Category: Daytime

Days of Our Lives Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

Mmm.

Arnold?

Morning.

[soft dramatic music]

---

– Rafe, look at all these choices.

Yeah.

Oh, I forgot how much work goes into planning a wedding.

Yeah, I’m starting to think that maybe Nicole and I had the right idea getting married at city hall.

Such a romantic.

Well, for me, true romance is gazing into your eyes while I say my vows.

You’ve been working on that one for a while, haven’t you?

Did that not sound off the cuff? I have been rehearsing that for a minute, actually. Yeah.

No, it sounded perfect, just like you.

[tender music]

You know, we should probably table this, though, because don’t you have to get to work?

Oh, yes. You are right. But wait. Before I go, I have a date in mind for the wedding, so we should probably talk about that first.

Oh, okay. What you got?

Why don’t we get married on your birthday?

“Good morning, Capricorn. “Or should we say, beware the morning. “With Pluto dominant and Aquarius taking the reins, consider hibernation as your go-to mode for the day.” Ugh. Happy birthday to me. Why are my horoscopes always such a downer? I really need to talk to Chadwick about hiring a better astrologer. Oh, of course, a new column from Lady Whistlefaux-er. “Here’s some hot goss, fresh off the griddle. “Rumor has it that the old Lady Whistleblower is going crazy”– Ugh. “Old”? I am the only person I know whose birthdays go in reverse. Where was I?

-“is going crazy not knowing who replaced her. In fact, she’s so desperate to figure out yours truly’s true identity, she hired a PI. Sorry to say, this private dick’s barking up the wrong tree. But I do have respect for my elders, and I wouldn’t want the old girl to have a stroke. So who knows? Maybe I’ll just show up at her door and put her out of her misery.” [knocking at door]

[tense jazz music]

---

Whistleblower? At long last, we finally meet.

I’m not that early, am I?

No. Don’t worry. My dad and grandma already left for work, so we’re alone.

Good. I just had to get out of the house. I mean, I know the abortion appointment isn’t until tomorrow. But I just feel like the sooner we get on the road, the sooner we can get this over with.

Yeah. I wanted to get an early start, too, so– [knocking at door]

[tense music]

Are you expecting someone?

Tate, are you home? It’s Holly.

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

---

Tate, are you there?

Go. Go, Kate. You need to hide, like now.

Go?

Yes. Holly can’t know anything about this. You said to me, you don’t want anyone to know either, right?

Fine.

[tense music]

---

[sighs]

Oh. Hey. There you are. What took you so long?

---

You’re not Lady Whistleblower. Wait. Are you?

Um, I have no idea what that means.

Never mind. Come in. Come in, come in, come in. [sighs] I’m sorry. This just is not a very good time. There is a gossip columnist trying to ruin my life.

I’m never sure if you’re joking.

It’s my superpower.

Right. Well, I didn’t want to bother you, but I was just hoping you would have some news about that necklace I gave you to sell.

The necklace, right. That’ perfect, perfect necklace. As a matter of fact, Dougie boy, I do.

We could call it a birth-aversary. Okay, yeah, that might need a little workshopping.

Yeah.

But it would be a surefire way for you to remember our anniversary.

Oh, ye of little faith.

No. No, that is not what I meant, okay? I just meant that you are a very important and busy man with a lot on his mind.

Oh, that’s a nice save.

Mm.

But it is coming fast, you know. My birthday’s end of January.

Yes, I know. But remember, we did talk about doing it soon, so no? Unless– unless you are afraid of being forced to share the spotlight with your bride on your special day. Would that be an issue?

Actually, I can’t think of a better present.

Mm.

Mwah.

Mm. You know, I am beginning to like this idea.

It’s okay.

Yeah. Okay. Later, birthday boy.

Okay, bye.

[soft music]

---

Arnold, are you out of your mind? What in God’s name do you think you’re doing?

I’m enjoying this breakfast. That’s what. You’re man, Harold, I got to tell you, he’s something else. You know, he cuts these strawberries into these little flowers. It’s a little girly, but– you want some?

No, I do not want some. Is that my robe?

This is yours?

Yes.

Oh. Well, I spotted on a hanger, and I got to tell you, this thing is so plush. I mean, it is so soft and silky. It feels really good on my naked body. But if you want it back–

No, no, no, no. Keep it–keep it on. Consider it a gift, in fact– a parting gift.

Who says I’m parting?

I do, damn it. Now, you’ve had your fun. It’s time to leave. So get dressed and get the hell out of my house.

---

What’s the rush? I just got here. Oh, by the way, you got any more of this vodka? This OJ, it could use a kick.

Arnold, we went over all of this last night in excruciating detail. I can’t have anyone else seeing you and me together. My son, Johnny, walking in on us like that could have been a total disaster.

But it wasn’t, right? The kid thought I was Rafe.

But you are not Rafe. And my son is not an idiot. And he will figure that out if you stick around.

EJ, you need to relax, okay? Just relax, right? I mean, I saw him. I saw him and his hot wife earlier. He already left for work.

Did they see you?

Oh, my God. You need to take a chill pill, okay? We’re good.

No. No, we are not good. We are far from good. What if Johnny bumps into Rafe and mentions seeing him here yesterday?

Mm-hmm.

Rafe will be dumbfound and confused– his natural state, of course– but he will send that into overdrive, meaning our respective gooses would be cooked.

Uh, no. Your goose will be cooked. My goose will be fine.

Good morning, Rafe.

Mayor Price.

I’m sorry to just show up unannounced, although that is one of the perks of holding Salem’s highest elected office.

Right. Well, if you’re looking for Jada, she just left.

Not surprising at this hour. She’s always punctual. Oh. Not that you weren’t.

Yeah, of course. But if you want to meet her, I’m sure she’s at the office.

I could, but I came to see you.

Me? Hmm. What about?

Well, actually, I’d like to talk about our fair city’s new police commissioner, the aforementioned Jada. I would like to give her every opportunity to succeed.

Well, I’m glad to hear it. So do I.

Oh. Well, I’m glad to hear that. And if you truly mean it, you need to stay the hell out of her way.

[tense music]

Belle, this is getting to be a habit.

Oh. Not a bad one, I hope.

Oh, no, not at all. I’m almost always happy to see you.

While others never are, or–

Well, this probably isn’t news to you, but, you know, our DA was none too happy that you made that deal for Mark Greene.

Ah. Well, then he should have been better prepared. He tried to railroad that guy into serving ten years for crimes that were committed in France, which was kind of a unique strategy, considering EJ doesn’t have jurisdiction there.

Sounds like you beat him at his own game.

Yeah. And I just came from doing it again, actually.

You were in court this early?

Well, I was with the judge and an ADA in chambers. Turns out, EJ tried to question Hattie Adams behind my back, knowing full well that she was represented by counsel. So I got the judge to let her go.

Damn. That means I won’t be able to prove that she tainted those cupcakes.

No. Well, don’t blame me. Blame EJ.

Oh, I do. Say, are you in a rush?

Not really. Why?

Let’s talk in my office.

You sold the necklace? What did you get for it?

All right. Slow your roll, you master thief, you. It’s still here, but I did find someone who will sell it for me.

Oh. That’s good.

Well, don’t sound too excited.

No, no, no. I’m very thankful. Thank you. But I just wish I didn’t have to do this, you know? Like I told you before, my grandfather’s wife has been really nice to me. And this necklace– it was in that time capsule for over 50 years, you know? It’s a family heirloom.

[soft dramatic music]

Well…

---

If you want to give it back, there’s still time.

---

I was starting to think you were hiding from me.

No, no, no. I was just in the other room, packing. And I didn’t hear the door. You know, just getting ready for my trip.

Right.

So why’d you come over? I thought we said goodbye last night.

Yeah, we did. But– okay, well, now it feels kind of silly to say, but since crackers cost, like, $20 at the airport, I made lemon squares with my grandma and Aunt Sarah. Thought you might want some for the plane.

Wow. Thank you. That is– that’s really thoughtful.

[tense music]

---

Anyway, I don’t want to make you miss your flight, so I should go.

[tense music]

I’ll miss you.

I’ll miss you too. And you better think about me constantly, or there will be consequences, mister.

I’m going to be with my grandparents. Trust me. You’re all I’ll be thinking about. And thank you, again, for the concert tickets. It was really sweet. Sorry we couldn’t use them.

It’s okay. There’ll be other concerts.

Hey, why don’t you go anyway?

Oh, uh, I don’t have anyone to go with.

What do you mean? All of our friends stayed home for the break. Surely one of them has to be free. Come on. Take them. Don’t let them go to waste.

Yeah, sure.

All right.

