Category: Daytime

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

[dog barking]

[suspenseful music]

Thanks for your concern, Harold. But I assure you, Gabriella will be fine. She is currently in the ICU, but is expected to make a full recovery. I’ll let her know that you’ve called to check on her. OK, bye.

EJ. Oh, my God.

Holly? What are you–

I heard about the explosion at the mansion, so I rushed right over. Thank God you’re all right.

[both sigh]

---

Hey, Holly. It’s me. I’m guessing you know that because you’re not picking up. Look, it’s the third time I’ve tried you. I know you’re pissed about EJ deciding not to charge my dad with Sarah’s hit-and-run, but I was just hoping that maybe we could talk things out.

[knock at door] Maybe this is you.

---

Surprise.

---

[laid-back music]

Brady.

Hey, Eric. How’s it going?

It’s, uh, it’s going. I just finished a photo shoot for “Body & Soul.” Kind of a favor for Kate and Abe.

Mm. That’s good of you.

Yeah. How are you doing?

As good–

[sighs] As good as can be expected, man. I actually was checking on Ava. Did you hear about this? She was attacked by some crazy person and almost got her throat slit or something.

What? Is she OK?

Yeah, it was frightening, as you can imagine, but I’ll spare you the details. But they caught the person and Ava’s gonna be OK.

Well, that’s good to hear. But you and Ava, I didn’t realize you were friends.

Uh, yeah, we are. I mean we weren’t. We actually got closer the night that I, uh, fell off the wagon.

---

We got wasted together, OK? And I know what you’re thinking, why in the hell would she be doing that when she knows I’m in recovery?

Yeah, crossed my mind.

Well, to be fair, she tried to talk me out of it. OK? But, hey, when you’re hell- bent on destroying your life, you know as well as I do that no one’s gonna say or do anything to stop you.

Yeah, I know that feeling, unfortunately.

Yeah. And maybe if I would’ve listened to Ava that night, Sarah wouldn’t be in a wheelchair.

Xander, put me down.

[Xander sighs]

[Sarah sighs]

There. Although you know I’ll gladly carry you in my arms to the ends of the Earth.

Yes, well, as heroic as that is, it’s also incredibly disrespectful because the physical therapist said that I am ready to make the move from the chair to the bed on my own.

I know. But my act wasn’t one of necessity, but of romance.

And it’s an act of defiance. I have to learn how to do these things by myself.

I know, darling. And you will. Does that mean I can’t still dote on you from time to time?

Do you want to dote on me, really? Cater to my every wish?

You know I do.

Then promise me that you won’t go after Brady again.

[tense music]

[somber music]

Well, I’m touched by your concern, Holly. I assume this means I’m back in your good graces?

Mm, not sure I’d go that far.

[chuckling] OK.

Just because I don’t want to see you blown to bits doesn’t mean I’m over you lying to everyone about Jude’s paternity, you know.

I understand. I understand. And I’m not over it either. I still deeply regret the choice to keep that a secret. But as I explained, I was– I was desperate to save my marriage. Not that that’s an excuse, it’s just a reason.

No, I get it. Being desperate can make us all do awful, stupid things that we end up regretting.

You’re a very kind and empathetic person, Holly.

Thanks.

[EJ chuckles] Well, you were really kind and empathetic to me when I told you I found out how my dad really died, that it was Eric who drove drunk and killed him.

Well, I’m glad I could be there for you.

Well, it really meant a lot to me. And while we’re on the subject of drunk drivers, so what are you doing to make sure Tate’s dad pays for what he did to my Aunt Sarah?

[tense music]

[sighs] Sarah. How can I tell you that I’m done going after Brady after the son of a bitch just confessed to… running you down when he was driving drunk and leaving you by the side of the road? And now he’s gonna walk away scot-free. I mean, where’s the justice in that?

I mean, you know you are preaching to the choir, right? You don’t have to tell me how unfair this is even though you have said it a million times.

I know, I know, I’m just–I’m just–

Obsessed. That’s what you are. You’re just obsessed. You’re obsessed with making Brady pay, with revenge, and… even though I have repeatedly and emphatically told you that what’s best for us is to move forward. We have a beautiful, little girl who needs our full attention.

Darling, I’m sorry that my being upset about this upsets you, too, but it–

[Sarah sniffles] You’re the reason I can’t let this go. This is all about getting justice for you.

I don’t want it! I don’t want it. How have I not gotten through to you that you getting justice for me is only causing me anxiety? Instead of letting me focus on what is important? And right now, for me, that is figuring out how to get around without the use of my legs so that I can be there for our daughter. Can you understand that?

[somber music]

Of course, I can.

OK. Well, then, if you really want to help me, if you really want to be there for me, then you will forgive and forget. And not for Brady’s sake. For ours, for Victoria’s.

---

Sarah, darling… I swear to you that I will do whatever it takes to help you figure out how to be there for Victoria.

---

Thank you.

But I will never forget what Brady has done to you. And I’m sorry, but… I’m never, ever gonna forgive him.

---

Brady, you know you can’t punish yourself for the rest of your life because of what happened to Sarah.

[clears throat] Why not?

[laid-back music] I crippled her. Do you know that her little girl is gonna start walking soon? And Sarah’s not gonna be able to get up out of her chair and just hold her little girl so she can take her first steps? You realize that?

Brady, listen to me. All right, you made a mistake in what happened with Sarah. But she’s a strong and resourceful person. She’s gonna find a way to have a good life.

[Brady sighs] You need to start doing the same.

You’re right. Now, why didn’t I think of that? Why didn’t I think of that? I should just start having a good life, you know? Why would I waste one more minute on guilt just because I happened to just run over an innocent woman and paralyze her for the rest of her life? That’s a good point.

And you can stop with the sarcasm bit.

All right, I’ll stop with the sarcasm if you stop this Pollyanna take on the whole thing. How the hell am I supposed to just–just– just go have a good life, knowing that I just ruined someone else’s? Huh? By the way, I may not, you know, have to pay for this in court, but Xander’s not gonna let go of this.

What do you mean?

[Brady sighs] Did he threaten you?

Eric, he came to Basic Black with a baseball bat. And he said, “I’m gonna do to you what you did to Sarah.”

What–what happened?

[sighs] Xander’s mom happened. Fiona Cook showed up and, uh… basically stopped her son from crippling me.

[jazzy piano music]

Well, this was lovely, Fiona. Thank you for suggesting it.

You’re welcome.

You know, I can’t remember the last time I’ve been out of the house.

[chuckles] I’m not complaining, mind you. I love spending time with my daughter and my granddaughter.

And Sarah needs you, of course. But Maggie, it’s a heavy burden to carry. You have to allow others to help you.

Oh, I do. I do. I mean, your son has been doting over Sarah, as you know, catering to her every need pretty much around the clock.

Yes, he has. And he’s been quite upset with me lately.

Xander has?

Yeah. And for good reason, actually. Maggie, that’s why I suggested you and I have dinner together. I wanted to explain before you hear it from anyone else why Alexander is not best pleased with me, to say the least.

OK.

And, uh, I’m sure it’s something that you won’t approve of either. In fact, you will likely be appalled.

Fiona, just– just tell me, OK?

Well… Brady and I, we met shortly after I came to Salem. I ran into him in the pub and we started talking. Hit it off, if you will. And then, um… one thing led to another.

---

What are you trying to tell me, Fiona?

[somber music]

I slept with him, Maggie. I slept with the man that crippled your daughter.

---

You haven’t said a word to me since I handed you that bag of barbecue sliders.

[chuckles] It wouldn’t be polite to talk with my mouth full, would it? How did you even know these were my favorite?

Hello, you only order them every time you come to see me at the Bistro.

I guess I didn’t know you were paying attention.

I always pay attention to you, Tate.

Well, um, thank you for bringing me dinner. You really didn’t have to.

Oh, I get them for free. It’s not a big deal. And I know how hurt you’ve been about Holly freezing you out, so I thought I should stop by to bring you a little comfort food and some TLC.

[soft dramatic music] I hope that’s OK.

---

I still don’t get why you let Tate’s dad go.

Holly, Holly, I already explained there wasn’t enough evidence to formally charge Brady with a crime, even though he confessed, even though he was obviously guilty. Now, if we had any eyewitnesses or Brady’s damaged car–

Yeah, well, we don’t. I know. And I can’t just let it go, EJ. I mean, it’s just the idea of Brady getting away with this.

[somber music]

Holly, I know that you care deeply about your Aunt Sarah.

---

And that you would be upset about what Brady did to her no matter what. But your level of anger, the–the intensity of it… Sweetheart, you need to ask yourself is this about wanting justice for your Aunt Sarah? Or is it about wanting Eric to pay for what he did to Daniel?

---

Brady, I get that Xander is angry as hell, but that does not give him the right to take the law into his own hands. You called the police and reported this, didn’t you?

[chuckles] No. I figured I had it coming, Eric.

[Eric sighs] Whatever pain Xander wanted to inflict on me in that moment, I felt I deserved it.

First of all, no, you didn’t. You’re a good man who’s battling a disease.

But that’s no excuse, though, is it?

You made a terrible mistake, nut that does not give the son of a bitch the right to do what he did to you.

Well, he obviously thought that it did.

OK, so Xander’s mom, she stopped him before he attacked you?

She did.

To keep her son out of prison, I assume.

That was part of it, but I also–

[chuckles] I think she may have wanted to protect me, not see me get hurt.

Well, good for her. But why? I mean, she doesn’t even know you.

Not–not in the profound personal sense, no. But, um… in the biblical sense, she does.

What are you saying?

Yeah. Xander’s mom and I… we slept together.

[Eric sighs] – So let me get this straight.

[suspenseful music] Of all the men in this town, the one you chose to take to your bed was Brady? Oh, God, Fiona. You told me you didn’t even know who he was.

I know, and I’m so sorry that I misled you about that. I’m sure you can understand that I found the whole situation somewhat awkward.

More than somewhat, I would say, considering you share a son with my late husband. And Brady is Victor’s grandson.

Brady and I had no idea about the familial connections when we made our own connection.

I see. Well, then why don’t you tell me, Fiona, exactly how did it happen? Was Brady drinking at the time?

He was, though I had no idea he shouldn’t have been. All I knew was that he was charming, good to talk to, and we were both lonely.

I see. Well, are you and Brady still sleeping together?

No. No, no. It’s over. And I’m horrified, horrified by what he did to Sarah, hitting her like that and leaving her there to die. It’s unconscionable. It’s unforgivable!

[tense music]

---

Brady, you know I don’t judge. Or I do my best to try not to. But what are you thinking?

[scoffs] I wasn’t thinking. I was on a bender. By the way, I did not know that Fiona was Xander’s mom when we first got together.

OK, so once you found out, you ended things?

Uh, uh, no.

Seriously?

But it’s over now, OK? Eric, nothing kills romance faster than paralyzing your new lover’s daughter-in-law.

Mm.

Anyway, let’s change the subject. Did you talk to Holly yet? I mean, that must have been rough.

Wait, you haven’t heard?

Heard? What? No. I thought you were gonna tell Holly the truth behind Daniel’s death. Did you do that?

Well, I wanted to. But somebody beat me to it.

What? Who? Who told her?

Your son.

Mmm. Thanks for saving me one.

Yeah, no problem. I mean, since you brought me four.

[chuckles]

Mmm. So delish. So… Holly’s still not talking to you?

No. She’s not returning my calls. All my texts and DMs are going unread.

That’s just wrong. I mean I know she’s upset, but I don’t get why she doesn’t understand you’re just trying to be there for your dad.

The way Holly sees it, she doesn’t even have a dad. That’s all because of what my Uncle Eric did. And now my dad nearly took her Aunt Sarah’s life. So to put it mildly, it’s a lot.

Yeah. I guess when you put it like that, I actually feel bad for her. And even though she’s ghosting me too, I really do wish we were still close so I could be there for her. I mean, she never even met her father because he was killed by a drunk driver. And now she knows that the drunk driver was Eric Brady, the man who her mother is now living with in Paris. It’s just so awful and sad and depressing.

Yeah. All the above.

Oh, Tate.

[somber music] My heart breaks for Holly.

---

And for you, too.

---

Yeah, I guess there’s some truth to what you’re saying. Maybe I’m transferring some of my anger towards Eric onto Tate’s dad.

And it’s understandable, Holly.

Especially because all Eric got was a slap on the wrist for killing my father.

