Days Update Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Julie is at home, on the phone with Foster. Foster tells her that he has gotten sick with a summer cold and must cancel their plans. Julie tells him to get better as she hangs up. Chad comes in to ask if she’s ready for their Verdi concert double date. Julie informs him that her date just cancelled. Chad says that’s too bad and that he’d hate to see the concert ticket go to waste. Julie feels it’s too late to give it away. Chad invites Julie to just sit with them but Julie says she doesn’t want to be a third wheel and tells Chad to just have a fantastic time with Belle.

Marlena goes home where Belle greets her and mentions Chad picking her up soon. Marlena says it was a long day, so Belle asks if she wants to talk about it. Marlena informs her that she went to Bayview to visit Rachel but Kristen was there and told her that EJ had threatened her. Marlena adds that Kristen was more than concerned, she was terrified. Marlena asks if Belle has any idea what’s going on there. Belle says no and admits she doesn’t want to know.

Chanel tells Johnny that she’s reading up on arsenic. Johnny says they don’t know if that’s what caused her cancer. Chanel argues that it could’ve been if she was exposed to it on Smith Island and how they originally thought it was the radiation poisoning. Paulina then arrives and says she just wanted to see how Chanel was doing. Paulina encourages that Chanel doesn’t have to have a full head of hair to be beautiful as they hug.

Abe goes to meet Theo at DiMera Enterprises. Abe notes that he sounded serious on the phone so he thought it must be urgent. Theo responds that it’s not urgent, but serious, so Abe asks what it is. Theo reveals Paulina’s wedding ring and says he didn’t want to give it to him at home with Lexie there.

EJ orders Rita to get the private island ready and alert the staff to let them know that Kristen is on her way to spend the rest of her days far away from Salem and her daughter, adding that no one will be the wiser. Rita agrees to make the arrangements. Lexie then wakes up and calls out to EJ, who is relieved and asks how long she’s been awake.

Chad goes to pick up Belle. Marlena asks about Julie going to the concert with them. Chad explains that she was going to go but Foster got sick, so she decided to stay home because she doesn’t want to be a third wheel. Belle questions Julie not having anyone to give the other ticket to. Marlena then gets a call from Julie and tells her that she’d be glad to go with her which makes Chad and Belle smile.

Lexie explains that she came to see Dr. Rolf, hoping he could help her, but next she knew, she woke up here just now and asks what happened. EJ informs her that she fainted and passed out on the floor. Rita adds that they moved her to the couch to make her more comfortable. Lexie questions where Dr. Rolf is and why they didn’t get him to tend to her. EJ responds that he has some bad news as he’s afraid Dr. Rolf is gone.

Theo tells Abe that he thought it would be best to give him Paulina’s ring in private. Abe mentions going to see Paulina today and explain that since Lexie’s death certificate was revoked, their marriage never ended which means his marriage to Paulina was never valid. Abe says it’s not that he’s not thrilled to have Lexie back, but it’s ending the life he created with Paulina.

Paulina brought a stuffed animal for Trey and goes to check in on him. Chanel tells Johnny that maybe they can convince Paulina to take Trey to the park when he wakes up, so they can have some alone time. Johnny says he actually has to run an errand right now, but he’ll be back soon. Johnny exits, leaving Chanel disappointed. Paulina comes back and asks where Johnny went. Chanel responds that she has no idea.

Chad and Belle go to the town square for the Verdi music concert. They take a seat on the bench as Marlena and Julie arrive and sit at a table. Marlena thanks Julie for inviting her, saying it’s just what she needed. Julie says there’s nothing like classical music to raise your spirits and that she needed it too. Julie talks about being so upset with what’s happened with the well water at the Horton cabin. Julie is thankful that Sarah found out what’s wrong, Holly is getting better, and that no one else got sick.

Paulina shows Chanel some baby clothes she bought for Trey. Chanel notices that Paulina took off her wedding ring. Paulina says it’s about time. Chanel questions why now. Paulina explains that Abe came to see her today and told her that Lexie’s death certificate was revoked which means she is not married to Abe. Paulina declares that she has to accept that Lexie is back and here to stay with her husband and son, so her marriage to Abe is truly a thing of the past.

Lexie questions Dr. Rolf being gone. EJ explains that the FBI were apparently on his trail, so he needed to leave town. EJ says that Dr. Rolf was devastated when he learned that the drug wasn’t successful at all. Lexie complains that Dr. Rolf willingly used her as a human guinea pig, knowing full well the drug wasn’t ready. Lexie argues that he and EJ both should’ve known for sure. EJ asks how they could have known for sure. EJ admits that he was caught up in the excitement of having his sister back, restored to the picture of good health from before she was cruelly taken away from them.

Abe thanks Theo for giving him the ring and says he’ll let him get back to work. Theo stops him and says he knows Abe is going through a lot, but he could use some advice about coming to work for DiMera. Theo says ever since he started working there again, something’s feeling off. Theo admits he feels like Johnny is hiding something from him and freezing him out. Theo says he could just be paranoid but he wanted Abe’s perspective on it. Abe responds that Theo may be right that Johnny is hiding something from him and he may know what the reason is.

Julie tells Marlena that she’s so glad to see Chad and Belle spending more time with each other. Julie notes that Chad’s kids are out of town, so he should be going out more, and calls it wonderful that he’s going out with Belle. Marlena agrees that they seem to be enjoying each others’ company. Belle jokes to Chad that Marlena and Julie are spying on them. Marlena tells Julie that as much as she’s enjoying this, she feels bad for Foster as summer colds are the worst. Julie remarks that’s if he really has one. Marlena questions if she thinks it’s an excuse. Julie calls it easy to fake. Marlena asks why Foster would fake a cold. Julie suggests he doesn’t want to go out with her again.

EJ and Rita help Lexie to her feet. Lexie says she’s fine. Rita says she’ll get out of her way and asks if she can do anything at all. Lexie says there is nothing unless she has a time machine. Rita exits. EJ offers Lexie a water. Lexie responds that she doesn’t need water, she needs to figure out her next move. EJ argues that she needs to rest but Lexie says that’s the last thing she needs. Lexie declares that DiMera do not retreat home to die quietly. Lexie points out that she’s still moving and still fighting. EJ says of course she is since she’s a DiMera and calls her the finest among them.

Abe tells Theo that Johnny freezing him out had to do with EJ, who never wanted him in the CEO position to begin with. Abe adds that Johnny acted on his own when he asked Theo to share the job. Theo questions how Abe knows this. Abe admits he’s been wrestling with a secret that he was keeping from him. Theo complains of another secret. Abe realized after talking to Lexie that he owes it to him to tell him the truth. Abe repeats that EJ never wanted Theo to be CEO of DiMera and admits he didn’t either, so he worked with EJ to keep Theo out of the chair.

Paulina tells Chanel that she doesn’t want to talk about her problems as what’s more important is how Chanel is feeling. Chanel wishes people would stop asking her how she’s feeling and complains about being treated like she’s not long for the world. Chanel argues that she needs people to treat her like they believe she’s going to beat this illness. Paulina apologizes if she upset her. Chanel knows she didn’t mean to and says she’s just frustrated and taking it out on her instead of Johnny.

Johnny goes to see EJ at the DiMera Mansion and questions when he was going to tell him that arsenic is a carcinogen. EJ responds that he didn’t know it was. Johnny argues that EJ poisoned the entire water well it on Smith Island, which Chanel drank from and ended up losing their baby and being diagnosed with cancer twice. EJ questions Johnny blaming the well water and argues that carcinogens are everywhere. EJ reminds Johnny that Paulina crashed their honeymoon with radiation and suggests blaming her for Chanel’s cancer.

The Verdi Orchestra concert begins in the town square. Marlena tells Julie that she can’t imagine why Foster wouldn’t want to see her again after they had a nice time on their first date. Julie says she did but it was the first time she had gone out since losing Doug. Julie adds that it wasn’t really a date, just a dinner. Julie admits they were having a nice time, but then she started remembering going out on the town with Doug and began to feel a little uncomfortable and questioning going out with another man. Julie is afraid that Foster sensed her confusion and depression, so he must have decided she didn’t want a relationship or to deepen their friendship. Belle and Chad talk about wondering if the concert would give them any insight or clues to Stefano’s chess set as the music continues. Chad and Belle hold hands as they watch.

Paulina questions Chanel being upset with Johnny. Chanel responds that she’s not upset, but more disappointed, as it’s like ever since her diagnosis, it’s like he’s afraid to touch her. She doesn’t know if he’s in his head about hurting her or if having cancer makes her less attractive to him. Paulina assures that’s not true as Johnny is crazy about her. Paulina suggests Johnny just has a lot on his mind with being CEO, taking care of Trey, having a baby on the way, and going through chemo. Chanel knows it’s a lot but she still wants Johnny to touch her and make love to her. Paulina thinks maybe Chanel should take the lead and not be subtle about it. Paulina gives Chanel one of her wigs and says maybe that will help.

