Days Update Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the bookstore, Foster congratulates Abe on passing the exam to become a tutor. Julie approaches and presents Abe with a folder on a student that she thinks will be a perfect fit for him to tutor.

Paulina and Theo sit together at the Brady Pub. Paulina notes that Abe will be joining them shortly. Paulina apologizes for it not being a home cooked meal and they joke about Abe’s cooking. Paulina wonders if she should check in on Abe, but Theo says he’s glad to have this time alone with her because he needs some advice.

Kayla helps Stephanie pack her things at home. Stephanie talks about it being just across the hall while Kayla insists that moving in with Alex is a big deal. They joke about it not being like the time they helped her move up five stories. Stephanie remarks that the moving part at least is less complicated. Kayla asks if she’s having doubts. Stephanie admits she’s nervous. Kayla encourages it as exciting and thinks it’s going to be great. Stephanie jokes that if it’s not, she can just move right back across the hall.

Johnny and Chanel work on babyproofing their apartment ahead of the social worker coming to study their home. Chanel declares that this is really happening and it won’t be long if all goes well before Tesoro is theirs.

Melinda Trask is in her office when Sophia storms in and declares they have a problem: Johnny DiMera. Melinda asks her what happened. Sophia complains that it’s bad enough that she’s stuck with Johnny being her professor after she ruined the adoption and her life, while now he and Chanel want to adopt the baby that was left at the fire station. Sophia proclaims that they can forget it because she is not letting that happen.

Johnny tells Chanel that this is the calm before the storm as once the baby comes, they won’t have much time alone. Chanel agrees that Tesoro could be there in a matter of days if they are approved. Johnny remembers they haven’t finished filling out the forms.

Paulina asks Theo what kind of advice he’s looking for. Theo calls it professional advice and reveals he’s been offered an executive position at DiMera Enterprises if Tony is able to undo the Titan merger. Paulina encourages that as great and that Tony wouldn’t have offered him the job if he didn’t think he was qualified and capable. Paulina believes in fate as he came to Salem and suddenly gets an opportunity dropped in his lap, so it’s meant to be. Paulina knows Abe would be over the moon if the job convinced him to stay in Salem, but Theo says he’s not so sure about that.

Julie tells Abe that the young man would be very lucky to have Abe tutor him and offers the bookstore for all of their sessions. Foster then reveals to Abe that Julie is the new owner of the book club. Abe says he didn’t realize and asks when he closed. Foster announces that he closed today and hands Julie the keys.

Kayla knows Stephanie is gun shy after what happened with Chad. Stephanie says that and every other guy she’s been with. Kayla encourages that she and Alex love each other and know that relationships take work and compromise. Kayla suggests she take pride in that and be present in the moment. Kayla goes to continue packing when she finds Stephanie’s paper on the blog tour for Anastasia Sands and asks what it means.

Melinda encourages Sophia that she’s getting ahead of herself as there’s no way to be sure that Johnny and Chanel will get her baby. Melinda points out that they still have a lot to go through and she’s sure there are a lot of other couples on the waiting list. Sophia complains that Johnny’s family has a ton of money and influence while Chanel’s mother is the mayor. Sophia adds that she already heard Chanel say Paulina was putting in a good word for her, so if they pass the meeting with the social worker, she has no doubt they are going to get her baby.

Johnny comments on the adoption agency asking a lot of questions as he and Chanel fill out forms. Chanel says that’s probably good since they will be raising an actual human being. Johnny still wishes his work history looked a little more stable, especially with Tony’s lawsuit against Titan-DiMera. Chanel assures that it will be fine and he’ll figure something out. Chanel suggests he could always ask to teach more classes next semester, go back to filming, or do freelance work with Stephanie. Johnny says it’s good to have options but brings up that his dream was to move to LA to become a director. Chanel says he can still do that but for now, he’s happy. Johnny acknowledges that Titan-DiMera does allow him to work in media if it doesn’t implode. Chanel encourages taking it one step at a time. Johnny states that maybe one day, he’ll get to make that movie of his dreams, but for now his dream is becoming a dad and starting their own family together.

Paulina questions what Theo is talking about since Abe would be thrilled to have him in Salem. Theo says not if he takes a job at DiMera since Abe has never wanted him to be part of the family business and both his parents were adamant about that. Paulina points out that Theo has a good relationship with Tony while Stefano’s influence is long gone. Theo brings up EJ and Kristen, but Paulina says EJ is busy with the hospital and Kristen is in prison, so she doesn’t see why Abe would have any problem with Theo working there. Paulina says Tony sees what she sees in him, that he can lead DiMera in to the future. Theo thanks her and admits that he was flattered when Tony first asked him, but the more he thinks about it, he’s leaning towards saying no.

Abe congratulates Julie as they call it a big day for both of them. Abe says he’ll be in touch about his tutoring and wishes Julie luck on her new chapter as he exits the store. Julie asks Foster how he is feeling. Foster calls it a bittersweet moment as the business has been his life and home. Julie praises him making wonderful contributions to the community and keeping the place open against all odds. Julie says she just couldn’t bear to see the shop turned in to some corporate franchise managed by robots. Foster is thankful to her as he’s leaving the place in the best hands.

Stephanie claims to Kayla that the paper is a PR write up for an author client of hers. Kayla questions what a blog tour is. Stephanie explains that it’s a useful PR tour for authors using pseudonyms. Kayla calls that interesting as she never knew how that worked. Stephanie tries to put the paper away but Kayla looks at it and is shocked to find out that her author client is Anastasia Sands.

Sophia declares that Johnny and Chanel do not get to raise her baby after what Johnny did. Melinda encourages that she’s spent time with them and they are the same loving parents they were going to be. Sophia says maybe Chanel but argues there’s no way Johnny will be a good dad. Sophia brings up EJ being a horrible person. Melinda argues that Johnny is not EJ. Sophia points out that Johnny admitted to wanting his own father dead and questions why she should believe he’s suddenly ready to be a father after pulling out the last time. Melinda asks if there’s more to this. Sophia admits she’s worried about the baby being so close as she doesn’t want him nearby. Sophia says her mom is already talking about how much he looks like her brother did when he was a baby, so she wants him to be adopted by a family with no connection to her, Tate, or anyone else she knows. Melinda states that Sophia left her baby at a firehouse which means she doesn’t get a say, but Sophia disagrees.

Chanel tells Johnny that between their jobs and commitment to starting a family, they are solid. Chanel assures that the worker will see their babyproofed apartment and realize how eager they are, so she will know this is the perfect, loving home for Tesoro. Johnny worries that they have too much going on and the worker might think they are too busy to be hands-on parents. Chanel insists that they will persuade her otherwise and show that the baby will be their priority. Chanel promises they will make it work. Johnny asks what if the social worker asks about his family since they’ve been in the news a lot lately and it’s not good. Chanel argues that his family isn’t raising the baby, they are, and they will see that Johnny is a loving, supporting man who will make an excellent father no matter what his last name is.

Theo tells Paulina that Abe says he’s a Carver and he can honor his mom’s memory without becoming a DiMera. Paulina questions Theo turning down a huge job because Abe doesn’t want to lose him to the other side of the family. Theo explains that he thinks they will cause him to lose his integrity and morals. Paulina calls Abe the most ethical man she knows, but asks what if it’s the other way around and instead of the DiMeras changing Theo, he changes them. Paulina thinks Theo could make the company a force for good in the world. Paulina understands Abe’s bias, but says Theo is a grown man who makes his own decisions. Abe then arrives and apologizes for being late, asking what he missed. Paulina starts to tell him, but Theo says not a thing.

Kayla questions Stephanie representing Anastasia Sands as she thought that Stephanie said it was a mystery writer. Stephanie reveals that Anastasia has a new mystery novel coming out this fall. Kayla admits that One Stormy Night was an engrossing read. Kayla asks if this means Stephanie has met Anastasia and knows who she really is. Stephanie says she can’t really talk about that. Kayla insists, saying she won’t tell a soul. Stephanie asks her to drop it which she reluctantly agrees to. Stephanie decides they are all done here and that she will have Alex do the heavy lifting. Stephanie reminds Kayla that she has to get back to the hospital and says she will go with her because she has some work to do with EJ.

Julie shows Foster her menu for the bookstore which he says looks fantastic. Julie figured using Sweet Bits Bakery for catering would work well. Foster assures that he’s passing the torch to the right person. Julie asks when he’s moving to California. Foster says as soon as his house sells and mentions that he’s flying out there to look at places tomorrow and he’s exhausted just thinking about it. Foster then suddenly gets a headache and collapses.

Chanel and Johnny finish their forms and then kiss until Chanel realizes that the apartment isn’t baby ready yet because they don’t have a crib.

Julie brings Foster to the hospital and tells Kayla and Stephanie about him collapsing. Julie says he’s in an exam room but they won’t tell her anything because she’s not family. Kayla goes to see what she can find out as Stephanie encourages that Foster is in good hands.

Paulina tells Abe that she’s proud of him as he’s going to change lives as a literacy coach. Abe says he is excited to start working with the young man he got. Paulina explains what she knows about the guy. Abe then says that Theo might know him since he graduated from Salem High. Abe gives him the name of Liam Saleco. Theo confirms that he remembers him because he made his life a living hell.

Kayla checks on Foster and tells him that he likely fainted due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Kayla sees in his charts that he was diagnosed a few months ago with chronic kidney disease but he didn’t come in for a follow up. Foster responds that he doesn’t want dialysis and would rather let things progress naturally. Kayla encourages that there are other options and ways to prolong his lifespan which she thinks his family would appreciate. Foster guesses she doesn’t have much choice. Kayla offers to discuss the medications with him.

Melinda tells Sophia that she’s better off not putting herself in the middle of this adoption process. Sophia asks how she could not since that’s her baby. Melinda says not anymore since she made a choice and has to live with it. Melinda encourages Sophia to concentrate on school and find a way to move on. Sophia questions how she can move on when her baby is being placed in a home with those awful people and he doesn’t belong there. Sophia begs Melinda to help her. Melinda agrees to try to expose Paulina for trying to use her influence which wouldn’t look good for her as Mayor. Sophia responds that she doesn’t want to punish Paulina and declares that Johnny is the reason her life spiraled out of control, so he’s the one who deserves to be punished. Melinda knows Sophia has been through a lot, but she asks her not to do anything rash. Sophia says she doesn’t know what that means and assures that she’s not going to murder Johnny just because he destroyed her entire life, even though she’d like to. Melinda tells her not to even joke about that. Sophia tells her to relax and remarks that she’s just going to make Johnny wish that he were dead.

Theo informs Abe and Paulina that Liam bullied him endlessly from 7th grade on. Theo explains that the guys he ran with would wait for him at his locker, call him names, and push him around. Abe questions why he never knew about this. Theo responds that there’s a lot of things he didn’t tell him about as he had to learn to fight his own battles. Abe says he understands. Theo says he’s fine with it now but talks about being bullied in high school. Abe says he’s so sorry. Theo says it’s okay as it got better once he learned to stand up for himself. Abe tells Theo that he’s so proud of him. Theo thanks him and says he couldn’t have done it without him. Paulina gets upset and declares that after hearing about what Liam did to Theo, he needs to find somebody else to tutor but Theo says no and Abe states that he won’t.

Kayla tells Julie that Foster is stabilized and is going to be staying overnight. Stephanie asks what happened. Kayla says it has to do with his blood pressure and it’s not life threatening, but they want to get it under control before they release him. Kayla adds that his son is coming from California to be with him. Julie says that’s good and asks if she can go see him. Kayla says they are getting his room ready and tells Stephanie that she will call her later to find out how her moving went as she walks away. Julie tells Stephanie that she doesn’t have to stay but Stephanie says she’s happy to stay until she can go see Foster. Julie thanks her but says she knows Stephanie is busy and has work to do. Stephanie responds that she could stay with Julie and do her work at the same time as she informs her that EJ needs her help.

Paulina knows Abe has a huge heart but questions him having anything to do with a man that caused his son so much pain. Abe responds that Liam needs help as for most of his childhood, his parents were in prison so there was no one to look out for him or teach him right from wrong. Abe explains that Liam somehow graduated high school but is still functionally illiterate. Abe tells Theo that he would like to try to help Liam get on a better path if it’s okay with him. Paulina argues that Liam’s a criminal and could be dangerous. Abe responds that he’s spent his whole life dealing with criminals, so he can handle him. Paulina wants him to consider this carefully. Abe agrees to talk to Belle and get more information, then he will make the final decision.

Julie tells Stephanie that she thinks EJ’s idea of a free clinic in Tom Horton’s name is wonderful, but she’s having doubts about whether or not his motives are pure. Stephanie admits she’s not so sure herself. Julie questions how she can work for him then. Stephanie thinks the clinic can do a lot of good no matter what EJ’s plans are and she believes she can help EJ steer things in the right direction. Stephanie reveals that she was the one who convinced EJ to name the clinic after Tom. Julie then asks how she can help. Stephanie explains that EJ wants to make a big splash with the opening, so she suggested a formal gala. Julie notes that will be a lot of work. Stephanie says she’s just started planning it but she needs Julie’s help and wants her to reach out to her whole family. Julie sees she wants a Horton presence at the gala and admits that she’s always looking for an excuse for a Horton family reunion and there’s no better than the Tom Horton Clinic.

Johnny and Chanel walk through the town square after shopping and joke about how they went for a crib but came out with 40 other baby things. Johnny calls it fun to already be spoiling the kid. They hope he will soon be their kid. Chanel knows there’s no guarantees but says she feels really optimistic about the adoption. Sophia then appears in the town square and glares at them from a distance.

Abe spots his old assistant and goes to say hi. Paulina is surprised that Theo didn’t say anything to Abe about his job offer. Theo says he wanted to think more about it as it’s a lot of information to process. Paulina assures that she won’t say anything. Theo says if the deal to take DiMera back falls through, it might not happen anyway.

Kayla tells Foster that she wouldn’t advise getting on a plane until they get a handle on controlling his blood pressure. Kayla adds that his son is on his way, but he might be stuck in Salem for awhile longer. Foster says he could think of worse things. Kayla reminds Foster that if he needs a part time gig, she knows a book store.

Stephanie tells Julie that she will let her know as soon as she knows a date for the gala. Julie is grateful that Stephanie is the one handling this and gets emotional about Tom’s life work being honored this way. Julie adds that there’s one Horton homecoming they won’t have to wait much longer for. Julie reveals to Stephanie that Mike’s son Jeremy got a job here in Salem so he’s on his way back. Stephanie is shocked as Julie remembers that Stephanie and Jeremy used to date.

Chanel and Johnny decide they should get home to prepare for the social worker’s visit. Chanel mentions that she’s going to stop in at the Bakery. Johnny can’t believe it’s tomorrow. Chanel really thinks it’s going to work out. Johnny agrees that Tesoro is meant to be theirs. They say they love each other. Johnny tells Chanel that he can’t wait to share that love with their precious new baby as they hug while Sophia remains staring them down from afar.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, September 23, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Stephanie tried to talk to Alex, but he was fixated on the lawsuit. She noticed that he was engrossed reading about the lawsuit against his family. He was mad that his cousins froze him out again. Stephanie suggested they make things right with Xander instead of steaming about the article he was reading. Alex took her advice and headed to the mansion. EJ was ecstatic that Tony pulled the wool over the Kiriakis family. Tony thought it was funny that the Kiriakis family thought they would take the company, and they would just take it. EJ arrived at the hospital and told Rita to get things rolling. He called Stephanie to talk about the free clinic. EJ credited Stephanie’s idea for the name change for why they were ahead of schedule. He wanted a press release for the clinic. They talked about what to do to celebrate the launch. He wanted a black-tie gala for the event. Maggie read the lawsuit against the family. She threw it across the room because she was disgusted by it. Maggie decided to go to the DiMera mansion to confront Tony. He didn’t expect to see Maggie. Maggie demanded an explanation from him since they used to be friends. Tony explained it to her, and she was shocked. Maggie felt like Titan belonged to Victor’s sons. She told him that he was better than that. Maggie vowed to do whatever it took if he went through with the lawsuit. Tony thought they could settle on something they could agree on. He wanted her to convince Xander and Philip to give him what he wanted. Tony would drop the lawsuit if they did what he wanted.