Thanks. Listen. Don’t feel bad about taking this trip, okay? It’s important for you to see your grandparents.

You’re right. It is. Thanks again for the lemon squares.

Try not to eat them all within the first hour. That’s what I usually do. I love you.

I love you too.

Okay. Text me from the plane.

I will.

And call me when you land.

I definitely will do that.

Bye.

Bye.

---

Sorry to be such an inconvenience.

I know I should give it back. I really want to. But I can’t. I really need the money to pay those people off.

[gasps] Hold on a minute. I don’t know why I didn’t think of this before.

You have a way out for me?

Huh? Oh, no. This isn’t about you, per se. It occurs to me that this would make a great story for my show. Don’t worry. Nobody will be able to connect it back to you.

Um…

You have no idea how much I have to stay on top of these kinds of things. A show that airs five days a week– it’s like an evil taskmaster, a giant that never stops needing to be fed, Kim Kardashian when there’s a camera around.

Right. Take your time.

Okay. Sorry. Listen. I know what it’s like to be in the kind of bind that you’re in. And I know that you feel horrible hurting someone that you care about. But if it makes you feel any better, your grandfather’s family already thinks the necklace is gone. They’ll get over it. And you will too. No. I mean, I need to play that differently if I want it to last more than two scenes. Okay. You want my advice? Get the money, pay these jerks off, and put this behind you.

[light jazz music]

I have been fully briefed about what happened in the Hattie Adams case. You spoke to her with your citizen’s arrest, so she lawyered right up. That killed Jada’s shot to question her first.

It was my citizen’s arrest that allowed Hattie to be questioned in the first place.

Oh, that may be. But if Jada isn’t able to procure any evidence, the district attorney can’t make his case, which means that we can’t bring the criminal to justice. And I’m sure I don’t have to remind you, I have a vested interest in this case. My husband was poisoned by that miscreant.

I’m aware. But I was hired as a private investigator and, well, I can’t help it if I got there first.

Well, there’s no denying that you’re good at what you do.

Well, yes, which is why you replaced me.

Now, you know that wasn’t personal. You were out of commission, so to speak. And Jada, she did such a stellar job in your absence. I didn’t want to cause another disruption to the department by turning around and replacing her.

It just makes me even more sense the more you rationalize it.

Now, now, now, now, please, please, just let me get to my point. Rafe, I’ve come to realize that, you know, I could– I could still use on my team, a man of your skill set, with your very impressive work ethic.

Hmm. So you’re here, offering me a job?

Actually, yes. No, obviously not as police commissioner. That position is already taken. How would you like to be my rat czar?

Your goose would not be fine, Arnold. I know it’s been a few years. And just in case your memory has failed you, you were facing serious felony charges before my father and I faked your death and spirited you out of the country. If the police were to find out that you are, in fact, still alive, you would be arrested on the spot and your charges immediately reinstated.

Man, that sounds horrible. I wonder why I’m not worried.

Because you’re not thinking straight.

No. Actually, it’s because I know that I wouldn’t go to prison.

The authorities would beg to differ.

Right. Except you are the authorities, aren’t you?

[tense music]

---

Congrats on the new job. Shawn used to tell me about his time working with you, so I’m sure you’re going to be a great commissioner.

Thanks. And I probably shouldn’t admit this, but taking over has been pretty intimidating, and not just because of who my predecessor is, but, you know, it’s a big responsibility. And I want to do the very best job I can for Mayor Price and for the city.

Of course. And I’m sure she has no doubt you will.

I’m going to give it my all, yeah. But you see, this office requires that I work hand-in-hand with the district attorney, which means that I can only be as good as EJ is.

Well, that’s the name of the game, right?

Yeah, but the game’s not so great when you’re attached at the hip with a guy who’s botched as many cases as he has lately.

Well, not to defend EJ, but, you know, when the facts are against you, it’s–

Yeah, but this isn’t about the facts. I mean, look at the two cases that he just lost to you. Both times, he tried some underhanded move, and all it did was come back to bite him.

True. Well, some might argue that he’s just very determined to win at all costs.

Except when he isn’t. You see, the botched cases aren’t the whole story. Whenever EJ has a conflict of interest, he just– he simply declines prosecuting the guilty party. Yeah. So as you can see, my hands are tied. It doesn’t matter how many criminals I catch. If EJ doesn’t put them away, I mean, that makes me look bad. And I don’t like looking bad.

What are you saying?

I’m saying that I would rather work with someone like you.

[soft dramatic music]

I’m sorry about that. Holly bought me those tickets as a Christmas present, and I had to tell her something about why I couldn’t use them.

Oh, so I spoiled your special present. Wow, even better. Okay. Forget it. Sorry. I’m being a bitch. I just–I guess I didn’t realize you two were at the “I love you” stage.

Yeah. It just happened on Christmas.

[tense music]

I guess Holly must have been the good one this year. She gets “I love you,” and… I get to have an abortion.

Yeah. It’s okay, Madison. I figured you might be busy tonight. Mm-hmm. We’ll just do something another night. Okay. Cool. I’ll see you then.

[phone beeps] Oh. Hey, Doug. It’s Holly. We met on Christmas Eve.

Oh, yeah. I remember you. Hi. You taking advantage of the after-holiday sale?

Not exactly. Although I could give you a belated Christmas present. Would you like these tickets to see Mystic Brew? They’re a great band, if you don’t know them.

I do know them. They’re amazing. These are for tonight?

Yeah, it’s kind of late notice, sort of a re-gift, actually. I didn’t have anyone to go with, so I don’t want them to go to waste.

Well, then why don’t we go together?

[soft music]

You want me to be your rat czar? As in, like, “The Nutcracker”?

Oh, I um– I believe that you’re thinking of the Mouse King. The rat czar is someone who is in charge of strategizing about how to keep the rodent population down. Rats are a public nuisance. They carry a lot of diseases.

Wow. Who knew?

Eradicating them is vital to my administration. Now, the person in charge would be literally saving lives– human ones, I mean.

Yeah, right. So who’s in charge of this job now?

Well, no one, yet. Using New York as an example, they’ve implemented a program there called Rat Action Plan, which has not only been quite successful, but the director of said plan is highly respected, as you would be.

Highly respected for taking out rats?

I promise you, it is a critical job, not to mention well paid. Well, what do you say?

Hmm.

You want me to replace EJ as DA?

Why not? I mean, you’ve been in town for, what, five minutes, and you’ve been winning cases left and right.

I hardly think winning two cases is all that impressive.

Three. Or are you forgetting how you just got Philip Kiriakis reinstalled as CEO of Titan?

Co-CEO, and that was a civil case.

Look. A win is a win. Belle, you are very good at what you do, okay? That is obvious. And I am very good at what I do. So I think you and I would make a very, very great team.

Well, Jada, I mean, the job’s not even yours to offer. Mayor Price has to appoint the DA.

True. But I’m an excellent saleswoman. I mean, not that I’ll need to work that hard to sell it, considering Mayor Price’s own issues with EJ.

I just don’t know.

Belle, when I hired Shawn back, he told me that the two of you were getting divorced. Are your reservations because of him?

So you know. Well, yes, that’s part of it. Shawn and I have quite a history, and I think working together this closely, it’s–

I think you’re more of a pro than you’re giving yourself credit for.

Well, thank you for saying that, but there’s more.

More?

I also have a history with EJ.

I may be the district attorney, but I answer to the mayor, who, in turn, answers to the citizens of Salem, many of whom were none too thrilled that you posed as the beloved Rafe Hernandez and bedded my wife.

Yeah, huh. Sami Brady– she was a real pistol.

You raped her, Arnold.

Mm. I don’t remember hearing “no” that night.

That hardly makes her a willing participant. She thought you were Rafe. Now, why she would sleep with him, that’s another story. But the point is, Samantha was incapable of consent.

Yeah, well, it seems like a gray area to me.

Hmm. Well, the murder of Fay Walker sure as hell wasn’t a gray area. And for that, you will be arrested. And for that, you will be prosecuted. And what will you do then?

Oh, well, I guess I’ll just do what I did last time when Bo and Hope Brady tried to throw the book at me. I’ll just offer to testify against you.

[tense music]

---

You want to go together?

I mean, there are two tickets. Unless you have other plans. Is that why you wanted to get rid of these?

No. They were just a Christmas gift for my boyfriend. But he’s going on a trip, so–

Oh, hey. I wasn’t asking you, like, a date or anything. I just–you said you liked the band, and I don’t know anyone in town, so– Look, I know you want to do right by your boyfriend. I understand that. So maybe you could run it by him first. Would that make you feel better?

Uh, yeah. Yeah, it would. Good idea.