[EJ sighs] And now it looks like Brady’s gonna walk for putting my aunt in a wheelchair. All because they thought it was OK to drink and drive.

Well, it’s not OK, obviously. It was horrible, unconscionable. And as I told you, as district attorney, I am committed to holding Brady accountable for that hit-and-run the second any concrete evidence of his culpability comes to light.

OK. And my offer still stands. You just say the word and I’ll do whatever I can to help you find that evidence.

Holly. Holly, we’ve been over this. It is a job for the police.

Oh, my God, EJ. We both know that if the Salem PD was gonna find something, they would have by now. And I’m not just gonna stand by and watch history repeat itself when–when someone hurts the people I love.

[scoffs] I mean, Eric, he’s literally living his best life with my mom right now. And all except for five minutes in prison, he never paid for what he did. But Brady has to pay, one way or the other.

I agree, wholeheartedly.

I know you do. And it really means a lot to me to know you feel the same way I do.

[somber music]

We are kindred spirits in this.

[both chuckle]

[chuckling] Yeah, I guess we are. OK, well, I better get going.

All right, Holly, well, you take care of yourself, OK?

You too.

---

You too.

[Holly sighs]

---

[elevator bell rings]

[EJ sighs]

---

So you met Brady the night of Xander’s wedding.

Right. And yes, he was drinking. But I had no idea he was in recovery. And I’m sure you remember how Xander tore into me for keeping that secret for all those years. Him being Victor’s son.

[jazzy piano music]

[sighs] Maggie, I was in a bad place. I had no idea who Brady was. He was just a handsome stranger who was being kind to me.

---

Why are you telling me all this now?

Because when I initially found out about the bad blood between Xander and Brady, I thought it best that I keep quiet. I’d only just managed to get back into my son’s good graces after years of estrangement. And I didn’t want to take the chance that an affair with his nephew would ruin things.

---

Does Xander know about you and Brady?

Yeah.

Oh. I can imagine his reaction when he found out.

Well, he was completely thrown. He was terribly upset. But some good did come of it.

And what is that?

When I told him the truth, for various reasons, mostly, I suppose, because he was so shocked, it stopped him from hurting Brady, from attacking him with a baseball bat.

I’m serious, Xander. I need you to promise me that you’re gonna drop this vendetta against Brady.

Look–

[phone beeps]

[Xander sighs] Oh, damn. A little bit of Titan business I have to attend to.

Mm. At this hour?

It might be nighttime here, but the Asian markets have just opened.

[suspenseful music] What, Sarah? Why are you looking at me like that?

You know why. The last time that you left here on “Titan business,” you went after Brady with a baseball bat.

Darling, look, as I said, I’m– I’m not gonna promise you that I’ll drop my vendetta against Brady. But I can absolutely promise you that I’m not leaving you right now to go confront him again. Come on. Cross my heart. You do believe me, don’t you?

---

I’m trying.

Mwah. Why don’t you…

---

Work on your upper body strength while I’m gone?

I will. I want the s.

[chuckles] Of course you do.

[Xander sighs]

---

There you go.

Thank you.

---

I can still take you, you know?

I don’t doubt it for a minute.

[Sarah chuckles] I won’t be gone long.

OK.

[Xander smooches]

---

[Sarah sighs]

Well, Fiona–

[sighs] In spite of the shock about what you told me about you and Brady, of course, I’m relieved that you stopped Xander from hurting him.

Believe me, so was I.

Sarah needs Xander by her side right now, not in prison for assault. And also, as deeply disappointed as I am in Brady and angry at his terrible choices that he made, I don’t want him to be hurt.

---

Despite what he did to your daughter?

[jazzy piano music]

The truth is I can’t bear to look at them right now. But he’s family. And he’s had a lot to deal with in his life. Including alcoholism. But he’s a kind and a decent man.

---

When he’s sober.

---

So Tate told Holly that you were the driver that caused Daniel’s death? Why would he do that?

He thought she already knew.

Right, OK. I get why he would. How is Holly dealing with it?

[laid-back music]

[sighs] She’s angry as hell. At me and Nicole, rightfully so. We’ve been lying to her her entire life. She feels betrayed.

You and Nicole, you– you had your reasons, Eric.

Yeah, we did. And when just, you know, just looking back now, maybe those reasons weren’t good enough.

[sighs] Give Holly some time to process it. You’ve loved that little girl her whole life. And she knows it. There’s nothing you wouldn’t do for her. Let her remember that. She’ll come around eventually.

I pray you’re right.

---

Well, um… it’s time for me to go to an AA meeting.

---

One day at a time, right?

Right.

---

I don’t care what time it is. You call Acting Commissioner Hunter and remind her that this investigation into Sarah Kiriakis’s hit-and-run is an ongoing one. Stress to her that they need to find some concrete evidence linking Brady Black to this crime or I’ll make sure the case to Mayor Price that there needs to be significant changes in personnel running our police department.

[exhales deeply and groans]

[tense music] Perhaps, I should take Holly up on her offer and get her on the case. She can’t be any worse than the Salem PD.

[sighs]

I just wish Holly would understand that even though you have your dad’s back, you’re on her side, too. I mean, you’re the guy she loves, right?

I’m not really sure anymore. I, uh… I just want her to know that I’m here for her to talk or whatever.

[suspenseful music]

You know, if I was lucky enough to have an amazing boyfriend like you…

[Tate chuckles] And I was going through something like this, I wouldn’t take you for granted. And I sure wouldn’t push you away. I mean, you’re such a great person, Tate Black. You’re not only great-looking. You’re also smart, and fun, and sensitive. Just, like, this total catch.

Yeah, right.

You are, I swear. And it’s not just my opinion. It’s a fact. You are amazing.

---

[knock at door]

Sorry.

[tense music]

---

I’m glad we talked, Fiona. We both have stepped up to be there for our children. I’ve come to consider you a friend. And I wouldn’t want us to keep any secrets.

Nor would I.

Well, I better get going because I want to stop and get my daughter her favorite dessert before she turns in tonight.

And if you don’t mind, I’ll stay behind and have my favorite dessert right here.

Of course. So I’ll see you at home?

You will.

Yep.

And thank you, Maggie, for not thinking too ill of me. At least I hope you don’t.

I don’t, I don’t. I’ve said many times you’ve been there to help and support Sarah, Xander, and me.

[chuckles] We’re very grateful for you.

And I’m very grateful for your understanding.

Oh, come on. Come here.

[laughs] Aw.

Mm. Bye.

OK, see you at home.

Yeah.

---

Well, if it isn’t the world-famous shutterbug, Eric Brady, bumming off Daddy’s free Wi-Fi?

What do you want, EJ?

Oh, is Roman aware of how rudely you’re greeting his customers?

Did you come in here to eat?

No. God, no. If I live to , I’ll never understand the appeal of a place that serves a great portion of their items with those little packets of tartar sauce. Oh, why so glum, Eric? Ah, you know what? Never mind. I know the answer to that. Not only has your alcoholic brother crippled the wonderful and very well-respected Dr. Sarah Horton, you’re now having to relive the misery and shame of your own crime. Which was much worse, considering, uh… you actually killed someone. Not to mention Holly Jonas now absolutely despises you. And for good reason, don’t you think? Since that someone was her father. – Sophia.

I bet your ears were burning. Tate and I were just talking about you.

Were you?

We were. I was just telling your boyfriend that I really hope things work out between you two.

Mm, I bet you do.

I do. Oh, my God, I hate that you two are fighting. OK, well, I should get back to work. I just ran over here to bring Tate some sliders on my break.

Aw, it’s too bad you don’t have anyone to blackmail into working for you. Otherwise, I’d say you could totally stay and hang.

Mm, you’re hilarious. OK, see you later, girl.

Yeah. See you later, girl.

Bye, Tate.

Bye.

[sighs]

[door slams] It’s not what you think.

Whatever. I don’t want to waste my time talking about Sophia. I came over here because– because I wanted to apologize to you, Tate, for not answering your calls or texts. I’ve been dealing with a lot, with this whole situation, with our families.

Totally get it. I know it’s been really rough for you.

Yeah, it has been. But I don’t want to talk about that either. I just–can we hang out and spend some time together like we used to before all this craziness happened?

[Tate chuckles]

I’d love that.

[Holly sighs] I missed you, Holly.

I missed you so much.

[Tate chuckles and sighs]

[suspenseful music]

[Holly sniffs]

Hey, you OK?

Yeah. Yeah, I’ll be fine. Um, can I just use your restroom? Just need to freshen up.

Yeah, of course.

I’ll only be a few minutes.

OK.

[Holly sighs]

---

Brady’s room. Has to be.

---

[jazzy piano music]

Hi there.

Oh, hello, dear. I was just about to beckon over my server.

Oh, well, her shift just ended, so I’ll be closing you out. Would you like anything else?

Actually, I would.

---

I got your text. You have what I need?

Sure thing, Xander.

That’s Mr. Kiriakis to you now.

Oh, right, yeah. I heard your ship had come in.

That’s one way to put it.

So what, you running things now?

Damn right.

Well, pardon the disrespect. Here you go.

---

It’s totally untraceable, as per your request.

Perfect. And you’re clear on your part in this?

Crystal. I know exactly what you need me to do. And no worries, OK? Guy won’t know what hit him.

[tense music]

Holly doesn’t despise me. And I know she has every reason to be hurt, but I know she’ll come around.

Hmm. Wow. I admire your optimism, Eric, as misplaced as it is. You see, I’m certain, now that Holly knows how much of a chronic liar her mother is and that you are the drunken driver who deprived her of her father, that poor girl is not going to trust either of you ever again.

---

Good thing she has me to lean on, huh?

[tense music]

---

Holly? What the hell are you doing?

---

Excuse me.

You’re Brady Black, right?

I am. Who’s asking?

[jazzy piano music]

---

Cheesecake. And a very dry martini straight up with a twist.

The perfect pairing.

Anything else for you?

No, I’m all set. Thank you.

Okey-dokey. Well, just give me a holler if you change your mind.

---

[sighs]

---

Mm.

---

Sarah, darling, I brought you some tiramisu from–

[suspenseful music]

---

Sarah?

[ominous music] This is very odd. I wonder where she could have gone to this late.

[sighs]

---

[insects chirping]

---

Sarah. How did you get here?

The second that you left, I had Henderson bring the van around. And then I used location tracking to have the driver follow you here.

I see.

So much for Titan business. What are you really doing here?

[tense dramatic music]

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Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

Honestly, I can’t even believe the house is still standing. Yeah, everyone’s OK. That’s– that’s the most important thing. Yeah, and tell Gabi that I hope she feels better soon. Thank you. I love you, too, Dad.

[phone beeps]

How’s he doing?

Amazingly, my dad wasn’t hurt. Gabi did sustain a few minor injuries, but she’s gonna be OK.

Well, thank God for that. And that Connie lady, she deserves to be in a straightjacket in a padded room.

Definitely. Fortunately, the damage to this room was minimal.

Well, on the surface, yeah. But are we really OK to be, like, standing here?

I mean, the fire chief said they did a thorough inspection and that the house is habitable. But–

But what?

Well, we might have to do some restocking of the wine cellar. Unfortunately, my dad’s vintage Chateau Margaux was lost.

Yeah, well, I would be happy to help with that, but you know, I am more of a $ to $ bottle of wine type of gal.

You know, I beg to differ. You see, do you remember that restaurant we ate at in Italy? La Pergola I think it was called.

Mm-hmm. On the night that we got married the first time?

Yes. And if you recall the number on the check that the waiter dropped due to those very expensive bottles of wine that you ordered?

OK, yeah, well, that was a special occasion.

Every occasion is special with you.

[tender music]

---

Well, I am just so happy that we do not have to move out. Because this girl right here, she can use some rest, especially since tomorrow I am shooting my first scenes with Alex.

---

Isn’t this exciting?

[laughs] Here we are, mother and stepson, and we’re shooting on the same show, and you’re playing my son.

Yeah.

I mean, come on. We’re like one of those old Hollywood families, like the Barrymores, or the Fondas, or the whatevers.

[laughs]

Hm.

And, you know, it’s kind of funny. You are in my fake life playing my real son and in my real life playing my fake son.

Fake son?

Oh, no, no, no. That’s a bad choice of words. Well, though, you’re not really my real son, though. Come on, stop it. You know what I mean.

I do. I do. And I admit it’s a little strange that you’re playing my mom, for sure.

Right.