Johnny questions EJ having the nerve to say to his face that Paulina is to blame for Chanel’s cancer. EJ states that he’s simply saying a cancer like Chanel’s can be brought on by many factors so there’s no way to know what really caused it. EJ points out that many people have stayed at the Horton cabin before and after he and Chanel did and they didn’t get cancer. Johnny argues that the water may not have caused Chanel’s cancer but it certainly caused Holly’s illness. EJ says that’s why they are taking care of it. Johnny argues that it’s not they and it’s on him. Johnny tells EJ about Brady coming by earlier with questions and he lied to him. Johnny complains that he’s also lying to his co-CEO Theo. EJ points out that it was Johnny’s call to make Theo co-CEO. Johnny argues that EJ suggested Theo back him up while EJ says he only expected Johnny to use Theo as a consultant, not hand over his job to him. Johnny shouts that he never would’ve done that if he knew EJ was going to make him complicit in a crime. EJ screams at Johnny to stop being so melodramatic. EJ says these are the jobs that a CEO has to do, so he can drop his self-righteous pantomime and get it done. Johnny tells EJ that he did what he did for Holly, not to protect DiMera, and if he wants him to stay on as CEO, he will never ask him to do anything like that ever again. EJ says he hears him loud and clear.

Theo questions Abe working with EJ, who he can’t stand, to get him out of the CEO job. Abe argues that Theo knows how he feels about that company. Theo complains that Abe didn’t trust him to know right from wrong, he conspired with the man who embodies everything he hates about his family. Abe says he was trying to protect him while Theo argues that he was trying to control him. Theo declares that this conversation is done and exits.

Abe meets Lexie at the Brady Pub. Lexie asks if everything is okay. Abe admits it’s not as he told Theo the truth that he conspired with EJ to get him out of the CEO job. Lexie asks if he explained why he did it. Abe says he didn’t have a chance as Theo just ran out of the room. Lexie calls it a lot for Theo to process right now. Abe then asks if Lexie is alright.

Johnny returns home and calls out to Chanel, who comes out from the bedroom and roleplays with him as they kiss.

The orchestra concert comes to an end. Marlena tells Julie it was wonderful and thanks her for inviting her. Julie thanks Marlena for joining her and hopes this means she’ll be up for more outings. Marlena confirms she will be, but she also thinks Foster will be up for more outings as well. Julie doesn’t think so and worries that Foster was thrown by her confusion about having a good time. Marlena tells Julie that when John died, she felt guilty because she was there and he wasn’t, which she calls survivor guilt. Marlena says she had to remind herself that John believed in positivity and he lived life to the fullest, just like Doug did. Julie then gets a text from Foster, saying he’s sorry to have missed the concert and that he will make it up to her by taking her out to the next one. Belle asks Chad what he thought of the concert. Chad says he can’t say he’s a fan yet, but it held his interest. Chad adds that he is a huge fan of spending time with Belle as they kiss.

Abe asks Lexie if they should head home, but Lexie says no. Lexie says she was just walking around in the sun this afternoon so she’s probably just dehydrated but she’s fine. Lexie admits she’s a little worried about Theo being burdened with hard truths lately that she’s not sure he’s ready to deal with.

Theo goes to Small Bar and gets a drink as he thinks back to confronting Lexie over not telling him that Stefano was responsible for her brain tumor as he takes a drink.

Johnny and Chanel continue to kiss until Johnny questions the roleplaying. Johnny then tells Chanel that he’s sorry as he knows they haven’t made love in awhile, but things have been very difficult and stressful with a lot on his plate. Chanel says she gets that, but she worries that Johnny is worried so much about her being pregnant and having cancer that he feels like she’s someone he has to take care of instead of his hot wife. Johnny assures that he always sees her as his hot wife, he just hasn’t wanted to push her in to doing anything she’s not ready for. Chanel says she gets that, but thinks it’s important for them to be close and keep their connection during the difficult time. Johnny agrees and says he’s glad they are having this talk. Chanel tells Johnny that she wants him and needs him in every way. Chanel then drops her coat as they resume kissing.

EJ finishes a drink as Rita returns and asks where Lexie is. EJ says she insisted she was feeling fine and left on her own. EJ questions where Rita went off to. Rita responds that it’s nothing he needs to concern himself with.

Belle tells Chad that she’s still trying to figure how Verdi ties in to their chess board. A man then appears and hands Belle a program from the concert, saying he thinks she dropped it. Belle looks back and sees her program on the bench, but the man had already left. Belle says that was strange as Chad then notices something inside the program.

 

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Days Update Monday, July 13, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

EJ visits Rachel at Bayview, teaching her about chess, as Kristen arrives and is shocked to see EJ.

Lexie goes to see Marlena in her office at the hospital and says she needs a friend. Marlena suggests they go get a drink but Lexie wants to speak privately. Marlena asks what’s going on. Lexie is not sure where to begin. Marlena admits she was concerned that her homecoming wasn’t as seamless as she let on. Marlena knows from experience how tough it is to reclaim your life after being gone for a few years. Lexie calls it even more difficult to have to let go of it again. Marlena questions what that means. Lexie responds that she is dying.

Stephanie goes to the hospital and asks Kayla if Kelsey and Joy were hurt. Kayla says she’s sorry but she can’t discuss their conditions with her.

Alex finds Joy in a hospital room and asks if she’s okay, saying he rushed over as soon as he could. Alex then sees the empty carseat and asks where Kelsey is. Joy assures that she’s okay but getting x-rays as a precaution and the only injury they could see was a bruise. Alex hopes there’s no bad news from the x-rays. Joy apologizes for worrying him and cried that it all happened so fast. Joy tells Alex of the little scream she heard from Kelsey when they crashed and cries that she’s never been so scared in her life as Alex hugs her.

Stephanie asks if Kayla can tell her if Joy and Kelsey were badly hurt. Kayla confirms they weren’t and will be okay. Stephanie says she’s so glad as she never would’ve forgiven herself if they weren’t which Kayla questions. Stephanie then admits to Kayla that Alex left his phone at home and she only saw the first part of the transcript but saw that Joy said she was on the side of the road, so she assumed Joy was manipulating Alex and deleted the message. Stephanie worries that when Alex finds out, he’s going to be furious and hate her.

Kristen questions how EJ got in to Bayview which EJ jokes was through the front door just like her. Rachel explains that EJ is helping her with chess. Kristen asks for a moment alone with EJ. Rachel argues that EJ hasn’t finished, but Kristen remarks that she’s not asking, so Rachel exits. Kristen reminds EJ that he’s not supposed to be here. EJ responds that he had no trouble walking right in. Kristen doubts that since she told Dr. Gregory that he was not cleared to visit Rachel. EJ guesses her message was lost in translation and asks why she doesn’t want him to visit his niece. EJ asks if Kristen is afraid that after she tried to murder his son, he’d demand an eye for an eye?

Lexie tells Marlena that she knew something was up when the test subjects began dying and then her vision started fading, her fingers are numb, and she feels worse by the hour. Marlena asks if this can’t be reversed. Lexie responds that Dr. Rolf has pretty much tried everything including his final hail Mary earlier today. Lexie says she will check in with him later to see if there’s any changes, but she already knows the end is near. Marlena says she’s so sorry as she can’t begin to imagine how difficult this is for her. Marlena asks how Abe and Theo are handling it, but Lexie reveals that she hasn’t told them and she’s not going to.

Stephanie tells Kayla that she never thought she’d be so jealous and insecure. Kayla acknowledges that she shouldn’t have done that, but understands where she’s coming from as she’s been suspicious of Joy’s motives as well. Kayla informs Stephanie that she had a talk with Joy and told her if she had any more problems like the insurance deal, she could call her instead of Alex. Stephanie thanks her and says she’s really glad she told her that, but she’s relieved she’s not the only one who sees what Joy is doing. Kayla gets paged away and tells Stephanie that she can wait in her office but Stephanie says it’s okay as she wants to wait for Alex. Kayla tells her that she is so loved as she walks away.

Marlena questions Lexie not telling Abe and Theo what’s going on with her. Lexie hoped she didn’t have to as she didn’t want to worry them if there was still a chance Dr. Rolf could stop what was happening to him as he did stop it for a little while with another dose of his miracle drug, but it didn’t last. Marlena asks what if she decides to tell them now. Lexie responds that she was going to tell Theo everything, but then she looked in to his eyes and she couldn’t do it. Marlena thinks Theo has a right to know and be able to say goodbye to her. Lexie argues that they already watched her die once, so she won’t put them through that kind of pain again. Marlena questions what that means. Lexie reveals that she plans to make sure they aren’t with her when the end comes. Marlena asks if she will be with someone. Lexie admits she’s not sure what she’s going to do. Marlena tearfully brings up when John died and talks about how she had the chance to be with him, hold him, and tell him how much he meant to her which meant the world to her as they both needed that. Marlena asks if she thinks it’s right for her to make that decision for her family. Lexie declares that she knows in her heart that this is for the best. Marlena decides to respect her decision then. Marlena asks how Abe and Theo will learn of her passing when the time comes. Lexie admits she hasn’t figured that out but the only thing that matters now is how to ease their pain.

