. Good. I love you, little sweetness.

I love you too.

OK.

Hey, Mr. Johnson!

[sighs] Well, hello there, Alex. [intriguing music] Something tells me you’re not here to see me.

Um, um, before you get started, there’s probably something that I should–I should tell you.

First, let me explain. See, the aldermen allocated funding for a sizeable campaign for the Healthy Salem, and I want to hire SJPR as my leads, if you have enough bandwidth to juggle the other projects you have taken on in the town of Salem. I was just about to call Stephanie, then I saw you sitting there.

Yeah, I’m sorry. You should probably just call Stephanie directly.

Is something wrong?

Um… Stephanie actually moved out, and–and we haven’t really had time to discuss the status of our business relationship yet.

So, I was just on my way out.

Right. Is it OK if I speak with Stephanie?

Well, let me check. There’s a gentleman caller at the door.

Dad, if you don’t mind, I got this.

OK. [whispers] Stay strong. [kisses]

Come in.

Thanks.

I–I was actually just telling my dad that I– I want to just focus on work now, and on some stuff that I’ve been neglecting. So I–I don’t know what you’re assuming, but I–

I’m not assuming a thing. But if you were assuming that I’m, like, trying to come over here and win you back or whatever, you’re wrong. I’m dating your cousin, for one thing.

Right. And, of course, you’d never play the field.

I came to return this. I found it next to the elliptical machine, and I know you’re the only person in the world that would be carrying around a water bottle that could hold half of Lake Michigan, so.

[chuckles] Yeah. Thank you. I’ve been looking for this.

You’re welcome. You know, I’m really gonna miss you yelling at me– reminding me– to wipe off my sweat from the equipment when I’m done, you know, and arguing with you over the rowing machines.

Wow, you really know how to make a girl feel special.

I have been told that.

[chuckles]

Let me explain to you how this is going to go down. Are you listening? I own you now, Sloan. And you are going to obey me like a well-trained hound. Give me whatever I ask for. That is, of course, if you want to keep your precious son.

I have–

Good. First and foremost, you are going to get Dimitri out of prison.

I’m–I’m sorry, that’s– it’s–it’s impossible.

Then make the impossible possible.

I don’t think you understand. I already got him the best deal that I possibly could have. I had the most serious charges against him dropped.

That’s not enough.

What do you want? You want money? You want a job? Maybe a cute little place to live on the West side of Salem?

All of the above. Throw in power, world domination, a pony with a rainbow mohawk. Roll in the hay with your hot husband wouldn’t hurt, either.

Oh, my God, would you be real, please?

Oh, I am being real and I am dead serious. Or do I need to bring Lady Whistleblower out of retirement, write a detailed and sordid story about how Nicole is your baby’s real mother? [door opens]

The hell’s going on here?

Oh, no. Say it isn’t so. Not my dynamic duo. Oh! Oh! Let me tell you, I was shipping you and Stephanie hard, as my Chanel would say. Oh, look, I hope I’m not making you feel any worse.

No, no, no. There’s nothing that you could say that could make me feel worse than I already do. I screwed up and– and I tried to fix it, but it was too late. So she moved out, and– and to make it worse, she didn’t tell me. She actually gave the key to our neighbor, Alex Kiriakis. I’m sure she knew that him delivering that news would just be icing on the cake.

Oh. Whoa. Well, listen, I am hardly in a position to give relationship advice. Although, not to pat myself on the back, my husband doesn’t remember a damn thing about our life together, but, huh, well, look at us. You know, we’re– we’re still trucking along. Oh, but I digress. Anyway, well, what did Stephanie say about all this when you talked to her?

I don’t know. I didn’t.

What do you mean, you didn’t?

Well, I got her message loud and clear that she didn’t want to talk.

Of course, she wants to talk! She loves you! And you need to make clear that you are very, very sorry for whatever boneheaded thing you did. Unless you don’t want her back.

Of course I want her back.

Then what the hell are you doing standing here talking to me? Go do something about it, for God’s sake.

[sighs] Well, as much as I appreciate you returning my water bottle, I have work to do.

Right. You know, Steph, I really should tell you though…

Tell me what?

I ran into Chad earlier.

Oh. And?

And he told me what happened. [exhales sharply] For what it’s worth, Steph, he knows that he’s an ass. And I think he’d probably really like to apologize if he knew that you were willing to hear it.

I’m not. The only person that he should be apologizing to is Everett.

Yeah. Well, maybe he will, at some point. But he understands what he did was wrong, and he regrets it. He obviously loves you. It’s just–he looks really miserable over what happened. And, Steph, I hate getting in between this more than you know, um, but from what I’m seeing here, it looks like you’re kind of miserable too. Are you sure this is what you want?

Hey, Jada.

Hey, Steve.

Long time no see.

Yes, too long.

Yeah.

[chuckles] Hey, thank you for the invite the other night. I’m so sorry that I couldn’t make it, but work has been crazy.

Yeah. Well, you missed out on my killer chicken wings. But don’t worry, you have a standing invitation anytime.

Thank you.

So how you doing? Everything good?