Let’s just hope that life doesn’t imitate art and your house falls through a sinkhole like the Lovegood mansion did in “Body & Soul.”

[chuckles] Sinkhole, shminkhole, it’s all drama, baby.

Yeah.

And since, actually, we’re gonna be working so hard on bringing these characters to life, I certainly hope your father is negotiating your contract, too.

Too?

Oh, yeah.

He’s negotiating yours?

Well, of course, he is. You know, the studio, AKA Kate Brady, was trying to lowball me, but my wonderful Justin is making sure that I get every penny I’m worth.

[relaxed music]

Well?

One moment, please.

Of course. So just to summarize, Bonnie is simply asking for an additional one week vacation and to increase her rate to % over scale, which I think is a very reasonable counterproposal given her talent, her work ethic, and most importantly, her breadth of life experience.

[soft dramatic music]

---

So do we have a deal?

---

Who is it? – It’s Abe Carver.

Ah. Abe!

Well, hello, Stephanie. Is this a bad time?

Not at all. Come in.

Oh, thank you. Thank you.

Yes. I was just working on the “Body & Soul” press release, announcing our first day of shooting tomorrow. Would you like to see the first draft?

Oh, no, I’m sure it’s perfectly fine. You know, I came by because I wanted to talk about something else, something that has to be done tonight.

---

Yes. Yes. Perfect. God, I love these characters. They are complex, intelligent, wise beyond their years, witty and urbane, all thanks to me, and most importantly, their love transcends all of the mishegoss that is trying to tear them apart. Mishegoss? No, that’s too New York. Producers won’t get it. Their love transcends all of the obstacles that are conspiring to keep them apart. Eat your heart out, Willy Shakes. You may have coined the term star-crossed lovers for those forlorn teenyboppers Romeo and Juliet, but I have taken that tired concept to a whole new level for Arrow and Faith.

[sighs]

[knocking] No, no, no. Not while I’m in a flow state. Oh.

---

Hattie?

Yes, yes, yes.

Shouldn’t you be, like, learning your lines?

Yes, I was home, and I was reading all these shows, and then it occurred to me that I needed to come over and talk to you.

What’s wrong? Is there a problem?

Problem? There’s a problem, yes. Leo, all of these scripts have to be rewritten, completely rewritten.

---

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

---

I beg your pardon. You need me to do what?

Look, I read all these scripts, and so what I did was I went ahead and I put frowny faces on the ones that I didn’t like at all, and then I put smiley faces on the ones that I liked, you know, kind of a little bit. And then I got to thinking, oh, my gosh, how am I gonna memorize these things?

OK.

So, well, then I thought, why worry about that because they’ll all be rewritten, anyway. I won’t have to memorize these particular shows.

OK, OK, and what, pray tell, is wrong with your scenes?

Well, you know, it’s– It’s about Kassandra and Charlemagne. Because Kassandra has way too much of the storyline going on.

Uh-huh, so?

So– so? Charlemagne is the star of the show, you see? So it doesn’t work. Charlemagne may needs to have most of the dialogue because she is, you know, after all, the star. The audience understands that. And if you don’t get that right, they will turn on you. They will really turn on you. In fact, what will happen is the audience will– will turn off the television, and they’ll go to the movies, or they will leave the television on, but they will change the channel, or they’ll turn the television off, and they– they’ll read a book.

OK, OK, OK. I get what you’re saying. So you want me to rewrite all these scripts so that you have more dialogue?

Exactly. And– and you can thank me for doing a favor for you. Because in addition to improving the show enormously, you’ll be putting Bonnie in her place.

I’m sensing a rivalry here a la Joan Crawford and Bette Davis.

Yes, a rivalry. Ever since my close personal friend became a super diva.

[soft dramatic music]

Hmm.

Hmm.

So my dad is negotiating to get you a better deal, huh?

Heck, yeah. My husband is a crackerjack lawyer, let me tell you. In fact, I am guaranteeing he gets me % over scale, an extra week of vacay pay and an early out every other Friday. Uh-huh.

Now, Bon– Bonnie, have you ever heard of the phrase “you can’t get blood from a stone”?

Well, of course. What’s that got to do with my contract?

Everything. You see, this show is on a very tight budget, from what I hear.

Well, honey, this is a big production. You know, it’s “Body & Soul.” That is a household name, a brand. They got plenty of money to spread around. In fact, so much so, Kate Brady, she’s gonna fold like a cheap lawn chair.

[chuckles]

[chuckles]

Mark my words.

I think we have a deal.

Fantastic. OK, so just put your John Hancock right there.

And the deal is you tell Bonnie she either accepts the original terms of the deal or “Body & Soul” is more than happy to find a new Kassandra.

[dramatic music]

---

So what’s so important that it has to be done tonight?

Well, you suggested that we have a photo shoot of the cast for the relaunch. You know, and then splash it across social media, magazines, et cetera, et cetera.

Right. Right, I did. But, um, I remember you telling me that we didn’t have enough money left in our budget for even a cappuccino. So we– we couldn’t afford to do it.

Well, that’s no longer the case.

Oh, did you find another investor?

I– I actually think this could be better. I happened to run into your cousin Eric today.

Eric? Well, I didn’t even know that he was in town.

Yeah, he’s back here to support Brady. But while I was mentioning the relaunch of “Body & Soul,” he very kindly offered to do the shoot pro bono.

Oh, you’re kidding, Abe. That’s great.

[laughs] Yes. So I have scheduled the shoot for tonight.

OK, then. Well, I should help wrangle the actors.

Wrangle. I think that might be the operative word.

Right. Since our show has no shortage of larger-than-life personalities.

[soft dramatic music]

OK. OK, how about this? In act , Charlemagne is talking to her ex-husband, and she says something like “Really, Kassandra? That shrew has the charm of a dead houseplant.” Huh?

Hmm.

What?

No. No. Too snarky. Charlemagne wouldn’t stoop to that.

OK. OK. Look, Hattie. I want you to be happy with your part. Truly, I do, but I can’t just be making changes willy nilly. There’s a chain of command, and all of these scripts have been approved by the producers. Any rewrites need to be submitted, and that really just slows everything down.

Why don’t you tell that to Bonnie? She’s the one who’s off the reservation with all these rewrites and rewrites and changes of hers.

Really? She’s been making changes? Nobody told me that. And why is anybody making changes? We haven’t even started shooting yet.

I know. I know. She’s just gone off the rails, and she’s writing like she’s Greta Gerwig or somebody.

OK. Look, Hattie. I am burning the midnight oil writing the next batch of scripts. I don’t have time to make any changes to anything that’s already been approved.

---

Look. This is the first week of our relaunch, so we have to get it right, you know? We’ve got to reel the audience in like a rainbow trout.

You mean our gay viewers?

No. I actually meant like the fish.

Oh. OK, look, I will see what I can do, but I’m not making any promises.

---

OK, tell me what you think about this, OK? OK.

[relaxed music]

---

Relationships, my dear, they’re not like some barefoot walk on the beach. They’re hard work, sometimes full of heartache, and your whole world could fall away, collapse suddenly without warning. Honey, I know about these things. Believe me. I do.

---

Wow. Bonnie, that was, like– that was, like, emotional.

Really?

That was really moving.

Oh, really?

Because I changed a little bit of that speech because it was a little boring.

Yeah, no, whatever. You’re a great actress.

[laughs] Oh, Alex. Thank you. Can you believe I have all my lines memorized already?

Good for you. I wish I could say the same thing about myself. But honestly, that’s the least of my worries because I’m really worried about just working alongside my co-star.

Chanel? Why?

Well, as you may know, we’re supposed to be playing this hot young couple, crazy in love, star-crossed, but in reality, there’s a little bit more than just tension between us.

So you really, uh, dread working with Alex, huh?

Yeah. You already know that, Johnny. I mean, after what happened with him and Allie, he is the last person on Earth that I want to spend eight hours a day with.

More like , actually.

Oh, God.

Look, what happened with Alex and Allie, that’s all in the past. And everything worked out for the better, right? I mean, Allie seems very happy in her new life, and, I don’t know, you seem happy, from what you tell me, anyway.

Well, of course, I am. OK? I am married to the sweetest…

Ooh.

Sexiest man on the planet.

Oh. And I am the luckiest guy on the planet because I get to be married to my sexy, talented wife. And besides, isn’t part of the reason you accepted this job so that you could spend every day with your, dare I say it, dashing director?

[laughs]

Hmm?

Yeah. Well, I guess if I am going to have to spend hours in the studio, then I am grateful that I get to spend them with you.

Hmm. And I get to spend those said hours not only in your presence but also telling you what to do.

Mm, which is the opposite of our marriage, huh?

[laughter]

[phone rumbles] Oh, I am vibrating.

Tell me about it.

No, I mean my phone.

[phone beeps]

Actually, you know what? Me too.

It is an…

Email from the studio.

Pink pages? What are pink pages?

Uh, they’re, like, last minute changes to the script. It looks like there’s some more pages added for tomorrow… for you and Alex.

[soft dramatic music]

Wait, what? Faith and Arrow have sex?

---

[sighs]

No, no, no, no, no, no, no. I was under the impression that Faith and Arrow were star-crossed lovers, longing for one another while everything gets in the way. I mean, isn’t the whole point that they don’t have sex, at least not for a while?

Yeah, I don’t know. I mean, from what Abe and Kate told me, yeah, I mean, Faith and Arrow weren’t supposed to consummate their relationship for months.

Hey, well, now it is happening this week! And I just– ooh, I cannot believe that I have to have a love scene with Alex this week, like, right off the bat.

Yeah, well, I have to direct it.

---

So Chanel blames you for Allie and her breaking up and Allie moving out of town?

Right, and I mean, it’s not like she doesn’t have a slight reason to.

You and Allie, you, well, you know, a second time.

Yeah.

Was that after the threesome?

Hey?

What?

Can we use our inside voices when we’re talking about that, please?

Please, honey. Nobody’s listening.

Really? Nobody’s listening? This is Salem.

Fine. Shh. I’ll keep it down.

Thank you.

I’ve been, you know, thinking. If you want my advice– and you probably don’t, but you’re gonna get it anyway– you should channel that emotion into your performance, you know, the tension, with Chanel. See, I was reading in Uta Hagen’s “Respect for Acting,” she talks about using anger and nervousness and upset and really using it to spice up your performance.

All right, but, I mean, I don’t think Faith should really want to, you know, knee Arrow in the groin. She loves him.

But you can’t be together, right? I mean, you’re being kept apart by forces out of your control.

I guess so.

OK. There it is. There’s the tension. So every time we see Arrow, we should see him longing for Faith. We should see him thinking that, oh, if only the stars could align, we could ride off into the sunset together. But you can’t. So you, Alex, you as an actor, you got to dig. You know? You got to dig down deep, and you got to channel that heartbreak.

[relaxed music]

Wow, Bonnie. I got to tell you, you got, like, an innate sense for this whole acting thing.

[laughs] Well, no, credit where credit is due. During my audition, Johnny told me I shouldn’t hold back.

Huh.

He actually said that…

[clears throat] well, what I did to Adrian was actually a gold mine to use to play Kassandra.

Ah. So it worked?

Oh, yeah, it worked.

[laughs] And, you know, I don’t mean to brag or anything, but you– you said it yourself. Turns out I have talent.

[laughs] And Justin is gonna make sure Kate sees exactly that. And there he is, my agent, or my husband who’s acting as my agent. Mwah. Hello.

Hey.

So how did it go? Did you have Kate begging for mercy?

---

Not exactly.

---

Hey. Hello there.

Hey, did you talk to Stephanie?

I did. I did. And she’s ready to step in and organize the whole photo shoot.

That’s wonderful. Except there won’t be a photo shoot if Eric is a no show.

Oh, he texted me a while ago. He’s gonna gather his equipment. He should be here soon.

Ah, well, that’s wonderful. Another problem solved.

[chuckles] Well, what’s that?

You know, Justin was here earlier. He wanted to revise Bonnie’s contract. He said she was owed a sweetheart deal. And I made it perfectly clear, no sale.

[soft dramatic music]

Scale? You promised you’d get me a better deal.

I’m sorry, sweetheart. I know that’s what I promised you, but Kate was adamant that the original offer was final. So it was either accept the offer or walk. And I assume you don’t want to do that.