Xander and Philip couldn’t figure out how to keep their company. They would lose a trial, and Tony had all the cards. Philip said it would be the second time Tony pulled one on him. Alex arrived and tried to get in their conversation about Tony. He said it wasn’t his fault that Tony went through with the lawsuit. Philip supported Alex so he wanted to get Brady on board. Xander and Philip filled them in about the lawsuit. They agreed that they didn’t want a trial, but they didn’t know what to do. Brady suggested they let Tony have Titan. He said that the company wasn’t the same after Xander and Philip ruined it. Brady felt like they could save the family legacy by taking Tony’s money and doing something different for the family. He was tired of the family fighting over a stupid company. Xander didn’t like the idea. Philip backed Xander up. They started arguing until Maggie arrived. She didn’t understand why they were arguing. Brady wanted to leave when Maggie stopped him. She said they weren’t going to give up without a fight. After Maggie convinced them to fight, they agreed not to give up the company.

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Days Short Recap Monday, September 22, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Tate went to see Brady to get his advice about Sophia, the baby, and Holly. He told Brady about his fight with Holly. Tate said he used the fight to get information out of Sophia. He took advantage of the fact that Sophia had feelings for him by kissing her. Brady let him know that he was treating Sophia and Holly badly. He advised Tate not to cheat on Holly. Brady said to let him and Steve take care of it. He wanted Tate to focus on college. Marlena went to the hospital for her check up. Sarah talked about Rachel. They talked about sympathizing with Rachel and what she has been going through. Sarah said being with Ava brought up emotions, but she loved her. She let Marlena know that her blood work showed that nothing was wrong with her. Sarah said she was out of ideas and felt like she failed Marlena. Marlena said she didn’t do anything wrong and that she felt better. Sarah thanked her for working with Xander. She said there was a chance that she and Xander might work things out. Marlena said she wanted to work with them as a couple, but Sarah didn’t think Xander would agree to it. She told Sarah that Xander might agree to it since he wanted to save their marriage.

Johnny told Chanel that he couldn’t go to the press conference for One Stormy Night. Chanel said that was the least of his problems. Johnny realized that the merger would probably crumble and he could lose his job. He said he didn’t want to rely on his trust fund. It occurred to him that losing his job could affect their chances of adopting a baby. Chanel convinced him that they would be fine. Holly ran into Arianna at the pub. When Sophia came in, Holly went to the bathroom. Sophia asked Arianna if she told her that she came out of Tate’s room. When Holly came back, she heard Arianna say something about Sophia and Tate hooking up. Sophia pretended to apologize for what happened that night. When Sophia was finished talking, she left. Arianna apologized for not telling her what she saw. She said she didn’t want to upset her. Tate showed up to talk to Holly. She ended up hitting him. Holly yelled at him and said they were finished for good. Johnny and Sophia met outside of the pub. She wanted to catch up on what she missed in class. Johnny asked if she missed class because of everything that happened with the adoption. Sophia said they ruined her life, but she would be okay. Chanel showed up. Sophia walked away and eavesdropped on Johnny and Chanel’s conversation. Chanel said their chances of getting Tesoro were good. She said her mother’s word did the trick. Sophia was upset.

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Days Update Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Chad works on his laptop at the Brady Pub as Brady enters and greets him. Chad asks how Rachel is. Brady guesses he heard about her skipping school to go to the prison. Chad confirms that Thomas told him about it. Brady says she’s fine but admits it scared the hell out of him. Chad tells him that he’s sorry for everything they are going through. Brady thanks Chad. Chad offers anything he can to help. They talk about the fight that Rachel and Thomas had at school. Brady jokes that Rachel is like her mom in that she’s used to getting her own way. Chad assures that he told Thomas to just be there for Rachel through a tough time. They relate to being a father being the toughest job they’ll ever have.

Stephanie continues packing her things at her apartment and talks to Alex about moving over to his apartment and redecorating. Stephanie notes Alex being distracted and not hearing her. Alex apologizes as he’s reading a story about Tony’s lawsuit. Stephanie suggests he text Philip or Xander to find out what’s going on. Alex says he would, but they treated him like crap yesterday and Xander’s blaming him for the whole mess. Stephanie recalls Alex then coming home and blaming her. Alex admits that was not his finest hour and apologizes. Stephanie knows he’s under a lot of stress. Alex says it’s no excuse for him to be a jerk. Alex thanks her but admits he’s not over how he left things with Xander. Stephanie suggests he go do things about it. Alex points out that they are packing while Stephanie points out that she is packing. Stephanie tells him to go settle things with his family and then they can focus on them. Alex calls her the best and thanks her, adding that he can’t wait to live together. Alex kisses her and then exits.

At the Kiriakis Mansion, Maggie is shocked by what she received in the mail and tosses the papers.

At the Titan office, Xander and Philip go over the lawsuit. Xander wishes there was a loophole to get them out of this mess but says they are dead to rights. Philip says he spoke to the lawyers, who said they will almost certainly lose if this goes to trial. Xander hoped making Philip an official CEO would make a difference. Philip says it’s too different to fix what he did. Xander wishes they could dig up dirt on Tony but he seems to have been clean for years. Xander says they’d need more time or they are going to have to concede to Tony’s demands and return all DiMera assets. Philip reminds him that it’s not enough for Tony as he wants it all and questions what they are going to do. Xander says they only have one day to figure it out as the clock is ticking and their father’s legacy is on the line.

At the DiMera Mansion, EJ tells Tony that he would’ve loved to have seen the look on Xander and Philip’s faces when they realized Tony held all the cards. EJ congratulates Tony and says he would call for a celebratory drink but he has to get to the office. Tony agrees they can do that when DiMera is officially back in their hands. EJ asks Tony to let him know when they make a decision. EJ remarks that he almost feels sorry for them, except they brought it upon themselves. Tony says they actually thought taking over DiMera would go unanswered. Tony declares that Philip and Xander may have won the first battle, but promises they will win the war.

EJ goes to his office at the hospital and calls Rita, thanking her for all her hard work on the remodel. EJ tells her that it’s time to shift things in to high gear.

Stephanie continues packing her things at home when she gets a call from EJ, who asks if they can move up their meeting this afternoon. Stephanie agrees to come now and asks what’s going on. EJ responds that they need to discuss big plans he has for the Tom Horton Free Clinic.

Brady tells Chad that with everything going on at Titan-DiMera, they could get in a lot of trouble for meeting like this. Chad says their families are at war, but he’s staying out of it this time. Brady says he’s doing the same. Chad admits that Tony tried to recruit him, but he gave him his blessing and said he wasn’t interested. Chad explains that’s not what he needs at this stage of his life. Brady asks how it’s going for him at the paper. Chad says it’s good and he can stay out of the war between families, so he’s at peace building a life away from all of that. Brady asks if he has no regrets walking away from the family legacy. Chad assures there’s none at all.

Xander complains about Tony while Philip tells him that this is the second time that Tony got the best out of him. Philip explains that Tony got his hands on an alternate fuel project he was working on for Titan, they argued about it, and it kind of led to Tony falling down a flight of stairs. Xander remarks that accidents do happen. Philip tells him not to think about it. Xander calls it just an observation. Alex arrives, so Xander questions what he’s doing back. Alex responds that he’s not pushing him out and that he’s every bit a part of the family as he is, so he’s going to help them figure out this situation with DiMera. Philip agrees that they don’t need to be attacking each other right now. Alex says if they are serious about standing together, there is somebody else that they need to bring in to the fold.

Maggie goes to the DiMera Mansion to confront Tony about what he pulled.

Chad leaves the Brady Pub and runs in to Cat. Chad calls it a nice surprise as he thought she was at work. Cat responds that she took a personal day for a family matter. Chad remembers it’s Mark’s parole hearing and asks if he’s getting out.

Stephanie meets EJ in his office. Stephanie mentions that she’s in the process of moving in with Alex. EJ congratulates her and asks how Alex is reacting to Tony’s bombshell. Stephanie says he’ll be fine but she’s not sure about Xander and Philip. EJ assures her that he had no idea about what Tony was planning. Stephanie says that’s good to know while EJ notes she sounds skeptical. Stephanie says she’s just trying to stay out of the way, reminding EJ that last time she got caught in the middle of a family feud, she got locked in a morgue. EJ remarks that hopefully that doesn’t happen this time.

Tony guesses Maggie is upset with him. Maggie says she has a right to be as an owner of Titan, the lawsuit is a direct attack on her. Maggie adds that she hasn’t spoken to Xander and Philip, but she knows they had a meeting with him today. Maggie says this isn’t about them, but she thought as old friends, Tony could explain his demands directly to her face. Tony responds that he has nothing to say, unlike her family, but he’s afraid she isn’t going to like what she hears.

Alex brings Brady in to the office. Philip thanks him for coming. Brady is surprised they even want him here since they didn’t even consult him before everything went to Hell. Xander tells him he can leave if he doesn’t want to stay. Brady assures that he’s staying out of obligation to his grandfather and father’s legacy. Philip insists they are glad to have him here. Brady tells Philip that Alex told him what he did with the forged letter. Brady says to forget all about that and asks what’s going on. Alex asks what happened in the meeting with Tony. Xander explains that Tony made it clear that he knows about Philip’s fraud but he agreed to stay quiet if they agree to his demands. Alex questions what those are. Philip responds that Tony wants DiMera back and he wants Titan too.

Cat tells Chad that the parole board hasn’t gotten back yet. Chad says it’s good that she spoke on his behalf and hopes the good letters can counter what Jack and Jennifer wrote. Cat admits what they wrote was hard to sit through even though she expected it and can’t blame them after what she and Mark put them through. Cat thanks Chad again for not speaking against Mark as she knows that was not an easy decision to make. Cat repeats that she does not take lightly what they put his family through. Chad acknowledges that she’s shown him that. Cat says she’s going to get something to eat at the Pub before going to work. Chad thought she was taking a personal day. Cat says she was, but she can’t just sit around waiting for Mark’s result. Chad points out that EJ is not expecting her in, so he asks if they can go to her place as there’s something he wants to talk to her about.

Stephanie asks EJ about saying he had news on the Tom Horton Free Clinic. EJ says it seems construction is actually ahead of schedule. Stephanie knows the hospital staff is very excited. EJ admits she was right about the name as it’s gone a long way with the public. Stephanie says she’s glad she could help. EJ responds that he needs her help again.

Tony tells Maggie that he wants DiMera and Titan which Maggie calls unfair. Tony asks if it was fair when Philip and Xander stole his family’s company. Maggie calls that not the same. Tony brings up the fraud that Philip committed. Maggie says she knows all about it. Tony questions her being fine with it. Maggie says she doesn’t condone it, but she knows Victor would’ve wanted his sons at the top of Titan. Tony remarks that her opinion wouldn’t have much sway in court. Maggie calls Tony so much better than this and argues that what he’s doing is so petty and spiteful. Tony responds that what he’s doing is honoring his father’s memory and he is determined on Stefano’s behalf, to make DiMera as strong as it can be. Maggie responds that she owes it to Victor’s memory to do whatever she can to stop him.

Brady questions Tony demanding they hand over Titan including Basic Black. Philip points out that Tony did offer to pay them fair market value. Alex hopes they told him to take his offer and shove it. Xander wishes they could’ve while Philip explains that it would then lead to court where everything would come out in public including his fraud. Xander states that not only would Philip go to prison, it would likely be the death knell of the company altogether. Alex says they need to make a deal with Tony, but he’s a half reasonable guy for a DiMera, so maybe there’s room for negotiation. Brady says no and that they should let Tony have all of Titan.

Chad and Cat go to her apartment to talk. Chad sits with her and tells her that he doesn’t think he can do this anymore.

EJ tells Stephanie that he’s ready to make a formal announcement. Stephanie says she has a draft for a press release and can have something for him to approve by the end of the day. Stephanie adds that she’ll have to work fast and reach out for interviews and to community leaders. EJ says that sounds great and to let him know what she needs. Stephanie admits she’s had doubts about him and still does, but commends him on this project. EJ says he appreciates her support. Stephanie declares that the Tom Horton Free Clinic will approve a lot of lives and could change the way that people look at the DiMera family.

Tony asks Maggie to try not to be adversaries. Tony warns that he can be ruthless if need be. Maggie responds that she can too. Tony says he’s trying to avoid that and asks her to convince her stepsons to settle this in a civilized, private manner. Maggie argues that he accused them of fraud in public. Tony says he kept what he knew to himself. Tony argues that if the nature of Philip and Vivian’s fraud is exposed, Philip could be facing prison time. Maggie asks if he would do that to him. Tony says if he forces him to. Tony urges Maggie to do the right thing and convince her stepsons to accept his demands. Tony remarks that it may sting for awhile, but it will save both of their families from an all out war.

Alex questions Brady thinking they should just give up. Philip asks what happened to saving the company that honored their parents. Xander complains that Brady doesn’t care about the company. Brady explains that he never knew his mother, but she gave his grandfather’s name as his middle name and John built Basic Black which carries his name, so the idea of Titan falling in to DiMera’s hands makes him sick but this place is a shell of it’s former self because of Xander and Philip. Xander argues that things were going well in the beginning. Brady says that was up until Xander was accused of beating Philip. Philip notes that was falsely accused while Alex points out the damage was already done. Brady declares that the point is the company is not going to stand on it’s own two feet if they keep it. Brady says if they get a giant payout from Tony, they’ll at least be working with something instead of a whole pile of nothing. Alex agrees that he has a point that they would have something. Philip argues that they didn’t grow up being told that this was his destiny. Brady talks about Victor teaching them all to fight so that’s what they do, even if that meant fighting each other. Brady says they have all spent their life vying for the top spot including lying, putting each other in the hospital, taking freedom away, and splitting families. Brady declares that maybe it’s time they realize that Titan isn’t the golden prize that Victor made it out to be and maybe it’s a curse.

Cat questions if Chad wants them to stop seeing each other. Chad says he doesn’t want to do it sneaking around anymore. Cat asks if he’s saying he wants to go public. Chad’s not sure about that and explains that Thomas asked him the other day if he like liked her. Cat questions where he got the idea. Chad says that Felicity said something to him at mini golf which Cat apologizes for. Cat asks what he told Thomas. Chad says that they were friends and enjoy spending time together, but it’s more than that and he hates lying to his kids. Cat hates him having to lie to them. Cat admits that Aaron asked her if she had feelings for him and she said the same thing, but she doesn’t think he believed a word she said. They agree that lying to their families sucks, but Cat notes that telling the world could also be problematic. Chad asks where they go from here then.

EJ tells Stephanie that he is hoping building the free clinic makes people think differently of him and his family, but that can only happen if they get the word out so they need to make a big splash. Stephanie suggests a grand opening, big press event, or Paulina giving a speech. EJ notes that Paulina is hardly a fan of him. Stephanie says she cares about the people of Salem and the hospital, so she’s sure she would help. EJ responds that he’s thinking something even bigger. Stephanie suggests a party or a gala with an elegant black tie affair with anyone who is anyone in Salem.

Alex questions Brady thinking Victor’s legacy is a curse. Brady reminds Alex of what it did to him when he thought he was Victor’s son. Brady responds that the legacy of this family is ripping itself apart, so he’s starting to think they’d all be better off if they just let it go. Xander calls that loser talk and refuses to just roll over and let Tony take Titan, vowing to hold on to it with whatever it takes. Brady argues that he’s letting his ego get in the way of a good business decision. Brady asks if Philip sees that, but Philip says he actually agrees with Xander. Philip believes they can and will save Titan, even if it’s from the ground up. Brady questions how they plan to do that when they tanked it when it was doing well. Alex suggests stepping back and looking at the financials. Xander declares there is no way they are giving up Titan and tells Brady that he can feel free to hand over Basic Black. Brady says he’s just trying to be practical. Xander feels he’s being a coward. Brady argues that it’s reality. Brady argues that Philip will go to jail. Xander talks about not wanting Brady and Alex involved in the first place as the arguing escalates until Maggie walks in and questions what in the world is going on here.

Cat tells Chad that option one is they stop seeing each other. Chad says no to that as he thinks it’s going well and wants to see where it goes. Cat agrees and says option two is going public including telling Chad’s kids and facing backlash from Abigail’s family. Cat thinks he’s definitely not ready for that. Chad says he’d just like some time to think about it. Cat gets it and says she’s following his lead on all of this as she wants what’s best for him and his family. Chad says he has no clue what that is but thanks her for understanding. Cat is sorry it’s so complicated. Chad says when it’s just them, it’s anything but complicated. They kiss until Cat gets a call from prison. Cat answers and it’s her brother Mark. Cat is excited and tells Mark to call his lawyer. Cat hangs up and announces that they granted Mark’s parole and he doesn’t have a release date yet, but he’s coming home. Chad says that’s great and he’s really happy for her. Cat admits she’s so relieved and then remarks that their complicated situation just got a little more complicated.