Kayla brings Kelsey back to Joy and Alex, telling them there are no breaks and she just has a bit of a bruised clavicle but she will be fine. Joy and Alex hold Kelsey and comfort her.

Kristen argues that EJ wouldn’t dare. EJ admits he wouldn’t harm Rachel because he’s not half as depraved as she is. EJ states that he gave his word that he wouldn’t lay a hand on Rachel, but there are other ways to separate a parent from their child. Kristen asks what EJ’s diabolical plan is and if he’s going to try to turn Rachel against her. EJ has no doubt she’ll accomplish that on her own. EJ warns Kristen that her reckoning will be all on her alone. Kristen insists that she had nothing to do with what happened to Johnny and warns how foolish he will look and guilty he’ll feel when the truth comes out. EJ asks why he would feel guilty about getting revenge on a sadistic bitch who would torch her own kin without flinching. Kristen says she wouldn’t but EJ insists that she would and did. EJ warns Kristen that the fallout will be merciless and quick. EJ tells Kristen that the clock is ticking and the curtain is coming down as he then exits, leaving Kristen frustrated and in tears.

Marlena asks Lexie if there’s anything she can do for her. Lexie responds that she’s already done more than enough just by listening and understanding. Lexie hopes Marlena will keep her secret, which she agrees to do. Marlena assumes that EJ knows about her prognosis which Lexie confirms. Lexie adds that she’s so angry with EJ for giving her this treatment before he knew it was ready. Lexie then admits that if she was given the choice to come back, knowing she’d have to leave again so soon, she would have chosen to come back and feel Abe and Theo’s love again and be here with Marlena. Lexie cries that she is so grateful for the second chance. Lexie tells Marlena that it’s been comforting sitting with her, but she should go check in with Dr. Rolf. Marlena offers to drive her but Lexie says she has a car waiting for her. Marlena tells Lexie to call her if there’s anything she needs. Lexie thanks Marlena for always being such a great friend to her. Marlena and Lexie embrace as they both cry. Lexie then exits the office.

Kayla tells Joy and Alex that they can take Kelsey home, but to keep an eye on her and bring her back if there’s anything unusual. Alex asks about Joy. Joy insists that she’s fine as the paramedics checked her out. Kayla admits she’d still feel more comfortable if Joy was checked out by someone now that they know Kelsey is okay. Alex says he’ll make sure Joy gets checked out. Joy repeats that she’s fine and is just so grateful that Kelsey wasn’t hurt.

Rachel returns to her room at Bayview and asks Kristen where EJ went. Kristen responds that he left as he remembered he had some business to take care of. Kristen asks Rachel what she and EJ talked about while he was there. Rachel responds that he was mostly just teaching her how to get better at chess and asks why. Kristen says she was just curious. Rachel is curious why she made her leave her room and questions what they were talking about. Kristen claims it was just family stuff that would’ve bored her and nothing for her to worry about.

Kayla returns to Stephanie, who asks if there’s any word on Joy and Kelsey. Kayla assures they will be fine. Stephanie says she’s just so anxious to see Alex and asks if he was mad. Kayla responds that he just seemed very focused on Kelsey. Stephanie asks if there’s any chance she was right that Joy could be using the situation to her advantage and she caused the accident herself. Kayla questions if she really thinks Joy would intentionally put her daughter in danger when they both could’ve been killed. Stephanie admits Joy wouldn’t do that as she is a good mom and she loves Kelsey, but she can’t help wondering if she still loves Alex too.

Joy tells Alex that the spare tire blew on her way to the shop to get a new tire. Alex blames himself for leaving them while Joy insists it’s not his fault. Alex says his gut was telling him to just bring the car in or at least watch Kelsey for a little while. Joy guesses he thought Stephanie might be upset.

Kayla questions Stephanie thinking Joy might still be in love with Alex when their relationship was so long ago. Stephanie argues that Kayla didn’t see them on set and how Alex was so kind to her through everything. Stephanie remarks that Joy latched onto him and it was borderline obsessive. Kayla admits she doesn’t know what’s in Joy’s head or heart, so she won’t tell her that she’s wrong, but she will tell her that she can’t control what Joy thinks or feels about Alex, only what her reaction is. Stephanie admits maybe that’s why she keeps trying to deflect blame, because she hates how she reacted and how she’s treated Joy and for deleting her message, but she doesn’t know how much more she can take. Kayla wishes she could tell her it’s temporary, but it’s not, because she and Alex are in this marriage together and Joy and Kelsey are part of it too. Stephanie reminds Kayla that she’s not allowed anywhere near Kelsey, which she knows is her fault too, but she keeps thinking about how her marriage will survive this. Kayla says she can’t tell her it will because they can’t predict the future, but she’s been in her shoes and her marriage survived and thrived. Stephanie argues that was completely different because Ava was an attempted murderer and Steve always saw through her. Kayla brings up how hard it was when Tripp came in to the picture and it took some time, but eventually they all saw each other as family. Stephanie asks if she thinks Joy will eventually come around to letting her be around Kelsey because she doesn’t see that happening. Kayla encourages her to give it time as she thinks Joy will come to see her as a good person and stepmother. Kayla believes Stephanie and Alex will be able to work it out like she and Steve. Stephanie hopes it gets easier. Kayla encourages her to have faith.

Marlena goes to visit Rachel but finds Kristen alone in the room at Bayview. Marlena asks if she’s okay. Kristen says it’s not like she cares. Marlena says she cares about Rachel and asks if she’s alright. Kristen says she’s fine. Marlena hoped to catch her but guesses Rachel is getting ready for bed. Marlena says there is clearly something going on and asks what’s wrong. Kristen responds that everything is wrong and admits she really needs Marlena’s help.

EJ goes home while on the phone with Sydney, saying it’s so nice to see her. EJ is surprised to learn about a trip to Paris with Kristen and says he wasn’t invited to join. EJ says he understands Kristen wants her all to herself for a few days. EJ then hangs up as he enters the living room and finds Lexie collapsed on the foor. EJ rushes to check on her and finds she still has a pulse. Rita enters, so EJ orders her to fetch Dr. Rolf immediately. Rita responds that she’s sorry but she can’t because Dr. Rolf is gone.

Alex apologizes to Joy. Joy says it’s okay as she knows Stephanie doesn’t like that she keeps calling him and she wouldn’t, but they share a child. Alex assures that he wants to hear from her if she’s ever in trouble. Joy says she appreciates it, but Stephanie has a point that she called him so many times today and left him a panicked voicemail which Alex questions. Alex checks his phone and sees he doesn’t have any voicemails from her which Joy notes is weird.

Marlena questions what Kristen wants her help with. Kristen informs her that EJ was just there after she and Brady left orders with the staff that EJ should not be allowed to visit, but he came right in. Marlena questions not wanting him to visit Rachel. Kristen argues that EJ came to leave her a message that she has no control over what he does and that he can always get to her. Marlena questions thinking he’d be a danger to Rachel. Kristen says no, but to her is another story. Marlena asks again what she wants her help with. Kristen says she needs her help with Rachel and asks Marlena to promise to be there for Rachel if anything happens to her.

EJ can’t believe Dr. Rolf is gone. Rita explains that he left a note that the FBI was asking too many questions, so it was far too risky for him to remain the mansion. EJ calls that absurd, arguing that the room he built for him was well hidden and he needed him to stay for Lexie. Rita adds that Dr. Rolf believed there was nothing more he could do for Lexie. EJ urges Lexie to keep fighting. Rita tells EJ that Dr. Rolf was just trying to protect him. EJ screams at Rita for being in on this and questions how else she would know what Dr. Rolf’s motivations were. Rita repeats that he only left a note because he knew how upset EJ would be. EJ screams that he is upset and cries that they weren’t supposed to give up on what they were working on and on Stefano’s wishes. EJ points out that Lexie is still breathing and orders Rita to get the car to get her to the hospital, but Rita states that they can’t help her and that would go against her wishes, leaving EJ in shock.

Alex finds Stephanie at the hospital and questions what she’s doing there. Stephanie says she knew he was worried and she wanted to be there for him. Stephanie asks how Kelsey and Joy are. Alex says they are fine, but she can stop pretending she gives a damn. Stephanie insists that she felt terrible. Alex questions if that’s why she deleted Joy’s voicemail, because he found it in the deleted messages folder. Stephanie apologizes and says she was going to tell him. Alex asks when she was going to tell him that his infant daughter was in a car crash. Stephanie swears that she didn’t know she was in an accident. Alex is thankful Joy got ahold of him when she did and asks what if Kelsey was seriously injured and he didn’t find out until it was too late.

Joy holds Kelsey in the hospital room, talking about how she and Alex were so scared and how much they love her. Joy thinks bringing Kelsey back to Salem might be the best thing she ever did.