Yeah, sure.

Come on, Jada, this is me. What’s on your mind?

Actually… [sighs] I’m having a rough day.

[clears throat] Hey.

Oh, a little retail therapy?

Yes. But it’s not for me.

Eric.

Are you upsetting my wife?

Leo was just–

I was just leaving. Apparently, it’s nap time for the little tyke. That is a beautiful stroller. Nothing but the top of the line for your miracle baby, am I right? We’ll talk soon, Sloaney. Toodles. [tense music]

I told you taking on that case was gonna be nothing but trouble. What’d that parasite want? [folksy Christmas music]

So, you want to talk about it? I’m a pretty good listener, even though my daughter doesn’t always think so.

[chuckles] She probably takes it for granted, having a great dad that she can turn to for anything.

Well, I’m here for you too, Jada. I mean that. You can come to me anytime. So tell me. Tell me what’s bothering you.

I saw Eric earlier today, and I met the baby. I’m happy for him. It’s just that it– it brought back a lot of memories. I don’t know, I think I’m just emotional today in general because–

Because it’s the anniversary of your dad’s passing.

[sighs] You remembered.

Of course I remembered. Marcus was my first best friend. It was him and me against the world for a whole lot of years. I could never forget this day.

Thank you. You have no idea what that means to me.

As I just told my dad, I am sure that I made the right decision. My only regret is that I didn’t get to say goodbye to Thomas and Charlotte. I love those kids so much, and I know this will be hard on them.

And that’s your only regret?

You know what? Thank you for bringing my water bottle, but I really have to get back to work.

OK. All right, yeah. I’ll–I’ll get–I’ll get going.

Yeah.

Bye. [bottle clangs]

Oh! Damn!

What happened?

Ow! What do you mean? I just dropped this stupid bottle on my foot.

OK, OK, OK–

It hurts really bad.

OK, let’s–let’s– let’s go sit down. Come here.

Oh, my God, why does it hurt so much? I think I might’ve broken it.

It’s OK. It’s all right. Let’s just try and sit down, please. Let me try–let me try and help you. It’s OK.

Well, didn’t take you two long to pick things back up, did it? [both sigh] [“O Little Town Of Bethlehem” playing]

Ugh, bah humbug. Well done, Leo. You don’t have a functioning conscience or $. to your name. So where do you go from here? [sighs]

Leo came in here demanding that I get a better deal for Dimitri, which I already explained to him I’d done the best that I could do, and obviously, as you can see, he didn’t take that very well.

And that’s it? Hey, why are you so rattled?

I just–I just– I just missed you and Jude. And you guys took longer than I expected.

Well, we–we ran into some old friends on our walk. Didn’t we, Jude?

Oh, yeah, who?

Uh, Jada Hunter. And before that, Nicole. [knock on door]

I’ll get that.

OK.

Sloan. Bad time?

Thank you for being here for me. [country Christmas music] I don’t want to keep you from lunch.

I didn’t come here for lunch. I came here to see you. I know how tough these anniversaries can be, especially around the holidays. It’s like a double whammy.

Yeah, it is. When we lost my dad, I had bought him a Christmas present. And I was–I was upstairs right now cleaning my closet and… [scoffs softly] Would you believe that I still have it?

I’d believe it. Because… [keys jingling] I still have this. Marcus made this for me when we were both about eight years old. It’s one of the only things I still have left from my childhood. I know I’ve told you this before, but I wouldn’t have made it where I am today if it wasn’t for Marcus. [chuckles] Man, we got into so much trouble when we were kids. But your dad– your dad was always trying to walk the straight and narrow, follow the rules. I was always leading him down the wrong path. I’m not surprised you ended up on the side of law and order. Jada, I want you to know, your dad would be so proud of you. So proud.

[sniffles]

Oh, my God. I do not believe that you would think what you’re thinking!

What?

Wait, be careful, your toe.

What? Toe?

I gotta get out of here.

Steph, you probably need to get checked out. I’ll drive you to the hospital real quick.

No, I’ll drive myself.

Steph, come on.

I said I’ll drive myself. [sighs] [quirky music]

Oh… I’m guessing that wasn’t what it looked like, huh?

No, it was not. [sighs] She dropped a water bottle on her foot. She thinks she broke her toe.

Right.

[exhales sharply] Steve’s probably got a few beers in there. You want one?

Yeah.

Uh, no, not a bad time, but it is a surprise. Eric was just telling me he ran into you guys.

Yeah. And I had noticed how big the baby was getting, and I figured he’s probably outgrowing his newborn clothes, or soon will be, so– anyway, I– I saw this in the store window, and, um, I wanted him to have it.

[chuckles]

Look, I know this small gesture doesn’t make up for all the things I put you through these past few weeks–

That was very generous of you, Nicole. Thank you.

Yes, thank you.

Uh, Eric. I appreciate you all letting us drop by unannounced. Nicole really needed to do this to show that she was healing and moving on.

I’d put it on him now, but he’s knocked out.

Of course. You don’t want to wake a sleeping baby, right?