Stephanie tells EJ that they can make the gala a huge celebration for the whole town. Stephanie adds that being in Tom Horton’s name, she’s sure all the Hortons would come out in full force. EJ laughs at the idea of the Hortons coming to a party thrown by a DiMera. Stephanie encourages that being what he wants. Stephanie brings up EJ agreeing to the name change of the clinic and says he can take a victory lap. EJ agrees with Stephanie’s idea for the gala. Stephanie tells him it will be huge.

Philip tells Maggie that they met with Tony today. Maggie says she knows as she just came from seeing him. Xander brings up Tony wanting Titan. Maggie says what she doesn’t understand is why the four of them are fighting each other when they should be pulling together. Xander remarks that some of them don’t have the stomach for battle and would rather raise the white flag. Brady explains that he thought they should take the money and rebuild, but if he’s the only one that feels that way, they can have fun with it. Maggie stops him and says she hears where he’s coming from but he’s wrong. Maggie declares now is the time to fight for Victor’s sake, but they have to do it together. Xander comments on having doubts. Maggie tells Xander to be a leader and not drive away his allies, especially family, just because they don’t agree with him. Maggie proclaims that this is their chance to save Titan and unite the Kiriakis family like never before. Maggie admits that Victor couldn’t see past his ego to see what was best for the whole family, while they have an opportunity to do that and that’s truly the legacy they are fighting for. Maggie asks if it’s worth a shot and if they can set aside differences to work together. Philip says he does and Xander says yes. Maggie declares that they will then show Tony that the Kiriakis family isn’t going down without a fight.

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Days Update Monday, September 22, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Rafe brings Tesoro to the hospital for a checkup and tells Sarah that he can’t believe Tesoro is already three months old. They talk about how much he’s grown and how happy he seems. Rafe says he brightens their lives every day, so he will envy his new parents.

Chanel and Johnny talk about Tony trying to dissolve the Titan-DiMera merger. Johnny hates that he couldn’t be at the press conference because he got stuck in a meeting at the college. Chanel encourages that he couldn’t have done anything to stop it anyways. Johnny still wishes he could’ve been there to support, especially since Alex bent over backwards to make his teaching gig possible in the first place. Chanel understands he wants to do right by Titan, but she’s sure he is the least of their worries right now.

At home, Marlena asks if Brady is headed to work. Brady responds that with everything going on at Titan-DiMera, he decided to stay in and get some work done. Tate then comes in and greets them. Brady says he wasn’t expecting to see him today. Marlena jokes that she didn’t think she’d see him without a laundry basket. Tate says he just wanted to check on Rachel after her adventure to prison. Brady says she’s doing as well as could be expected but she knows it was wrong and says it will never happen again. Tate remarks that he knows what it’s like to have a mother in prison, so he wants Rachel to know he’s there for her and will do whatever he can to get her through this.

Holly joins Arianna at the Brady Pub and says she was kind of surprised she was gone when she woke up this morning. Arianna talks about trying to get an internship at Titan-DiMera. They laugh together until Arianna sees Sophia walk in, so Holly questions what’s wrong.

Sarah tells Rafe that Tesoro couldn’t be doing better after his physical. Rafe says he’s only been with them for a short time, but he already feels like part of the family which is good but also bad because it will be sad to see him go. Rafe says he has been through it before and he knows Sarah did as well. Rafe adds that at least this time, he knew he was signing up to be a temporary foster family until Tesoro found a permanent home but that doesn’t make it any easier. Sarah feels lucky that she didn’t have to say goodbye to Rachel forever and is grateful to still be part of her life.

Tate asks if Rachel is in her room. Brady informs her that she’s in school. Tate didn’t realize school started so early. Marlena guesses Tate took afternoon classes so he can sleep in. Tate says he did take one morning class, the intro to film that Johnny is teaching, but it doesn’t start until 10. Marlena tells Tate it was good to see him, but she has a prior commitment so she will be on her way. Tate hugs her and says he’ll see her soon as she exits. Brady guesses seeing Rachel isn’t the only reason Tate came by. Tate admits there is another reason as he needs his advice about Sophia and the baby.

Holly asks Arianna what’s going on and then she sees that Sophia came in. Arianna knows she and Tate just had a huge fight about Sophia. Sophia comes over and guesses they are talking about her.

Johnny thinks Chanel is right about Titan as it sounds like the whole merger is going belly up. Chanel encourages that he won’t lose his job since he’s a DiMera. Johnny argues that he was hired by Xander and asks who knows what Tony is going to do. Chanel tries to encourage that either way, he’d still have his job at Salem U. Johnny mocks that he only makes $3000 a semester there. Chanel reminds him that she owns a Bakery and he has a trust fund. Johnny doesn’t want to rely on that as he wants to actually earn a living and feels like he’s contributing to their family. Chanel encourages that he’ll just find something else. Johnny guesses he could but worries that losing his job at Titan-DiMera could affect their ability to adopt.

Marlena goes to see Sarah at the hospital. They talk about everything she’s had going on with Rachel. Sarah can’t believe Rachel made it in to prison by herself. Marlena calls her clever and resourceful. Sarah says she can only imagine how much she misses her mom to do that. Marlena says regardless of how she feels about Kristen, she has been a wonderful mother and absolutely adores Rachel. Sarah asks what happens next. Marlena says that Brady will have to figure out a way to make sure they see each other while she tries to fill in the void. Sarah says she will too. Marlena knows how much Sarah loves Rachel and hopes that wouldn’t be painful for her, given their history. Sarah admits that being with Rachel does bring up a lot of emotions for her, but most of them are positive. Sarah states that she loves Rachel and will always be there for her.

Brady asks Tate what’s going on. Tate responds that he had a huge fight with Holly. Brady says he’s sorry to hear and asks what about. Tate reminds him that Sophia must know more about the adoptive parents, so he asked her again and she was very evasive, but this time he would not back down and kept asking. Tate insists that Sophia was on the verge of telling him the whole truth but Holly showed up and interrupted them, so he flipped out and went off on Holly, basically telling her that she ruined everything so she got upset and hurt. Tate says he apologized but it didn’t help anything at all as she was really angry, but then he realized he could use the argument with Holly to his advantage to try and get information out of Sophia. Tate adds that Holly pointed out that Sophia still has feelings for him, so he thought maybe he could use Sophia’s feelings to get her to let her guard down and coax the truth out of her.

Holly decides to go to the restroom while Sophia asks Arianna why Holly is acting weirder and icier than usual. Sophia asks if Arianna told her that she saw her outside of Tate’s dorm room. Arianna says she didn’t tell her anything and asks even if she did, what would she tell her since Sophia told her nothing happened. Arianna remarks that it didn’t look like nothing to her. Arianna thinks Holly deserves to know if Sophia hooked up with her boyfriend again. Sophia remarks that considering their blow up, if she and Tate did hook up then Holly had it coming, right as Holly comes back to the table and questions what she said.

Chanel assures Johnny that they are financially secure, so she questions what makes him think his job situation could affect the adoption. Johnny responds that his work history will look erratic so he doesn’t want social services to think he’s some deadbeat that can’t take care of his family. Chanel encourages that they won’t think that and that his teaching job will look amazing on the application. Chanel adds that maybe being a dad will be the most important job he has of all. Chanel says if they both have flexible schedules, one of them will always be home which is a good thing. Chanel repeats that they are financially stable and jokes about being a baking mogul in the making. Chanel mentions that Paulina has her monthly meeting with social services today and agreed to put in a good word for them. Johnny says that’s great and tells her that Rafe wrote a letter of recommendation on their behalf since he’s the foster parent of record. Chanel doesn’t think it will be very long before they are parents.

Sarah informs Marlena that she called her in because she has her test results back and reveals that all of her results came back negative again. Sarah wishes she had something more definitive to give her, but she’s run every test in the book and each time, she comes up empty. Sarah says she’s so sorry because she feels like she failed her.

Chanel shows Johnny that she found the onesie they got when they were going to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby. Chanel says it’s the one baby thing she couldn’t part ways with and thinks it’s bringing them luck. Chanel adds that even if they don’t get to adopt the firehouse baby, she’s sure there will be another baby out there for them. Johnny says whatever baby they end up with will be so lucky because they’ll have the best mom on the planet. Chanel adds that the baby will also have an amazing dad. They say they love each other. Johnny mentions that he has to get going to meet Roman at the Pub. Johnny tells Chanel that he will see her later as they kiss and he wishes her luck with Paulina as he exits.

Brady questions how exactly Tate planned to coax the truth out of Sophia. Tate explains that he invited her over to his dorm room to watch Casablanca and she’d let her guard down. Brady guesses she suspected he had an ulterior motive. Tate confirms that she did and got super upset when he started asking about the baby, so he kissed her. Tate feels he had to prove that he was interested in her. Brady understands but calls it a horrible thing to do to Sophia and Holly. Tate says he’s not proud of it but he was desperate and needs to know about his baby. Brady feels he wouldn’t be here asking for advice if he thought what he was doing was right. Tate admits that he wouldn’t, but he didn’t know what else to do. Tate thought if he told Sophia that he won’t hold it against her if she told him whatever it is, there’d be nothing between them. Brady questions if he was going to sleep with her. Tate says he wouldn’t do that to Holly. Brady asks how he expected it to play out after coaxing Sophia in to giving him the information he needs. Brady doesn’t think Tate thought this through very well. Tate guesses he didn’t. Brady knows it’s hard because he has to have patience, but assures that he and Steve are on the case and are going to get answers. Brady thinks that’s a better strategy than cheating on his girlfriend. Brady tells Tate that he has to make things right with Holly and tell Sophia the truth. Brady then advises Tate to focus on school a little bit. Brady adds that he is proud of Tate and thanks him for coming to him with this before it went too far. Tate is thankful for him and thanks him for the advice as they hug. Tate says they’ll talk soon as he then exits.

Holly questions what the hell Sophia just said. Sophia says she’s sorry as she didn’t mean for her to overhear. Holly questions Sophia hooking up with Tate again. Sophia tells her that Tate was really upset after their fight yesterday, so he invited her to his dorm room and it took off from there. Holly argues that she can’t be serious and that this is some sort of prank. Sophia says she didn’t mean for it and that she really didn’t see Arianna there and told her not to tell Holly. Holly turns to Arianna and questions her knowing about this. Arianna tries to explain while Sophia says this is her cue to leave. Sophia then exits the Pub, while Holly asks Arianna what the hell.

Marlena questions how Sarah could say she failed her when she worked so hard to find a diagnosis for her symptoms. Sarah points out that she hasn’t found one. Marlena says it’s not for lack of trying and she could not find a more caring doctor. Marlena adds that she’s starting to feel a bit better which Sarah is thankful for. Sarah tells Marlena that she appreciates her taking on Xander’s therapy even though she’s had to take on a lot lately. Marlena says she’s glad to do it. Sarah knows that she can’t tell her about it but she hopes it’s working because Xander could really use it, especially now with the Titan-DiMera merger being undermined. Sarah admits she was really worried that would set Xander back and says that would be a shame, especially because for the first time in a long time, it feels like they could have a chance at reconciling.

Rafe walks through the town square with Tesoro and runs in to Brady. Brady mentions not seeing Tesoro since realizing he could be his grandson. Rafe says they will know soon. Brady thanks him for the DNA sample. Rafe says he’s happy to help. Rafe asks if Brady wants to hold Tesoro.

Johnny meets Sophia outside of the Brady Pub. Sophia says she has a few questions and apologizes for missing his first class. Johnny understands the beginning of the year is always hectic and adds that Holly said she would catch her up. Sophia responds that she didn’t, so she wanted to meet with Johnny to find out what she missed. Johnny says she didn’t miss much and tells her to watch Casablanca before the next class. Sophia calls it a great film and says she’s seen it a couple times already. Sophia asks if she didn’t miss anything else. Johnny says that about covers it, so Sophia says she’ll be on her way to watch Casablanca for a third time. Johnny stops her and says he wanted to make sure that the reason she didn’t show up to class is because of it being awkward that he’s teaching it, since he and Chanel’s adoption of her baby fell through and he knows she signed up before he became the teacher. Sophia admits that it is a little awkward because Johnny and Chanel backing out of the adoption had her spiraling and almost ruined her life, but all’s well that ends well and she insists she’ll be alright.

Arianna tells Holly that she’s so sorry and explains that she went to the dorm room to return Aaron’s video game and she saw Sophia come out of Tate’s room. Arianna says that Sophia told her nothing happened, but it kind of looked like something did and Sophia begged her not to tell her. Arianna continues to apologize as Tate arrives and asks Holly if they can talk. Holly responds by punching Tate in the face.

Marlena tells Sarah that it’s wonderful that she and Xander are thinking about getting back together. Sarah says they still have a lot to work through. Marlena asks if she could help. Sarah says she already is helping by working with Xander on his anger. Marlena says she meant working with them as a couple and asks if they have considered working with a neutral third party, like a therapist. Marlena points out that some people have found it very helpful.

Tate questions what the hell that was for. Holly asks if he seriously has to ask and says she can’t believe that they had one fight and he went crawling back to Sophia. Holly cries that she was such a fool. Holly argues that Arianna told her not to play in to Sophia’s hands, but Tate couldn’t wait one day before cheating on her all over again.

Brady holds Tesoro and talks about it being strange not knowing if this is his grandson. Rafe asks if Tate knows that might be his son. Brady says he didn’t want to get his hopes up in case it wasn’t. Rafe says he understands. Brady tells Rafe that he’s praying for it since if Tate’s baby is out there, he has no way of tracking it down since Sophia isn’t giving them any information. Rafe guesses if Sophia did leave the baby at the firehouse, it was because she was terrified of telling them, but she did the right thing by leaving him somewhere where he would be taken care of. Brady praises Rafe for that and says they would owe him and his family. Rafe responds that Tesoro has been a blessing in their lives.

Chanel joins Johnny and Sophia outside the Pub. Johnny says he wasn’t expecting to see her. Chanel says she loves to surprise him. Sophia decides she’ll give them some alone time. Johnny says he’ll see her in class. Sophia assures that she’ll be there and walks away. Chanel says she’s so happy that she caught Johnny before he went in to the office because she has the most amazing news about the adoption, which Sophia hears from around the corner.

Sarah tells Marlena that she’s more than open to couples therapy but Xander might be a different story. Marlena says she won’t know until she talks to him, so it might be worth bringing up the possibility. Sarah supposes it’s worth a shot. Marlena knows how much Xander values their marriage, so she thinks it might not be as difficult as she thinks.

Sophia listens from around the corner as Johnny asks Chanel what the news is. Chanel tells him that Paulina had her meeting with social services, put in a good word for them, and she said the chances are looking very good, so now they just have to meet the lady from social services and then they will do a home test and hopefully baby Tesoro will be theirs. Johnny calls it the best news ever. Chanel declares that she just knows that baby boy is meant to be theirs.

Rafe tells Brady that it will be hard to part with Tesoro, especially for Leo since he works from home and spent the most time with him. Rafe talks about Javi singing to him and putting him to bed. Rafe acknowledges that Javi and Leo have both been great with Tesoro and adds that they told him that Johnny and Chanel were thinking about adopting him. Brady calls that ironic since they were originally supposed to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby while they don’t even know this might be the same. Rafe says that apparently Chanel was drawn to him and maybe now they know why. Brady says now that Johnny’s resolved his issues with EJ, he thinks that would be the best case scenario since Tesoro would still be a part of all of their families. Rafe says he hopes it works out. Brady says he just wants it resolved so Tate doesn’t have to go through any more pain of not knowing where his child is.

Tate asks Holly if Sophia told her what happened. Holly responds that she just found out and she’s glad she did. Tate tries to explain while Holly says she’s sick of the lying and the excuses. Holly remarks that everyone told her that having a child would bond Tate and Sophia for life. Holly declares that they are over for good this time and storms out of the Pub.

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Days Update Friday, September 19, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi runs in to JJ in the town square. JJ notes he hasn’t seen her in awhile. Gabi guesses they’ve both been busy. Gabi says it looks like he’s working, so she won’t keep him. JJ stops her to tell her that he’s sorry.