Stephanie insists to Alex that she didn’t hear all of Joy’s message and only saw the beginning of the transcript, so she thought Joy was faking it to get his attention. Stephanie argues that he has to admit the odds of having a blown out tire. Alex argues that he knew it was a flimsy spare tire that he installed and says he should’ve never let her drive off, but he wouldn’t have if he wasn’t so worried about upsetting Stephanie. Stephanie asks if it’s her fault then that Joy got in an accident. Alex says it’s no one’s fault, but he was on edge because he knew how upset she’s been about Joy, so much that she didn’t try calling him at Titan to tell him that she was in trouble. Alex adds that Stephanie took it a step further by deleting the messages and asks what is wrong with her. Alex says he’s really trying to understand, but her jealousy is making this tough situation in to a nightmare. Stephanie asks if he doesn’t think that Joy might be jealous that she’s married to him, insisting that she is. Alex responds that they can’t go on like this. Stephanie questions what that is supposed to mean. Alex tells her that she should go home because he needs to get back to Kelsey and Joy, so he walks away.

Marlena assures Kristen that she’s always there for Rachel and questions if EJ has threatened her. Kristen confirms he has. Marlena argues that EJ is fond of threatening people, but he rarely follows through. Kristen says this is different and he’s serious this time. Marlena questions how she knows and what she’s not telling her. Kristen admits she took things too far but she can’t go back now and EJ feels she has crossed a deeply personal line, so she wouldn’t put anything past him now.

EJ and Rita lay Lexie on the couch as Rita talks about how Dr. Rolf said this is normal and that Lexie would experience periods of unconsciousness, but that she would come around until the end. Rita asks if there’s anything else she can do for him while she’s there. EJ responds that he just heard from Sydney and that Kristen contacted her, suggesting they take a trip together. Rita guesses that’s the final nail in Kristen’s coffin. EJ orders Rita to get the private island ready and alert the staff to let them know that Kristen is on her way to spend the rest of her days far away from Salem and her daughter, adding that no one will be the wiser.

 

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Days Update Friday, July 10, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Leo is at the Brady Pub with his laptop when Javi comes by. Javi questions Leo being back to work already. Leo tells him that he’s just looking up Pedro Pascal. Javi asks if Leo is okay after his second concussion in a couple months. Leo assures that he’s fine and jokes about it being just like a headache. Javi tells him to take care of himself, get some rest, and not have alcohol. Leo responds that he’s a little surprised that Javi cares.

Stephanie is at home when she sees Alex’s phone ring with a call from Joy.

At Titan, Alex questions Xander and Philip about their only plan to save Titan being Gabi’s DiMera inheritance. Xander says it just buys them time to figure out their next move. Alex asks if they are using it to make a couple loan payments. Xander calls it a start. Alex asks what they are doing in the meantime. Xander asks if he has a better idea. Alex responds that he does.

Brady goes to the hospital and asks Sarah how she’s doing. Sarah admits she’s not great and talks about how Holly spoke to her. Sarah complains that Holly yelled at her and kicked her out of her room. Sarah says she’s sorry that Holly is going through all of this physically while now she’s angry and hurting. Sarah adds to make it more confusing, she got the toxicology report from Destiny’s autopsy and there’s Coriseal in her blood stream which they already knew, but according to the report, there was not a trace of arsenic, so it seems like Destiny’s illness is not related to Holly’s. Brady responds that he wouldn’t be so sure about that.

Johnny is at home on the phone with Theo about splitting up DiMera departments to share their CEO responsibilities. Johnny says that Theo will handle shipping while he handles pharmaceuticals and Theo can divide up the rest. Johnny tells Theo that he trusts him and hangs up as Chanel comes in to the room. Chanel reveals to Johnny that when she woke up, her pillow was covered with hair. Chanel guesses she shouldn’t be surprised since chemo causes hair loss. Johnny says he can’t tell. Chanel says enough hasn’t fallen out yet but it will. Chanel asks Johnny if he’ll still be okay with that. Johnny promises he will and that she’s beautiful to him no matter what. Johnny brings up that as the weather gets colder, she might want to wear something on her head or change up her look from time to time. Johnny then reveals that he, Paulina, and Lani did some online shopping and presents her with a box of wigs. Chanel opens it and emotionally says she can’t believe it.

Javi assures Leo that he cares about him, but tells him not to mistake his concern as what they had is in the past. Leo talks about everything being in the present and then gets a headache which worries Javi, who tells Leo that he needs to get checked out again. Leo insists that he’s fine, but mentions not having much of an appetite. Javi notices he hasn’t had much of his sandwich. Leo says he has to get back to the Spectator, but gets dizzy when he gets up.

Xander asks Alex what his plan is. Alex responds that he will first need them both to own the fact that they created this huge mess in the first place. Alex says that EJ bought their loan because Xander and Kate stupidly set up Johnny and then they had to unmerge from DiMera because Philip sat back and watched Vivian perpetrate fraud against their family and company. Alex talks about the perception of Titan to the outside world and how it’s time to rebuild. Alex brings up when he was CEO. Xander argues that he was never a legitimate CEO while Alex says at least he didn’t deceive people or nearly tank the company. Alex declares that they couldn’t fix the mess they created so they should step aside and let him take over.

Stephanie sees Joy text Alex’s phone that she’s on the side of the road and needs his help ASAP. Stephanie gets angry and thinks back to complaining to Chanel about Joy where Chanel told Stephanie to watch her back around Joy. Stephanie declares that Chanel is right and that Joy is getting on her last nerve, so she deletes the voicemail left on Alex’s phone.

Brady thinks it’s too much of a coincidence that Destiny and Holly both had Coriseal in their system but also symptoms of arsenic poisoning. Brady brings up the missing files at DiMera Pharmaceuticals. Sarah brings up the lab results not reflecting the Coriseal was contaminated with arsenic. Brady asks what if the lab results were just wrong.

Javi sits Leo back down and tells him he has to get another CT scan but Leo refuses to go to the hospital, complaining that they are understaffed and he’d be waiting there all day. Leo thinks he just needs to sit here for a little bit, so Javi sits down and checks Leo’s pulse.

Xander questions Alex’s brilliant idea to right the ship. Alex repeats naming him CEO will re-establish trust and show they are serious about making changes. Philip argues that they don’t need trust, they need money to make the loan payment. Xander adds that Alex’s fantasy of becoming CEO is not going to happen.

Stephanie hears a knock at the door and assumes it’s Joy, but it’s Steve, who comes in and says he needs to talk to her and needed to do it in person. Stephanie asks if everything is okay. Steve responds that he hopes so.

Chanel tries on a blonde wig which Johnny compliments her on as they kiss. Chanel guesses this is what Paulina is working on while they were going over wigs during her chemo. Johnny reveals that Paulina is having a top-notch wig maker make a wig for her, but in the mean time, these will be some fun options. Johnny assures Chanel that he loves it but if she doesn’t want to wear a wig, that’s fine too. Johnny repeats that she will always be beautiful and urges her to believe that. Chanel agrees to try.

Sarah tells Brady that the likelihood of both lab results being wrong are very low, but they can rerun it. Brady doesn’t think that would do any good. Brady brings up someone leaving a clue for Sarah that saved Holly, so whoever that was probably knows how Holly got sick. Brady brings up if the pills were contaminated by DiMera Pharmaceuticals and reminds Sarah who owns the hospital and has all the access. Sarah points out that EJ was CEO of DiMera when all of this started and asks if Brady thinks EJ did it just to cover his own butt. Brady confirms that he thinks so, to protect his family and company from scandal. Brady says the more he thinks about it, EJ has to be the culprit. Sarah asks how they prove it. Brady responds that there is a way. Sarah questions how to prove EJ altered the tests. Brady thinks it’s time to pay Johnny another visit and press him on those DiMera Pharmaceutical files. Sarah thanks Brady for all of his help. Brady assures that they will figure this out together as he then exits the hospital.

Chanel tries on another wig and jokes about looking like Tina Turner. Johnny repeats that she’s so beautiful. Chanel says she’s so grateful for him as they hug.

Javi tells Leo that his pulse is normal and tells him to go straight to the ER if his symptoms continue. Leo mentions still feeling a little dizzy. Javi guesses he’d feel better if he stayed with him. Leo asks if he would. Javi responds that he’s sorry but he can’t. Leo insists but Javi says that’s enough of the games as they both know what’s going on here.

Stephanie asks Steve if something’s wrong. Steve informs her that Kayla told him about her sessions with Marlena and how Stephanie could be suffering from trauma in her childhood, so he needs to apologize. Stephanie insists that none of it is his fault. Steve cries that he wasn’t there for her. Stephanie doesn’t want him blaming himself for something totally out of his control. Stephanie calls him her hero and hugs him. Stephanie adds that she’s no longer that little girl that needs her father to protect her. Steve cries that he couldn’t protect her then and he still can’t, which breaks his heart. Alex’s phone rings again, so Steve says she needs to get that but Stephanie says no.