[soft acoustic music]

---

[soft dramatic music]

Sophia… I’m really sorry that you had to hear that, okay? Obviously, I didn’t plan on Holly coming over.

Oh, but she had to, right? Since she went through all the trouble of baking those lemon bars for your trip, you know, perfect little girlfriend that she is.

Okay. All right. Can we just not talk about Holly, please, and just focus on what we need to do here?

Okay, fine.

Okay. All right. Since we have to go out of state for the appointment, we should probably get our stories straight.

I thought we already had them straight. You told Holly that you were going to visit your grandparents in California, right?

Yeah. And I told my dad the same thing. What about you?

I told my parents that after I finished my shift at The Bistro, I’m going to check out colleges with Brianna and her family, you know, take a last look before I decide where I want to go, if I go.

You will, okay? We’re going to fix this. I’ll just get my bag, and we’ll hit the road, okay?

---

Guess it’s some consolation Holly won’t be having any fun either. I wonder if she found anyone to use those tickets.

He’s still not answering.

Maybe he already left.

He wasn’t finished packing when I saw him. You know what? He probably just doesn’t have his ringer on, or he isn’t near his phone. How about this? I’m going to run back to his place, see if I can catch him before he leaves. How about you just– Just put your number in, and I’ll text you, okay?

Okay, cool. Just let me know what he says.

Well, I got to tell you, Mayor Price, I am flattered that you would think of me for such a highly esteemed position.

Why do I get the sense that you’re turning me down?

Yeah, I’m getting a sense too. I’m getting a sense that you only offered me this job so that you can keep me on the sidelines, you know, so I don’t embarrass your new commissioner. And yeah, well, I may have won this battle. Who knows who’s going to win the next one. But the one thing I do know– I love Jada, and I am not going to let some professional rivalry come between us.

[tense music]

As to my offer for being rat czar?

Yes, the offer. Actually, I have a counteroffer. You can take the job and shove it– respectfully, of course. You’re going to have to have someone else deal with your rats.

---

I’m not sure if Shawn told you about my history with EJ back when you were partners.

Yeah. Well, he did mention something about it, but he certainly didn’t go into detail.

Right. Well, I mean, obviously, EJ and I are long over. We’re just colleagues now.

Colleagues who go toe-to-toe in the courtroom.

That’s true. We do spar, quite contentiously sometimes. And, you know, I just– I don’t want to take his job from him.

That’s very admirable of you. But if your real concern is sparing EJ his job, then you might as well know that if I get my way, he’s gone, no matter what.

Well, it’s not the only reason. I mean, I don’t even know how long I’m going to be in town.

Okay, okay. But, you know, Paulina may be open to hiring you if you can just at least commit to a certain amount of time. We could sell it like it’s a transitional move. So knowing that, could you at least consider it? – You keep making me out to be the bad guy here.

Yeah. But in case it slipped your mind, it was you. It was and your father that arranged for me to have the plastic surgery, so I could have Rafe’s mug. And it was also and your father who switched me out for Rafe when he had that car accident, right? So let’s stop pretending now, shall we? It’s also going to be you who pays for my crimes. Oh, you know what? Scratch that. Because your old man– your old man, he’s dead now, isn’t he? Yeah, that’s right. So guess what? It’s going to be you– you who’s left holding the bag.

[tense music]

---

I never asked you to sleep with Samantha or to kill Fay, for that matter.

Nevertheless.

Arnold, come on. Be reasonable. Why would you want to be here? I’m offering you good money to leave. If you were smart, you would take it.

Yeah, well, I’ve never been accused of being all that smart, so… it looks like I’m going to stay put.

---

[bright guitar music]

---

Did you do it?

I did. The necklace is sold.

Oh, thank God. As much as I didn’t want to do this, at least I can get these people off my back.

Okay. Before you get too excited, it’s not as much as you thought it would be.

It sure as hell isn’t. Damn.

I’m sorry. It’s the best I could do. Hey, if it’s any consolation, I’m not to take my normal 0%, okay?

I appreciate that. Thank you. But it’s not going to make a difference. They were expecting the full amount.

So what are you going to do?

I don’t know. I’ll have to figure out something.

I got your message.

Madam Mayor, I appreciate you coming in.

You wanted to discuss something with me?

I do. It’s about replacing EJ DiMera as DA.

Let’s back this up a tad, shall we? I mean, if you hate Argentina so much, there’s a whole planet worth of places to choose from.

[doorbell chimes]

You want me to get that?

No. No, I do not. You stay put. I’ll get rid of whoever it is. Clean this mess up.

[suspenseful music]

---

Okay.

What? What’s with the look? Am I not allowed to have any of these? Because I am eating for two, you know, at least for now.

[soft dramatic music]

Sophia… are you sure that you’re okay with this?

Well, that’s not the point, is it? I mean, it’s not like you want to have a baby, so… It’s what we have to do. Come on. Let’s go.

Okay.

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!

[holiday music]

[laughs]

[gasps] Wow.

Oh-ho-ho!

Look at this. [laughter]

Oh!

Hey, you guys.

Happy birthday, Carver and Jules.

Merry Christmas.

And merry Christmas.

---

Yay.

---

Sweetheart, why don’t you open up some more presents?

It’s OK. Maybe later.

Rach, why so mopey, hmm? I mean, I got you everything you asked for and a lot more.

But you didn’t get me what I really wanted.

---

Which was?

You and Daddy back together again.

[dramatic music]

---

These were waiting by the door.

Oh. I bet they’re from your father. “Wishing we could be together this Christmas and every day of the year.” “Love your very, very, very, very bestest friend in the world, Susan.” Well, I will have to call her and thank her.

---

[holiday music]

---

Hey, hey, hey. Merry Christmas, sis.

Merry Christmas, big brother. Thank you for getting here so fast.

Well, of course. You said you needed help with your hospital Christmas party.

I need emergency help.

OK, so what do you need me to do?

---

Three guesses, but the first two don’t count.

---

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

---

OK, so you want me to play Santa Claus.

Yeah. The full suit is in my office.

But didn’t you do it last year?

Yeah, but I was a last-minute replacement, and this year, I’m on call. I mean, it wouldn’t look very good for Santa to be yanked away for a cardiac arrest right when I’m giving out the presents, right?

Yeah, but you look so good in a beard.

Ha. Are you gonna be my Santa or not? Really, I need a Santa as soon as possible. The party starts in a couple hours.

Ah, I don’t know, Kay.

What do you mean, you don’t know? You put the suit on. You “ho, ho, ho.” You pass out some presents. You’ve been Santa before, haven’t you?

Don’t you remember? The year I was supposed to play Santa, your husband stole my suit.

That was not Steve. It was Stefano. And we try not to say his name on Christmas.

[holiday music]

Hey, merry Christmas to you too, Joe. Yeah. No, no, your mom’s not here. She’s at the hospital setting up for the holiday party. Yeah. Well, I’m working today too. I know. I know. But I had to help John out on a case he’s working for the ISA. Mm-hmm. Yes, we’re helping your Uncle Shane out. And you know the drill. I can’t say anything more than that.

[dramatic music]

It was very sweet of Susan to send me flowers.

You don’t have to put on a brave face for me. I know how much you miss Dad.

---

Yeah. I couldn’t keep that from you, could I? You know, even when you were a little boy, you were always so sensitive to other people’s feelings.

[laughs] You know, speaking of when I was a little boy…

---

Oh, my goodness.

Please, open it.

Thank you.

---

How sweet is that? It’s lovely.

Open the locket.

All right. [gasps, laughs]

[laughs]

That is the picture I took of you and your sister at the fair how many years ago?

A lot.

Boy, I had a hard time getting you to sit still for it.

[laughs] Well, that’s why it was important to commemorate the occasion. The locket belonged to my mom.

---

Brady, I can’t take this. You should–you should save this for Rachel.

No, Rachel’s more into reptiles than jewelry, much to Kristen’s chagrin. I’m pretty sure that Isabella would want my other mom to have it.

---

[sighs] Mm.

---

[chuckles]

And now I’d like you to open your present from your dad and me.

No, no, no, later. I really want you to tell me about Dad’s case. Have you heard much?

No. No, not much. All Shane will say is that it’s a matter of global security.

[sighs] Usually is.

Yeah. And I know your dad will be coming back to us. I just– I just wish I could talk to him.

---

I know what it’s like to– to be separated from someone you love at the holidays. [scoffs]

Yeah. Well, you’ll be seeing Rachel today, won’t you?

I was hoping to, but her mother won’t allow it.

---

Sweetheart, we talked about this.

[holiday music] Your daddy and me being together, well, it isn’t what he wants.