Jada and Stephanie talk at their apartment about how it’s good to see each other when they’ve both been working so much. Stephanie reveals that Alex asked her to move in with him and she told him she’d have to think about it and talk to her about it first. Jada says not to worry about her and that she’s totally fine with taking over the rent for this place. Stephanie thanks her but she’s not sure she wants to move in with Alex.

Alex and Brady sit together at the Brady Pub. Alex reveals to Brady that Philip’s letter was a total fraud and Tony found out about it, so since Philip wasn’t a legit CEO, Tony is trying to challenge the entire takeover of DiMera. Brady guesses that’s why Xander was so upset with Philip and asks who told Alex about it. Alex says he found out from Stephanie, who overheard Philip talking to Kate. Brady questions how long Alex has known about this. Alex guesses since he started working at Titan-DiMera, which shocks Brady. Brady asks why he didn’t tell anyone. Alex reveals that Sarah asked them not to which surprises Brady further. Brady calls this growing list overwhelming and asks if anyone else knew. Alex reveals that Maggie also knew. Brady guesses that basically everyone knew but him.

Philip is in the office and calls Xander, leaving a message that he wanted to meet first thing in the morning. Xander then arrives and says he had an urgent meeting about Tony’s lawsuit and says it’s exactly what they feared as he’s suing them over fraud. Xander guesses that Tony knows everything and they agree that Tony must be using it for blackmail to milk them for everything they are worth. Philip guesses they are screwed but Xander notes that their lawyers finally prepared the contract to legally make Philip co-CEO.

Gabi questions JJ being sorry. JJ says he truly is and he hopes that she can forgive him. Gabi says that JJ’s said that before, but she’s not convinced he even knows what he’s sorry for. JJ says it’s everything she went through when EJ was shot since she told him that she didn’t shoot him and he should’ve believed her. JJ says he’s really glad the truth came out and she’s been vindicated. Gabi says no thanks to him and argues that the truth came out weeks ago, so she questions JJ not saying anything sooner. JJ says he’s admitting he was wrong. Gabi agrees and tells JJ that his apology is not accepted.

Stephanie tells Jada that she and Alex got in a huge fight and then Alex retreated to his apartment. Jada knows it’s a big step for them, but says she’d still be here across the hall if she needed to get away. Stephanie is unsure after last night that they are ready to live together. Jada calls it just one fight and asks if she’s sure it’s not just moving in jitters. Stephanie wishes it was that but says it felt more like they were finally saying things they had been bottling up for a long time and were seeing the real, flawed, mildly irritating person in front of them.

Alex promises Brady that not telling him wasn’t personal. Alex talks about the sleepless nights caused by carrying around this secret. Brady asks if it ever occurred to him that maybe he had a solution to the problem or would want to fight for the company. Alex says it’s all hands on deck now but Brady says apparently not his hands. Alex says now that everything has hit the fan, Xander won’t even talk to him now and is freezing him out too because he wasn’t able to stop the leaks from the ship sinking, even though Philip steered them into the iceberg to begin with. Alex guesses he’s to blame for not wrestling Tony off the stage while Xander and Philip are thick as thieves.

Philip tells Xander that he’s still waiting for the good news. Xander thought they agreed that signing the contract was their best plan to save the company. Philip says that was before Tony’s lawsuit and worries that the timing of this contract would be suspicious to a judge. Xander declares that they can’t let this care get to trial. Xander says they can’t show up to Tony’s meeting without a legal strategy and they don’t have any better ideas. Philip asks what if he came clean about what he did and make sure it’s known that Xander knew nothing about it. Xander responds that if he thought it would help, he’d be the first person to throw him under the bus, but Tony has proof that he knew everything so if Philip goes down, so does he. Xander declares that their best chance is to present a united front as legit co-CEOs and asks if Philip is with him. Xander signs the contract and then hands it back to Philip.

JJ understands Gabi is upset, but brings up when Arianna was missing, he was the first person she called, so he thought maybe they were starting to mend things. Gabi appreciated his help, but says that doesn’t change that she was his number one suspect in an attempted murder and he didn’t respect her or their relationship enough to give her the benefit of the doubt. JJ argues that he was doing his job and had to go where the evidence led. Gabi complains that he still doesn’t see anything wrong with that and that her word meant nothing to him. JJ tells her not to accept his apology then and to forget he said anything as he storms off.

Jada tells Stephanie that what she’s describing is the death of the honeymoon phase which every relationship goes through. Jada thinks they can work it out and that it’s a good sign since moving in before that phase is never a good idea. Jada guesses Alex is under a lot of stress from Titan-DiMera and he took it out on her, so she doesn’t think it has anything to do with their relationship. Stephanie says it still doesn’t change how he made her feel and with Tony going after the merger, the stress won’t be slowing down. Stephanie worries that it could also affect the promotion of her novel and her next one. Stephanie thinks maybe what happened at the press conference was a sign.

Alex tells Brady that Xander needed to lash out and he was an easy target. Alex says he can’t stew over his feelings when their family company is in crisis. Alex asks if Brady has any idea for a solution. Brady promises to give it some thought. Alex appreciates that as he knows he has a lot to deal with since Kristen is in prison. Brady says Rachel is having a tough time and Tate has his own issues. Brady notes that he cares about the family business, but he has to focus on them first. Alex understands and promises to keep him in the loop. Alex says he has something to go take care of. Brady thanks him for filling him in as Alex then exits the Pub.

Xander and Philip go to see Tony at the DiMera Mansion. Tony warns that his lawyers will make short of work of the court order based on a fraudulent letter. Xander reveals that Philip’s position in the company has been solidified. Tony says he’s aware of their plans but it won’t change anything as he guesses Philip’s role wasn’t legitimized until this morning. Philip argues that Xander would’ve got the merger done with or without him, so his name on the signature line is a relatively small detail. Tony says judges focus on small details and adds that he applauds the charade but calls it too little, too late. Xander says they beg to differ and argues that the whole reason the merger happened is because Tony’s family couldn’t pull themselves together fast enough to realize the company was in danger. Xander remarks that unlike the DiMeras, he and Philip are a united front against their family’s lifelong enemy.

Theo runs in to JJ in the town square. JJ says it’s good to see him again. Theo keeps his eye on JJ’s gun. JJ asks if everything is okay. Theo says he has to go and rushes off.

Stephanie tells Jada that she thinks it’s a sign that she should get out of Titan-DiMera and limit herself to a few projects at a time. Jada advises not making any life changing decisions while spiraling and suggests taking a nap. Stephanie says she would’ve stayed in bed longer but promised Kate a draft of her next novel. Jada wishes her luck and hopes she and Alex work everything out. Stephanie thanks her for listening as Jada then exits the apartment. Alex then shows up at the door.

Gabi joins Brady at the Brady Pub. Brady thought she’d be in the office by now. Gabi thought the same of him. Brady remarks that they might not have an office to go back to. Gabi calls it a crazy 24 hours and claims she didn’t see Tony undermining the takeover coming. Brady thinks Xander and Philip are in the same boat. Gabi remarks that they must have known something and asks if Brady knows anything about this fraud accusation. Brady says no, but he’s surprised she doesn’t. Gabi insists she doesn’t and questions why he thinks she would know.

Xander tells Tony to get to business since Alex told them that Tony would rather not wait until the case goes to court. Tony says it would cost them a fortune and all of their dirty laundry would be aired for public consumption and they’d still lose. Xander asks what he wants in exchange for their cooperation. Tony responds that he wants his father’s company back, along with their company, which shocks Xander and Philip.

Theo goes to see Jada in her office at the police station. Jada says it’s so good to see him agian and that Paulina mentioned he was back in town. Theo hoped to speak with her so she tells him to have a seat and asks if everything is okay. Theo says not exactly and that he wants to talk to her about JJ Deveraux. Theo tells Jada that she made a mistake hiring JJ back on the police force.

Stephanie notes that Alex could’ve let himself in. Alex figured after yesterday, it might be better to knock. Alex informs her that he just stopped by to return her key. Stephanie asks if this means he’s breaking up with her.

Gabi questions why Brady would think she would know anything about the so-called fraud. Brady says it’s just because he’s always the last person to know anything about Titan-DiMera business and he doesn’t even know what he contributes to the company anymore. Gabi argues that Basic Black is a huge asset. Brady says he’s proud to be part of the family business, most of the time, but he feels like he should be doing something more. Brady talks about how John spent his life trying to save the world and questions what he’s done in comparison. Brady says the fashion industry is wonderful and a great job if you want it, but he’s not sure he wants it anymore.

Philip tells Tony that there’s no way he’s getting his hands on Titan when their father built that company from the ground up. Tony remarks that he knows the painful feeling of losing a family business but all’s fair in hostile takeovers. Tony declares that DiMera will be returned to it’s rightful owner and Titan will be the cherry on top. Tony tells them to face the reality that things have turned despite their best efforts.

Alex tells Stephanie that he’s not breaking up with her, unless that’s what she wants. Alex guesses he wouldn’t blame her after yesterday. Stephanie calls it one fight but Alex says it was more than that as he was an ass. Alex apologizes for putting the company first without thinking about how he was treating her and he took out the stress on her which is never okay. Stephanie thanks him and appreciates him saying that, but questions why he’s returning the key. Alex thought maybe she needed to return it to the landlord, but now he’s realizing how stupid of an idea it was. Alex says he wasn’t trying to make her think he was breaking up with her, but it was his dorky attempt at trying to tell her that he still really wants her to move in. Alex guesses after yesterday that he couldn’t blame her if she decided to turn him down.

Theo says that since Jada just started at the police department a few years ago, so he’s not sure she’s aware of what happened and why JJ originally left the force. Jada responds that she is aware of his shooting and JJ’s involvement. Theo argues that JJ was more than involved, he pulled the trigger. Jada is confused as she thought Theo forgave JJ, they became roommates, and went in to business together. Theo says that’s all true and that he doesn’t have a problem with JJ as a person, but with JJ as a cop. Theo argues that JJ left the force after his shooting because he was humble enough to realize it was the right thing to do and it’s a big part of why he forgave him. Theo says that coming back and seeing JJ carrying a gun felt like a punch in the gut which triggered his PTSD. Jada tells him that she’s so sorry he’s experiencing this and he has every right to feel what he’s feeling, but says JJ would not have decided to come back to the force if he wasn’t sure he could trust himself again. Theo questions what makes him so sure. Jada understands he’s upset and offers to find him a connection for his PTSD. Theo remarks that what would actually help would be to know that her police department takes his shooting seriously and that they are doing whatever they can to make sure it doesn’t happen to someone else.

Stephanie tells Alex that she hasn’t made a decision yet, but if they move in together, she needs to know that he won’t storm out any time they have a fight. Alex agrees he shouldn’t have done that. Stephanie admits that it reminded her of when Chad decided he couldn’t live with her anymore. Stephanie declares that before they do this, she needs to know that Alex is willing to put in the work with her. Alex assures that he is. Alex notes that they can’t promise they’ll never fight again but promises that when they do, he will always stick around to work through it. Alex tells Stephanie that he loves her and is ready to take their relationship to the next level. Stephanie responds that she wants that too and that Jada is totally on board with taking over the rent. Alex says that’s great and asks if they are doing this. Stephanie confirms that they are and tells Alex that she loves him too as they kiss.

Gabi remembers that Brady was considering a career change a month ago for the same reason. Brady guesses it’s still been rolling around in his head all this time. Gabi suggests maybe he should go for it then. Gabi adds that they might be looking at the downfall of Titan-DiMera anyway, so if he wants a fresh start, there’s no time like the present. Brady admits he’s tempted but since Basic Black was his father’s company, he can’t walk away until this is done. Gabi asks what if she made it easier for him by running both Basic Black and Gabi Chic. Gabi promises that his father’s company would be in good hands.

Xander says not to get ahead of themselves since if Tony wins his court case and somehow proves their takeover was fraud, he would wind up with DiMera, not Titan. Tony responds that they could take this to court, but he thought they’d want to avoid the legal costs that would bankrupt their company. Xander questions how he’s so certain he would win in court. Xander admits they hoped to avoid all of that, but not if Tony keeps making insane demands. Tony brings up the proof he has. Xander says maybe that Philip committed fraud but there’s no guarantee he would win in court, especially now that Philip is a legitimate co-CEO. Xander says he’d argue that Philip’s title at the time of the merger wouldn’t matter. Tony calls it a flimsy argument, adding that they’ll be facing criminal charges and a PR nightmare, so he asks if they are really willing to make such a gamble. Philip responds that they are. Tony says he’d rather not take it to court, so he’ll make them an offer. Tony says he’d be willing to pay for Titan so they can accept his offer or make the asinine decision of going to court and losing everything. Tony adds that he’s getting DiMera back either way, so they can either do it the easy way or the long, boring, legal way.

Jada assures Theo that they take his shooting extremely seriously and says they offer cultural sensitivity. Theo argues that’s not enough. Jada says they do a background check on everyone they hire. Jada agrees that his shooting never should’ve happened, but that JJ takes full responsibility for what he did and other than that, his record was spotless. Theo assumed as his victim, that JJ would’ve talked to him about what it meant for him to take the job, but since he didn’t, it makes him wonder about his judgment. Jada asks if Theo considered talking to him about it. Theo responds that it showed how much his opinion meant to him, so he came here hoping it meant more to her. Jada understands he feels strongly about this, but JJ has been back on the force for a year now and doing good work, so if he’s asking her to fire him, she can’t do that. Jada says if he wants the department to enforce stronger safeguards, she suggests he take it up with Paulina. Theo argues that Jada is the commissioner and that’s why he came here. Theo says if she won’t fire JJ, he hopes she will at least keep an eye on him so he doesn’t hurt someone the way that he hurt him. Theo then walks out of the office.

Brady has no doubt that Gabi would do wonderful with Basic Black, but he thinks he needs to keep the business in the family. Brady states that his dad is gone, so he doesn’t want to let go of any little connection to him. Brady adds that letting Basic Black go is probably a pipe dream anyway, asking what else he would do. Gabi encourages him to do anything he wants. Gabi knows Brady misses his dad and that Basic Black was a big part of him, but says Brady was a way bigger part, so she knows John would want him to be happy. Gabi comments that life is short, so if he wants to make a change, she thinks he should do it.

Philip tells Tony that he’s not saying they agree to his terms, but asks what kind of money he’s talking in exchange for Titan. Tony assures that it’s more than the company is currently worth. Xander demands three times it’s value or there’s no deal. Tony thinks he can manage that and asks if they have an agreement. Philip says they will need some time to think about it. Tony gives them 24 hours to agree to his terms or he will go public with the full extent of Philip’s fraud. Xander says they’ll be in touch as he and Philip then exit. Tony raises a glass to the portrait of Stefano as he laughs.

Alex asks Stephanie if she’s ready to see her new place as he cleaned up everything. Stephanie tells him to lead the way, so they go across the hall to his apartment. After they head inside, someone approaches the door, holding a copy of One Stormy Night.

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Days Update Thursday, September 18, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the Brady Pub, Arianna goes to the counter to get a water from Sophia. Sophia looks over at Holly sitting at Arianna’s table and comments on them being in study mode. Arianna mentions their English class being intense and asks Sophia about her intro to film class. Sophia tells her that she missed the first class. Arianna says she’s sorry since she knows she was looking forward to it. Sophia says she was before Holly signed up, but that she should’ve known she would since her lover boy is in the class and her former crush is teaching it. Arianna is surprised to learn that Holly had a crush on Johnny. Sophia remarks that she was like obsessed with him.

Leo and Javi walk through the town square with Tesoro after shopping. Leo talks about being excited for all of Tesoro’s new outfits. Javi thinks he might have gone overboard since Tesoro could be adopted any day now, so he might not even get to wear all the new clothes. Leo decides they’ll try them on at home then and suggests they could also offer the new clothes up as a gift to the new parents. Leo starts to worry about how the parents could end up. Javi tells him to calm down. Leo admits he’s anxious and scared, questioning how they are going to say goodbye to Tesoro.

Arianna sits back with Holly and talks about the book they are reading. Holly remarks that some women don’t know when to give up. Arianna feels the book struck a nerve with her and asks if she wants to go somewhere else because of Sophia but Holly says it’s fine. Tate then arrives, so Holly changes her mind and quickly exits with Arianna.