Alex reminds Xander and Philip that he runs the publishing division which is the most successful division at Titan. Philip argues that Kate had a whole lot to do with that along with Stephanie, but she’s no longer writing so that division could crash any minute. Alex says even if it did, it still makes more sense for him to step in to the leadership position, because unlike them, he’s respected among shareholders and investors for being fair and honest. Alex adds that he never faked his own death or forged his way in to an inheritance which Philip calls a low blow. Philip then asks if Alex doesn’t have enough to worry about at home with a new wife and a new baby, who the wife wishes didn’t exist. Alex gets upset so Xander steps in and says that Philip is trying to say Alex has enough chaos going on, unless this is about trying to control things here because he can’t at home. Alex questions Xander talking to him about control and remarks that at least he has a marriage. Xander warns him to watch his mouth. Alex asks if Xander’s going to beat him to a pulp like Philip. Philip intervenes and says that’s enough, telling them to dial it down and to harness this energy to save Titan, not put each other in an ambulance. Alex states that he’s invested his cash in to this just like they have and adds that he does have a daughter to care for now, but they need to right the ship and it’s going to involve them making some very tough decisions. Xander then gets a call from Sarah, who asks if he has a moment to talk in person at the hospital. Xander says he’ll see her soon and hangs up. Xander tells Alex and Philip that Sarah needs him. Xander then tells Alex that he appreciates him putting on his cape to swoop in to save the day, but says the ship is going to right itself without him at the helm. Xander adds that if Alex has a problem with that, he can feel free to resign as he then exits the office.

Leo tells Javi that he doesn’t know what games he’s talking about. Javi tells Leo to just be honest and accuses him of faking being dizzy to get his attention. Leo argues that he has been dizzy ever since his fall. Javi advises Leo that if he wants to get better, he needs to get over him and move on.

Steve questions Stephanie not answering the phone. Stephanie explains that it’s Alex’s phone and his baby mama keeps calling. Stephanie explains to Steve that talking to Marlena about her childhood trauma has given her a new perspective and has been a big help, but assures that Steve and Kayla are not to blame and the important thing is they are together now. Stephanie adds that she’s grateful to have two loving parents who support her no matter what. Stephanie promises him that she’s doing much better. Steve says he loves hearing that but asks if she’s sure. Stephanie points out that she got rid of the dead bolts on the door. Steve mentions hearing she’s been taking self defense lessons from Tate which Stephanie confirms has been great. Stephanie tells Steve that she loves him as they hug.

Alex tells Philip that he will never understand why Victor left the keys to the kingdom to Xander. Philip says it might suck but they’re stuck with him. Philip apologizes to Alex for going after him the way he did earlier. Alex says it’s okay as he obviously ran his mouth too. Philip brings up going to see Stephanie earlier and she shared with him that Joy’s been leaning on Alex a lot. Alex questions Stephanie confiding in Philip. Philip tells him not to be upset with her as she was just venting to a friend. Philip adds that if it will help, he can put his number on Joy’s speed dial because he promised Chloe that he would look out for her little sister, unless Alex wants to spend more time with Joy. Alex tells him not to be ridiculous and agrees to take Philip up on his offer and thanks him. Philip says he’s happy to help. Alex then realizes he left his phone at home and says he has to go. Philip assures Alex that he is an asset to the company and he appreciates everything he’s done as Alex then exits.

Brady goes to Chanel and Johnny’s apartment. Johnny asks what brings him by. Brady says it’s business so Chanel takes that as her cue to go take a shower. Brady tells Johnny that he’s sorry to be coming to his home, but it’s important and time is of the essence as it’s about Holly’s illness.

Xander joins Sarah at the hospital. Sarah is sorry to pull him from work. Xander calls it a welcome interruption. Sarah asks if there’s any updates on the deep dive in to the DiMera files and if he got any more information from Kristen. Xander says he didn’t but that Kristen told him how controlled the substance is but they hit a dead end. Sarah argues that EJ can’t get away with this. Xander starts to warn about if EJ’s behind this and the reason Holly is fighting for her life but Sarah stops him and says she can’t have him fanning the flames between the families. Xander says he understands. Sarah adds whoever is responsible will be punished by the court of law.

Johnny asks Brady how Holly is. Brady responds that she’s doing better because someone tipped Sarah off to what was wrong and she found arsenic in her blood stream as well as the well water at the Horton cabin. Johnny acts surprised while Brady asks if he had a chance to look in to the pills. Brady explains their theory that the pills were contaminated which is why arsenic and Coriseal were in Holly’s blood. Johnny argues that if that were the case, there would’ve been an FDA recall and there wasn’t. Brady brings up that EJ could skirt the law a bit and cover that up but Johnny claims he doesn’t believe that. Johnny states that he knows what EJ is capable of, but he would never cut corners knowing he could put innocent people’s lives at risk. Brady asks if Johnny took a look at the files that he and Steve asked him about. Johnny responds that he did and that as far as he can tell, everything seems to be in order.

Leo mocks the idea of Javi thinking he’s still pining over him. Javi questions Leo stil wearing his wedding ring then. Leo says he likes it and asks why he should take it off. Javi tells Leo that he’s trying to help him come to the realization and move on which Leo claims he has done. Javi says he’s sorry but he has to go, so he leaves the Pub.

Alex comes home to find his phone and then it rings. Stephanie guesses it’s Joy. Alex answers the call and says he left his phone at the house but he’ll be right there, annoying Stephanie again.

Brady and Steve run in to each other outside the Pub. Steve tells Brady that he went through the security footage from outside of Sarah’s office, but there’s a blind spot so either they got lucky or they knew how to circumvent the camera, so they got nothing. Brady says he just got back from talking to Johnny and they’ve got a real problem.

Leo remains at the Pub, looking at his wedding ring. Leo declares that Javi is right that he has to accept that it’s over, so he removes the ring and places it on the table. Leo adds that he has no one to blame but himself.

Stephanie complains about Joy calling again and Alex going running. Alex says that’s not cool. Stephanie asks what it is this time. Alex reveals that Joy’s spare tire blew out and she was in a car accident with Kelsey in the car. Stephanie then gets concerned and asks if they’re alright but Alex says it’s not like she cares as he rushes out.

Brady goes to the hospital and informs Sarah and Xander that Johnny said the files were in order and nothing was flagged by the FDA. Sarah is shocked while Xander says that can’t be right since when he looked in to it, the missing files were all scrubbed. Brady says he didn’t tell him that but there’s obviously a huge discrepancy. Brady adds that Steve wants to take a different approach to investigating this so he’s going to explore and get back to him. Sarah wonders if there could be a complete other set of files that Johnny found while Xander suggests Johnny could be covering for his dad.

Chanel rejoins Johnny in the living room and says she’s glad to hear Holly is on the mend, asking what caused her illness. Johnny reveals they found arsenic in the Horton cabin well water. Chanel is shocked as she brings up reading that arsenic is a major carcinogen. Chanel then points out to Johnny that she drank water at the Horton cabin and she’s had cancer twice.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, July 29, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Leo went to see Rafe to ask for his help to find Gwen. Rafe said he was on the case. Leo told Rafe everything he knew. Rafe told him Gwen’s phone was found smashed at an airstrip. He said only cargo planes were at the airstrip. Susan went to the DiMera mansion to call out EJ. She told him not to go down Stefano’s path and that’s what he did. Susan tapped into his energy and decided that the ring was the cause of the problem. She took the ring off his finger and said he was not Stefano and she wasn’t going to let him turn into a monster. Susan walked out with the ring. Rafe showed up and accused EJ of kidnapping Gwen. When things became tense between EJ and Rafe, Susan came back. She gave EJ back the ring after it was cleansed. Rafe said EJ was up to shady things. Susan said she knew EJ was up to shady things, but he didn’t kidnap Gwen. She said she would know it if he did kidnap Gwen. Leo called the airstrip so he could get the flight log. They sent the logs to his computer. Leo noticed one of the logs. He said a flight to Alamainia. Leo sent Dimitri a text asking if he knew anything about it. He got a message saying turnabout was fair play.

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Days Short Recap Monday, July 27, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Alex and Joy went to the pub. Arianna was there when they showed up. When Alex left, Arianna called Joy out for playing Alex. Arianna told Joy that she was trying to get Alex back. Joy denied trying to get Alex back. She told Arianna it would be nice for her daughter to have two loving parents without a crazy stepmother being in the picture. Arianna warned Joy that Stephanie was her cousin so she had to watch what she said about her. She told Joy not to break up Alex and Stephanie. Philip went to the Hernandez house to tell Gabi that he and Xander had nothing to do with the knockoffs. He said they wouldn’t risk upsetting her when she was giving them money. While they were talking, he admitted that he still cared about her. When Arianna came home, Gabi told her about the knockoffs. Gabi accused Philip and Xander of being responsible since they had access to the bags. Arianna said she had access to it too. She admitted that the bag Gabi gave her was misplaced.