And it’s all your fault. You and that stupid serum.

What–wait a minute. What do you–how do you know about the serum?

I have ears.

OK, if you’re talking about the serum that I gave to your daddy for Sarah Horton, I never should have blackmailed him. It was wrong. And, well, as it turns out, it didn’t bring me any closer to being with your father.

As I’ve noticed.

---

Sweetheart, come on. It’s taken me a long time to understand that you can’t force someone to love you. Your daddy has moved on. He wants to be with someone else.

You mean Ava Vitali?

[tense music]

---

Oh, you’ll never guess who’s here.

Hey, hey. Listen, Joe, I better jump off. I got to get back to work. OK. I love you, buddy.

Mm-hmm. You got a minute?

I do now. Was just talking to one of my sons.

OK, well, I am on the phone with your other son. Tripp wants to say hi.

Oh. Hey, Tripp. Merry Christmas. I was just talking to your brother. I was gonna call you next. Yeah. What news? What? You asked Wendy to marry you on Christmas Day? [laughs] Well, don’t keep me in suspense. What did she say?

She said yes.

Ah, your mom told me. She said yes. Well, that is fantastic news. Congratulations, man. I’m so happy for you, son.

[dramatic music]

Well, you know, sis, as flattering as this offer is, why don’t you get Steve to do it? He’s done it bunches of times. Always did a great job, as I recall.

Well, agreed. But he is unavailable. He is helping Shane with an ISA case.

Hmm. Well, that is too bad, having to work on Christmas.

Yeah, it is, especially because unless you fill in for him as the adorable, generous Santa that I know that you are capable of being, it’s gonna be very disappointing to me and a bunch of little kids. Come on. I need you, Roman Shawn Brady. Think of the kids.

[holiday music]

Go. Blow out your candle.

All right.

Oh!

Yay!

Oh, good job. Good job, you two.

Excellent, excellent, excellent. OK, so who wants to open presents? [laughter]

OK, just a few. We want to save some for when we get back home. OK?

Nonsense. Let my grandbabies open all their presents now. And when you are doing both birthday and merry Christmas, it’s double the gifts, right, my darlings? Right?

Yes.

Yes, and we don’t want to forget about all the gifts that Santa dropped off last night when he stopped by for milk and cookies.

Uh-oh, presents from Santa? OK, here. Go with Daddy.

---

Mom.

Hmm?

Now, you know we talked about this, and Eli and I, we do not want to spoil the kids rotten.

I understand. And you can be very responsible about that for the rest of the year. But on this day, we grandparents, we get to have our own way.

[chuckles] You guys are in competition with my mom and Grandma Julie.

[laughs]

Fine. I give up.

Good, because you were gonna lose anyway, baby. [laughs] OK, now, who wants to open Christmas presents now? Oh, good.

[laughs] There you go.

Do you think you can supervise these four for a little bit?

Yeah, I can manage. Why? What, you got a hot date?

Something like that. Since we’re leaving right after Christmas, I want to drop in on an old friend.

---

[laughs]

---

[dramatic music]

Sweetheart, how did you hear about your father and Ava Vitali?

I told you, I have ears.

Oh, so you were eavesdropping on a private conversation, hmm?

Only with Nonno’s portrait.

Oh. Oh. I see. And what exactly did you hear me say to Nonno?

You asked him how to get rid of Ava. Did he give you any good ideas?

Oh. [clears throat]

---

So Kristen made it very clear that I am not welcome in her home on Christmas or any other day.

Brady, I’m so sorry.

I should have known when I told her that we were never gonna get back together that there would be a price to pay.

I guess I’d hoped that she would have learned to put Rachel’s needs before her own.

Hmm. Yeah, no. As a matter of fact, she’s doing everything in her power to ruin my relationship with my daughter.

Just because you wouldn’t be blackmailed into having a relationship with her.

Hmm. Well, it doesn’t help matters that I’ve begun seeing… Ava Vitali.

---

Oh man, I can’t tell you how happy I am for both of you. Yeah. Hey, listen, please give Wendy my love, and tell my future daughter-in-law that I’m looking forward to seeing both of you very soon. OK? I love you too, Tripp. OK. Here’s your mom.

Hey. Yeah. Yeah, yeah, sure, baby. We will talk tonight, yeah? Mm-hmm. [laughs] I love you too. Oh. How about that? Our son is engaged.

How about that?

Mm.

Can’t wait to tell Kayla the news.

Oh. Yeah, speaking of which, why aren’t you two together on Christmas? You know what? None of my business.

We’re both working.

Oh. Well, that sucks. [gasps] But since you’re already on the clock, I might have a case for Black Patch.

Come on, Ava. What kind of case?

Find the freak who’s been sending me these harassing texts.

---

You know, Rachel, I’m not gonna get into this with you. For one thing, you should not be eavesdropping.

Please, Mommy, I need to know. Did Nonno tell you to lock Ava in the secret room?

[holiday music]

[sighs] Oh, my God.

Merry Christmas.

[laughs] Merry Christmas. [gasps] Oh! [laughs] It is so good to see you.

So good to see you.

Oh. [both laugh]

How are you?

I’m good. I’m good. I’m good.

---

No. This cannot be Rachel.

Yes, this is Rachel. Rachel, do you remember my good friend Lani?

Hi.

Hi. I just cannot believe how grown up you are. And so beautiful.

Female beauty’s just a tool of the patriarchy.

[laughs]

Right on, sister.

May I be excused? Edgar just shed his skin, and I want to go hide it in Harold’s bed.

Oh!

Edgar is?

My snake.

Snake?

Yeah.

OK.

Honey, I don’t think that’s a good idea, pranking Harold.

It’s cool. He loves it.

Sweetheart, no. Rachel, honey, honey, honey, honey. No, no, no, no, no. Just–I don’t think Harold wants the little snake shed thing in his bed. So just–you can go upstairs, but please do not go into his room, please.

Mm. Wow, what a little angel you got there.

[laughs] I know. But at least I know she’s mine.

Oh, she is absolutely yours.

[laughs]

Oh, my–a snake?

OK, let’s change the subject. No, I know. Mwah. But you know what? I would love to see your adorable kids. You have pictures?

Yes, I do.

And, oh, my God.

Here. They turned four today. Right?

---

Oh, my gosh.

They are just so sweet.

Oh, my gosh. They’re so adorable! Oh! What did you do, take them to a toy store this morning?

Ugh, no. That is my parents’ place.

You’re kidding.

No, no. I wish I was, because Eli and I have tried so hard to discourage them from spoiling the kids, and yeah, no luck with that.

[laughs]

Although I think you and Brady might be just as bad.

Mm, no, this is just me. Brady isn’t seeing Rachel this Christmas.

Oh, why? Is he out of town?

No, he’s still around.

[dramatic music] I have full custody, and, well, I didn’t want Brady to be around Rachel. That’s all. I mean, not until he stops running around with that tramp. [sighs]

What tramp?

---

So you’re seeing Ava Vitali?

I assume you don’t approve.

I guess I’m concerned because there seems to be a bit of a pattern here.

What do you mean?

You seem to be getting involved with troubled, dangerous women.

[sighs] I see your point. It’s not on purpose, you know.

I didn’t say it was.

You think it’s subconscious?

Oh, I don’t know for sure. All I do know for sure is that I don’t want to see you getting hurt.

And look, I appreciate that, but it’s a little too early to sound the alarm, ’cause we’ve only been on one date. And it was cut very short, by the way. And then she started getting these very strange text messages.

“Stay away from Brady.” Pretty straightforward. Not exactly terroristic.

Yeah, but you wouldn’t call it a threat?

Well, if it is a threat, it’s pretty toothless.

All right, yeah, well, you know what? I want it to stop before whoever is sending them steps it up. Look, Steve, I know you and I, we don’t have exactly the greatest history, but… something pretty wonderful did come out of our relationship.

Our soon-to-be-married son.

Exactly. So would you consider looking into it for Tripp’s sake, if not for mine?

---

Oh.

Oh, man. Oh, are you as tired as I am?

Hmm. At least.

[chuckles]

Whew. Ooh, as much as I adore those little ones, I am relieved Eli took them sledding.

Yeah.

Oh, I could use the break.

Me too. Me too. You know, Theo was just such a quiet, shy kid when he was that age. I’m not prepared for this tornado. [both laugh]

Two of them. Oh.

Oh, man, I tell you. What about Chanel? Was she–what was she like when she was four?

Oh, she was a menace, oh! But there was only one of her. I can’t believe that Eli has been dealing with this on his own all this time. Oh, thank God he has Lani back.

Well, they’re both gonna have their hands full.

Mm-hmm. Talk about a two-way twister.