Anna DiMera sits in the living room of the DiMera Mansion when Kate walks in. Kate tells her to tell Tony that she needs to speak with him, but Anna says no. Anna tells Kate that Tony isn’t home, but anything she has to say to him, she can say to her. Anna assumes Kate is there because of the bombshell that Tony dropped at her press conference and stealing the spotlight from their romance novel. Kate says they are doing just fine and that her concern is for Philip. Anna remarks that Philip has gotten himself in to quite the mess as Tony tells her everything. Anna guesses Kate wants to get Philip out of the mess.

Javi tells Leo that as hard as it will be to give up Tesoro, they have to accept that they have no choice in the matter. Leo talks about falling more in love with Tesoro every day that he’s with them. Leo cries over the idea of Tesoro taking his first steps or saying his first words without them being there. Leo then apologizes for feeling sorry for himself after everything Javi went through with his daughter, feeling he was being an insensitive jerk. Leo understands giving up Tesoro is bringing up terrible memories for Javi. Leo asks if talking to him about his daughter helped him since sometimes, opening up can ease the pain. Javi confirms that it did help. Leo asks if he needs to talk about it anymore. Javi recalls taking a spin class on Solana’s last birthday. Javi says this is the first year that he isn’t able to visit her grave back in Texas, so he feels like he abandoned her. Chanel approaches and comments on how precious Tesoro is. Chanel asks about Tesoro being ready to be adopted. Javi confirms that Tesoro is ready, but they aren’t. Chanel asks if they are thinking of adopting him. Leo responds that they are not. Chanel admits she’s a little relieved because she and Johnny were hoping to adopt him.

Holly and Arianna go to the bookstore. Arianna understands that Holly is angry with Tate for snapping at her. Holly complains that he was straight up mean. Arianna points out that Tate apologized, made it clear he’s not interested in Sophia, and is just trying to find out more information about his baby. Holly complains that Sophia is using the situation to try and get Tate back. Arianna question why Holly left them alone together if she’s so worried about Sophia making a move. Holly figures that if Sophia wants Tate back and Tate is naïve enough to go along with her manipulating and scheming, then maybe they deserve each other.

Sophia tells Tate that was awkward and takes it that he and Holly haven’t made up yet. Tate confirms that Holly hasn’t spoken to him all day. Sophia asks what brought Tate by since he doesn’t have a shift today. Tate says he just wanted to make sure that she was still coming to his dorm room tonight. Sophia confirms she will but reminds him that she doesn’t have any more information on the adoptive parents. Tate says that’s fine as he thought they could just hang out and watch Casablanca for their film class. Tate adds that Aaron will be out, so they will have the place to themselves.

Anna questions if Philip sent his mom to plead his case. Kate says that Philip has no idea and that she came to get in front of things. Anna believes Tony would prefer to deal with Xander and Philip directly and understands that’s setup for tomorrow to discuss Tony’s terms. Kate asks what if they don’t agree to Tony’s terms. Anna tells her that at the press conference, Tony chose to stay mum to the specifics on the fraud by Titan, so all she can say is that if they choose not to play ball, then Tony might be forced to come clean about everything he knows. Kate asks what that is. Anna reveals that Tony knows about Philip’s forged letter. Kate guesses Tony will use that to blackmail Xander and Philip in to giving him what he wants. Anna says if they do what’s in Tony’s best interest, then he will do what is best for their interests. Kate figured that was his play. Anna guesses that Kate knew all along what Philip was up to. Kate confirms she did and that Tony can drag her into it if he wants. Anna doesn’t think he’s interested in that, but questions if the forged letter was Kate’s idea. Kate responds that it wasn’t her or Philip’s idea which is why she is hopeful that Tony will cut him some slack.

Javi and Leo talk to Chanel about knowing there’s a lot of interest in Tesoro and that their time with him is coming to an end. Chanel tells them that if she and Johnny adopt him, they are more than welcome to visit him any time they want. Javi calls that really kind of her. Leo adds that it would put their minds at ease, knowing that he was being taken care of in town by two loving people. Javi praises Chanel as exactly the kind of person that they would want raising Tesoro.

Arianna argues that Holly can’t give up on Tate when she loves him. Holly says that she does and admits to a certain extent, she understands why he wants to find his baby, but it feels like she’s being pushed to the side while he keeps digging for answers and hitting dead ends. Holly is tired of fighting what feels like a losing battle. Arianna says she’s not saying she doesn’t have every right to be angry, but she’s worried that she might be blowing it out of proportion. Arianna reminds Holly that last time she broke up with Tate, Sophia moved in on him and got pregnant. Holly remarks that things have not been the same since.

Tate and Sophia go to Tate’s dorm room together. They discuss movies as Tate can’t believe Sophia’s never seen The Godfather while Sophia can’t believe Tate’s never seen Dirty Dancing. Tate asks why Sophia didn’t stay in the dorms this year. Sophia explains that by the time she got her act together, Holly already took Arianna as a roommate. Sophia remarks that Holly has a knack for beating her to the punch. Tate says he’s sorry. Sophia apologizes for bringing up Holly and says she won’t talk about her again as tonight is all about them.

Kate reveals to Anna that the forged letter was Vivian’s idea as she took advantage of Philip when he was in a vulnerable state. Kate admits she’s still worried about Philip’s state of mind and will be even more worried if he goes to prison. Anna remarks that she should’ve worried about that before letting Philip get away with all of this.

Leo brings up how Chanel was originally going to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby before it all fell apart. Chanel confirms they hit a snag then. Leo talks about feeling anxious and sad about parting with Tesoro soon. Chanel explains that she and Johnny weren’t able to adopt Tate and Sophia’s baby because Johnny wasn’t ready to be a dad, but that’s all been resolved and now they are both ready to become parents. Chanel knows it will be hard for them and she’s sorry about that, but for her and Johnny, adopting Tesoro feels meant to be.

Holly thought things would get easier for her and Tate when the baby was given up for adoption but he became obsessed with tracking down his kid. Holly complains that Sophia will never tell Tate what he wants to know and will just keep dangling the carrot so he keeps coming back for more. Arianna thinks Holly is getting too upset about this since Tate is not interested in Sophia. Holly says that’s what Tate says, but she worries that Sophia will keep playing on their bond and reminding him that they had a kid together, so Tate will end up falling in to her trap. Arianna warns that Holly is also falling in to Sophia’s trap.

Sophia asks Tate if they should start the movie. Tate hoped they could talk a little bit before. Sophia guesses it’s not movie related and that it’s about the adoptive parents. Sophia complains about Tate having a one track mind. Tate says he just wants to see a picture of their baby. Sophia understands he’s concerned and says she thinks about the baby a lot too. Tate just wants to know what their daughter looks like. Tate asks if it’s so unreasonable to want to meet her in person. Sophia wishes she could make that happen for him. Tate questions why she can’t and why she won’t help him track down their baby.

Kate tells Anna to tell Tony that she stopped by and wants to see him. Anna questions if she wants to plead with him to have mercy on Philip. Anna declares that Tony only wants DiMera to be back in the family where it belongs. Anna warns Kate to convince Philip and Xander not to fight it because it could get very messy if Tony doesn’t get what he wants. Kate says that’s duly noted as she exits the mansion.

Chanel meets Paulina at the Brady Pub. Paulina asks about Johnny’s first day teaching. Chanel says the class went fine but Johnny was stressed as Hell because he got held up at the college and couldn’t make it to film the press conference for Titan-DiMera which Tony interrupted. Chanel notes that Tony made some pretty serious accusations, so she’s a little worried about what it will mean for Johnny’s job there. Paulina imagines Tony would find a suitable position for his nephew. Chanel hopes so, especially because they are once again planning to adopt a baby.

Leo and Javi return home with Tesoro. Javi is glad they bumped in to Chanel and thinks she and Johnny would make great parents for Tesoro. Leo says maybe which Javi questions since he seemed down with it before. Leo brings up Johnny flaking out before when they were about to adopt and he wasn’t ready to be a father. Leo argues that they have to commit. Leo thinks Johnny’s pension for drama doesn’t end with EJ and can be messy.

Holly questions how she’s falling in to Sophia’s trap. Arianna explains that by picking fights with Tate and being hostile towards him, she’s giving Sophia what she wants. Holly questions if Sophia has told Arianna that she wants Tate back. Arianna says that Sophia is her friend too. Holly comments on her gut feeling telling her what her brain doesn’t want to hear. Arianna says she’s not trying to play both sides, but she told Sophia to stop going after Tate and she thinks that she will eventually get the hint and find another guy to be obsessed over. Arianna declares that Holly and Tate are totally meant to be and that Tate loves her a lot. Arianna hopes one day that she will find someone who loves her like Tate loves Holly. Arianna calls Tate a really good guy and urges Holly not to give up on him. Holly agrees not to but decides she just needs one day to be pissed off and if Tate loves her, that shouldn’t be a problem.

Tate argues that he knows Sophia knows more about the adoptive parents than just their names and he thinks she was about to tell him everything when Holly came in. Sophia insists she’s told him everything she knows. Tate doesn’t believe her. Sophia questions why she would lie just to torture him. Tate says he needs her to be honest with him right now and asks if their baby is even alive. Sophia says of course and asks why he would even ask that. Tate says he’s just trying to figure out what the hell is going on here. Sophia complains that he didn’t invite her over to hang out, but just to grill her again. Sophia says screw that and she’s out.

Paulina is thrilled to hear that Chanel and Johnny are going to adopt. Chanel tells Paulina that she asked her to dinner because she wanted to ask her for a huge favor. Paulina says whatever she needs is done. Chanel then reveals that they want to adopt the fire house baby that is being fostered by the Hernandez family. Chanel says they’d be happy to adopt any child, but for some reason, she feels so drawn to this baby. Chanel adds that she ran in to Leo and Javi with him on her way and there was something about Tesoro that made her feel like it’s fate. Paulina asks how she can help. Chanel says she’s heard children’s services have been overwhelmed with applications to adopt Tesoro, so she hoped Paulina as Mayor could put in a good word for them. Paulina assures that she will give a strong recommendation. Chanel thanks her but Paulina stops her and says she just thought of something that could end up derailing her plans.

Javi questions Leo saying Johnny’s troubles go beyond EJ. Leo reminds Javi of when Johnny thought he saw Chanel in bed with Alex when it was actually Stephanie with Alex, but Johnny didn’t know so he hooked up with Joy Wesley. Javi recalls that being when he was new in town so he didn’t know everybody. Leo brings up Johnny almost shooting EJ, so he’s not sure he feels Johnny is stable enough to be a father to Tesoro. Javi says it’s all up to the social worker to decide, so they don’t get a say. Leo feels maybe they should.

Arianna asks Holly if she will smooth things over with Tate. Holly says she will tomorrow after cooling down and thanks Arianna for the pep talk. Arianna suggests they get to studying, but remembers she has to get back to the dorms to return a video game that Aaron loaned to her. Holly feels it sounds like Aaron was flirting with Arianna. Arianna worries that maybe she shouldn’t have taken the game. Arianna acknowledges that Aaron’s a nice guy and cute but they have nothing in common, so there’s no chemistry. Arianna then asks Holly to return the game for her. Holly says no but Arianna says she doesn’t want to lead Aaron on, so she pleads with Holly to do it for her.

Sophia argues that Tate lied to her and led her to believe it was just going to be them hanging out in his dorm room alone and tricked her in to thinking something romantic might happen. Tate argues that he wasn’t tricking her and was hoping that they could just see where things went. Sophia asks what about his girlfriend Holly. Tate responds that at the moment, he’s not sure about he and Holly after how frustrated and furious she was with him, so he thinks it could be over. Sophia asks if that makes her a consolation prize. Tate denies that but Sophia says she doesn’t believe a word he says, so Tate then grabs Sophia and kisses her.

Chanel questions Paulina saying something could derail their plans. Paulina hates to bring this up, but their last adoption fell through because Johnny changed his mind at the last minute, so that could be held against them. Chanel understands but insists that this time will be different as they are 100% committed and ready. Chanel asks Paulina what is wrong. Paulina says she just gets so emotional, thinking about what an amazing mother Chanel will be. Chanel responds that she can’t wait to be a mom, so with any luck, Tesoro will soon be apart of their beautiful family.

Leo tells Javi that he thinks they should have a say in who adopts Tesoro because part of their job in fostering is to find him the best parents. Leo says if Johnny and Chanel are the best option, they should properly vet them. Leo believes in Chanel, but he’s not sure about Johnny so he wants to do his thing and investigate. Javi doesn’t want him to scare anyone off. Leo says he just wants to make sure they will both be wonderful parents. Leo adds that he will do it on the DL and they won’t even know he’s looking in to them. Javi jokes about him being famous for his subtlety. Leo says maybe he can pump Johnny for the inside scoop about Tony’s alleged fraud from the press conference.

Tate asks if Sophia believes him now. Sophia hesitates but says she thinks she should go home. Tate offers to walk her to her car but Sophia says she’ll be fine and thanks him.

Holly walks to the town square while on the phone with Arianna, telling her to return the video game to Aaron herself so she can let him down easy. Arianna hangs up as Sophia comes out from Tate’s room which she questions. Sophia claims that she was just dropping off a text book that Tate left at the Pub. Arianna says she was dropping off a video game for Aaron. Sophia tells her that Aaron’s out for the night, so Arianna questions her being alone in the room with Tate. Sophia assures her that nothing happened, but maybe she shouldn’t tell Holly about it because of how she gets. Sophia then walks away.

Tate sits in his room, looking at a photo of Holly on his phone.

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Days Update Wednesday, September 17, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Brady bags up Tate’s toothbrush at home as Marlena comes home and asks if she wants to know.

Steve joins Kayla at the hospital and tells her that he could once again use her help. Steve explains to her that he and Brady have reason to believe that Tate and Sophia’s baby is the one that Javi brought in to the hospital back in July, but they have to prove it. Steve asks if Kayla thinks she could run a DNA test for them.

Chad goes to the Brady Pub with Thomas. They talk about having a father-son dinner while Charlotte is at home with Julie, singing with her friends. Chad asks if Thomas had a fun visit with Jack and Jennifer. Thomas responds that he did, but questions why they said they would be coming back to keep an eye on Cat Green.

EJ is in his new office with Cat as he finishes a phone call with Tony, congratulating him on what he did and telling him that their father would be proud. EJ says to keep him posted as he hangs up. EJ tells Cat that the office looks great and thanks her for getting it ready so quickly. Cat tells him to let her know if he has any questions. EJ responds that he thought she might have questions for him since Gwen told him that she found his blueprints.

Sarah is working at the hospital when Xander arrives. Sarah asks him what happened after Tony interrupted the press conference and if he knows about Philip. Xander assumes so. Sarah asks what he’s going to do. Xander informs her that Tony called a meeting for tomorrow for a settlement. Xander worries that if Tony has proof of Philip’s fraud then they could lose everything. Sarah tells him that she’s so sorry but says it sounds like he and Philip have worked out their differences. Xander says they are trying to be a united front as a family. Sarah tells him to let her know if she can do anything. Xander responds that there was something he wanted to talk to her about.

Brady tells Marlena that he doesn’t want to trouble her with this and he’s just exploring a theory. Marlena asks if there’s anything she can do to help. Brady says she has enough on her plate, so he’s got this.

Kayla asks Steve if Tate and Sophia know about the DNA test on the baby. Steve says no, so that’s why they are keeping it to themselves. Steve explains that Tate has been asking all kinds of questions about the adoptive parents while Sophia has been stringing him along, which is why they are not saying anything until they have proof. Kayla questions how they are able to do this. Steve explains that Brady has Tate’s toothbrush and they got a swab from the baby from Rafe. Kayla questions Rafe being in on this too. Steve points out that Rafe is part of the foster family and wants to know the truth just like everyone else. Steve asks Kayla if she will run the test. Kayla responds that she’s sorry but she can’t.

Chad questions Thomas about Jack and Jennifer saying they were going to keep an eye on Cat. Thomas explains that he was coming downstairs when he heard them talking. Chad calls it a long story but informs Thomas that Cat made a mistake awhile ago which Jack and Jennifer had a hard time forgiving her for. Thomas asks what she did. Chad calls it complicated, but she hurt their feelings pretty bad. Thomas asks if she hurt Chad too. Chad confirms that she did and he was very mad at her for awhile, but he found out that she was very sorry for what she did and she didn’t mean to hurt anyone. Thomas questions how come Jack and Jennifer can’t forgive her if Chad can.