Leo saw Marlena and talked to her about Gwen and how he was trying to find her confession letter. He said he thought EJ was behind Gwen’s disappearance and that he could be next. Leo said he had to plan his next move. Marlena said that wasn’t a good idea. He said he tried to get Cat to help, but she wouldn’t do it. Leo said it was up to him. He went to his room to pack. Cat went to Rafe’s office with Gwen’s confession letter. She told him that she stole the letter. They talked about EJ possibly making Gwen disappear. While they were talking, they realized they needed to find Dimitri. Alex and Joy went to the Kiriakis mansion to meet with Justin about Kelsey’s birth certificate. Justin told them the custody papers were ready to be signed. If anything happened to one of them, Kelsey would live with the surviving parent. Joy said Stephanie wasn’t raising her baby. She said Stephanie was dangerous to Kelsey. Joy wanted the custody agreement to be amended so that Alex’s access to Kelsey was contingent on Stephanie staying away. She said she wouldn’t sign without the amendment being added. Alex refused to sign it if it was added. Marlena ran into Cat and confronted her about lying to Leo about not being able to help him. Cat said she was on the case. Marlena realized that Cat made Gwen’s letter disappear. She warned Cat that she would talk to Andrew about her feelings for EJ getting in the way.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, July 28, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Marlena went to see Kate to offer an olive branch to her. She wondered if she would be willing to work together at Titan. Kate didn’t want to do it because Titan was going under. She blamed Marlena for the company’s downfall. Marlena tried to get her to get Roman’s forgiveness, but Kate didn’t think that would be enough. Kate felt like she had been knocked down before, but she always gets up. After her conversation, Kate decided to go the pub to talk to Roman. He wasn’t interested in making up with her. Kate went down memory lane with him, but it didn’t work. She tried a different approach by reminding him that she was his wife and apologized again. Kate was willing to give up everything for him. Xander found Sarah to tell her about his theory about the pills. He believed that Holly was innocent, but EJ wasn’t. Sarah didn’t think EJ was that cruel, but Xander reminded her that the DiMeras wold be in trouble if the truth about the drugs came out. Sarah told him what Steve said about the Coriseal supply and everything fell into place. She couldn’t believe that she thought Holly was lying. They realized that they needed proof before they approached EJ. Sarah had to apologize to Holly.

EJ went to see Holly at the hospital. He let her know that he helped her with Amy. EJ believed that Amy would drop the suit against her. He promised that he would be there for her. Sarah found EJ in Holly’s room and threw him out. Holly became upset with her when she did that. Sarah apologized to Holly. She told her that she knew Holly didn’t take the drugs, and they were planted in her bag. Sarah wouldn’t say who did it, but she knew she wasn’t guilty. Holly was relieved that she believed her and forgave her for everything. Brady and Tate went to the hospital. Tate wanted to get a gift for Holly. Xander overheard them talking about Gwen’s disappearance. Brady talked to Xander about his theory that EJ kidnapped Gwen. Xander told him that EJ planted the drugs on Holly. Marlena went to see EJ at the DiMera mansion to give him a warning. She reminded him that he was hurting his family, and people were afraid of him. Marlena wondered where it would end. She informed him that she knew about Lexie and wanted him to leave Titan alone and stop using Johnny to do his work for him. Sarah told Brady and Xander that she found EJ in Holly’s room. They agreed to keep digging for information until they had enough to take EJ down. Sarah thought it was weird that they were working together.

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Y&R Short Recap Friday, July 10, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Billy talks to Sally about Jill wanting him to go to London with her so they can work out their issues and try and rebuild their mother-son relationship. Sally tells Billy to go to London with Jill because she and the baby will be fine.

Traci calls Billy and tells him Jack is awake and Ashley has arrived so Billy goes to the hospital. Kyle tells the doctor at the hospital that Patty injected Diane with something and gives the doctor the syringe. The doctor returns later and tells Kyle and Traci that Diane was injected with a massive dose of digitalis but the doctor says that they gave her the antidote in time and she will be fine.

Jack tells Kyle to call Christine so he can make a statement to make sure that everyone knows Diane didn’t stab him.

Patty is arrested for injecting Diane with digitalis and taken to the police station.

Nick isn’t happy that Victor has decided to let Victoria be the CEO of Newman Enterprises on her own until Nick has his addiction under control . Victor tells Adam he intends to get Spectra Charles back and give it to him and Chelsea so the company can be Newman Media again. Adam doesn’t want to go after Sally because she is pregnant. Victor reminds Adam that Billy owns the company so they will get it back from him. Adam, Nick, and Victoria are not happy that Victor gave what is left of Arabesque to Phyllis.

Nikki tries her best to adjust to being blind since she still has bandages on her eyes.

Diane tells Jack that she forgives him and never stopped loving him. Jack tells Diane that he loves her too and they promise each other that they will work hard to rebuild their marriage.

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Y&R Short Recap Thursday, July 9, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Holden tells Claire that he accepted a job offer from Cane to work at Chancellor Industries.

Jill asks Billy to go to London with her so they can work out this rift between them before its too late since she doesn’t know how much time she has left.

Jack’s guard returns and unwittingly saves Jack from Patty injecting something into Jack’s IV that will kill him. Diane notices Patty coming out of Jack’s room and she, Kyle, and the guard chase Patty down at least ten flights of stairs. Kyle calls detective Burrow and tells him that he, Diane, and the guard are chasing after Patty and he should come to the hospital quick because he is worried Patty will kill Diane. Diane catches up to Patty and puts her hands around Patty’s throat and is strangling her when Kyle finds Diane and Patty. Patty injects Diane with what she intended to use on Jack.

Kyle tells the police that they should arrest Patty because she just injected his mother with something. Jack awakens while Tracy is at his bedside. It takes a few minutes to remember that Patty stabbed him. Traci tells Jack Patty and Dr. Markham told the police that Diane stabbed him.

Diane almost falls to the floor unconscious but Kyle picks up his unconscious mother and carries her to the emergency room.

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Y&R Short Recap Wednesday, July 8, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Micheal talks to Christine about Diane’s case and Christine tells him she had no choice but to press charges against Diane because all the evidence points to her. Christine tells Michael off the record that he hopes he can prove Patty did this to Jack.

Patty sneaks into Jack’s room and is about to inject something to his IV because she has to kill him because she doesn’t want him to wake up and tell the police that she stabbed him.

The rift between Billy and Jill grows wider when Jill tells Billy that she doesn’t think he should take the job offer from Cane because he won’t be able to take orders from Cane.

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Y&R Short Recap Tuesday, July 7, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Nikki goes home to the Newman ranch to recover from her eye surgery and she says thank you to Victor for letting her come home.

Michael gets Diane out on bail because Dr. Markham and Patty convince detective Burrow that Diane came home and was enraged when she saw Jack with Patty so she stabbed Jack in the stomach and stabbed Patty in the arms when Patty tried to protect Jack.

Patty talks to Dr. Markham later at the park and tells him they have to kill Jack so he won’t tell who stabbed him.

Billy, Diane, Kyle,Traci are by Jack’s hospital bed waiting for him to awaken. The doctors were able to repair the damage from the stabbing but they don’t know why he won’t wake up.

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Days Update Thursday, July 9, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Theo goes home and questions Lexie as to why she didn’t tell him that Stefano was responsible for her brain tumor.

Paulina is in her office on a call, frustated as she demands they get the contract signed and hangs up as Abe arrives. Abe says he remembers those calls and guesses it’s the sanitation contract. Paulina thought she made herself clear. Abe says he knows she doesn’t want to see him anymore, but he needs to talk to her and it’s very important.

Holly wakes up in her hospital bed to Tate at her side. Tate brings her the flowers from Philip and asks if she feels like the new treatment is working. Holly responds that she almost feels like herself again even though she can’t believe what she’s being treated before. Tate agrees, saying he thought arsenic poisoning was just in mystery books and movies. Holly jokes that next time she tries to be healthy, she’ll try to make it not life threatening as Tate kisses her.

Brady brings Sarah more coffee at the hospital and encourages that the report is good news since it traces the arsenic back to the well water at the Horton Cabin and not the main water line in Salem. Sarah complains that it still doesn’t give them the answers they need.

Rita meets EJ at the DiMera Mansion, where EJ says they are celebrating that Brady’s water sample from the Horton Cabin was brought to the hospital where he was successfully able to alter it so that the test results only found arsenic and not Coriseal which means there is no way that Holly’s illness can be traced back to him or DiMera, so they are in the clear.

Cat goes to meet Rafe at home. Cat mentions meeting EJ at the DiMera Mansion next and says she knows Rafe isn’t happy that Andrew approved the honey trap operation, but he did. Rafe then responds that he’s going to tell his superiors to pull the plug on the whole operation.

Abe tells Paulina that he’s sorry to bother her at work as he knows she’s busy, but she needs to hear this from him and not the records department. Abe then informs Paulina that Lexie’s death certificate has been revoked, which means he and Paulina’s marriage certificate will be too.

Lexie tells Theo that she knows he’s upset but she never blamed Stefano. Theo says he does and asks if this is why they tried to keep him away from DiMera Enterprises. Theo argues that he’s the co-CEO and doesn’t need protection. Theo complains that he idolized Stefano despite all the bad things people said about him and now he can’t believe it as he repeats that he hates Stefano now. Lexie encourages Theo becoming a grown man and that she’s so very proud of him.