[laughs] Well, that is one way to put it.

Mm.

You know what? While we have this– this little relaxing break, would you like to have a glass of eggnog?

Mm. [gasps] How about a protein shake? I need to get my energy up for my reading at the hospital.

Oh, come on.

Mm.

You’ll do great, as always.

Mm.

And what about– what about Kayla? Is she gonna be Santa Claus again this year?

I don’t know. [laughter] No, rumor has it that she’s already drafted someone else for Kris Kringle duties.

Oh. [both laugh]

---

Ho, ho, ho.

There’s our Santa. You look fantastic.

Kay, is it supposed to be this hot in the suit?

You’re gonna get used to it. Come on, it’s just for an hour or so.

Yeah, but I mean, I’m already sweating, and it’s just–it’s kind of– it’s kind of hard– hard to–to–to breathe.

Are you feeling OK?

Well, no, I’m not. I’m not.

Well, what’s wrong?

Well, like I said, it’s kind of hard to breathe. And–and–and I got this– I got this strange pain going down my left arm, and– Kay, am I having a heart attack?

---

This is–this is heavy.

Come on. Come on. Open it. Open it.

[laughs] OK. Oh, my goodness. What is all this?

I’ve started your collection.

Wow. I mean, this is– these are some of the great soap opera creators.

Mm-hmm, I figured if you’re going to be the most successful EP in soap opera history, you should learn from the best.

Oh, wow, this is– well, thank you. Oh, you’re the best. You’re the best.

[laughs]

Oh! That’s wonderful. Thank you.

My turn?

Your turn. Your turn. [laughs]

[gasps] Diamond?

Open it. Open it.

It better be diamond.

Open the box.

Mm. [sighs]

---

Ah!

[chuckles] No diamonds.

Oh.

This bracelet is made up of all the birthstones from the Price family line.

[gasps] Oh! Look at this. Ah! Ooh. Oh. Pearl for Big Mama. Ah, ruby for you.

[laughs]

Garnet for Lani.

Uh-huh.

Aquamarine for Chanel. Turquoise for Jules and Carver.

Yeah.

And, well– and this one. Is that a sapphire?

For your sister.

For Tamara. Oh, Abe, she and I have had some rough times. But, well, this gives me hope that, you know, it’ll get better someday soon.

I’m so glad. I’m so glad.

Thank you, sweetheart. Oh, I love it. Mm. Thank you. Mm. [gasps] Mm.

What?

Mm.

Where you going?

Well, you know, your beautiful, thoughtful gift, it just inspired me. So before we head over to the hospital, I think I need to go and call my sister and wish her a merry Christmas.

[laughs]

---

How are you feeling?

Well, I’m alive. But give it to me straight, sis. How bad is it?

Well, you did not have a heart attack. It turns out that you had an allergic reaction. Maybe something in the suit.

An allergic reaction?

Mm-hmm. So we’re gonna put an antihistamine in your IV, and then it should clear things up pretty quickly.

Well, that’s a relief. So I guess I won’t be playing Saint Nick anytime soon.

Hmm. You are relieved from your Santa duties.

Well, I am sorry about that. Does that mean you’re gonna have to stand in again like you did last year?

Oh, no. I have another idea.

---

So you’re playing the son card, huh?

Whatever it takes.

Well, I was gonna say yes even before you brought Tripp into it.

Really?

Mm-hmm.

So you’ll take the case?

Sure.

Ah, Steve, thank you. Thank you. I know that this– you know, finding out who’s been sending me these texts is not a big case for you. But I really want to find out who’s doing it, and I want it to stop.

Do you have any suspects in mind?

Well, my gut tells me it’s Kristen DiMera, but I can’t be sure, obviously.

Well, that would make sense. Let me see your phone again.

---

Oh, don’t you give me that look, Lani Grant, like you’re, oh, so disappointed in me. Hmm?

Kristen…

Hmm?

You and I both know that when you are hurting, you tend to just lash out. Deep down, you know that it is wrong for you to keep that child away from her dad.

What, then I’m supposed to reward him for ripping out my heart and stomping on it?

It is not about Brady. It’s about your daughter. Do you not think she deserves to be with her father on Christmas?

[holiday music]

[sighs] Well, there she is. [chuckles]

Hey, Rachel.

Hello again.

Well, it was really good to see both of you, but I should get back to Eli and the kids.

Well, give my love to them, would you?

Will do. Merry Christmas, Rachel. Kristen.

Merry Christmas.

---

Oh, OK. Bye.

We’ll talk soon, OK?

Mm-hmm. Definitely, definitely.

OK.

OK. [chuckles]

---

Bye, Rachel.

Don’t worry, Mommy. I didn’t put the snakeskin in Harold’s bed.

Ah, wow, thank you. I am so relieved. [clears throat]

---

I…have a little surprise for you. Hmm?

What kind of surprise?

[chuckles] You’ll see.

---

Oh, this is great.

It’s cashmere. You like it?

Oh, I love it. Oh, it’s soft. This is wonderful. Thank you.

You’re welcome. I got a blue one for Tate and a red one for Rachel. Oh, but you won’t be able to give it to her today, will you?

No, I won’t.

[dramatic music]

Well, shame on Kristen. Not only is she keeping you from your daughter, but she is harassing Ava.

[sighs] Kristen claims that she’s not the one sending the texts, but– [phone ringing] I’m sorry. Speak of the devil.

Please don’t, not on Christmas.

That was a poor choice of words.

---

Hi, Kristen. What’s going on? Is Rachel OK?

No, she’s not.

What’s wrong?

She misses her daddy. So how would you like to come over here and spend Christmas with your daughter, hmm?

[stirring music]

---

So what does this app do?

It can unscramble blocked numbers and pinpoint the location of burner phones.

Really?

Mm-hmm.

Wow. I definitely could have used this back in the day when I was dealing with the Five Families.

Hilarious.

What? Just saying. [computer dings]

Aha.

Ooh, what’s that noise? Is it a good noise? Does it mean it’s done?

It is. That sound means we hit pay dirt.

[dramatic music]

---

Shane, I know the mission is top secret. I’m not asking for details. I just–I’d like to be able to talk to him. Yeah. No, I understand. I know I should be used to this by now. All right. Merry Christmas to you too.

[somber music]

---

[sighs]

---

[holiday music]

Daddy, you came!

Hey, come here. Come here. Come here. Hi, how are you? Ooh! It’s so good to see you. Hey… merry Christmas.

Thank you.

You’re welcome.

Merry Christmas, Brady.

Merry Christmas.

Mommy, can I open my gifts now?

Yes, I’ve been wanting you to open them all morning. But why don’t you start with your daddy’s right now?

Yes.

---

Oh, my God. Oh, my God. Oh, my God.

It’s what you wanted, right?

Yes!

---

Mommy, look.

Are those–

Frozen rats.

Oh, God, that is disgusting. Why?

Because it’s snake food. That’s what our little princess wanted.

Ugh.

Thank you, Daddy.

You’re welcome, sweetie.

Mommy, can I go feed one to Edgar right now?

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Go ahead. Go ahead. Take them up there too.

You want to watch?

[laughs] Hard pass.

You go ahead. Go ahead. Have fun.

---

[laughs]

OK, everybody. Welcome to Salem University Hospital annual Christmas party. Yay is right. [applause] We are so lucky today to have Mayor Price read the Christmas story for us again this year. So take it away, Madam Mayor.

[laughs] Thank you, Dr. Johnson. Oh. First let’s just say merry Christmas, everyone. [laughs] And you and you and you and you. Ah. “And it came to pass in those days “that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus “that all the world should be registered. “This census first took place “while Quirinius was governing Syria. “So all went up to be registered, “everyone to his own city. “Joseph also went up from Galilee “out of the city of Nazareth “into Judea to the city of David, “which is called Bethlehem, “because he was of the house and lineage of David, “to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.” Mm-hmm, you know who that was.

Yes.

“So it was, while they were there, “the days were completed for her to be delivered. “And she brought forth her firstborn son, “wrapped him in swaddling clothes, “and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them at the inn.”

Aww.

---

“But Mary kept all these things “and pondered them in her heart. “And the shepherds returned, “glorifying and praising God “for all the things that they heard and seen as it was told unto them.” [applause]

Wow.

Yay!

That was so great. Let’s give the mayor another little applause.

Yay!

Thank you so much, Paulina.

We want Santa! children: We want Santa!

Uh-oh. children: We want Santa! We want Santa!

Ho, ho, ho! Ho, ho, ho! [children screaming] Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas. How are you all? Merry Christmas. [children cheering] Ho, ho, ho!

Feeling better?

Thanks to my brilliant sister.