What–what do you mean he’s gone? Gone where? Supermax? For what? No, no, he didn’t try and blow up the world, that’s– yeah, well, bah humbug to you too. I know you did this, Sloan, and now I’m gonna blow up your world.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, December 12, 2023

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Steve got Stephanie to open up about what happened with Chad. He felt she did the right thing breaking up with Chad if they didn’t want the same things. Steve wasn’t happy when Alex arrived at the house. He wanted to talk to Stephanie. They talked about Chad and what happened. Alex thought she should give Chad another chance. He was about to leave when she dropped a bottle on her foot. Chad showed up at the house and assumed something was going on between them. She got upset with Chad because he assumed the worst. Stephanie left to drive herself to the hospital. After she left, Alex explained what happened to Chad and he felt bad for what he assumed. Nicole let EJ know that she kept thinking about what Leo told them. She wondered if their baby was alive, but EJ tried to talk her out of it. He thought Leo was scamming them. EJ told her about Leo sneaking in the house to lie to him before he hit him. He wondered if she was trying to avoid thinking about the death of their baby, and she said she wasn’t doing that. She felt bad about what she did to Eric and Sloan. Nicole wanted to find a way to apologize to them.

Eric ran into Jada at the pub. It was an awkward conversation at first. She told him that she was happy for him. He noticed she was carrying a box, so she told him that Rafe asked her to move in with him. She was thinking about it, so she got the box to prepare for her decision. She went inside and sat with Steve. He wanted to check on her. Jada told him that it was hard. She talked to him about seeing Eric with the baby. She was okay but it’s always a hard day for her. Steve knew it was hard because he remembered that it was the anniversary of Marcus’ death. He talked to her about Marcus and his relationship with him. He let her know that Marcus would be proud of her. Leo told Sloan that Dimitri told him the truth about the baby. She tried to deny it, but he didn’t believe her. Leo told her that he tried to tell Nicole and EJ the truth, but they didn’t believe him. He wanted to blackmail her instead. He warned her to do everything he wanted her to do, or he would sell her out. Eric came home and wanted to know what was going on. Leo lied to him and told Sloan they would talk soon. Sloan lied to Eric and told him that Leo wanted her to get Dimitri out of jail. Nicole and EJ arrived at their place. Nicole let them know they were there so she could apologize for what she did. She gave them a gift for the baby. Leo found out that Dimitri was transferred to maximum security. He vowed to make Sloan pay because he thought she was responsible for it.

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Days Short Recap Monday, December 11, 2023

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Eric questioned Sloan about the lawyer saying the adoption didn’t go through. Leo tried to convince Nicole that her baby was alive. Lucas confronted Dimitri for kidnapping Kate. Melinda and Paulina got in an argument. Paulina reminded Melinda that she didn’t have a job. Melinda said she had a job as an adoption attorney. She said she found a baby for Sloan and Eric to adopt. Paulina said she was happy for Eric but felt sorry for the baby for having Sloan as a mother. While Nicole and Leo were talking, she was upset. EJ showed up while they were talking. Leo said he was trying to tell them something but they told him to leave. EJ tried to comfort Nicole but she wanted to take a walk. Leo snuck back in the mansion through a secret entrance. EJ was upset when he saw Leo. He threatened to call the police on Leo. Leo tried to stop him by telling him his baby was alive. EJ punched him and said he didn’t want to hear his lies. Eric asked Sloan why the attorney would say the adoption didn’t go through when they had their son. Sloan said she hasn’t been completely honest with him about the adoption. She said the first baby fell through because the mother found out about her history. Sloan said Melinda was able to find another baby, but she didn’t want to say anything until she was positive it would work out. She said she felt guilty that she was the reason why the first adoption didn’t go through.

Eric understood Sloan’s explanation. He said the first mother was wrong about her. Later on, Sloan wanted to see Melinda. She told Melinda about the call from the adoption attorney and that Dimitri was blackmailing her with the truth. Sloan said he would stay quiet because she did what he wanted, but she was still concerned. Melinda thought to use a contact she had in the DOJ to get Dimitri transferred to a different prison where he would be in solitary confinement. When Sloan started to feel better, Leo showed up. He told her she needed to let him in. Lucas continued berating Dimitri for kidnapping his mother. Dimitri told him Kate was rescued and never injured. Lucas said he wished he was there to see him get arrested. Dimitri said he wasn’t caught. He said he turned himself in. Lucas asked why he would have done that. Dimitri said he did it for love. Lucas ripped into Dimitri for causing Nicole’s baby to die. Dimitri said he didn’t know what he was talking about. Kate showed up while they were arguing. Dimitri left so they could talk. Kate told Lucas not to get in trouble. Lucas said he has become good friends with the warden. Eric took Jude to the park. Nicole saw them together. Eric was about to leave when she told him he didn’t have to. She said she accepted that the baby wasn’t hers because the DNA test was conclusive. They sat on a bench and talked. She told him EJ suggested they have another baby. Eric said he didn’t think it was a bad idea. She said she couldn’t risk losing another child. While they were talking, EJ showed up. Eric took the baby and left. EJ comforted Nicole.

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