Cat questions Rafe pulling the plug on the case and argues that he can’t do that when she’s spent months gaining EJ’s trust. Rafe says that thanks to her, they know what Dr. Rolf was doing in his lab, so it’s mission accomplished. Rafe adds that EJ is now not interested in selling his drug on the black market which means the crisis is averted and it’s time to pack up. Cat reminds Rafe that she’s ISA, so this is not his call to make. Cat adds that they both know what’s really going on here. Cat declares that she’s getting close to another man and Rafe can’t stand it. Cat tells Rafe to just admit that he’s jealous.

Rita worries to EJ that they are talking about a deadly poison and Holly’s doctors will want to know how it got in to the water. EJ says it can be explained that arsenic occurs naturally. Rita jokes that EJ can be a science teacher if this world domination doesn’t work out. EJ guesses Rita doesn’t approve. Rita asks how she could approve of him taking this risk. EJ argues that he couldn’t let Holly die. Rita asks what happens if he gets caught. EJ responds that he has deniability. Rita questions what Holly’s doctors are going to say about the Coriseal in her system. EJ responds that Holly’s an addict, so they’ll just assume she relapsed. Rita calls that cold and thought he cared about her. EJ says he does and it still pains him that she didn’t get the care she needed after her last overdose, but if she requires care in the future, it could be a blessing in disguise.

Brady argues that there’s only so many ways one can ingest Coriseal and if it’s not tied to the arsenic, the only other way would be if she took it deliberately. Sarah talks about Holly denied and denied it. Brady says if she doesn’t want people to know she’s using again, she would deny it. Sarah decides she has to talk to Holly again, so Brady wishes her luck and says he’ll be waiting.

Paulina tells Abe that they both knew this was coming and asks Abe not to act upset about it. Paulina calls it a positive development for Abe as he’s now free to go live his life happily ever after with the love of his life. Paulina asks Abe to just go. Abe says he’s sorry and exits as Paulina breaks down crying.

Holly jokes to Tate that she’s never going to drink water again. Tate calls it a one off random glitch. Sarah comes in and asks to talk to Holly alone, so Tate says he’ll be right outside and exits. Holly asks Sarah what’s wrong and if the treatment isn’t working. Sarah assures that it is and all of her blood work is trending in the right direction, but she needs to talk to her about something. Sarah explains that they got the analysis back on the water and confirms it was contaminated with arsenic which is good because that means she’s on the right treatment, but says it was not contaminated with Coriseal. Holly asks how it got in to her then. Sarah says that’s what she wanted to talk to her about. Holly questions if Sarah thinks she’s lying and that she’s using again and did this to herself.

Tate joins Brady and asks if he knows why Sarah looked so worried. Brady responds that they got the lab results back from the well water and it did contain arsenic, but no Coriseal. Tate argues that makes no sense and questions how else it would’ve gotten in to Holly’s system. Tate insists there is no way that Holly is using and that he would know if she was. Brady assures that as someone who has been there, he wouldn’t know.

Rafe asks if Cat has lost her mind. Cat calls him being a jealous a reasonable assumption because every time she gets close to EJ, he freaks out and threatens to shut down the case. Rafe argues that he doesn’t want her to get hurt and says it’s obvious that Cat is trying to distract him from pulling the plug on her getting in to bed with a womanizing sociopath. Cat argues that she’s not getting in to bed with him. Rafe asks if she’s sure about that. Cat says she is and remarks that Rafe could have a little faith in her. Cat adds that Andrew told her clearly the guidelines for drawing the line. Rafe says the question is, is she going to follow them? Cat assures that she will.

Rita tells EJ that Holly will now be unfairly accused of resuming substance abuse and could be sent to rehab even though she doesn’t need it. EJ says he wouldn’t need to rationalize anything if some idiot wouldn’t have buried the Coriseal near a well. EJ adds that he has a thousand different fires to put out which is why he can’t spend any more time on this one. Rita guesses that’s why he’s been delegating to Johnny and asks if he’s thought about what will happen if Theo smells a rat. EJ says then Theo will once again find himself without his cushy CEO job. Rita thought that was Tony’s call. EJ says she knows better than that. Rita guesses that while putting out a thousand fires, he’ll also be declaring war on his siblings. EJ argues that Kristen declared war on him and he won’t need to go to war with Tony if he stays in his lane and Chad just needs to stay away from Cat. EJ adds that his biggest sibling problem is Lexie’s health. Rita mentions Dr. Rolf telling her that she’s doing poorly. EJ confirms that now Lexie is angry at him for bringing her back and perhaps rightfully so as perhaps it was too soon, but they’ll never know.

Theo asks Lexie if Kristen is right about why Lexie got sick. Lexie responds that it was a long time ago and she forgave Stefano, but confirms it was. Theo states that he can’t ever forgive him. Lexie doesn’t want Theo spending the rest of his life being angry at him as he can’t change the past and it will only poison his future. Theo wishes Abe told him when he was older and that he found out from someone who loved him, like her. Lexie agrees that he deserved the truth then and he deserves the truth now about something else. Lexie tells Theo that getting to know the man he’s become means more to her than he knows and how lucky she’s been to have this second chance. Lexie starts to say she’s not sure but Abe comes home and interrupts them. Abe asks why they look so serious. Theo reveals that he knows that Stefano was responsible for Lexie’s brain tumor and questions why he didn’t hear it from Abe. Abe asks if Lexie told him. Theo informs him that Kristen did. Abe questions what reason Kristen had. Theo says it’s not about her reasons but about why Abe didn’t tell him and let him believe that Stefano was a good man. Abe responds that Stefano was good to Theo and they had a special relationship, so he was afraid that telling him would hurt him terribly. Abe tells Theo that he’s so sorry for keeping it from him. Theo asks what about now and if there are any other secrets he’s keeping from him. Abe thinks back to asking EJ to help him get Theo away from DiMera Enterprises. Theo tells Abe that if there are any more secrets, he needs him to tell him now.

Rita asks EJ how Stefano would react to what he’s done. EJ thinks Stefano would agree that he took the best possible course. Rita questions risking the company name to save a teenage girl who doesn’t share his last name or DNA. Rita decides it’s time for her to go and leaves through the tunnels as Cat arrives at the front door. Cat enters the living room as EJ hopes she’s ready to get to work. Cat says not just yet and informs EJ that she lied to him when she said she didn’t remember anything when Marlena hypnotized her.

Brady asks Tate to think hard about this because if Holly is using again, she’s going to need help and they need to know about it. Brady asks if he saw any warning signs. Tate assures that Holly wouldn’t keep this a secret. Brady insists that she would. Tate says he was with Holly the whole weekend all the time, unless she took pills in the bathroom.

Sarah tells Holly that she’s not accusing her of anything and is just asking. Holly insists that she’s not taking anything and questions why Sarah doesn’t believe her. Sarah says she wants to believe her but doesn’t understand how she could’ve unknowingly ingested Coriseal. Holly cries that she keeps trying to do the right thing but everything she does is wrong and starts to panic that Sarah hates her now and her mom will too. Sarah assures no one hates her and that they just want to help. Holly cries that she doesn’t need help, she needs her to believe her but she doesn’t, so she’s done. Holly then yells at Sarah to get out of her room.

Theo knows Abe thinks he’s protecting him, but calls it disrespectful to withhold information that affects him directly. Theo repeats that if there are any more secrets, he needs to know now. Abe then swears there is nothing else. Lexie promises that’s all.

Cat explains to EJ that she didn’t want to be hypnotized because she was afraid of what she might remember and bringing up the painful memories of the accident. Cat apologizes as she knows how much EJ wanted answers while it took her longer to realize how much she wanted them too, so she went back to Marlena and went through with it. EJ asks if she remembered anything. Cat reveals that she did remember kissing him at the clinic in Italy.

Tate tells Brady that he can’t believe this and finds it hard to believe that Holly is using again when she’s been so open with him about everything. Brady points out that blood tests don’t lie. Tate insists there has to be another explanation for this. Sarah comes over and thanks Tate for giving her a moment alone with Holly. Tate says he’s going to talk to her. Sarah warns him that Holly is really upset. Tate says he’s sure she is as he goes to her room. Brady guesses Holly is denying it. Sarah confirms she is and that she’s so angry at her for implying she might be using again. Sarah argues that she tested positive for the drug and questions what other plausible explanation there is. Brady tells her they will figure it out together.

Tate returns to Holly’s room and says he just talked to Brady. Holly guesses by the way he’s looking at her, that Brady got to him and convinced him that she’s using again.

Lexie asks Abe if he’s okay as he looked like he had the weight of the world on his shoulders when he walked in. Abe responds that he’s okay and just had to tell Paulina that their marriage is invalid. Theo asks how she took it. Abe says she just said she knew it was coming. Lexie knows that doesn’t make it easier for either of them. Theo thanks Lexie for the support and says he has work, so he should get going as he then exits. Lexie comments on Theo having a hard time reading social cues, but she can read Abe like a book even if their son can’t or else he would know that Abe was lying to him.