Mm, well, I picked up your prescription at the pharmacy for you.

Best Christmas present ever: antihistamine.

You’re welcome.

Hey, I never asked you. Who’d you get to play Santa?

Why don’t you come see for yourself?

[holiday music]

Ho, ho, ho! Well, merry Christmas, young man. Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho!

Is that you, partner?

Roman!

Shh!

Well, hello, Santa. Hello.

[laughs] Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas.

Aha, merry Christmas. Well, I hope that suit doesn’t give him any problems.

Don’t worry. I changed it out for another one. Hey, you guys. Look how big you’ve gotten. And happy birthday.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you too.

Mm. I’m gonna miss this.

Well, we will be back in no time. [gasps] Oh, what? Well, would you look at that?

A mistletoe? Really? So you’ve just been carrying that thing around?

Yeah, I was waiting for the perfect moment.

Mm. [sighs]

---

[indistinct chatter]

You do make a wonderful Santa, my love. [both laugh] both: Mwah.

Those kids, they’re so adorable. And they inspire me.

Mm-hmm. Bless their little hearts, oh.

[laughs]

And, you know, I have been a very good little girl this year.

Ooh, Santa’s glad to hear it. [both laugh]

But, you know, all I want for Christmas and every Christmas thereafter– except for, you know, all the wonderful gifts that I’ve already gotten– is just the love of my wonderful, wonderful husband.

Oh. You already have that, my beloved wife, always and forever. Mm. [chuckles]

[tender music]

Oh, merry Christmas, Sami. I can’t wait to see you in the New Year. Yeah. [phone chimes] Honey, hold on for a second. Your sister’s ringing in. No, don’t–don’t do that. Don’t do that. It’s not a competition. OK. Merry Christmas. I love you. Bye. [phone chimes] Merry Christmas, darling. What’s that? Oh. [laughs] I can hear Noah in the background playing with his toy. I guess he likes it, yeah, mm. Well, no, I can’t really take credit. Tate helped me pick it out. [knock at door] Yeah. Oh, honey, can I– can I call you back? I’ve got somebody at the door. All right. I love you.

Hi, got a package for Dr. Marlena Evans.

Yes, yes, I’m Dr. Evans.

Great.

Oh, my goodness. Thank you. Thank you. I’m sorry you have to work on Christmas Day.

It’s OK. You’re actually my last stop.

Oh, glad to hear.

Sign here, please.

And just hold that still for me.

Sure.

Thank you. There.

Thanks.

Thanks so much.

Merry Christmas.

Thanks for coming by.

[dramatic music]

---

[sighs]

---

“Here’s to being caught up in the rapture of your love “for many Christmases to come. Love always, John.”

---

Merry Christmas, my darling.

---

So? You able to prove where the texts are coming from?

Well, I can’t say for sure where all the messages are from, but I was able to pinpoint the location where this last message came from. The DiMera mansion.

[scoffs] I knew it.

[tense music]

[sighs] Thank you for letting me see my daughter. Meant a lot.

Well, I’m sure it meant a lot to Rachel as well.

What made you change your mind?

Well, I had a friend who told me that no matter how I felt about you, it wasn’t right to punish Rachel.

[dramatic music]

Well, thank your friend for me.

Mm.

I should be going. I’m gonna say goodbye to Rachel first.

Holiday with Ava? [both chuckle]

Why, are you planning on sending a bunch of threatening texts to her on Christmas?

What are you talking about? I already told you I did not send that woman any texts.

Really?

Really.

Then who did?

[sighs]

---

[suspenseful music]

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!

Thanks for letting me use the pub, Uncle Roman. No, Holly’s not here yet, but I know she’s gonna love her birthday surprise. Send my best to Uncle Steve and Aunt Kayla. You guys have fun. All right, I will. Thanks. Merry Christmas to you too. Bye.

[holiday music] [sighs] [phone ringing]

[dramatic music]

---

[sighs]

[holiday music]

Well, hey there, birthday girl.

Grandma, hello. How’s this look?

It looks like something wonderful is inside.

It’s the blue sweater I got for Tate.

Oh, right. Well, how about you taking a break from your wrapping? And this birthday gift just came.

Grandma, you’ve already given me so much. You practically got me a whole new wardrobe.

Well, it’s not from me. It was just delivered. It’s from your mother.

---

I got Victoria in her little dress, and… what are you wearing?

Ah, thought I’d break out the kilt for the Horton shindig. What do you think?

Mm-hmm.

[chuckles]

You know it’s gonna snow, though, right? I hope you plan on wearing a shirt.

I have a jacket looked out. And a shirt.

[laughing] OK, well, you never know with you. I don’t think Julie wants to be reminded of all the times you’ve slept naked on her couch.

Probably not. You know, I still think about how it was of Jack to give me that place to stay when I had nowhere else to turn and how I repaid his kindness by blackmailing him into handing over “The Spectator.” God, I was such a wanker.

I appreciate the self-awareness and that you gave the paper back.

Mm, still, I hate that I lost the best friend I ever had.

[dramatic music]

I am just so glad we got to spend time with Chad and the kids before they left for Orlando.

Thomas and Charlotte were so excited.

I know! They’re gonna have the most amazing trip.

Yeah, Thomas said, “Uncle JJ, I swear, “it’s my dream come true. I get to go to Universal.”

He is the cutest.

Well, it’s the perfect Christmas gift.

It is. I mean, when Chad told me they were gonna be gone for the holidays, I thought that Julie would be really upset, but she was pretty upbeat.

Well, having Doug III around probably has something to do with it. She seems to have really bonded with him.

Yeah, she really has, which is probably why she got so defensive when I suggested that he may be the one that stole Gram’s necklace.

What?

What?

[tense music]

Hey, Mr. Stark. This is Doug Williams. I’m sorry to bother you on Christmas Eve. I was just wondering if you got a chance to sell that diamond necklace for me. I could really use the cash, so just please give me a call back whenever you get this. Thanks. Merry Christmas.

Doug? [chuckles]

Hey. [chuckles]

You were just on the phone. Who were you talking to?

---

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

---

Doug, I did not mean to eavesdrop. But I heard you say you needed money, and then you wished somebody Merry Christmas?

[dramatic music]

Yeah, yeah. I was–I was just trying to reach my dad. We’re not on the best terms right now, but I was hoping he could send me some cash. I don’t have a job right now, as you know. But I’d like to be able to pay my way around here and, you know, give you rent money.

[laughs] Let me save you the trouble right now. I am never gonna take a dime of rent from you.

But no, no, I– I have to pay something. I don’t want to be an imposition.

Listen. You are–you are my husband’s grandson. You are my family. You can stay in this house as long as you want to. And I don’t want to even hear you say the word “rent” again, OK?

Thank you. That is very generous of you.

Well, I don’t know. I have my selfish reasons for wanting you here. I see you moving around. It reminds me of my husband, and…

---

[sniffles] I’m liking getting to know you. [laughs]

I can say the same. I’ve really enjoyed being here and getting to know more about my biological grandfather and your family.

Oh, I’m so glad, because tonight you’re gonna be part of this wonderful Horton family tradition.

---

Why do you think Doug stole the necklace?

I thought everyone was convinced that Julie’s brother took it.

Yes, well, that was the prevailing theory. Considering his history with stolen jewels, it made perfect sense.

Why cast aspersions on young Doug?

Well, because we couldn’t find proof that Steven actually stole it. And then Julie told me the night before Doug came to Salem, he was serving time in jail.

---

Yes, I love it. Mm-hmm. It’s a gorgeous bottle, amazing perfume. Thank you. Yeah. No, I wish I could be with you too. But I’ll call you later, OK? And please give my love to Jude and Eric. OK. I love you. Bye.

[holiday music]

---

Oh.

What do you think?

Oh, it’s lovely, very citrusy.

Yeah, it is. Do you think Tate will like it?

Are you gonna see him tonight?

Later to exchange gifts.

OK, well, I hope you’re gonna be stopping by for the hanging of the Horton ornaments.

Of course. But I better run to the pub. I don’t want to be late.

All right, well, have fun, sweetheart. And wish Tate merry Christmas for me, OK?

I will.

OK.

Love you, Grandma.

Love you more.

Bye.

Bye.

---

[phone rings]

[dramatic music]

Hey, Sophia. [sighs] How’s the morning sickness?

---

Yeah. I’m sorry about that. Yes. Yeah. Of course I can still take you to get the procedure. Did you make the appointment?

---

Yes. Yeah. Yeah, Saturday works. Yeah. Since the clinic is out of state, I think we’re gonna have to leave Friday night, OK? All right, hey, hey, don’t worry, all right? You’re not alone here. This is my problem too, my baby too.