Cat tells EJ that she didn’t exactly find the blueprints, but knocked them over. EJ guesses she must have got a look at them. Cat says she wouldn’t know what she was looking at anyways. Cat says she’s curious now and asks if they were important. EJ responds that they are very important to him and hopes they will be to many others soon. EJ then informs Cat that he is revamping the closed wing of the hospital in to what will soon be known as the Dr. Tom Horton Free Medical Clinic. Cat calls that generous. EJ questions skepticism in her voice. Cat says she’s just happy to have the job and he’s been lovely to her. EJ responds that she must be wondering what everyone else is and the answer is yes, he does have ulterior motives.

Steve argues that Kayla said she thought his instincts about the baby were right, so they kept investigating. Kayla says she’s already pushed her boundaries beyond her comfort zone and she also has a new boss who would like any excuse to fire her. Steve agrees that he’d never want her to compromise her ethics or jeopardize he career. Kayla is proud of him wanting to help their friends and adds that he doesn’t need a doctor’s order for a DNA test. Kayla says she will send him a website where he can pre-order a DNA test, drop it off at the lab, and have the results in a few days.

Marlena thanks Brady for having Rachel text her as she was so relieved that she was found safe and sound at the prison. Brady says he had quite the chat with Rachel’s principal to keep eyes on her. Brady adds that he’s taking away Rachel’s phone and will probably ground her until Halloween. Marlena knows there has to be consequences for what she did, but they have to keep in mind why she did it. Marlena says Kristen being in prison for six years is a lifetime to Rachel, so she’s upset and scared. Marlena warns that if Brady isn’t careful, he will lose her.

Chad tells Thomas that he was able to forgive Cat because he’s seen the type of person she has while Jack and Jennifer haven’t and everybody forgives in their own way. Thomas compares it to how Julie was really mad at Doug III, but when he was leaving Salem, she forgave him. Chad says it’s exactly like that, so he hopes that one day, Jack and Jennifer will forgive Cat. Thomas guesses that’s why Cat never comes to their house which Chad confirms. Thomas notes that he likes Cat and then asks if Chad likes her likes her.

Cat acknowledges EJ wanting to clean up his family name and image and that he’s hired Stephanie to do his PR, so she assumes those are his ulterior motives. EJ says not bad, though it’s not just his family’s reputation, but his own. Cat brings up EJ’s cost cutting measures since taking over the hospital, but says it now seems like EJ was saving that money for a reason. EJ talks up the idea of the free clinic which Cat calls a worthy cause. EJ talks about the importance of the hospital and brings up Cat working the hospital fundraiser. Cat remembers EJ’s generous donation to go on a date with her. EJ mentions gifting that date to Chad and jokes that he does feel a little cheated that he never got his prize.

Xander tells Sarah that he’s sorry he had to leave Victoria’s party early. Sarah tells him that Victoria was asleep, so the party was over. Xander assures that even in the middle of this business crisis, Victoria will always come first. Sarah says she’s never doubted that as she knows how much he loves Victoria and calls him a good dad. Xander thanks her and says that means a lot. Sarah says she’s glad he stopped by as they never finished their conversation about Philip. Xander says they don’t have to do that now, but Sarah insists and apologizes for believing he beat up his brother. Xander says he doesn’t blame her for not trusting him but Sarah says she is to blame for that. Sarah states that Philip made it clear from the beginning that Xander was innocent and he has no reason to lie now. Sarah asks if there is any way Xander could forgive her. Xander tells her that he forgives her.

Brady tells Marlena that he knows Kristen being in prison will be incredibly hard on Rachel, but that can’t give her a free pass to do whatever she wants. Marlena feels they have to be sympathetic for Rachel wanting to see Kristen because she understands Brady is angry with Kristen. Marlena reminds Brady that he can’t let his feelings seep in to his relationship with his daughter. Brady says he understands. Marlena adds that with how close Rachel is to Kristen, she thinks she needs to see her on a regular basis. Marlena offers to help facilitate that. Brady is surprised she would do that. Marlena responds that she would do anything for Rachel and Brady.

Kayla notices Steve being distracted. Steve tells her that he was just thinking about John. Steve points out that if their theory is right, Tate’s baby would be John’s great grandson. Steve talks about John finding out who he was and who his father was. Steve states that the thought of the baby being in that situation breaks his heart. Kayla calls him a good friend to Brady and John as she hugs him.

Chad asks why Thomas would ask him a question like that. Thomas says it came up during mini golf, but he said that Chad still loved Abigail. Chad says that’s true and he always will. Chad tells Thomas that he and Cat are just friends and like spending time together. Chad asks if that’s okay with him. Thomas responds that it is, adding that he likes Cat too as she seems like a good person.

Cat tells EJ that that she and Chad are not officially a couple yet as they aren’t telling anybody. EJ understands not telling Chad’s kids yet or the Hortons, but assures that she can trust him not to say anything. EJ mentions that he promised Chad to treat her like gold, so he offers to take her to dinner to thank her for all her hard work which Cat accepts.

Sarah knows how much it took for Xander to say he forgives her. Sarah asks if there’s any chance he could also forgive her for lying about Philip’s fraud. Xander responds that he’s forgiven Philip, so it stands to reason that he’d forgive her too. Sarah points out that she’s his wife, so if they have any chance of repairing their marriage, he needs to know he can trust her. Sarah swears that he can trust her and tells him how deeply she regrets keeping the truth from him which Xander acknowledges. Sarah then asks if he wants to repair their marriage. Xander asks if that’s what she wants. Sarah admits that knowing he was not the one who assaulted Philip changes everything for her. Xander tells her that he has to get going to another session with Marlena. Sarah is glad he’s seeing her and feels with everything going on, he’s going to need Marlena. Sarah suggests maybe he will need her too and they’ll need each other. They agree to continue this conversation soon as Xander walks away.

Brady joins Steve at the hospital and says he got the link for the DNA test, filled out the form and sent it in. Kayla instructs them to then drop it at the lab. Brady declares they will then wait to find out if Tesoro is his grandson.

Thomas tells Chad about Rachel running away from school today and bets she’s going to be in big trouble. Chad tells him that Rachel will have feelings about her mom going to prison, so she’s going to need Thomas to be a good cousin and friend. Chad asks Thomas to let him know if he sees anything going on with Rachel because they are family and have to look out for her.

EJ and Cat go to the Bistro for dinner. Sarah approaches and greets them. EJ tells her that they are celebrating Cat’s new job as his assistant and invites Sarah to join them. Sarah says she’s meeting someone but wanted to voice her appreciation for what will soon to be the Dr. Tom Horton Free Clinic. EJ jokes about the hospital’s grapevine functioning. Sarah assures they were all very excited and praises EJ’s commitment to the community. Sarah tells EJ to let her know if she can do anything to help and says to enjoy their dinner as she walks away. Cat comments that it was nice of her while EJ doesn’t think Sarah trusts him either. Cat asks why EJ bid on her at the auction. EJ admits he was mostly selfishly trying to paint himself as generous before buying the hospital, but admits that he also wanted to go on a date with her. Brady arrives and joins Sarah, who says she already went to suck up to EJ. Brady calls EJ and Cat an unlikely couple while Sarah clarifies that Cat is just EJ’s new assistant. Sarah asks about Rachel. Brady tells her about her skipping school to go to prison and admits he almost cancelled tonight. Sarah laughs and admits that she also almost cancelled with everything going on with Titan-DiMera. Brady questions what she means.

Xander goes to see Marlena at home for his next session. Marlena asks him what’s going on. Xander assumes that she heard about Tony’s lawsuit, threatening to undo the Titan-DiMera merger. Marlena informs him that she hadn’t as Brady didn’t say a word. Xander admits Brady’s head hasn’t been in the game lately and he didn’t come to the office today, so he doesn’t know. Marlena suggests that Brady’s more concerned about his daughter after Kristen’s confession. Marlena asks if Tony’s lawsuit is connected to the fraud he told her about. Xander says Tony hasn’t explained, but he assumes so. Marlena notes that it sounds serious. Xander calls it serious enough to tank the whole company. Marlena asks what he’s going to do about it. Xander wishes he knew.

Steve and Kayla go to the Brady Pub and greet Thomas and Chad. Thomas invites them to join their table. Steve takes Thomas to the bar while Kayla sits with Chad. Kayla comments on Thomas growing. Chad says he’s just like Abigail. Kayla tells Chad that she wanted to talk to him about EJ’s new free clinic as she’s wondering if she can trust him. Kayla admits that the Tom Horton Free Clinic is exactly what the town needs, but with EJ, nothing is ever free.

Cat tells EJ that she guesses she’s flattered that he bid on her. EJ calls her his first choice by a wide margin and admits he thought there was something different yet familiar about her, so he wanted to know more. Brady tells Sarah that he can’t believe he missed out on all the Titan-DiMera news. Sarah understands he’s been distracted with everything going on with Rachel. Brady asks if Sarah knows anything about this fraud that Tony is claiming. Sarah suggests he should talk to Xander.

Xander tells Marlena that if she’s concerned about him losing his temper and taking it out on Tony or someone he cares about, he’s not going to do that. Xander assures he will handle this catastrophe in a civilized manner and lean on his brother for help. Marlena asks about him working it out with Philip. Xander responds that they are a united front. Xander talks about extending himself and making amends. Xander adds that he also passed a test where Philip pretended to choke to see what he would do and he tried to save his life. Xander says in that moment, it clicked that he doesn’t want to lose his brother and he wants to make things right with him. Marlena questions Xander still being willing to forgive Philip even if he could cost him the company, which Xander confirms that he is.

Chad wishes he could guarantee that EJ’s intentions are pure and says he does believe him, but he’s fooled him before. Chad promises to work with Kayla and the board to make sure there are guardrails in place. Kayla asks if that includes Cat and if she will be an ally in EJ’s office. Chad says that he warned Cat about EJ and that EJ promised to treat her fairly. Chad asks Kayla to keep an eye out for Cat. Kayla acknowledges that Chad really cares about Cat. Steve comes back with Thomas. Chad says they should get going, so he exits with Thomas. Steve sits down and asks Kayla if everything is okay with Chad. Kayla responds that Chad’s life is about to get very complicated.

Cat brings up EJ’s history with Abigail, being family, and suggests he sensed something familiar because he thought she was her at first. EJ admits he was impressed by what she did as most people couldn’t pull that off. Cat says she’s not proud of it all and was very ashamed as she hated hurting everyone, especially Chad. EJ says he’s not judging her as she was trying to protect her family. EJ says he would do anything to protect his too and that’s why Cat is the kind of person he wants on his team. Brady wonders if Philip and Xander saw the lawsuit coming because Titan is vulnerable down with profits down, so the company splitting could be catastrophic. Sarah asks if he thinks it’s that serious. Brady calls it not impossible to think Titan could go under and Basic Black with it. Sarah knows how much that means to him. Brady calls it part of John’s legacy, so he really hopes that Xander and Philip didn’t do something to put it in jeopardy.

Marlena tells Xander that she’s proud of him for doing the work. Xander thanks her and promises to continue. Xander feels like he’s trying to become the man he wants to be and not just the man that his father wanted him to be. Marlena calls that important insight and hopes it serves him in handling the crisis at Titan. Xander says he feels good about it so far, especially how he dealt with Sarah just now which Marlena asks about. Xander responds that for the first time in a long time, he feels like there might be hope for them which Marlena is glad to hear. Xander declares that if he can forgive Philip, then maybe he can finally forgive Sarah.

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Days Short Recap Friday, September 19, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

JJ had an awkward conversation with Gabi. He wanted to apologize for bumping into her, but she was cold to him. He got upset and took back his apology. Theo ran into JJ at the town square and noticed his gun and badge. He walked away from him. Alex talked to Brady about Philip’s fraud letter. Brady was upset that he was the only one who didn’t know about it. Alex told him that he was frozen out of what happened too. Gabi arrived at the pub and pretended not to know about the fraud too. They continued to act clueless about the situation. He felt sorry for himself, so Gabi tried to make him feel better. Gabi told him that it might be time for a fresh start. He felt like he needed to see Basic Black through. Gabi suggested that she run Gabi Chic and Basic Black. Xander wanted to go over Tony’s lawsuit with Philip. He felt like he was holding the fraud letter to blackmail him. Xander was glad that the contract to make him co-CEO was ready. Philip tried to sacrifice himself. Xander would gladly throw him under the bus if he thought that would help. He mentioned that Tony knew the truth. They had to do their plan, or they were finished. Philip signed the papers.

Xander and Philip tried to call Tony’s bluff by announcing their plan. Tony didn’t care. He said the charade was too little too late. Tony didn’t believe that their plan would work. He warned them that they would waste money if they called his bluff and lost. Tony wanted both companies and felt like it was in their best interest to give them to him. They were willing to risk a trial so Tony changed the offer. Tony offered them money for Titan, but he was getting DiMera no matter what happened. Theo went to see Jada to tell her that she made a mistake rehiring JJ. He told her about his shooting. Jada knew about that. She reminded him that he forgave JJ. Theo said he didn’t forgive him. He said that JJ left the force because he knew that was the right thing to do after his shooting. Theo forgave him because he thought he was leaving the force. Jada empathized with him, but JJ was back because he could trust himself to be a cop again. Theo wanted her to take his shooting seriously so no one else would be shot like that.

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Days Update Tuesday, September 16, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Chad sits at the Brady Pub on the phone, ordering a full page ad in the Spectator. Chad says that Kate is a personal friend, so they are going to do right by One Stormy Night. Chad hangs up and then Theo enters the Pub to surprise him as they embrace.

Sarah tells Philip that he doesn’t have to lie as she knows Xander was the one who attacked him. Philip denies it so Sarah says he can be honest with her. Philip sticks to his story as Xander comes back by the doorway and listens in on Philip insisting it was some random guy, not Xander. Sarah argues that she knows how upset Xander was with him and how he usually handles his anger. Philip suggests maybe he’s changed and brings up the other day when Xander gave him the Heimlich Maneuver. Philip declares that Xander saved his life which she questions. Xander remains listening in outside the door. Philip tells her that he had the perfect opportunity to let him die, but Xander saw he was choking and he saw the look of panic in his eyes. Philip states that Xander got emotional and he was just moved that he came to his rescue like that. Philip calls Xander truly heroic and asks if that sounds like someone who would beat up his own brother. Xander then enters the room, so Sarah tells him that she feels so awful as she was wrong about him.

Alex calls for the end of the press conference but Tony DiMera appears and says not to send everyone away just yet. Tony declares that he also has an exciting story about a local business that he knows the press will all be dying to cover. Alex approaches Tony and asks what the hell he thinks he’s doing. Tony responds that his press conference saved him from making one of his own. Leo arrives and asks Stephanie if this is the press conference for Anastasia Sands’ new romance novel. Stephanie confirms that it is, so Leo questions what Tony DiMera is doing there. Stephanie says that’s what she’d like to know.

Xander tells Sarah that he can’t believe he thought they were just celebrating Victoria’s birthday but she was once again trying to pin Philip’s attack on him. Xander argues that he and Philip came in together, peacefully co-existing like she wanted and she undermined it at her first chance. Sarah doesn’t know what to say and tells him that she’s so sorry, asking if he can ever forgive her.

Chad tells Theo that it’s great to see him and hopes he’s here to stay. Theo tells Chad that he will always be his favorite uncle.

Alex doesn’t know what Tony’s angle is and he doesn’t give a damn, adding that all of the reporters are here about One Stormy Night relaunching Titan’s book publishing division. Tony calls it one fateful afternoon for he and his cousins. Leo interrupts to ask what’s going on. Tony says he’d like to make an announcement that they’d all be very interested in. Tony informs them all that he has filed a lawsuit in district court to contest Titan Industries hostile takeover of DiMera Enterprises. Leo questions what grounds. Tony calls it fraud.

Gabi sits at home on her laptop when she gets an alert on her phone about Tony interrupting the press conference and then rushes out of the house.

Leo questions what proof Tony has that Titan committed fraud in the execution of the merger. Tony responds that he’s shared everything he can at the moment, but all will be revealed in due time, as he then walks away. Alex pulls out his phone.

Sarah insists to Xander that she’s truly sorry and asks if he will forgive her, but Xander gets a call from Alex and says he has to take it. Xander asks how the press conference went. Alex says not exactly as planned because Tony DiMera just hijacked the event which Xander questions. Alex reveals that Tony just announced he filed a lawsuit challenging the Titan-DiMera merger based on fraud.

Theo tells Chad that he still can’t get over that two of Victor’s sons are in charge of their family’s company and questions how that happens. Chad responds that EJ was in a coma and Kristen was in police custody, so Philip and Xander took advantage. Theo asks if Chad ever considered fighting them on it for control of DiMera Enterprises. Chad says no, so Theo questions why the hell not.