No, of course I don’t want to do that. Especially now I feel like Kassandra is part of me, you know? I mean, I couldn’t abandon her, not in good conscience. So I will take it in spite of it all because the show must go on. And I will play Kassandra Lovegood for all she’s worth.

Oh, good. You’re here.

What’s all that?

I think they’re known as pink pages.

---

Heck. What are all these changes? Charlemagne pushes Kassandra into her own birthday cake? Kassandra’s long-lost daughter tells her she wishes Charlemagne were her real mother? When Kassandra loses her job, Charlemagne hires her as her unpaid intern? Who made these changes?

Don’t look at me. I didn’t do it.

Who did?

Well, I mean, who always does that, you know? The head writer does. So if you’re having a problem with anything, you should– you should talk to Leo Stark.

Oh? Somebody say my name?

Oh.

[soft dramatic music] – I got to talk to Leo. I got to tell him that it is way too soon for Faith and Arrow to be sleeping together.

Yeah.

[phone beeps] What? What’s going on? More changes?

No, it’s a text from Stephanie. Apparently there’s a last minute photo shoot, and they need the entire cast of “Body & Soul.”

When?

Now.

---

All right. So I sent a group message to the cast, and almost everybody has replied that they’re on the way to the studio, and if we have any stragglers, then I will track them down. All we need now is–

Hello?

Eric.

I’m accounted for.

[laughter]

Hi.

Hi.

I cannot tell you how much we appreciate you doing this shoot for us. I know you’re going to get exactly what we need to whet the viewer’s appetite.

And we only wish that we had enough money to pay you what you’re worth.

Oh, no, no, no, no. Don’t worry about it. I just– I’m just glad I’m able to help, you know? I just know how much “Body & Soul” means to you and to the audience and everybody in Salem who’s been working on it. Just remember me in your Emmy speech.

[laughter]

Well, I think you might be putting the cart before–

OK, of course, we will.

All right. Well, hey, all I need to do is set up. So from what I’ve heard, it seems pretty straightforward.

Yeah.

Leo, why would you do this? Why would you butcher the script just to make me look like a buffoon, a doormat?

Well, you know, technically, it’s not you, Bonnie. It’s Kassandra.

Oh, oh, look. It’s a text from the studio.

Wait, I got one, too.

Why didn’t I get one?

It’s only for on-air talent, something about a last-minute photo shoot.

A photo shoot. I’m so ready for my close up.

Me too.

Break a leg.

Oh, honey. I don’t think you say that for a photo shoot. Or do you?

Good luck, then.

Aw. No, either is fine. Mm. Love you.

Love you, too, Bonnie. Have fun.

Thank you. Hey, I’ll give you a ride, Alex. Hattie, you coming?

Sure. Yeah, I’ll come along.

Uh, not so fast.

What? What’s wrong?

What’s wrong? I did you a favor, several of them, actually, and you throw me under the bus?

Oh. Well, you know what they say. That’s showbiz, baby. Besides, it’s always the writer that takes the blame. Ha.

---

Damn it. Try and be helpful, and this is the thanks I get. Reminds me of that time I dated that gorgeous Chilean painter Emiliano with the neck that was slightly too long. So I go out and buy him several cashmere sweaters, and what do I get in return? Broken heart.

[knocking] Ugh. Hattie? – It’s Johnny.

Well, if it isn’t my favorite director.

May I?

Please.

Thank you.

To what do I owe the pleasure?

I was just reading those pink pages, the Faith and Arrow love scene.

Pretty steamy, huh? If only the network allowed just a teeny bit of nudity.

If only.

So here’s what I was thinking. We start on a close up of the two of them making out, and you slowly tilt down. Cue the royalty free jazz. Cut to the fireplace, et cetera, et cetera. But I don’t need to tell you how to do your job. I mean, even an amateur can make Alex Kiriakis look like he is en fuego, which means on fire, in case you’re not familiar with español. Am I right?

No, yeah. Sure. Look, I was just thinking maybe it’s a little too soon for them to be having sex, right?

When is it ever too soon to have sex? I mean, all of my favorite movies have wild sex scenes in the first six, seven minutes, and I don’t think it’s a coincidence that they’re all French.

OK, look. I’m– I’m– I’m– speaking in terms of this story, all right, on this show. And if I may quote the late, great Agnes Nixon, you got to make them laugh, you got to make them cry, and most importantly, you have to make them wait.

Hmm. Who cares what some former first lady says? I mean, unless we’re talking about Jackie O. That woman had serious style.

Listen, Leo. I came here to ask you one question. Would you just– would you consider rewriting that scene?

What? It is an important, pivotal scene.

Leo, it’s too soon!

The answer is no.

I’m telling you, you need to build suspense.

No more rewrites! Huh.

All right. Looks like I got everyone checked in. So with any luck, we will get done with our principal shot tonight.

That would be great.

Ah, there they are, Hattie, Bonnie. OK, you two are up first. Wardrobe is right down the corridor.

Oh, great. Before we start, could I have a word?

About what?

Your head writer.

Leo. What about him?

He’s gone rogue. Have you seen all these pinks?

Oh, wait, wait. You know what, come on. She just said that we’re trying to get the show on the road, so come on, chop-chop. We got to move. We got to go.

Yep, yep. Let me take you to wardrobe.

OK.

Just come this way.

OK. It just– yeah.

All right. All right. All right.

Oh, Justin.

Hey, Abe.

[relaxed music]

I– I’m very sorry about the Bonnie contract situation. The thing is that Kate is, well, in charge of everything that goes into the budget, and she doesn’t allow any wiggle room.

---

It’s been a few years since you were on the force, right?

---

I guess you never forget how to do the good cop, bad cop thing.

[laughs] Well, I suppose that’s right.

[chuckles]

You know, we would like to– I’d give everyone a big raise if we had the money, and I believe that we should pay everyone their worth.

That’s very good of you, Abe.

If the show, or rather, when this show gets on the air, and it becomes a big hit…

[chuckles] Then we can revisit the Bonnie contract situation.

---

[gasps] Wow! You look amazing!

There’s our Kassandra. You look absolutely stunning.

Oh, stop. Actually, keep going.

[laughter]

You’re a knockout, Kassandra.

If you could just stand right over here, that’d be great.

OK, so you want me, like–

I just want you to be yourself. Be in character. Be Kassandra.

Ooh, that I can do.

Awesome!

[laughing]

You look great. You look fantastic. There. Oh, that’s great!

[laughs] You look fantastic. Keep it going. Look at you! Yes! Come on. Give it to me. Bonnie? Hey?

What?

[energetic music] What are you wearing?

What are you wearing?

Oh, this is ridiculous. We can’t wear the same dress. You got to go change.

What? No. No, no, no, no, no. I am not changing. I am Charlemagne Delacroix.

So what? I’m Kassandra Lovegood.

So what? I have never been pushed into a cake, I’ve never done an unpaid internship, and I certainly have never changed my attire for the likes of you.

Well, that’s where you’re wrong, sister, because you will not steal my thunder. Now, you take off that dress, or I will take it off for you!

Don’t you dare!

Watch me!

[grunts] Take off the dress!

So what kind of angle you think we can get here?

No, no, no!

Take it off!

Take it off.

You take it off!

No, you, you, you!

No!

I saw it first!

Well, what do you think?

Ah, you are a vision, my dear. This is the perfect dress for our ingenue.

Thank you. I’m just glad it was still on the rack. It looked like someone was rolling around in the clothes.

Mm-hmm, you don’t say.

Mm, Chanel, why don’t you come down over here?

You look beautiful.

Thank you.

All right. Just be natural.

[laughs] That’s great. Perfect.

Alex, are you ready?

Oh.

Well, well. It’s right this way.

Oh, I will just get out of your way.

No, no, no.

No? But aren’t I done with my shoot?

No. We still need you here. You two are our hot young couple. We need some pictures of you together.

[energetic music]

Do I or do I not order this Gloria Estefan pajama onesie?

[knocking] Ugh! Can I ever get a little me time? I already told you, Johnny. No more rewrites.

I don’t care what you told Johnny. I know Hattie put you up to these pinks!

No.

No?

No. I made those changes myself. I am the head writer, after all. I have the power. I am very important, highly respected, and the buck stops with me, Bonnie. I have the last word.

I’ll tell you what else stops with you, mister– the success of this show if you let that stuck-up Hattie Adams bully you into ruining my character. Because if you do, I quit.

What? You can’t do that.

Oh, really? Watch me. Unless…

Unless?

Unless you unpink these pages right now.

Oh.

[soft dramatic music]

All right, that’s good. Hey, Alex, look at Chanel. Look in her eyes.

[energetic music] All right, put your arm around her. Come on. There it is. That’s it. It looks great.

---

Did you get those pages? You know, where Faith and Arrow have sex?

Yes, I did.

---

Don’t you think it’s a little–

Rushed?

Yeah, rushed.

Yeah, I do, actually. And I was thinking about maybe asking Kate and Abe if maybe they can pull it back a little bit.

Hey, Chanel. Why don’t you look into Alex’s eyes for a minute? There it is. That’s it. It’s brilliant! Act like you want him to hold you closer. You want him to be there, turning you on. I see it.

---

I have to say, Alex, I’m a bit surprised.

Why? Why? You think I’d leap at the chance to pretend jump your bones?

No. Well, maybe.

OK, well, I may have been a player in real life, but–

May have been?

But this is acting. And whatever happens on the screen isn’t real. All that matters is that the audience thinks that it is.

Here we go.

I know what this needs. Alex, lose the jacket.

---

[sighs]

Hattie. Is everything all right?

No, everything is not all right. You have to fire that Bonnie Kiriakis because that woman can’t even act.

You want me to fire Bonnie?

Which word don’t you understand? Abe, I’m telling you, it’s her or me.

---

Oh, my God. This is perfect. Yeah! Oh, my God, so sexy.

Not sexy enough, if you ask me.

Um, Chanel, why don’t you put your hand on his chest. We need to see the heat between you.

---

Awesome.

---

Yes, that’s it! Oh, my God. This is great! You guys are beautiful! Oh, yes. Touch her face. Yes, it’s hot. You guys are sexy.

Back to the Days Transcripts Page

Back to the Main Daytime Transcripts Page

 

 

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

Hey, baby. I’m sorry I’m late. My wardrobe fitting took forever.

Oh, It’s okay. I actually just got here myself. It has been a crazy day at the studio. I thought my brain was going to explode from all the production meetings.

You know, when I signed on to do “Body & Soul,” I kind of thought that we would be working together all day, and now I haven’t seen you.

Yeah. Well, that will all change as soon as we start taping, which, as you know, is tomorrow. And I am so excited to direct my beautiful, sexy wife. I just hope she doesn’t turn out to be a total diva.

[scoffs]

Oh!

Me? Never.

Already pelting the director with baked goods. Okay, that answers our question.

[insects chirping]

[dog barking]

[monitor beeping]

You, uh, you need to rest. I should–I should go.

No. Please stay. I don’t wanna be alone right now.

[soft music]

Um…of course. I’ll–I’ll stay as long as you need.

---

I still find it hard to believe that my wonderful assistant, who I thought was such a big help… That she wanted to kill me. She would have succeeded… If you hadn’t been there to dig me out of the rubble. How did you even know that Melinda and I were in the tunnels?

Sheer luck. I just happened to notice the blood on the fireplace poker, and then I saw that the door to the secret passageway was open.

Well, thank God you did. Otherwise–

Hey. I know. Come here.

---

There’s already an APB out on Connie, so the police are on it, at least.

Oh, God, that woman is a complete lunatic.

Yeah, more like a homicidal maniac.

Yeah, right. I mean, who knows what other crimes she may have committed, right?

Yeah. Well, come on. We need to fix this. We got–

Oh, come on. It’s not that big a deal, all right? No need to fuss over me, okay?

Who said this was about you? I don’t want you getting blood all over my room.

Ah. My mistake.

Seriously, come on. It’s the least I could do. I mean, after all, you, uh– oof–you saved my life.

I think you might be exaggerating a bit.

No, no, I wasn’t exaggerating.

[groans]

It’s all right. Sorry. I saw that look in Connie’s eye. She was definitely gonna slit my throat. If you hadn’t gotten her to change her tune and get angry at you, I would have been toast.

What can I say? I have a knack for pissing women off, especially the psychotic ones.

Seriously. Come on. Stop downplaying what you did. You were heroic. You’re also a little stupid, though, because you could have gotten yourself killed. But you put your life on the line for me. And I’ll never forget that.