---

Hey, no one has to know about this. No one ever will. OK? I promise.

---

Tate? Hello! Are you here?

[dramatic music]

Surprise!

Oh, my– well, what is this all for?

It’s for you.

Yeah, but I thought we were just exchanging gifts.

Well, it’s your 8th birthday, and I know it must be a bummer that your birthday falls on Christmas Eve, like we talked about, so I just wanted to do something special for you, you know, make sure you got some extra attention… and presents.

Tate, this is, like, the sweetest thing anyone’s ever done for me.

Well, you deserve it. Happy birthday, Holly.

[chuckles]

---

Merry Christmas, Aunt Maggie.

Shawn!

Hey.

Well, merry Christmas to you too. What brings you by?

Well, I brought you a gift.

Oh, well, OK. I’m not gonna see you at Julie’s later?

No, no. I’ll be there. I just wanted to stop by the mausoleum to say hello to Grandpa Vic, and I figured I’d drop this off first.

Well, that’s very sweet of you. Should I open it now?

Yeah. Yeah, open it.

OK.

---

Oh.

---

What do you think?

Oh, Shawn, it’s the perfect gift. I love it. Thank you, Shawn.

---

[sultry music]

---

Mm.

Mm!

---

Mm. Oh, have I told you how beautiful you look tonight?

Thank you. And I know that I gave you a hard time earlier, but you look so sexy in just a kilt.

Ooh.

Mm.

Well, we could make some time for a wee pre-party celebration, just the two of us.

---

OK, but we have to be quick.

Never let it be said that I’m not a true Scotsman.

You mean…

No undies.

[gasps]

Saves time. Now, let’s see what we can do about getting you onto Santa’s naughty list.

Yes, please.

---

Mm.

[giggles]

[holiday music]

---

These mean more than gold to me. The Horton family ornaments.

So cool. And every member of the family has one?

Oh, yes. Yeah, this tradition, it goes back generations. My grandfather’s mother put together the first ornament. She decorated it herself by hand, and she gave it to Tom and Alice when they were just newlyweds. [chuckles] And through the years, the family grew, and every new family member, on Christmas Eve, gets this special gift: their ornament. And then we all gather together, and we hang them on the tree.

That must mean a lot to you.

Oh, I think it’s the best part of the holiday. [both chuckle] This night, it’s about coming home. You know, the place where we all begin. And the tree reminds us of…

---

All the people we’re connected to, past and present…

---

The people who taught us to love each other, to have faith in each other…

---

And to never forget, all the days of our lives, that… whatever this world throws at us, good or bad…

---

We can share it with the people who care about us most: our family.

---

– Why was Doug in jail?

Well, that’s what I’m trying to find out.

Julie doesn’t know?

No, she didn’t ask him. So I have my own inquiries out there. I’m just waiting to hear.

Well, I’m sure it’s something minor.

Or something serious. I mean, look, Dad, we know almost nothing about this guy, and he’s living in this house. And like Dad said, he’s bonding with Julie? What if he turns out to be dangerous?

---

[holiday music]

Oh, my God, Tate. H and T with a heart in the middle. It’s beautiful. Thank you so much.

Aw.

Oh, God. [both chuckle]

---

OK, that was for your birthday, and the rest of these are for Christmas.

OK, well, in that case, you should open up one of yours.

OK, you don’t have to tell me twice.

[chuckles]

[holiday music]

---

Oh, my God. Tickets to a Mystic Brew concert? Are you serious? This is, like, my favorite band.

I know. I remember listening to them with you at the cabin this summer.

They’re based in California. I didn’t even know they were coming to town.

Well, they are, for one night only.

[laughs]

This Friday night.

---

[dramatic music]

I remember when we took this. Your grandfather was in such a grumpy mood that day. He didn’t want to be photographed. And I told him he better suck it up and smile, or I was gonna invite all of his ex-wives to Christmas the following year, even Vivian.

Oh. [both laugh] You know, you were always so good at keeping that old man in line. You were.

I did my best.

Yeah. Still hard to believe that… Konstantin Meleounis was responsible for his death.

---

Yeah. The way that evil man fooled us all by thinking that he cared about Victor and me. And–and the way that I– that I was so touched when he gave me that portrait of your grandfather.

---

Sometimes I wonder if I should just destroy it.

---

[romantic music]

---

[giggles]

---

I’d say Christmas is off to a very wonderful start.

Brace yourself. It’s about to get even better.

What?

---

I thought we were exchanging gifts tomorrow.

Yes, but this one cannot wait. It must be opened right now.

Oh. OK.

---

It’s a tragedy you never got to meet your grandfather.

[holiday music] He was an extraordinary man in every way. Oh, and how he loved Christmas, especially this night, you know, Christmas Eve, all the family all together, singing carols. He was a singer. Did anybody tell you he was a wonderful singer? Had this beautiful voice, and he would sing lyrics with so much… love and heart.

---

He did everything with love and heart.

I wish so much that I had gotten to know him.

Me too. But he’d be very happy to know that you’re here tonight, keeping me company for the holiday.

Well, I’m so glad I can be here for you, Julie. And seeing these ornaments and just… knowing how much you loved your husband, I honestly–I feel like he’s here with us in spirit.

---

You’re a very thoughtful young man, Doug.

---

Hello, hello, hello! We’re here.

Hello.

Merry Christmas.

Hello. Merry almost Christmas.

Oh. Good to see you.

Good to see you. Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, yes.

Hi.

Hi.

Well, did you get everybody off– the kids and Chad on their way to Orlando?

Oh, yes, yes, they should be arriving at the Universal resort any time now.

And greeted by what, the yellow Minions from “Despicable Me”?

Oh, yes, those are Charlotte’s faves.

I just hope they send us a lot of pictures.

I’m sure they will.

Oh, Julie, you got the ornaments out.

Yes, yes, and I was just explaining to Doug here about all of their history.

Such an awesome tradition.

And I’m so sorry. I–I just haven’t gotten it together to make you an ornament. But I promise, next year, on the tree, you’re gonna have your spot.

Really?

Yes, of course.

But I’m not technically a Horton.

---

You are. I told you earlier, you’re family.

Yeah, she’s right. You’re family now, so I think it’s time we got to know you better. Why don’t you tell us more about yourself?

OK. [chuckles] What would you like to know?

Well, let’s see. Why don’t you start with telling us why you were in jail?

[dramatic music]

---

JJ, you are being rude.

But it’s a legitimate question, isn’t it? He’s living under the same roof as us, not to mention Abigail’s kids. So I think we have a right to know more about him, about why he was locked up.

And I think an interrogation can wait until after the holidays.

No, it’s–it’s OK. I totally understand. JJ has a point. I’m pretty much a stranger. You know, as far as you guys know, I’m a serial killer.

Is that a confession?

JJ.

It’s OK, Julie. Like I said, I understand why JJ’s curious about me, my past. So…here’s the deal. My dad and I, we never really got along much. We were always butting heads. So when he finally told me about where I really came from, I jumped at the chance to get to know my other family and hoping I could finally find somewhere to fit in. Don’t get me wrong. I loved my Grandpa Robert.

Well, Robert Leclair, he was one of your grandfather’s dearest friends.

But when he passed away, it was just me and my dad. And, well, we weren’t much of a family. So that’s why I changed my last name to Williams and started my journey to Salem to visit my biological grandfather. And I was on the way to Salem when I found out that he passed away. And that night, I went out to a bar and got drunk, ended up in a fight, got arrested. And since I didn’t have enough money for bail, I had to spend a couple of days in jail till I got sprung. And if you don’t believe me, you can always call Chicago PD. They can verify it for you.

No, no. That won’t be necessary. We believe you.

[dramatic music] We’re very glad you chose to come to Salem and to find all of us.

---

[sighs]

Look, Maggie, Konstantin came here to destroy the life that Victor built with you, and he failed, all right? He failed miserably. But now he’s gone, thank God.

Mm.

But the love that you and Victor shared, that lives on.

Yes, it does. Thank you, Shawn.

[soft music]

---

Xander!

What do you think?

They’re gorgeous.

---

You know that my father, Mickey, gave my mom a pair of red heels once upon a time.

I was waiting for you to make the connection. Yeah. Maggie told me the whole story, how she grew up using crutches but… had always dreamed of dancing. And then after she had surgery to regain the use of her legs, Mickey gave her the red shoes.

---

It was his way of fulfilling her dream.

And her dreams were indeed fulfilled. And now ours have been. And you’re back on your feet, so I thought it’d be nice if you had a pair of your own.

---

Damn it, Xander.

Well, what’s wrong?