Alex questions Tony suing them over fraud. Tony warns that Philip and Xander should settle this like gentlemen rather than an expensive and lengthy legal trial. Tony asks Alex to pass on that message to Xander and Philip and exits as Gabi appears in the town square. Stephanie asks Alex what she can do. Alex says nothing and that he has to go as he walks out. Leo comes over and asks Stephanie if it was something she said. Stephanie takes the podium and thanks the reporters for showing restraint and not racing to post on social media without knowing all the facts. Leo questions what the facts are since Tony refused to share and asks if Stephanie can shed any more light on why Tony is raising this lawsuit against the Kiriakis brothers. Gabi then follows after Tony. Stephanie tells Leo that what she knows is that the Titan-DiMera merger was approved and anything Tony was inferring was just speculation. Stephanie declares no more questions and walks away.

Theo tells Chad he may have been a little too harsh. Chad says he’s not the first person to wonder why he hasn’t launched an epic battle to reclaim Stefano’s legacy, but he’s over it and doesn’t have it in him anymore. Theo questions him being over trying to preserve their family legacy. Chad responds that ever since Stefano disappeared, it’s been one battle after another to see who would run DiMera between EJ, Kristen, Stefan, Jake, Gabi, and himself all having their turns in and out. Chad says it became so ridiculous and repetitive, so he didn’t want to be involved in that revolving door anymore and took himself out of the equation, permanently.

Gabi catches up with Tony outside of the Brady Pub, complaining that he didn’t give her a heads up that he was going to drop the bomb on Xander and Philip, so she had to find out through social media. Tony explains that it wasn’t planned and just happened to come across Kate’s press conference and felt it was the perfect time. Gabi admits to liking the idea and comments on the look on Alex’s face, adding that Xander and Philip must be losing their minds trying to figure out what to do, so she almost feels sorry for them. Gabi declares that when they go down in flames, they’ll have no one to blame but themselves. Tony points out he only just filed the lawsuit and hasn’t won yet. Gabi argues that they both know he will when he presents the evidence she obtained in court. Tony hopes it won’t come to trial and bets that Xander will realize it would be far better if they resolve it quietly. Gabi says that’s fine by her as long as she’s the new CEO of DiMera. Gabi asks how soon until that happens. Tony tells her to be patient and hopes that the Kiriakis brothers don’t drag it out, but he bets there will be a negotiation until it’s resolved. Gabi reminds Tony of their deal that she will be the next CEO of DiMera and she will be running it. Tony says until that happens, she needs to keep Gabi Chic along and before they know it, DiMera’s rightful CEO will be at the helm.

Theo tells Chad that it makes sense and running the newspaper is a better fit for him. Chad says it’s more than that as running the Spectator gave him a chance to break out on his own. Chad compares it to the venture Theo and JJ had in South Africa as he finally has something that’s not tied to DiMera in any way, so he can carve out his own path and build his own legacy. Chad adds that he also gets to honor Abigail in the work she did. They agree that Abigail was a great journalist. Chad points out that Theo had never been interested in DiMera stuff, so he asks what’s up. Theo responds that he heard talk about Tony wanting the company back, so he was curious on his take. Chad thinks it makes sense for Tony as he’s the oldest of them so it would mean the most to him, but he doesn’t expect much from it since the merger with Titan is a done deal and there’s no going back. Theo remarks that you never know and that Tony could surprise them. Theo asks if Chad would want back in if he did. Chad says no as he’s happy running the newspaper. Chad thinks the next person to run DiMera should be different from the revolving door of same names. Chad declares the next CEO of DiMera should be someone new and young with a fresh set of ideas and no hesitation.

Maggie returns to the living room from putting Victoria down for a nap and asks Sarah if everything is alright. Sarah says it’s just the opposite as she reveals that Tony just filed a lawsuit against Xander and Philip.

Xander and Philip go to the office where Xander complains about how Leo couldn’t wait to start spreading the news. Alex joins them. Xander questions how he let Tony sabotage their event. Alex says he would’ve thrown him out but there were a lot of reporters around. Xander remarks that at least now they know who has been looking in to the takeover. Xander asks what else Tony had to say. Alex says he wants to settle out of court, so he hopes Xander officially signed the documents naming Philip as co-CEO. Xander responds that legal was going over them when Tony made his announcement. Alex declares now it’s too late. Xander argues that he and Stephanie should’ve handled it and remarks that maybe Stephanie should look in to a new line of work. Alex argues that none of this is Stephanie’s fault as she’s not the one who committed fraud which Philip acknowledges was him. Xander declares that he and Philip will clean up this mess themselves, so Alex can go. Alex says screw this and storms out of the office.

Theo asks Chad how Thomas and Charlotte are. Chad says they are good and that Charlotte just started Kindergarten. Chad pulls out his phone to show Theo pictures but finds out that Tony made his move and that he’s suing Xander and Philip to undo the merger.

Stephanie returns home and Alex comes in behind her, telling her that Tony is not messing around and told Xander and Philip to settle or prepare for a legal battle from Hell. Stephanie says she’s sorry while Alex feels he’s the one that should be sorry since this overshadowed Stephanie’s first big moment as an author. Stephanie asks how Xander reacted when he found out. Alex responds that he blamed it on him.

Philip thinks Xander was a little too harsh on Alex. Xander continues to complain that Alex and Stephanie should’ve got things done while Philip questions how it’s their fault that legal is holding up the paperwork. Philip says they both know the only one to blame for this fiasco is him as if he hadn’t used the forged letter to steal half the company, they wouldn’t be in this mess.

Gabi goes home where Leo is excitedly sending in his article about Tony’s lawsuit and says he wouldn’t be surprised if it crashes the Spectator website. Leo talks about how he didn’t even want to go to the press conference for a romance novel and asks who knew it would lead to corporate intrigue.

Theo guesses Tony wasn’t playing around about getting DiMera back and wonders what evidence he has that Xander and Philip committed fraud. Chad says he has no clue but guesses his reporter will find out. Chad then goes back to showing Theo pictures of his kids. Theo remembers when they were born and now Charlotte’s in Kindergarten while Thomas is looking all grown up. Chad agrees that time is flying, noting that it’s been three years since losing Abigail. Theo relates to how rough losing their mother can be and asks if they are adjusting okay. Chad talks about being at the Horton house helping and that he and Julie are determined to keep Abigail’s memory alive. Theo asks how Julie is doing since Doug died. Chad says it’s been tough and talks about how Julie and Doug were together for half a century and that kind of love comes around once in a lifetime. Theo bets that they help each other by being around. Chad jokes that Julie can be over involved but it does help. Theo asks how Chad is doing. Chad says he’s keeping busy. Theo then asks about his social life and if there’s any new women on the scene since he and Stephanie called it quits. Theo tells him not to hold out on him now and asks if he’s seeing anyone. Chad asks how he’s supposed to find love when he has kids and a newspaper to run. Chad changes the subject by asking about Theo. Theo says he and Claire broke up. Chad says he heard and asks if he’s out there dating. Theo says no chance after his two relationships made him think maybe he’s meant to be permanently single. Chad encourages that he’s still young but Theo brings up how he and Ciara were about to get married when she dumped him and Claire cheated on him. Chad believes there’s still someone out there for him and it could be right around the corner.

Stephanie tells Alex that it’s totally unfair for Xander to blame him. Alex thinks Xander is just desperate to save Titan. Stephanie asks if they got the co-CEO situation squared away. Alex responds that the lawyers were finalizing things when Tony pounced. Stephanie asks what they are going to do now. Alex responds that he doesn’t know because Xander is freezing him out for failing him. Stephanie says he means that she failed him because she couldn’t convince Steve to tell her who his client was. Alex doesn’t understand why Steve would take on a client like Tony DiMera. Stephanie argues that Tony wasn’t the client, so Alex asks who was then. Stephanie responds that she doesn’t know since Steve won’t out a client, not even for her, but he assured her that it was not a DiMera. Stephanie insists that her father wouldn’t lie to her. Alex says if she says so. Stephanie talks about how this morning, Alex was so grateful and saying she should take credit for saving Titan-DiMera so she finds this 180 very confusing. Alex says he’s sorry but he’s frustrated. Stephanie states that her father won’t violate the trust that his business is founded on and tells him not to act like Steve is a cold-hearted jerk since he dropped the case as soon as she asked. Alex gets that she’s done all she can. Stephanie insists that Steve doesn’t know who bugged the office, so he’s not to blame for what’s happening and asks if Alex gets that. Alex just wishes he didn’t ask her for help.

Leo guesses that Gabi knew about Tony’s plan to sue Xander and Philip. Gabi questions how she would have any idea. Leo says he hasn’t figured that out yet but he saw Gabi run after Tony when he left. Gabi says she wanted to know what he’s planning because of Gabi Chic and making sure it doesn’t come between the two companies. Leo asks how she thinks Xander will react to Tony’s power play. Gabi responds that she’s not sure, but she wouldn’t be surprised if things are about to get very ugly.

Xander angrily finishes a call and then tells himself to breathe. Philip comments that Marlena’s anger management must be paying off as a few weeks ago, he would’ve thrown his chair through the window with him right behind it. Xander remarks that he might still do that so he shouldn’t let his guard down. Philip asks what legal said. Xander says they are still going over things and that Tony hasn’t officially served them, guessing he wanted to create the firestorm first. Xander adds that they can’t let Leo and other reporters put them in a panic. Xander adds that they both know they cannot let this get to court. Philip asks what the plan is. Xander responds that they will have to make a devil’s bargain, but first they have to find out exactly what Tony DiMera wants.

Maggie asks if Sarah thinks Xander and Philip expected this. Sarah says it would explain why Xander suddenly made Philip a legitimate partner. Maggie knows Xander was trying to make sure Victor’s company wasn’t destroyed by Philip’s deception. Sarah acknowledges that she also betrayed Xander. Maggie understands Sarah was worried about Xander having unchecked power at Titan and that making him go back to his worst impulses to do something terrible. Sarah says that when Philip was beaten, she assumed it was Xander and used it as evidence that she was right about him all along and as justification for taking Victoria away from him. Sarah complains that their custody battle all stemmed from her being so certain about what Xander did to Philip. Maggie points out Xander’s history of violence and that she thought he was guilty too. Sarah states that Philip consistently said he wasn’t and instead of believing him, she just kept trying to bust her husband even at their daughter’s birthday party. Maggie understands she just wanted the truth while Sarah feels she just added another layer of pain to Xander by trying to get Philip to admit it but Philip told her that Xander actually saved his life. Sarah cries that she was so wrong about Xander and declares that Xander didn’t betray her by committing a horrible, brutal act, but she betrayed him by lying about Philip’s fraud and then accusing him of the unthinkable.

Gabi tells Leo that she’s going to head back to the office so they don’t get in each other’s way. Leo stops her to ask one last question. Gabi tells him not to ask what Tony is accusing Xander and Philip of. Leo says it’s about Javi. Gabi asks what he did to him. Leo explains that Javi recently told him about Solana and he can’t imagine anything more heartbreaking. Leo adds that giving up Tesoro soon is bringing back painful memories for Javi, so he was wondering if Gabi had any suggestions on how to help him through this. Gabi tells Leo to just be there for Javi and love him. Leo thanks her. Gabi responds that as much as it pains her to say, she’s really glad that Javi has Leo to lean on. Gabi then exits.

Maggie asks Sarah if believing Xander didn’t attack Philip could pave the way for reconciliation for them. Sarah doesn’t know since it was so much more than Xander’s temper that drove them apart. Sarah points out that Xander can’t forgive her for not telling him about Philip’s fraud and that’s a profound betrayal for him. Maggie encourages that they love each other, so there is hope. Sarah feels maybe if Philip’s secret stayed buried, they could try to move forward and rebuild trust but questions how they can do that when it’s all being dredged up again. Maggie responds that she’s not sure.

As they exit the Pub, Chad invites Theo to come by the house this week as they hug and Chad tells him to take care. Chad then walks away while Tony approaches Theo and asks if he’s given any thought to what they discussed. Theo responds that he’s still thinking and walks away. Tony gets a call from Xander, who says they need to talk now. Tony responds that he’s unfortunately booked today so they can chat tomorrow and he’ll call to let him know what time works for him and hangs up.

Stephanie tells Alex that she wishes he never involved her in any of this either. Alex argues that he may have asked her to find out who was gunning for Titan-DiMera, but she was involved in it long before he asked. Stephanie agrees that she never should’ve agreed to cover up Philip’s fraud and maybe if she turned he and Sarah down from going along with it, none of this would be happening. Alex guesses they’ll never know. Stephanie reminds him that she’s the one who urged Xander to make Philip his co-CEO to bolster his case and defense against this, so it’s not her fault that Xander took his time taking her advice. Alex mocks the idea that she’s a saint in all of this. Stephanie is sorry things turned out like this for him and his family, but says she was only trying to help. Alex remarks that unfortunately she didn’t. Alex declares that he’s going back to his own apartment for some time alone and storms out.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, September 18, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Arianna and Holly were at the pub while Sophia was working. They were talking, and Sophia let Arianna know that Holly was obsessed with their professor, Johnny. Holly glared at Sophia. After Tate arrived at the pub, Holly was willing to study somewhere else. Sophia thought it was awkward between Holly and Tate. He wanted to make sure that Sophia would still watch the movie with him. Tate and Sophia went to his dorm to talk about movies. Holly’s name came up in conversation, so Sophia tried to change the subject. She reminded him that the night was about them. Tate wanted to talk before they started the movie. He wanted to talk about the adoptive parents. Tate wanted to know what their daughter looked like. Sophia tried her best to change the subject. Tate wondered if their baby was still alive. Sophia got upset with him because she thought he only wanted her there to talk about the baby. She knew he tried to trick her to think something would happen between them. He denied that. Tate said that he and Holly might be over. He tried to stop her when she tried to leave and kissed her. Holly and Arianna were at the bookstore. Arianna tried to get her to realize that she should go easy on Tate, but Holly didn’t want to do that. She talked about him liking Sophia’s posts. Arianna felt like Holly was getting caught up in Sophia’s trap by picking fights with Tate and pushing him away.

Javi and Leo bought baby clothes for Tesoro. They talked about what would happen when the baby left their place. Leo was scared and didn’t know what they would do without the baby. Javi became emotional, and Leo wondered if talking about his daughter helped him. He admitted that it did help to talk about his daughter. It’s the first year that he couldn’t see her headstone. He felt like he abandoned her. Chanel arrived and asked them if the waiting period was over. Javi and Leo became uncomfortable. They told her that they weren’t going to adopt her. Chanel was happy about that because she wanted to adopt him. Leo and Javi were surprised by her announcement. Chanel promised that they could visit the baby if she and Johnny get custody of him. Kate arrived at the mansion looking for Tony. Anna let her know that she could talk to her instead of her husband. Kate wanted to talk to him about what he did at the press conference. She wanted to get ahead of the problem he caused. Anna told Kate that they knew about Philip’s fraud. If Philip and Xander didn’t play ball, Tony would come forward with the revelation. Kate didn’t like how Anna was blackmailing her. She told her that the forgery wasn’t her idea or Philip’s. Vivian was the one who did it. Kate wanted Tony and Anna to give Philip a break. Anna thought that was funny. Kate wanted her to tell him that she stopped by. Anna told her that Tony just wanted the family company back. Chanel met with Paulina to talk to her about adopting Tesoro. Paulina was willing to help her. Leo and Javi got home, and Leo had second thoughts about Chanel and Johnny adopting Tesoro. He thought Johnny was messy regardless. Leo listed the things that Johnny did wrong. Javi felt like it was the social worker’s job to deal with his drama. Sophia was flustered by Tate kissing her. Arianna spotted Sophia leaving Tate’s dorm room.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, September 17, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Marlena was surprised to see Brady putting Tate’s toothbrush in a bag. Brady said he had it taken care of. After they finished talking about the toothbrush, they talked about Rachel. Marlena suggested that he go easy on Rachel or he could lose her. She said Kristen being gone for six years was a long time for a kid and she could make sure she and Kristen saw each other. Steve went to the hospital to ask Kayla for her help with a DNA test. Kayla didn’t like being in the dark and refused to do the test. She said she had her ethics and that EJ was looking for a reason to get rid of her. Kayla gave Steve a link so he could order a link to do the test himself. When they went to the nurses’ station, Brady showed up with the toothbrush. Kayla told him to take it to the lab. EJ talked to Cat about the blueprints. Cat said she knocked them over but didn’t know what they meant. She said she was curious, EJ lied to her about the free clinic so he could improve his family reputation.