---

Hey, hold it right there, Connie! Drop the knife, or I’ll shoot. I said, drop the knife. This is your last warning. If you don’t drop it, I swear–

All right! All right!

[tense music]

---

Connie Viniski, you are under arrest.

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

---

If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you. Do you understand?

Yeah, yeah. How did you find me?

[suspenseful music]

Easy. One of your victims, Melinda Trask, she told me that you were in possession of one of your other victims’ phones.

Melinda? But how could she have told you?

Oh, you thought you killed her? Well, I am pleased to inform you that your little bomb didn’t work out so well. Yeah, Gabi and Melinda are still alive.

I’m sorry. I–I didn’t mean to get so emotional.

Why are you sorry, Gabi? You nearly died. You’re allowed to be a little shaken up.

I guess that’s a pretty decent reason.

Mm.

[chuckles]

[soft music]

[sighs] You know, uh, when I was sure it was all over… I kept seeing Ari’s face in my mind… Remembering the last time that I saw her, how she hugged me so tightly when we said goodbye. And that–that was more frightening than anything, thinking I’d never see my daughter again.

I’m sure it was. Speaking of your beautiful daughter, would you like me to call Will and Sonny and tell them what happened?

No, that’s all right. Thanks. I’ll–I’ll speak to them myself when I’m feeling stronger, and Ari. God, I miss her so much. I wish we didn’t live so far apart.

Well, hopefully one day that will change.

Hopefully.

So is there anything else I can do for you?

No. It’s okay. Thank you. My God, you’ve done so much for me already, EJ. I owe you my life.

---

Is that too tight?

No, no, no, it’s–it’s fine. It’s perfect, actually. Actually, I’m kind of glad this all went down like this tonight.

Why is that?

Well, because I initially came here to apologize to you again for being a complete ass. Suggesting that you and I sleep together again to even the score with Gabi, you’re right, it was misogynistic and disrespectful to you. And I am sorry.

You should be.

Okay. Well, I am. And do you know what you should be right now? You should be forgiving me.

Oh?

Yes, you should accept my apology so that we can move on from all of this. I mean, don’t you think that that’s the least you could do to kind of reciprocate for me having rescued you from certain death?

Yeah, I guess. I guess it would be. All right. I suppose I can forgive you for being a jerk, but just under one condition.

Oh.

[laughs] Let’s hear it.

You have to let me take you to the hospital and get that cut fixed.

Come on, it’s really not that–

No, no, no. No, no, no, no, no, no. No arguing with me, unless you want me to be mad at you for the rest of eternity? And maybe I could be– oh, I could be vengeful and vindictive. ‘Cause you know what? I’m kind of good at that.

You are. Okay, okay.

Uh-huh.

I don’t want any of those things, so let’s go.

Oh, wise choice.

Besides, I’ve got enough people feeling vindictive toward me at the moment anyway, so.

[chuckles] I’ve noticed.

Yeah. Besides, eternity is a long time.

Yeah, it goes on forever, from what I’ve heard.

So after tomorrow, we are going to be crazy busy with work, huh?

Well, we have to produce an entire episode in one day, so, yeah, we’re gonna have to hit the ground running.

Okay, which means that this is our last chance to have a nice dinner together, just the two of us, for a long time.

Unfortunately, I think you might be right. So let’s make the most of tonight. Shall we order a bottle of champagne?

The answer to that question is always hell yeah. But you should know that by now.

I do, I do. It was a rhetorical question.

Okay, I see. What is this?

Well, it’s just a little gift to mark the beginning of what will surely be your amazing career as a dramatic artiste.

Yeah, well, I would hold off on the gushing until the reviews are in.

No, no, no, my review is in, and not only are you beautiful and charming, you are also incredibly talented.

Yeah, well, thank you. And I hope that I live up to your expectations, Mr. Director. And now I will open my gift. And I hope you didn’t go overboard. Oh, my God. But of course you did. Oh, Johnny! It’s beautiful.

Well, it’s also a bit symbolic because I know that once “Body & Soul” airs, you, my love, are going to become a huge, huge star.

[soft music]

---

Johnny, it is just so wonderful to be here with you celebrating the start of, well, both of our new careers, right?

Yeah. Yeah, it is. It’s a dream come true, you know, it’s like, I get to do what I’ve always aspired to do. And you, you get to tap into this talent you didn’t even know you had.

Yeah, I’m still not sure that I have it.

No, believe me, you got it, okay? Take it from your very tasteful and discerning director.

All right, I will. You know, and not only is this just– it’s wonderful to be out having this lovely night and this lovely dinner, but it’s also really nice to be out of that war zone at home.

[chuckles] Yeah, you got that right. But, hey, at least the duct tape’s gone.

Ugh. Yeah, I know, right?

Mm-hmm.

That was actually kind of insane, Gabi dividing the house like that.

I don’t– I don’t know what she was thinking when she did that, but it made me feel like I was taking sides no matter where I stood.

I know. Me too.

Yeah.

Yeah, but–but really, honestly, I feel really bad for them, both of them, Gabi and Stefan. I mean, yeah, he was in the wrong when he slept with Ava, and that was really, really bad, and it was a big mistake, but he’s apologized for it, and he definitely seems like he regrets it.

Yeah.

So I– I really just hope that they can get past this.

Yeah. I don’t know if that’s possible anymore.

What? Why? What happened?

Look, I wasn’t gonna say anything, but I’m sure you’re gonna find out one way or another. Gabi had revenge sex with my dad.

[monitor beeping]

I’m just glad that I was, you know, in the right place at the right time. You know, it was– it was sheer luck, really, that I was able to save your life, so.

Well, I don’t choose to look at it that way. To me, you were heroic.

[sighs] Fine, I’ll take it.

[both laugh] Gabi?

What?

Well, uh…

[sighs] I’m sure this is the least of your worries right now, but I needed to give you a heads-up about Stefan.

Oh, God. What now?

I had a run-in with him earlier today. He told me that you told him that you and I had sex again this morning, and he wanted to know if that were true.

What did you tell him?

That we didn’t. But I also said that you weren’t lying.

Okay, that makes zero sense.

Yes, well, I was caught off-guard, and I was flustered. And on one hand, I didn’t wanna throw you under the bus, but on the other hand, I didn’t want to further provoke my brother. He already has me in quite the bind, so.

[sighs]

Oh, right, yeah. This morning, Stefan alluded to some kind of payback.

[pensive music]

---

EJ… What did he mean by that? What did he do to you?

[sighs]

[knocking]

Mind if I come in?

[sighs]

Oh! Oh! You think that’s such a good idea?

No, that’s okay. I feel fine without it.

Oh. Still one tough cookie, even after that ordeal you’ve just been through.

Yeah, well, I just feel lucky that I’m still here.

Mm. I bet you do. I visited the crime scene, saw that room where you were held hostage for all that time with that monster.

Yeah, it was just me and that cardboard cutout of poor Li Shin. It was pretty grim.

Mm. I can’t even imagine. Oh, anyway, I believe that this belongs to you.

Thank you.

Mm-hmm.

But you didn’t have to come all the way down here just to return it.

Oh, well, that’s not the only reason I came down. I–I wanted to see how you’re doing.

Hey, I’m surprised you care. I mean, it’s not like we’re buddies or anything.

True, true, but, uh…

[sighs] I always felt bad about firing you as my DA.

Then why did you?

Because I was strong-armed by EJ DiMera.

So Stefan plans to testify against you?

He offered to do so, yes. He’s chomping at the bit, in fact, to tell the world and the judge that I knew that Sloan Petersen stole Nicole’s baby and I kept quiet about it.

And you think that’s enough to put you in prison?

Probably not, although that won’t stop Paulina from firing me. But I do think I’ve convinced her to back off for now.

Damn.

[pensive music] Maybe I can get Stefan to let all this go if I just admit to him that I lied. I mean, about you and me sleeping together again.

Are you sure you want to do that?

You saved my life, EJ. I kind of owe you one.

Wait a minute. Whose blood is this?

Oh, that would be mine. This maniac showed up on Ava’s doorstep and tried to slash her throat.

Yeah. It’s a good thing that Stefan showed up before she did. But she managed to injure him, slashed his arm, and then ran off.

Thankfully, she didn’t get too far.

I would have gotten further if you weren’t in stupid hero mode.

Hey! No talking. All right, I’m going to need statements from the both of you.

Okay. Well, I’m taking Stefan to the hospital to get his wound checked. Can we give them to you later?

Of course. In the meantime, I’m going to take Miss Viniski here down to the station.

Let’s go.

[sighs]

Oh, so Gabi went full savage mode, huh?

That’s one way to put it.

Wait, wait, how did you find out?

I walked in on my dad and my uncle arguing about it.

So Stefan knows?

Oh, yeah, yeah. That was kind of the whole point, I think. You know, I think the only reason Gabi slept with my dad was so that she could rub it in Stefan’s face.

Ooh, and I’m assuming he went ballistic.

Oh, yeah. What’s going to upset him more than his brother sleeping with his wife?

Yeah. Yeah, that was hella vindictive of Gabi. I mean, I guess I can kind of get why she did it. She wanted payback. You know, but your dad, what was his excuse? Does he really hate his brother that much?

I don’t know. I think that it’s probably less about him hating Stefan and more about the fact that he’s been a mess ever since his marriage with Nicole blew up, even more so now that he’s got the divorce papers.

Yeah, but I mean, still, to take all that out on his brother?

Yeah.

He might have started an all-out war.

Any word on Connie yet? I mean, I just hate the idea that she might just still be out there.

I–I haven’t heard anything, but I can go and see what I can find out. Although you said you wanted me to stay.

No, that’s– that’s all right. I need to rest a bit anyway.

Okay then. I’ll be back soon. Get some rest.

[soft music]

---

[sighs]

Have a seat.

Like! Oh, my God! Are you a sight for sore eyes. But what are you doing here, my love? Are they arresting you too?

You can’t arrest a cardboard cutout, lady. We took him from your apartment as evidence.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no! You’ve got it all wrong! This man is innocent!

[groans] It wouldn’t take a detective to figure out that EJ used underhanded means to get his old job back. But I’m still curious. What exactly did he do?

You remember that petition to get me recalled? Turns out his devious ass was behind it. He wanted that DA job, and I didn’t wanna give it to him, so he invented a totally bogus organization just to vilify me. Oh, he hoped that my reputation would be ruined and I’d be ousted. And, you know, I actually thought that he would succeed. So even though I hated it, I– I agreed to hire him.

Totally shafting me in the process.

Mm. Yeah, but you know what? Hey, I did offer you head of sanitation. Okay, okay, right. Right, right. But recently, I have found a new reason to fire him, and that is my intention.

Won’t he just try again to get you recalled?

Probably, but that’s never stopped me before. And I’m so done with that man, oh, that I’m willing to risk it. So, Melinda Trask, you want your old job back?

What the hell happened to you?

Oh, some whack job attacked me.

Wait, was it Connie Viniski?

Yeah. How did you know?

She just tried to kill Melinda and Gabi.

What?

She tied them up in the tunnels and set off a bomb.

Oh, my God.

Is Gabi okay?

She’s fine. I was able to get her out of the rubble and bring her here. She’s suffered some minor injuries, but she’s–she’s okay.

What room is she in?

. Hmm. I guess someone’s still hung up on his wife.

Gabi. I just heard what happened.

Stefan.

[soft music]

---

Thank God you’re okay.

---

As fascinating as it is, I don’t wanna talk about my dysfunctional family anymore, okay? I would much rather just focus on you.

Mm. Well, I can handle that.

Mm-hmm. So are you nervous to shoot your first scenes tomorrow?

Yeah, sure.

Yeah?

Yeah. I mean, I wanna do well, and I wanna make you proud.

Hey, I am already proud of you, okay? And I know that you’re gonna do great.

Okay, well, I just have to remember my lines. And, man, there is a lot of them.

Yeah. Well, I’d be happy to run them with you, if you want.

Thank you. I–I spent all night running them with myself, and I think I’m good. The only thing that I’m, like, low-key nervous about is the tango scene in episode . I mean, I can do TikTok dances, no problem, but ballroom dancing? That’s not my–ugh.

Well, there’s gonna be a choreographer on set. But, okay are you ready to have your mind blown? You ready?

Okay.

Okay?

Yeah.

I happen to be an expert tango dancer.

No, no. Shut up.

Yeah. Yeah. No, it’s true. My dad, he taught me a while back. He taught my mom too. She and he actually won a dance competition here in Salem years ago.