[sniffles] I only got you an air fryer.

[laughs]

---

[laughs]

[holiday music]

Tate, is something wrong?

No, no, no, no, no. Holly, this is a great gift. It really is. But…I can’t go. I have plans Friday night.

Plans? Well, can you just change them?

I–I can’t. I’m–I’m sorry. I–I have to– [sighs] I’m sorry, I have to go visit my grandparents in California.

Oh. You never mentioned it before.

I know. It just came up, and… I haven’t seen them in a while. And with my mom at Statesville, I just– I feel like I have to go, you know, represent for the holidays. Holly, I’m so sorry.

Hey, no, don’t apologize for doing the right thing. You know what? We’ll just catch the band next time they’re in town, OK?

[sighs] Thank you so much for understanding.

Your grandparents need you. I totally get it.

---

You’re really amazing. You know that?

Mm-hmm.

---

Oh, wow.

Do you like it?

I do. This is great.

I hope you don’t have one like it already.

No, not at all. I love it, really. Thank you. So sweet. All right, it’s your turn now.

Actually, do you mind if we take a tiny break? I just want to run to hang my ornament at my grandma’s.

Yeah. Yeah, of course. We have the place to ourselves all night, so take your time.

I’ll be back soon. Promise.

[holiday music]

---

Bye.

Bye.

[dramatic music]

---

[sighs]

---

Merry Christmas, Maggie.

Oh, merry Christmas yourself. [wolf whistle] Whoo! I love the kilt.

Right? Sarah’s wearing something very special herself.

[gasps] Check out these showstoppers.

Oh.

Whoo-whoo.

The red shoes.

You’re the reason I bought them, Maggie. I was inspired by the story you told me about the red shoes that Mickey gave you.

Oh, Xander, bless your heart.

And for what it’s worth, Mom, the love that you and Dad shared, it inspires me every day.

Not to mention the love between you and Victor.

And you two, your love and your devotion for each other and your precious daughter, it inspires me.

[chuckles]

[holiday music] Mm.

Oh, love you.

Love you. Speaking of our precious daughter, we better grab her and get a move on.

Oh.

Yeah. Let’s go hang some ornaments.

Hmm?

[laughs] OK.

OK.

---

Merry Christmas, my darling.

---

Nice to finally meet you, Doug.

Same. So what are we, anyway? Are we first cousins?

Yeah, yeah. Yeah, that’s right. And it seems to me like you and I are the ones that are gifted with carrying on our grandfather’s name.

Well, the more I learn about him, the more I realize what a huge responsibility that is.

Oh, excuse me. Would you help me carry out the hors d’oeuvres now?

Of course. No problem.

Excuse me.

Hey. What’s up, everybody? Merry Christmas.

Hey, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you, honey.

JJ, I understand that you are going to be working with the Salem PD now.

Yes. Yes, I am. And I hear that Jada’s trying to recruit you over there.

What?

What?

You didn’t say anything about that.

I–I just– I haven’t made up my mind yet.

Well, if you do decide to accept her offer, I was thinking that maybe you and I could maybe be partners.

No, that’d be great. Just, right now, I’m… kind of weighing my options.

Isn’t it nice that it snowed?

Oh, I love a white Christmas.

And I can’t wait till our tiny one can make a snowman.

And go sledding.

Oh.

Sledding, maybe not. Oh, my gosh. But…[gasps] How about a gingerbread cookie?

[gasps]

Yes! Let’s go get a cookie.

[chuckles] Oh, my goodness. Oh, look who’s here. Oh, sweetheart, I’m so glad you made it.

Ah, Maggie.

Hi.

Merry Christmas Eve.

Oh, and same to you too.

Hi too. Thank you, darling.

Merry Christmas Eve, Julie.

Oh, thank you, sweetheart. Oh, it’s time for introductions. This is Doug Williams, Doug’s grandson. And this is Maggie Kiriakis. And this is Holly Jonas.

It’s a pleasure.

It’s very nice to meet you, Doug.

Nice to meet you.

Holly is Maggie’s granddaughter.

Well, it was a pleasure to meet both of you.

Aww.

Hors d’oeuvres?

Sure. Thanks. [chuckles]

Oh.

---

You know, earlier this evening, Doug’s grandson reminded me that my dear husband’s spirit is with us tonight, and I feel it is.

We all do, Julie.

Jennifer, I think tonight the whole house is glowing with the spirits of all our loved ones that have gone on before us. How lucky we are to all be together tonight. How grateful I am to be spending Christmas with each and every one of you.

Even me?

Yes, Xander, even you. [laughter] Shall we all begin?

Yes.

[soft music] Oh.

---

[no audible dialogue]

---

[sighs]

---

Love you, baby.

Love you. Love you, son.

---

– [vocalizing]

---

* Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah * * Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah *

---

* Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah * * Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah *

---

– * Peace on Earth, goodwill *

Doug… would you hang your grandfather’s ornament tonight?

Oh, I–I couldn’t.

Please? Do it for me.

[dramatic music]

---

[holiday music]

---

Hey, Jack. I just wanted to say that, well, I heard what went down in Vancouver. And I’m sorry you didn’t get the answers about Abigail that you were looking for.

---

Thanks, Xander.

I assume everything’s going well at “The Spectator.”

Yes, yes. Chad is doing excellent work.

Great. Well, I better get back to the family.

Xander.

---

Merry Christmas, old friend.

Merry Christmas.

---

[clapping] This time of the evening, some of you will remember, my darling husband used to lead us all in a Christmas carol.

---

I think he would love it if we kept that tradition going. So tonight…

---

JJ, would you do the honors for us?

[sighs, clears throat] * O come, all ye faithful * all: * Joyful and triumphant * * O come, ye, o come, ye * * To Bethlehem * * Come and behold him * * Born the King of angels * * O come, let us adore him * * O come, let us adore him * * O come, let us adore him * * Christ the Lord *

[dramatic music]

Hey, guys, now that it’s just us and everyone’s gone, what did you think of Doug’s story of why he was in jail?

Well, I mean, like they say, you know, we can always verify it.

True, we can. But there is still something about him that I don’t trust. And Julie is so vulnerable right now. And I don’t know. It just makes me so hesitant to go back to Boston tomorrow.

You know what? Don’t worry, Mom. I’m gonna keep an eye on Julie while you’re gone.

Wait. What? Does that mean you’re staying in Salem?

I am. And I’ve decided I’m going to take the job with the Salem PD.

[gasps] Honey!

Oh, that’s terrific news, son. They will be very lucky to have you.

Yeah, well, lucky because you are a fine detective.

I’m proud of you.

Thank you, Dad.

I am so proud of you.

[laughs]

And I’m so glad you’ll be able to keep an eye on Julie too.

---

[sighs]

Oh, and how’s our little sugarplum?

She is sound asleep.

Mm.

I think that I’m gonna follow her off to dreamland. So good night, you two.

Oh, good night, Mama. Come on.

Mm.

Mwah.

Merry Christmas, my darlings.

So… not a creature is stirring.

Ooh, you better get that twinkle out of your eye. We have a marathon of gift wrapping to do for our tiny one’s second Christmas.

Oh, I know, but unfortunately something much more important takes precedence over that tonight.

What’s this?

I have to trip the light fantastic with you in those very fetching shoes.

[holiday music]

---

[dramatic music]

[chuckles]

Did you make a wish?

Yes. However, I do feel greedy asking for anything after this incredible birthday celebration. Thank you for making this so special. You know, you’re the best boyfriend in the world.

---

Holly?

Yeah?

There’s something that I need to tell you.

OK. What is it?

Holly…

---

I love you.

---

You do?

Yeah. The truth is, I’ve loved you for a long time. I just–I guess I was in denial about it. And until now, I couldn’t say the words.

[chuckles] Right, well, maybe you could say them again, make it feel more real, you know?

---

I love you, Holly.

Tate, I love you too. [chuckles]

---

[laughs]

---

Well, thank you. Thank you for all that help in the kitchen tonight.

No worries. Is there anything else I can do?

No, no. You did a lot. No, it’s late. You go get some sleep, dear.

OK. Good night, Julie.

Good night.

---

All night, I’ve been remembering our first Christmas Eve together.

---

Open your present. I want to see how you like it.

All right, if you promise to open yours too.

Oh, I will. [chuckles]

All right. Hmm. Hmm. They say that good things come in small packages. And this– Julie, it’s beautiful.

There’s an inscription on the back.

---

“To my secret love.”

May I put it on your wrist?

---

It’s absolutely gorgeous.

Well, I’m glad you like it.

I especially like the inscription.

---

Gone from my sight…

---

Never from my heart.

---

Merry Christmas, my love.

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