At the hospital, Xander and Sarah talked about what’s going on with Titan/DiMera. Sarah said she would help. She let him know that he was a good father. Sarah apologized for not believing him when he said he didn’t attack Philip. She asked if he could forgive her. Xander said he forgave her. Sarah asked if he could forgive her for lying about the fraud. Xander said if he could forgive Philip, he could forgive her. Sarah said he needed to be able to trust her if they were going to repair their marriage. She said Xander not attacking Philip changed everything. Xander wanted to talk to Marlena. Sarah saw EJ and Cat at the Bistro she thanked EJ for the clinic. When Sarah left, Cat asked EJ why he bid on her at the auction. EJ said it was a way to look like a supporter of the hospital before he bought it. He said he wanted a date with her and know more about her. EJ said he was impressed with her con which was one of the reasons why he hired her. Sarah met with Brady and talked about Rachel. She told him about the Titan/DiMera drama. Brady asked if she knew what fraud Tony was talking about. Sarah said he should talk to Xander. He said the company splitting up could be disastrous. Brady said Titan and Basic Black could be ruined. He hoped that Xander and Philip didn’t do something that could ruin things. Xander went to see Marlena and told her about Tony’s lawsuit. He said he wasn’t taking his anger out on anyone and that he and Philip were working things out. Xander said there might be hope for him and Sarah.

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Days Update Monday, September 15, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

Alex goes to Stephanie’s apartment where he forgot his bag which she returns to him. Alex explains that her book press conference is about to start and all his notes about it are in his bag. Alex asks if there’s any way he can convince her to attend, promising that no one will know she is Anastasia Sands. Stephanie admits part of her wants to be there but she has so much work to do at the hospital and notes that she already e-mailed Kate on behalf of Anastasia. Stephanie jokes that Alex should take the other stuff he left behind including his razor, his favorite pen, and one sock so he must be overwhelmed. Alex says maybe it’s a symptom of a bigger problem and that’s them having two apartments.

Sarah joins Maggie in the living room of the Kiriakis Mansion where it’s decorated for Victoria’s birthday. Sarah asks if Maggie is okay. Maggie says she’s fine and that today is all about Victoria. Maggie adds that the question is if Sarah is okay. Sarah admits she’s a ball of nerves. Maggie asks if that’s because she invited Xander to their daughter’s party. Sarah says she did it for her daughter as she wants her to have a good relationship with her father, but he better behave.

Xander angrily finishes a call at the office, saying he needs that contract finished now. Philip guesses it was about naming him as co-CEO. Xander explains that legal apparently has to cross more t’s and dot more i’s. Philip assumes that can’t take too much longer while Xander worries that there’s nothing stopping whoever bugged the office from acting on whatever they may have heard. Xander says if the world finds out, the merger could be undone. Philip asks if they are supposed to hang here until the contract is done but Xander refuses to miss his daughter’s birthday.

Kate finds Arianna studying at the Brady Pub and says that’s what she likes to see. Kate asks her how college is going so far. Arianna says they’re only a few days in but so far, it’s not much different than high school. Arianna comments that she’d like to have more real world experience like with business or getting an internship. Kate says she would have an in at Gabi Chic but Arianna says anywhere but there, since Gabi can be a lot at times. Kate offers to find her something at Titan-DiMera which Arianna excitedly says would be perfect. Kate says she’d first have to find something where she should fit in. Kate asks Arianna to e-mail a copy of her resume to send to HR.

Tate takes Sophia’s hand and tells her that he really cares about her, so he can tell whatever secret she’s keeping is hurting her. Tate promises not to judge her and stand by her. Holly then enters the bookstore and sees them together with Tate holding Sophia’s hand and questions what is going on here. Tate asks Holly to give them a minute because he and Sophia are in the middle of something. Sophia decides she will let them talk. Tate tries to stop her while Sophia rushes out of the store. Tate gets mad at Holly, who questions what is wrong with him. Tate complains that he felt like Sophia was about to tell him the truth when Holly showed up and ruined everything.

Arianna congratulates Kate on her best seller and says it was so good. Kate is surprised that she read One Stormy Night. Arianna admits that she could not put it down and says she is an adult now, so she found the scandalous scenes quite interesting. Kate jokes that she’ll pretend she didn’t hear that. Kate mentions having to get to the town square for a press conference for One Stormy Night. Kate adds that Anastasia Sands won’t be there, so Arianna jokes that she could be busy recreating some of those scenes as Kate exits the Pub.

Stephanie questions Alex saying the problem is two apartments. Alex informs her that he means he wants her to move in with him and then he wouldn’t be leaving his stuff all over her place. Stephanie says as romantic as his offer is, she can’t move in with him.

Maggie tells Sarah not to worry as she has this handled because if Xander doesn’t behave, she will kick him out. Xander then arrives carrying all of his gifts. Philip enters behind him and says he offered to help but Xander insisted on carrying the gifts in by himself. Sarah is surprised and questions what Philip is doing there as they didn’t expect him to show up for Victoria’s birthday party. Xander informs them that he invited him and apologizes for not giving a heads up. Philip offers to leave but Sarah says they’d love to see him stay and just didn’t expect to see them in the same room without trying to kill each other. Philip responds that things change. Maggie says there’s usually a reason, so Sarah asks if something happened. Xander declares that he has decided to officially make Philip his co-CEO.

Sophia goes to the Brady Pub and tells Arianna that she needs caffeine, so Arianna gives her coffee to her. Arianna mentions that Holly texted her that Sophia and Tate didn’t show up for their first film class and asks if everything is okay. Sophia says it’s not.

Tate complains to Holly that he was actually making headway with Sophia. Holly tells him that he doesn’t have to bite her head off as she didn’t know. Holly says he didn’t show up for class so she thought something might have happened and was worried. Tate apologizes for going off on her and says he just thought Sophia was about to tell him everything. Holly asks if that means he asked her for more information. Tate says he can tell that she’s hiding something and he was so close to getting her to tell him everything. Holly repeats that she came along and ruined everything.

Alex questions why Stephanie doesn’t think they should live together, arguing that it doesn’t make sense to have two apartments that are literally feet away when he spends half his time at her place anyway. Stephanie argues that he stays at her place because his place smells and reeks of beer and old pizza. Alex vows to step up his cleaning game if they live together. Stephanie acknowledges that it’s a solvable problem but says that’s not the biggest problem. She declares that the biggest problem is her. She clarifies that it’s not that she doesn’t want to move in together, but she’s gone down this road before when she and Chad moved in together, then it went downhill as soon as they did since he wasn’t ready and she was trying to force it. Stephanie doesn’t want the same thing to happen to them. Alex feels their relationship is nothing like the one she had with Chad. Stephanie says she’s not just talking about Chad and brings up her string of really bad relationships. Alex says their relationship is nothing like any of those either. Stephanie worries about them diving in head first too quickly. Alex understands she doesn’t want to screw things up for them but says they’ve been back together for almost a year, so he thinks they are in it for the long haul. Alex tells Stephanie that he loves her and loves being with her, so he thinks they are ready for the next step. Stephanie assures that she’s in the same place and says it means so much to her that he asked to move in, but she needs time to think about it and she has to talk to Jada about finding a new roommate. Alex jokes that part of him wants to tell Jada to put in a good word for him but he won’t. Alex tells Stephanie to take all the time she needs and that she knows where to find him when she has an answer as they kiss.

Sophia tells Arianna that it’s making her crazy that Tate wants to ask about the kid and the adoptive parents when they both agreed to give the baby up, but now that they’ve gone through, Tate has become obsessed with finding out everything about her. Sophia wants to move on but they can’t do that when Tate keeps asking about the baby and every time they get close to the same page, Holly shows up and freaks out over her spending time with Tate. Sophia declares that she’s tired of being stuck in the middle.

Tate comments on Holly being mad as she complains about Tate saying she ruined everything when she was just worried about him after he didn’t show up to class or answer her texts. Holly adds that she was worried something could’ve happened with Rachel. Holly says she’s trying to be patient because she knows they’ve been through a tough time but tells Tate to wake up and questions him not realizing that Sophia still wants him, pointing out that she’s taking the same class as him and got a job where he works which Tate defends. Holly repeats that Sophia still wants him and will clearly do anything to get him back.

Xander tells Sarah and Maggie that once Philip signs on the dotted line, he will officially be co-CEO of Titan-DiMera. Maggie admits she would not have held her breath on them agreeing to do any of this, but she’s happy about it. Sarah says she is too but she has to ask why now when Xander had been trying to push Philip out of the company for months, so she questions what made him change his tune. Philip claims they just decided they want what’s best for the company. Xander talks about knowing the fraud could come out and as upset as was with Victor for keeping his birthright from him, he is his father and the company was his legacy so he wants to protect it for their whole family. Maggie declares they have a lot more to celebrate than Victoria’s birthday today.

Tate tells Holly that it doesn’t matter if Sophia wants him because he doesn’t want her, he wants Holly. Tate asks if she doesn’t trust that. Holly responds that she trusts him but she doesn’t trust Sophia, arguing that she hasn’t given up on him. Tate says this isn’t about he and Sophia, it’s about his kid. Holly complains that Sophia knows he’s desperate to know more information so she’s going to keep dangling hope in front of him so that he keeps coming around. Tate asks if she wants him to stop asking her and just let the whole situation go. Holly says she’s sorry he didn’t get the chance to meet his baby, but even if he did, she doesn’t think it would give him the closure because he would just say hi and bye. Holly questions if that would make it easier when she thinks it would make it harder. Tate disagrees. Holly feels meeting his daughter and then never seeing her again would just break his heart all over again, so she thinks it would be better if he stopped trying to track her down and let it go. Tate responds that he can’t, so Holly guesses he’ll be obsessing over this kid forever.

Arianna knows Sophia said that Tate is obsessing over losing a kid, but points out that he’s not the only one that can’t let something go. Sophia says if she’s talking about her trying to get with Tate while he was with Holly, she didn’t know that because Holly told her they weren’t together while sneaking around behind her back. Arianna says she gets that. Sophia complains that Holly lied and how humiliating that was for her. Sophia is tired of people acting like Holly is an innocent angel. Arianna declares that Sophia is not the only one sick of being caught in the middle.

Alex and Stephanie join Kate in the town square. Kate says they are right on time but she thought Stephanie wasn’t joining them. Stephanie confirms that she’s on her way to the hospital or else EJ would have her head. Kate asks about when she will receive the next draft of her mystery novel. Stephanie says it’s coming and asks if there’s a rush. Kate reveals that she promised the shareholders an October release which surprises Stephanie. Kate thought they agreed on this but Alex admits he hadn’t had a chance to discuss that with Stephanie. Kate decides they need to discuss it now then and asks how soon she can get that draft. Stephanie guesses she can get her something sooner and she’s just been pulled in a lot of directions lately. Kate remarks that she’s not the only one which Alex questions. Kate then explains that Johnny has been held up by his department head at Salem U. Alex worries that he’s supposed to be there to run camera for the press conference and hopes he didn’t make a mistake letting him moonlight at Salem U. Stephanie encourages him to give Johnny a break on his first day teaching and asks if they can find an intern. Alex says they don’t have any interns. Kate says she has someone for him but that won’t help now. Alex says they will touch base on that and then asks Stephanie to step in on running the camera since she did say she wished she could be part of that event. Stephanie doesn’t think that will matter to EJ. Kate points out that she’s already there and her work on social media will still be waiting for her when she gets to the hospital. Stephanie remains uncertain while Kate offers to push back her deadline and Alex encourages her to see how excited everyone is about her book, so Stephanie agrees to do it.

Sarah, Maggie, Xander, and Philip sit with Victoria and finish opening presents for her birthday. Sarah opens an outfit from Maggie and “The Velveteen Rabbit” book from Philip, which they note was his and Sarah’s favorite at Victoria’s age. Xander then brings in a rocking horse as her last present.

Tate questions Holly thinking he’s obsessing when he wants to meet his baby’s adoptive parents to make sure he made the right decision. Holly says she didn’t mean it that way. Holly argues that he’s a college freshman that should be thinking about parties and girls. Tate responds that he’s only thinking about one girl while Holly complains that he’s thinking about three; her, his baby, and Sophia and she’s really over it.

Sophia questions how Arianna is caught in the middle. Arianna responds that she and Holly are both her friends so she’s not going to pick sides. Sophia apologizes for dragging her in to this and says she was just venting. Arianna argues that she’s venting about Tate and Holly being a couple, so maybe instead of trying to get between them, she just needs to let go and move on with her life. Sophia responds that she’s been trying to do that but it’s Tate that keeps coming back to her.

Stephanie films the press conference as Kate and Alex talk about One Stormy Night being a best seller for Titan Publishing. Kate adds that Anastasia Sands is busy working on her next novel so she couldn’t be there, but she sent a message of encouragement which Kate reads to the audience.

Maggie tells Xander that Victoria loves the horse, so his gift was a hit. They joke about how it will tire Victoria out. Xander asks how Maggie is doing. Maggie says she’s celebrating her granddaughter’s birthday so she couldn’t be better. Xander brings up that it’s also the anniversary of Victor’s funeral. Maggie says she’s doing alright and thanks him for asking. Sarah suggests getting Victoria upstairs before she falls asleep. Maggie offers to take her while Xander decides to carry her for her and they exit. Sarah stays behind and tells Philip that she wanted to talk to him. Sarah says now that Xander has officially made him co-CEO, he can’t hold anything over his head which means there’s nothing stopping him from telling the truth. Sarah asks Philip if Xander is the one who assaulted him.

Tate questions what the hell it means that Holly is over it. Holly complains that it’s hard for her too and he doesn’t seem to understand. Tate argues that she’s making the situation about her while he had a baby and that’s changd him. Tate declares that maybe it’s Holly that doesn’t understand. Tate storms out, leaving Holly holding back tears.

Sarah tells Philip that he doesn’t have to lie as she knows Xander was the one who attacked him. Philip denies it so Sarah says he can be honest with her. Philip sticks to his story as Xander comes back by the doorway and listens in on Philip insisting it was some random guy, not Xander. Sarah argues that she knows how upset Xander was with him and how he usually handles his anger. Philip suggests maybe he’s changed and brings up the other day when Xander gave him the Heimlich Maneuver. Philip declares that Xander saved his life. Xander remains listening in outside the door.

Tate returns to the Pub and runs in to Sophia outside. Tate says he’s sorry that they got interrupted earlier. Sophia asks if everything is okay with Holly as she seemed upset. Tate confirms that they had a huge fight. Sophia says she’s sorry. Tate says it’s not her fault that Holly was acting jealous despite him trying to explain that he was just asking her for answers. Sophia says she doesn’t know what else she can tell him. Tate thinks back to Holly saying that Sophia wants him back and will do anything to make it happen. Tate then brings up to Sophia how they both have to catch up from film class on the movie they have to watch, so he invites her to his dorm room later to watch which she accepts.

Kate finishes the press conference and says she hopes everyone will be picking up One Stormy Night, adding that there will be another best seller from Anastasia Sands released later this fall. Kate tells Alex that she has to get back to the office and will catch up with him later, so she exits. Alex then calls for the end of the press conference but Tony DiMera appears and says not to send everyone away just yet. Tony declares that he also has an exciting story about a local business that he knows the press will all be dying to cover..

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, September 16, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

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

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Days Short Recap Monday, September 15, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

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

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Days Nitpicks & Flubs For The Week Of September 8, 2025

Nitpicks & Flubs

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Monday

-EJ could be heard talking while Gabi was shown.

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

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

Tuesday

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

-Philip was talking while Tony was shown.

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

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

Wednesday

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

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

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

-Maggie cried without any tears.

-Marlena was talking while Julie and Maggie were shown.

-Marlena cried without any tears.

Thursday

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

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

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

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

Friday

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

-Javi cried without any tears.

 

 

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

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Days Update Friday, September 12, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Days Update Thursday, September 11, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Days Short Recap Thursday, September 11, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

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

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

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Days Update Wednesday, September 10, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, September 10, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

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

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

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, September 9, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

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

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

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Days Update Tuesday, September 9, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Days Short Recap Monday, September 8, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

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

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

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Days Update Monday, September 8, 2025

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Update written by Joseph

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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