Wow.

Mm-hmm.

Okay, I’m–I’m impressed.

So how about I show you some of the basics?

Uh, right now?

Sure. Why not?

[laughs]

Look, I know I missed a lot while I was held hostage, but Johnny and Chanel, they’re still married, right?

Very much so.

[coughing] And that makes you and EJ in-laws. Isn’t that gonna be awkward when you fire him?

Probably, but that never stopped me before. And if there’s any fallout from the kids, I’ll deal with it. So just say yes.

Paulina, I–I really appreciate the offer, but I don’t wanna be a pawn in the power struggle between you and EJ. And besides, the guy, he basically saved my life. You know, if he didn’t show up and put out that fire, I’d be burnt to a crisp.

You know, I think you give him too much credit. Knowing EJ, he probably was just trying to save his vintage wine collection.

That might be true. But here’s the other thing. I actually really like working at DiMera.

Oh, seriously?

Mm-hmm.

Oh. You don’t miss the thrill of the courtroom?

Mm-mm.

Are you really happy just looking at boring old contracts?

I know it sounds crazy, but I think my paycheck is enough of a thrill for me. It’s enough to almost make me forget that I’m working for Kristen DiMera.

Mm. That paycheck must be huge.

[chuckles]

So, well, nothing I can say to change your mind?

Thanks, but no. Although I am worried about how much work I’ll have to catch up on. Like I said, I missed a lot being tied to that bed.

Well, at least you had company. Li Shin, you know, in all his two-dimensional glory.

Please, you have to release him. He hasn’t done anything wrong. And neither have I.

Nothing wrong? You took the lives of Li Shin and Everett Lynch. You don’t consider that wrong, Ms. Viniski?

[tense music] And how about the attempted murders of Rafe Hernandez, Gabi Hernandez, Melinda Trask, Ava Vitali, and Stefan DiMera?

But none of that is true. I didn’t do any of that. And Li is fine. He’s standing right there. Tell her, sweetheart.

---

You know, Mr. Shin doesn’t seem too eager to defend you. So let’s go. Come on.

Sit tight, Li. I’ll take care of everything.

So the police have Connie in custody?

Yeah. Jada caught her right after she tried to kill me and Stefan in my room.

Stefan was in your room?

Yeah. He came by to talk, and it’s a good thing that he did because he saved my life.

Hmm, that’s interesting.

What is?

It just seems that you and Stefan have been nearly inseparable these days.

Inseparable? He’s my friend. We’ve been through a lot together.

Including a night of passion.

Oh, how elegant of you to bring up.

[scoffs] You know, that night was a big mistake. Stop. Just stop looking at me like that because there’s nothing going on between me and Stefan except friendship.

If you say so.

[clears throat] How badly are you hurt?

Nothing serious. I–I got knocked out by the blast, so I have a slight concussion, some scratches. But really, I’m okay.

I’m sorry, Gabi. I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you. If only I knew what Connie was up to.

If only any of us had known. Did you hear that she’s the one who killed Li?

What?

Yeah. And framed me for his murder.

Oh, my God. Wait, but why? I mean, why– why did she kill him?

She was obsessed with him. And she blamed Melinda and me for Li not returning her feelings. She only wanted to be my assistant to get revenge. And then she tried to destroy our marriage, first by telling me that you and Ava had slept together, then by encouraging me to sleep with someone else. And of course, I didn’t have to listen to her. I mean, I have a mind of my own. So I can’t blame her for that. What happened to your arm?

You and Melinda weren’t the only ones Connie tried to kill tonight.

Oh, my God. She went after you too?

Well, she went after Ava first, but, uh, I got stabbed in the process, yeah.

[pensive music]

So where did this happen?

The pub.

The pub? You mean with people looking on?

No, it was just, uh…

[clears throat] Me, Ava, and Connie in her room, in Ava’s room.

---

[sighs]

[both laugh]

[applause]

You, you are a fast learner.

Oh, yeah. Well, I had a really good teacher.

Yeah?

Mm-hmm. And now that I know that you are such a good dancer, we have to go dancing more often.

Yeah, well, we can keep practicing more right now if you want.

Yeah, I wish. And as much as I hate for this romantic night to end, we both have really early mornings. So I think that we should head home.

I know that you are right. But I also hate for this evening to end, especially because I know the DiMera mansion is probably still a combat zone.

Thank you. I’ll be right there.

[phone beeps] Connie Viniski is in police custody.

Thank God.

Well, you know, I need to get down to the police station to get a full report, but before I go–

Paulina, I’m not gonna change my mind.

Mm, got it. Actually, I was just going to see if maybe you’d like to grab lunch sometime.

I’d like that. And, hey, if you make sure that psycho Connie Viniski gets what she deserves, lunch is on me.

[pensive music]

---

[sobbing]

We’ve got you dead to rights, Ms. Viniski. So you might as well just sign a confession. It’ll score you some points when it comes to your sentencing.

Nice try, Commissioner Hunter. But I know how this works. I’m not saying or signing anything until I get a lawyer.

Okay. But just a word of advice? I’d cooperate on this case in any way that you can because we are throwing the book at you.

You’re just trying to intimidate me. But it’s not going to work. I’ve seen every episode of “SVU” twice. Olivia Benson uses this tactic all the time.

Trying to intimidate you? I am trying to get you locked up for the rest of your miserable little life. You killed my ex-husband. And you tried to kill my boyfriend.

That’s not fair. I never would have gone after Rafe if it wasn’t for Bobby.

What the hell does that mean?

Bobby was upset that I stabbed Rafe, but I told him, I said I would get Rafe out of the picture in exchange for Bobby’s silence, and Bobby agreed to that. But I don’t know what the hell else he thought I meant by that. That I was gonna wave a magic wand and go poof, and Rafe would disappear?

So Bobby really was innocent. He was just one of your victims. Oh, my God. That man was mentally ill. And you killed him. And then you framed him for Rafe’s stabbing.

Whoa, whoa, whoa. I didn’t say any of that. You can’t use any of that against me.

Of course I can. Miranda rights, remember?

Well, how can you use anything I said when you didn’t do the same for Brady Black?

[tense music] Oh, yeah, I heard all about that. Apparently, confessions don’t mean much around here.

I don’t need you to confess, Connie. I just need you to keep talking. You see, we’ve already built an airtight case against you. And trust me, you are going to onna pay dearly for all of the horrifying things that you’ve done.

So Gil Carter didn’t kill Li. It was Connie.

Mm-hmm, right. And she also stabbed Rafe and killed Everett Lynch.

Oh, my God.

And to top it off, she was holding Melinda hostage in her apartment.

No, no, no. Melinda, is she here? I need to speak to her.

Oh, I didn’t know you two were friends.

We’re not. But I owe her an apology.

So you and Ava–

It’s not what you think, okay? I was over there to apologize.

Apologize for what?

It all started when EJ showed up at the Bistro, okay? Ava was there because I just hired her back, and–

[soft tense music]

---

You hired Ava to work for you, the woman you cheated with?

She needed a job, Gabi, and since you were responsible for that because you were the one who fired her from DiMera–

You’re seriously not blaming me.

---

Why would you need to apologize to that bimbo if you just gave her a job?

Because EJ riled me up, okay? He would not confirm that the two of you had actually slept together a second time. And when he didn’t deny it, I assumed that it was true. And I’m not proud of this, okay… but I– I asked Ava to help me even the score by–

By what?

By propositioning her to sleep with me a second time.

You son of a bitch!

---

What did the fire chief say?

There was an explosion in the tunnel. Somebody set off a bomb.

Oh, my God. Well, I hope no one was hurt.

Yeah, I don’t know if they were or not. We’re gonna have to have my dad fill us in.

Where’s Ms. Viniski?

She’s cooling her heels in there.

Oh, nice job, Commissioner. Did she confess?

No, she clammed up and asked for a lawyer.

A lot of good that’ll do her. Uh-uh, there’s no way she’s getting out of this, no matter what any lawyer says. That woman, she’s gonna spend the rest of her life behind bars.

I don’t think so.

What? What do you mean? She’s obviously guilty.

Oh, that’s for sure. But based on what I’ve seen, I don’t think Connie’s going to end up at Statesville. Yeah, I’m guessing that she’s headed straight for Bayview.

[suspenseful music]

---

Li.

Yes, my darling, I’m here.

Thank God. They didn’t hurt you, did they?

No. But they’re gonna book me for aiding and abetting.

Well, don’t you say a word. I’ve asked for a lawyer. I’ll get us both out of this.

Of course you will. ‘Cause you’re the smartest person I know. Not just the smartest, you’re the most beautiful, passionate. Everything a man could want in a woman. And I can’t tell you how much I appreciate everything you’ve done for me, for us.

I knew from the first moment I saw you that we were meant to be, even if you didn’t see it at first.

Well, I see it now. And nothing can stop us from being together forever.

I love you, Li.

And I love you, Connie Viniski.

---

Oh, Li, you’re my heart, my soul, my only reason for living. So please don’t leave. Don’t ever leave me.

[coughing]

Here. You hear Connie was arrested?

Yeah. The mayor told me. Yeah.

I am so sorry for what that monster put you through.

It was harrowing, to say the least.

And kind of my fault.

What? How was this your fault?

Well, I knew that you were on your way to fire Connie that day, and when I found out she was still working for Gabi, I should have known that something was up. I mean, especially after you took the leave of absence. Ugh. No, I knew it. I knew it in my gut that something was up, but I just– I guess I was just so consumed with my own drama that I didn’t look into it.

Yeah, Connie told me that you slept with Stefan and Gabi found out about it. But, hey, you know, next time I call you after I’ve been drugged by a psychotic murderer, maybe, I don’t know, uh, answer your phone.

Done. Hey, ooh, you know what? Ooh, if it makes you feel any better, Connie did try to slit my throat.

Oh, please. Amateur. You know, talk to me next time she holds you hostage and then tries to blow you to smithereens.

[both laugh]

[coughing]

You sure you’re okay?

Yes, really, I’m– I’m fine.

Good. Hey, look, Dad, I don’t think I ever told you, but Chanel and I actually had a run-in with this Connie person a while back. She–yeah, we both thought she was really odd, but we had no idea she was psychotic, homicidal.

No one did, unfortunately.

She–she set off a bomb in our house. Why would she do that?

It’s a long story. But in a nutshell, she held Melinda hostage in her apartment, she grabbed Gabi, too, and tied them up in the tunnel, set off the bomb. Melinda was relatively unscathed, but Gabi suffered some minor injuries.

Oh, man. Is she all right?

She’s fine. Your Uncle Stefan is in with her at the moment. But she’s going to be fine.

Look… I know that using Ava to get back at you was wrong. But you don’t get to be mad about that because you slept with my brother twice.

Once, you idiot.

Once? But you told me that–

I lied about sleeping with him a second time.

How the hell was I supposed to know that?

I don’t know, by maybe knowing me well enough to know when I’m making something up just to drive you nuts?

[soft tense music] Did you really think that sleeping with Ava would help things?

No, I didn’t. But at that point, it didn’t matter to me because you made it abundantly clear you had no interest in working on our marriage.

You know what? And I still don’t. Just do me a favor and get the hell out of here!

---

Fine.

---

Hey, baby. I’m sorry I’m late. My wardrobe fitting took forever.

Oh, It’s okay. I actually just got here myself. It has been a crazy day at the studio. I thought my brain was going to explode from all the production meetings.

You know, when I signed on to do “Body & Soul,” I kind of thought that we would be working together all day, and now I haven’t seen you.

Yeah. Well, that will all change as soon as we start taping, which, as you know, is tomorrow. And I am so excited to direct my beautiful, sexy wife. I just hope she doesn’t turn out to be a total diva.

[scoffs]

Oh!

Me? Never.

Already pelting the director with baked goods. Okay, that answers our question.

[insects chirping]

[dog barking]

[monitor beeping]

You, uh, you need to rest. I should–I should go.

No. Please stay. I don’t wanna be alone right now.

[soft music]

Um…of course. I’ll–I’ll stay as long as you need.

---

I still find it hard to believe that my wonderful assistant, who I thought was such a big help… That she wanted to kill me. She would have succeeded… If you hadn’t been there to dig me out of the rubble. How did you even know that Melinda and I were in the tunnels?

Sheer luck. I just happened to notice the blood on the fireplace poker, and then I saw that the door to the secret passageway was open.

Well, thank God you did. Otherwise–

Hey. I know. Come here.

---

There’s already an APB out on Connie, so the police are on it, at least.

Oh, God, that woman is a complete lunatic.

Yeah, more like a homicidal maniac.

Yeah, right. I mean, who knows what other crimes she may have committed, right?

Yeah. Well, come on. We need to fix this. We got–

Oh, come on. It’s not that big a deal, all right? No need to fuss over me, okay?

Who said this was about you? I don’t want you getting blood all over my room.

Ah. My mistake.

Seriously, come on. It’s the least I could do. I mean, after all, you, uh– oof–you saved my life.

I think you might be exaggerating a bit.

No, no, I wasn’t exaggerating.

[groans]

It’s all right. Sorry. I saw that look in Connie’s eye. She was definitely gonna slit my throat. If you hadn’t gotten her to change her tune and get angry at you, I would have been toast.

What can I say? I have a knack for pissing women off, especially the psychotic ones.

Seriously. Come on. Stop downplaying what you did. You were heroic. You’re also a little stupid, though, because you could have gotten yourself killed. But you put your life on the line for me. And I’ll never forget that.

---

Hey, hold it right there, Connie! Drop the knife, or I’ll shoot. I said, drop the knife. This is your last warning. If you don’t drop it, I swear–

All right! All right!

[tense music]

---

Connie Viniski, you are under arrest.

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

---

If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you. Do you understand?

Yeah, yeah. How did you find me?

[suspenseful music]

Easy. One of your victims, Melinda Trask, she told me that you were in possession of one of your other victims’ phones.

Melinda? But how could she have told you?

Oh, you thought you killed her? Well, I am pleased to inform you that your little bomb didn’t work out so well. Yeah, Gabi and Melinda are still alive.

I’m sorry. I–I didn’t mean to get so emotional.

Why are you sorry, Gabi? You nearly died. You’re allowed to be a little shaken up.

I guess that’s a pretty decent reason.

Mm.

[chuckles]

[soft music]

[sighs] You know, uh, when I was sure it was all over… I kept seeing Ari’s face in my mind… Remembering the last time that I saw her, how she hugged me so tightly when we said goodbye. And that–that was more frightening than anything, thinking I’d never see my daughter again.

I’m sure it was. Speaking of your beautiful daughter, would you like me to call Will and Sonny and tell them what happened?

No, that’s all right. Thanks. I’ll–I’ll speak to them myself when I’m feeling stronger, and Ari. God, I miss her so much. I wish we didn’t live so far apart.

Well, hopefully one day that will change.

Hopefully.

So is there anything else I can do for you?

No. It’s okay. Thank you. My God, you’ve done so much for me already, EJ. I owe you my life.

---

Is that too tight?

No, no, no, it’s–it’s fine. It’s perfect, actually. Actually, I’m kind of glad this all went down like this tonight.

Why is that?

Well, because I initially came here to apologize to you again for being a complete ass. Suggesting that you and I sleep together again to even the score with Gabi, you’re right, it was misogynistic and disrespectful to you. And I am sorry.

You should be.

Okay. Well, I am. And do you know what you should be right now? You should be forgiving me.

Oh?

Yes, you should accept my apology so that we can move on from all of this. I mean, don’t you think that that’s the least you could do to kind of reciprocate for me having rescued you from certain death?

Yeah, I guess. I guess it would be. All right. I suppose I can forgive you for being a jerk, but just under one condition.

Oh.

[laughs] Let’s hear it.

You have to let me take you to the hospital and get that cut fixed.

Come on, it’s really not that–

No, no, no. No, no, no, no, no, no. No arguing with me, unless you want me to be mad at you for the rest of eternity? And maybe I could be– oh, I could be vengeful and vindictive. ‘Cause you know what? I’m kind of good at that.

You are. Okay, okay.

Uh-huh.

I don’t want any of those things, so let’s go.

Oh, wise choice.

Besides, I’ve got enough people feeling vindictive toward me at the moment anyway, so.

[chuckles] I’ve noticed.

Yeah. Besides, eternity is a long time.

Yeah, it goes on forever, from what I’ve heard.

So after tomorrow, we are going to be crazy busy with work, huh?

Well, we have to produce an entire episode in one day, so, yeah, we’re gonna have to hit the ground running.

Okay, which means that this is our last chance to have a nice dinner together, just the two of us, for a long time.

Unfortunately, I think you might be right. So let’s make the most of tonight. Shall we order a bottle of champagne?

The answer to that question is always hell yeah. But you should know that by now.

I do, I do. It was a rhetorical question.

Okay, I see. What is this?

Well, it’s just a little gift to mark the beginning of what will surely be your amazing career as a dramatic artiste.

Yeah, well, I would hold off on the gushing until the reviews are in.

No, no, no, my review is in, and not only are you beautiful and charming, you are also incredibly talented.

Yeah, well, thank you. And I hope that I live up to your expectations, Mr. Director. And now I will open my gift. And I hope you didn’t go overboard. Oh, my God. But of course you did. Oh, Johnny! It’s beautiful.

Well, it’s also a bit symbolic because I know that once “Body & Soul” airs, you, my love, are going to become a huge, huge star.

[soft music]

---

Johnny, it is just so wonderful to be here with you celebrating the start of, well, both of our new careers, right?

Yeah. Yeah, it is. It’s a dream come true, you know, it’s like, I get to do what I’ve always aspired to do. And you, you get to tap into this talent you didn’t even know you had.

Yeah, I’m still not sure that I have it.

No, believe me, you got it, okay? Take it from your very tasteful and discerning director.

All right, I will. You know, and not only is this just– it’s wonderful to be out having this lovely night and this lovely dinner, but it’s also really nice to be out of that war zone at home.

[chuckles] Yeah, you got that right. But, hey, at least the duct tape’s gone.

Ugh. Yeah, I know, right?

Mm-hmm.

That was actually kind of insane, Gabi dividing the house like that.

I don’t– I don’t know what she was thinking when she did that, but it made me feel like I was taking sides no matter where I stood.

I know. Me too.

Yeah.

Yeah, but–but really, honestly, I feel really bad for them, both of them, Gabi and Stefan. I mean, yeah, he was in the wrong when he slept with Ava, and that was really, really bad, and it was a big mistake, but he’s apologized for it, and he definitely seems like he regrets it.

Yeah.

So I– I really just hope that they can get past this.

Yeah. I don’t know if that’s possible anymore.

What? Why? What happened?

Look, I wasn’t gonna say anything, but I’m sure you’re gonna find out one way or another. Gabi had revenge sex with my dad.

[monitor beeping]

I’m just glad that I was, you know, in the right place at the right time. You know, it was– it was sheer luck, really, that I was able to save your life, so.

Well, I don’t choose to look at it that way. To me, you were heroic.

[sighs] Fine, I’ll take it.

[both laugh] Gabi?

What?

Well, uh…

[sighs] I’m sure this is the least of your worries right now, but I needed to give you a heads-up about Stefan.

Oh, God. What now?

I had a run-in with him earlier today. He told me that you told him that you and I had sex again this morning, and he wanted to know if that were true.

What did you tell him?

That we didn’t. But I also said that you weren’t lying.

Okay, that makes zero sense.

Yes, well, I was caught off-guard, and I was flustered. And on one hand, I didn’t wanna throw you under the bus, but on the other hand, I didn’t want to further provoke my brother. He already has me in quite the bind, so.

[sighs]

Oh, right, yeah. This morning, Stefan alluded to some kind of payback.

[pensive music]

---

EJ… What did he mean by that? What did he do to you?

[sighs]

[knocking]

Mind if I come in?

[sighs]

Oh! Oh! You think that’s such a good idea?

No, that’s okay. I feel fine without it.

Oh. Still one tough cookie, even after that ordeal you’ve just been through.

Yeah, well, I just feel lucky that I’m still here.

Mm. I bet you do. I visited the crime scene, saw that room where you were held hostage for all that time with that monster.

Yeah, it was just me and that cardboard cutout of poor Li Shin. It was pretty grim.

Mm. I can’t even imagine. Oh, anyway, I believe that this belongs to you.

Thank you.

Mm-hmm.

But you didn’t have to come all the way down here just to return it.

Oh, well, that’s not the only reason I came down. I–I wanted to see how you’re doing.

Hey, I’m surprised you care. I mean, it’s not like we’re buddies or anything.

True, true, but, uh…

[sighs] I always felt bad about firing you as my DA.

Then why did you?

Because I was strong-armed by EJ DiMera.

So Stefan plans to testify against you?

He offered to do so, yes. He’s chomping at the bit, in fact, to tell the world and the judge that I knew that Sloan Petersen stole Nicole’s baby and I kept quiet about it.

And you think that’s enough to put you in prison?

Probably not, although that won’t stop Paulina from firing me. But I do think I’ve convinced her to back off for now.

Damn.

[pensive music] Maybe I can get Stefan to let all this go if I just admit to him that I lied. I mean, about you and me sleeping together again.

Are you sure you want to do that?

You saved my life, EJ. I kind of owe you one.

Wait a minute. Whose blood is this?

Oh, that would be mine. This maniac showed up on Ava’s doorstep and tried to slash her throat.

Yeah. It’s a good thing that Stefan showed up before she did. But she managed to injure him, slashed his arm, and then ran off.

Thankfully, she didn’t get too far.

I would have gotten further if you weren’t in stupid hero mode.

Hey! No talking. All right, I’m going to need statements from the both of you.

Okay. Well, I’m taking Stefan to the hospital to get his wound checked. Can we give them to you later?

Of course. In the meantime, I’m going to take Miss Viniski here down to the station.

Let’s go.

[sighs]

Oh, so Gabi went full savage mode, huh?

That’s one way to put it.

Wait, wait, how did you find out?

I walked in on my dad and my uncle arguing about it.

So Stefan knows?

Oh, yeah, yeah. That was kind of the whole point, I think. You know, I think the only reason Gabi slept with my dad was so that she could rub it in Stefan’s face.

Ooh, and I’m assuming he went ballistic.

Oh, yeah. What’s going to upset him more than his brother sleeping with his wife?

Yeah. Yeah, that was hella vindictive of Gabi. I mean, I guess I can kind of get why she did it. She wanted payback. You know, but your dad, what was his excuse? Does he really hate his brother that much?

I don’t know. I think that it’s probably less about him hating Stefan and more about the fact that he’s been a mess ever since his marriage with Nicole blew up, even more so now that he’s got the divorce papers.

Yeah, but I mean, still, to take all that out on his brother?

Yeah.

He might have started an all-out war.

Any word on Connie yet? I mean, I just hate the idea that she might just still be out there.

I–I haven’t heard anything, but I can go and see what I can find out. Although you said you wanted me to stay.

No, that’s– that’s all right. I need to rest a bit anyway.

Okay then. I’ll be back soon. Get some rest.

[soft music]

---

[sighs]

Have a seat.

Like! Oh, my God! Are you a sight for sore eyes. But what are you doing here, my love? Are they arresting you too?

You can’t arrest a cardboard cutout, lady. We took him from your apartment as evidence.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no! You’ve got it all wrong! This man is innocent!

[groans] It wouldn’t take a detective to figure out that EJ used underhanded means to get his old job back. But I’m still curious. What exactly did he do?

You remember that petition to get me recalled? Turns out his devious ass was behind it. He wanted that DA job, and I didn’t wanna give it to him, so he invented a totally bogus organization just to vilify me. Oh, he hoped that my reputation would be ruined and I’d be ousted. And, you know, I actually thought that he would succeed. So even though I hated it, I– I agreed to hire him.

Totally shafting me in the process.

Mm. Yeah, but you know what? Hey, I did offer you head of sanitation. Okay, okay, right. Right, right. But recently, I have found a new reason to fire him, and that is my intention.

Won’t he just try again to get you recalled?

Probably, but that’s never stopped me before. And I’m so done with that man, oh, that I’m willing to risk it. So, Melinda Trask, you want your old job back?

What the hell happened to you?

Oh, some whack job attacked me.

Wait, was it Connie Viniski?

Yeah. How did you know?

She just tried to kill Melinda and Gabi.

What?

She tied them up in the tunnels and set off a bomb.

Oh, my God.

Is Gabi okay?

She’s fine. I was able to get her out of the rubble and bring her here. She’s suffered some minor injuries, but she’s–she’s okay.

What room is she in?

. Hmm. I guess someone’s still hung up on his wife.

Gabi. I just heard what happened.

Stefan.

[soft music]

---

Thank God you’re okay.

---

As fascinating as it is, I don’t wanna talk about my dysfunctional family anymore, okay? I would much rather just focus on you.

Mm. Well, I can handle that.

Mm-hmm. So are you nervous to shoot your first scenes tomorrow?

Yeah, sure.

Yeah?

Yeah. I mean, I wanna do well, and I wanna make you proud.

Hey, I am already proud of you, okay? And I know that you’re gonna do great.

Okay, well, I just have to remember my lines. And, man, there is a lot of them.

Yeah. Well, I’d be happy to run them with you, if you want.

Thank you. I–I spent all night running them with myself, and I think I’m good. The only thing that I’m, like, low-key nervous about is the tango scene in episode . I mean, I can do TikTok dances, no problem, but ballroom dancing? That’s not my–ugh.

Well, there’s gonna be a choreographer on set. But, okay are you ready to have your mind blown? You ready?

Okay.

Okay?

Yeah.

I happen to be an expert tango dancer.

No, no. Shut up.

Yeah. Yeah. No, it’s true. My dad, he taught me a while back. He taught my mom too. She and he actually won a dance competition here in Salem years ago.

Wow.

Mm-hmm.

Okay, I’m–I’m impressed.

So how about I show you some of the basics?

Uh, right now?

Sure. Why not?

[laughs]

Look, I know I missed a lot while I was held hostage, but Johnny and Chanel, they’re still married, right?

Very much so.

[coughing] And that makes you and EJ in-laws. Isn’t that gonna be awkward when you fire him?

Probably, but that never stopped me before. And if there’s any fallout from the kids, I’ll deal with it. So just say yes.

Paulina, I–I really appreciate the offer, but I don’t wanna be a pawn in the power struggle between you and EJ. And besides, the guy, he basically saved my life. You know, if he didn’t show up and put out that fire, I’d be burnt to a crisp.

You know, I think you give him too much credit. Knowing EJ, he probably was just trying to save his vintage wine collection.

That might be true. But here’s the other thing. I actually really like working at DiMera.

Oh, seriously?

Mm-hmm.

Oh. You don’t miss the thrill of the courtroom?

Mm-mm.

Are you really happy just looking at boring old contracts?

I know it sounds crazy, but I think my paycheck is enough of a thrill for me. It’s enough to almost make me forget that I’m working for Kristen DiMera.

Mm. That paycheck must be huge.

[chuckles]

So, well, nothing I can say to change your mind?

Thanks, but no. Although I am worried about how much work I’ll have to catch up on. Like I said, I missed a lot being tied to that bed.

Well, at least you had company. Li Shin, you know, in all his two-dimensional glory.

Please, you have to release him. He hasn’t done anything wrong. And neither have I.

Nothing wrong? You took the lives of Li Shin and Everett Lynch. You don’t consider that wrong, Ms. Viniski?

[tense music] And how about the attempted murders of Rafe Hernandez, Gabi Hernandez, Melinda Trask, Ava Vitali, and Stefan DiMera?

But none of that is true. I didn’t do any of that. And Li is fine. He’s standing right there. Tell her, sweetheart.

---

You know, Mr. Shin doesn’t seem too eager to defend you. So let’s go. Come on.

Sit tight, Li. I’ll take care of everything.

So the police have Connie in custody?

Yeah. Jada caught her right after she tried to kill me and Stefan in my room.

Stefan was in your room?

Yeah. He came by to talk, and it’s a good thing that he did because he saved my life.

Hmm, that’s interesting.

What is?

It just seems that you and Stefan have been nearly inseparable these days.

Inseparable? He’s my friend. We’ve been through a lot together.

Including a night of passion.

Oh, how elegant of you to bring up.

[scoffs] You know, that night was a big mistake. Stop. Just stop looking at me like that because there’s nothing going on between me and Stefan except friendship.

If you say so.

[clears throat] How badly are you hurt?

Nothing serious. I–I got knocked out by the blast, so I have a slight concussion, some scratches. But really, I’m okay.

I’m sorry, Gabi. I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you. If only I knew what Connie was up to.

If only any of us had known. Did you hear that she’s the one who killed Li?

What?

Yeah. And framed me for his murder.

Oh, my God. Wait, but why? I mean, why– why did she kill him?

She was obsessed with him. And she blamed Melinda and me for Li not returning her feelings. She only wanted to be my assistant to get revenge. And then she tried to destroy our marriage, first by telling me that you and Ava had slept together, then by encouraging me to sleep with someone else. And of course, I didn’t have to listen to her. I mean, I have a mind of my own. So I can’t blame her for that. What happened to your arm?

You and Melinda weren’t the only ones Connie tried to kill tonight.

Oh, my God. She went after you too?

Well, she went after Ava first, but, uh, I got stabbed in the process, yeah.

[pensive music]

So where did this happen?

The pub.

The pub? You mean with people looking on?

No, it was just, uh…

[clears throat] Me, Ava, and Connie in her room, in Ava’s room.

---

[sighs]

[both laugh]

[applause]

You, you are a fast learner.

Oh, yeah. Well, I had a really good teacher.

Yeah?

Mm-hmm. And now that I know that you are such a good dancer, we have to go dancing more often.

Yeah, well, we can keep practicing more right now if you want.

Yeah, I wish. And as much as I hate for this romantic night to end, we both have really early mornings. So I think that we should head home.

I know that you are right. But I also hate for this evening to end, especially because I know the DiMera mansion is probably still a combat zone.

Thank you. I’ll be right there.

[phone beeps] Connie Viniski is in police custody.

Thank God.

Well, you know, I need to get down to the police station to get a full report, but before I go–

Paulina, I’m not gonna change my mind.

Mm, got it. Actually, I was just going to see if maybe you’d like to grab lunch sometime.

I’d like that. And, hey, if you make sure that psycho Connie Viniski gets what she deserves, lunch is on me.

[pensive music]

---

[sobbing]

We’ve got you dead to rights, Ms. Viniski. So you might as well just sign a confession. It’ll score you some points when it comes to your sentencing.

Nice try, Commissioner Hunter. But I know how this works. I’m not saying or signing anything until I get a lawyer.

Okay. But just a word of advice? I’d cooperate on this case in any way that you can because we are throwing the book at you.

You’re just trying to intimidate me. But it’s not going to work. I’ve seen every episode of “SVU” twice. Olivia Benson uses this tactic all the time.

Trying to intimidate you? I am trying to get you locked up for the rest of your miserable little life. You killed my ex-husband. And you tried to kill my boyfriend.

That’s not fair. I never would have gone after Rafe if it wasn’t for Bobby.

What the hell does that mean?

Bobby was upset that I stabbed Rafe, but I told him, I said I would get Rafe out of the picture in exchange for Bobby’s silence, and Bobby agreed to that. But I don’t know what the hell else he thought I meant by that. That I was gonna wave a magic wand and go poof, and Rafe would disappear?

So Bobby really was innocent. He was just one of your victims. Oh, my God. That man was mentally ill. And you killed him. And then you framed him for Rafe’s stabbing.

Whoa, whoa, whoa. I didn’t say any of that. You can’t use any of that against me.

Of course I can. Miranda rights, remember?

Well, how can you use anything I said when you didn’t do the same for Brady Black?

[tense music] Oh, yeah, I heard all about that. Apparently, confessions don’t mean much around here.

I don’t need you to confess, Connie. I just need you to keep talking. You see, we’ve already built an airtight case against you. And trust me, you are going to onna pay dearly for all of the horrifying things that you’ve done.

So Gil Carter didn’t kill Li. It was Connie.

Mm-hmm, right. And she also stabbed Rafe and killed Everett Lynch.

Oh, my God.

And to top it off, she was holding Melinda hostage in her apartment.

No, no, no. Melinda, is she here? I need to speak to her.

Oh, I didn’t know you two were friends.

We’re not. But I owe her an apology.

So you and Ava–

It’s not what you think, okay? I was over there to apologize.

Apologize for what?

It all started when EJ showed up at the Bistro, okay? Ava was there because I just hired her back, and–

[soft tense music]

---

You hired Ava to work for you, the woman you cheated with?

She needed a job, Gabi, and since you were responsible for that because you were the one who fired her from DiMera–

You’re seriously not blaming me.

---

Why would you need to apologize to that bimbo if you just gave her a job?

Because EJ riled me up, okay? He would not confirm that the two of you had actually slept together a second time. And when he didn’t deny it, I assumed that it was true. And I’m not proud of this, okay… but I– I asked Ava to help me even the score by–

By what?

By propositioning her to sleep with me a second time.

You son of a bitch!

---

What did the fire chief say?

There was an explosion in the tunnel. Somebody set off a bomb.

Oh, my God. Well, I hope no one was hurt.

Yeah, I don’t know if they were or not. We’re gonna have to have my dad fill us in.

Where’s Ms. Viniski?

She’s cooling her heels in there.

Oh, nice job, Commissioner. Did she confess?

No, she clammed up and asked for a lawyer.

A lot of good that’ll do her. Uh-uh, there’s no way she’s getting out of this, no matter what any lawyer says. That woman, she’s gonna spend the rest of her life behind bars.

I don’t think so.

What? What do you mean? She’s obviously guilty.

Oh, that’s for sure. But based on what I’ve seen, I don’t think Connie’s going to end up at Statesville. Yeah, I’m guessing that she’s headed straight for Bayview.

[suspenseful music]

---

Li.

Yes, my darling, I’m here.

Thank God. They didn’t hurt you, did they?

No. But they’re gonna book me for aiding and abetting.

Well, don’t you say a word. I’ve asked for a lawyer. I’ll get us both out of this.

Of course you will. ‘Cause you’re the smartest person I know. Not just the smartest, you’re the most beautiful, passionate. Everything a man could want in a woman. And I can’t tell you how much I appreciate everything you’ve done for me, for us.

I knew from the first moment I saw you that we were meant to be, even if you didn’t see it at first.

Well, I see it now. And nothing can stop us from being together forever.

I love you, Li.

And I love you, Connie Viniski.

---

Oh, Li, you’re my heart, my soul, my only reason for living. So please don’t leave. Don’t ever leave me.

[coughing]

Here. You hear Connie was arrested?

Yeah. The mayor told me. Yeah.

I am so sorry for what that monster put you through.

It was harrowing, to say the least.

And kind of my fault.

What? How was this your fault?

Well, I knew that you were on your way to fire Connie that day, and when I found out she was still working for Gabi, I should have known that something was up. I mean, especially after you took the leave of absence. Ugh. No, I knew it. I knew it in my gut that something was up, but I just– I guess I was just so consumed with my own drama that I didn’t look into it.

Yeah, Connie told me that you slept with Stefan and Gabi found out about it. But, hey, you know, next time I call you after I’ve been drugged by a psychotic murderer, maybe, I don’t know, uh, answer your phone.

Done. Hey, ooh, you know what? Ooh, if it makes you feel any better, Connie did try to slit my throat.

Oh, please. Amateur. You know, talk to me next time she holds you hostage and then tries to blow you to smithereens.

[both laugh]

[coughing]

You sure you’re okay?

Yes, really, I’m– I’m fine.

Good. Hey, look, Dad, I don’t think I ever told you, but Chanel and I actually had a run-in with this Connie person a while back. She–yeah, we both thought she was really odd, but we had no idea she was psychotic, homicidal.

No one did, unfortunately.

She–she set off a bomb in our house. Why would she do that?

It’s a long story. But in a nutshell, she held Melinda hostage in her apartment, she grabbed Gabi, too, and tied them up in the tunnel, set off the bomb. Melinda was relatively unscathed, but Gabi suffered some minor injuries.

Oh, man. Is she all right?

She’s fine. Your Uncle Stefan is in with her at the moment. But she’s going to be fine.

Look… I know that using Ava to get back at you was wrong. But you don’t get to be mad about that because you slept with my brother twice.

Once, you idiot.

Once? But you told me that–

I lied about sleeping with him a second time.

How the hell was I supposed to know that?

I don’t know, by maybe knowing me well enough to know when I’m making something up just to drive you nuts?

[soft tense music] Did you really think that sleeping with Ava would help things?

No, I didn’t. But at that point, it didn’t matter to me because you made it abundantly clear you had no interest in working on our marriage.

You know what? And I still don’t. Just do me a favor and get the hell out of here!

---

Fine.

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