Tate informs Holly that Brady told him about the water test and that there wasn’t any Coriseal in it. Holly swears on their love that she’s not lying to him, so there must be another explanation because she didn’t take those pills. Holly doesn’t know what she’ll do if he doesn’t believe her. Tate tells her that he believes her. Holly hugs him as she cries.

Brady brings up the medical book being left open on Sarah’s desk, so someone must have known or at least suspected arsenic was making Holly sick. Sarah points out that whoever it was might have saved Holly’s life. Brady questions why they didn’t just tell her and why go through these lengths to hide their identity. Brady questions who would know about the contaminated water and insists that someone is connected to what’s going on with Holly. Sarah adds that Xander discovered that the files on Coriseal are missing from DiMera Pharmaceuticals. Brady declares that there is something that is definitely not right.

Cat tells EJ that she remembers reading Wuthering Heights to him, but a different passage than before. EJ calls that quite a memory. Cat adds that she was holding his hand and he gripped her hand tightly, which was the first time he knew she was there. EJ wishes he could remember. Cat says this part is a little crazy, but at the time she thought if she kissed him, maybe he would wake up, joking that she read Sleeping Beauty too many times. EJ guesses she must have been disappointed. Cat assures that she was, but says their connection is from all those years ago and hasn’t gone away as it’s still there.

Paulina runs in to Theo in the town square. Paulina mentions going to the bakery to check on Chanel. Theo asks how she’s doing. Paulina says as well as could be expected. Theo mentions Abe just telling him about their marriage. Paulina responds that she’s okay and has decided to get more proactive, instead of reactive. Paulina then tells Theo that she needs his help. Paulina noticed Abe wasn’t wearing his wedding ring, so she won’t be wearing her ring either. Paulina then removes the ring and asks Theo to give it to Abe for her as she places it in his hand.

Abe tells Lexie that he hates that he went to EJ and made that deal with him. Lexie understands that he was trying to protect Theo and what he thought her wishes were as he thought she would be opposed to Theo at DiMera. Abe says she wasn’t but he wants her to understand his reasons and he knows she doesn’t like lying. Lexie thinks back to arguing with EJ about losing her life. Lexie then tells Abe that she does hate lying, but sometimes the truth hurts more. Abe agrees and in this case it will. Abe adds that if ever comes out to EJ’s advantage, they both know he’ll tell Theo and it would be worse from Theo to hear it from EJ. Lexie suggests maybe Abe should tell Theo himself then.

Holly thanks Tate for believing her. Tate says that Brady and Sarah tried to convince him that she was using drugs again, but when he saw her, he knew with no doubts. Holly didn’t think she could love Tate any more than she did, but she was wrong.

Sarah tells Brady that she would love nothing more than to find out some other way that Holly could’ve ingested Coriseal, but she doesn’t know where to start or what to look for. Brady assures they will figure it out somehow together. Sarah is grateful for his help and complains that leaving an open book on her desk does not get someone off the hook for nearly killing her niece.

EJ tells Cat that it was brave of her to go back to Marlena and risk reliving painful memories. Cat responds that the memories it brought up, she can’t just ignore. EJ says he hopes not as they kiss. EJ stops and says he is aware that Cat doesn’t want to take this further and he respects that. Cat questions that when patience is not his cup of tea. EJ responds that she is worth waiting for.

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Days Short Recap Friday, July 24, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Xander and Sarah talked about Holly, and the pills in her system. Sarah wanted to believe her, but the evidence was hard to ignore. She wondered how Holly got the pills. Xander felt like EJ was involved with what happened to Holly. Sarah was worried about Xander going up against EJ. She was afraid of what EJ would do to him. Leo was at Gwen’s door and didn’t get an answer. He wondered if he should get Gwen’s letter and expose EJ. Leo finally got into Gwen’s room and saw that she hadn’t been there. He looked for her lawyer’s card and went to the town square. While Leo was in the town square, he ran into Cat. He started telling her about Gwen and the dirt on EJ. Leo told her that Gwen wasn’t missing as long as she wanted to be before he got the letter, but he wanted to do something anyway. He wondered if Cat could help him. Cat promised that she wouldn’t tell EJ about what he knew. Kayla and Steve talked about Gwen’s disappearance. Steve wanted to check with Shane to see what he knew. Brady arrived at the pub, and Steve talked to him about EJ. Steve talked to the pharmacies that did business with the DiMeras, and they cut off their Coriseal two years ago. It happened around the time of the deaths. He thought that the DiMeras had a lot of bad pills and got rid of them,

Sarah met with Kayla at the hospital, and Steve and Brady told her what they found out about the Coriseal. Sarah and Kayla got to work on how Holly fit into the equation. Steve thought that the well had to be how Holly got the arsenic in her system. Sarah and Brady realized they were too hasty to believe that Holly was taking drugs again. Johnny arrived at the DiMera mansion and ripped into EJ about what happened to Holly. EJ didn’t deny planting the drugs, but he had to protect the family. Johnny was very angry with his father, but EJ told him it had to be done to protect the family. He said he would lose Chanel and his family. Johnny understood, but he didn’t agree with what he did. He realized he didn’t have a choice and had to go along with EJ. Later EJ went to see Melinda. He demanded that Amy drop the civil suit against Holly, or he would file charges against Sophia for what she did to Johnny. He would also put the blame on Amy for what Sophia did. Leo interrupted them to talk to Melinda. EJ left Melinda’s office in disgust. Leo asked Melinda about Gwen’s lawyer since he works in her office. He needed her help to bring EJ down. Melinda wanted to help him get EJ. She looked through the lawyer’s files and found a folder for Leo. Xander went to see Johnny. He knew that Johnny lied to Steve and Brady about the missing drugs. Xander needed Johnny’s help for Holly’s sake. He believed that Holly was telling the truth. Xander wanted Johnny to help her. He flashed back to the day he brought Holly’s bag to her. EJ was there at the time. Xander showed Sarah a video, and the bag was left in the room. He rushed out the door when he put it together. Shane reached out to Steve and told him that Gwen’s phone was deactivated. Melinda opened the letter, but it was blank. Cat was on the computer and deleted the file. EJ called Rita and told her that it was time for Kristen to disappear.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, July 23, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Kristen went to Abe and Lexie’s place to let her sister know that they had to get ready for tomorrow night. If Lexie wasn’t ready, Kristen understood and would come up with another plan for her to get away. Lexie didn’t want to back out so Kristen came up with another plan. She told Lexie they just had to say goodbye to their loved ones. Abe arrived home while Lexie wrote her goodbyes. He gave her wedding rings. Abe informed her that her death certificate was rescinded, and he wanted to renew their vows. They decided to renew their vows. During their renewal ceremony, Lexie’s hands were too shaky to put the ring on Abe’s finger. She said that she was nervous. Lexie cried during the ceremony. Marlena and Brady went to see Rachel at Bayview. They let her know that she would be going home soon. Rachel was ready to go. Marlena left the room so Brady and Rachel could talk. Kristen arrived at Bayview. Rachel noticed how sad Kristen was. Kristen said that she missed her. Rachel left the room to get her artwork. Brady wanted to make sure that Rachel would be safe around EJ. Kristen thanked him and said goodbye.

Belle saw Stephanie at Small Bar. They talked about Joy and how she was trying to come between her and Alex. Belle reminded her about what Jan did to come between her and Shawn. She said that she lost Shawn because of her jealousy and paranoia. Belle didn’t want Stephanie to do the same thing with her marriage to Alex. Chad had the same conversation with Alex about Stephanie and Joy. They also talked about the feud between their families. Alex thought that the DiMeras and the Kiriakises had to end their feud. Chad and Alex met with Belle and Stephanie for their date nights. Chad surprised Belle with tickets to Milan. Belle told him that the clues mentioned Rome so they decide to go to both places. Alex and Stephanie talked about their problems with Joy. Stephanie told him that he was a good man and that she was lucky to be married to him. Alex was thankful that she felt that way especially with the drama going on with the family. Stephanie offered her royalties to help them get through the problem. Belle and Chad went to the town square and agreed not to tell anyone where they were going. They ran into Marlena and ended up telling her about their plans. Abe wanted to go on a second honeymoon, but Lexie made plans to see her mother. Brady realized something was going on with Kristen. Rachel interrupted them before he could ask Kristen any questions.

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Days Update Wednesday, July 8, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Gwen goes to Tate’s gym where he is working out. Gwen comments that she could’ve used a move like that yesterday as she got in to a bit of a scuffle. Tate questions her getting in a fight. Gwen responds that she used her self defense training outside of the gym and it was with Kristen. Tate recalls Gwen initially saying something about EJ coming after her. Gwen says EJ was there too and tried to break it up, but got a big shiner.

Theo goes to the DiMera Enterprises office where he’s surprised to find Gabi at his desk.

Alex goes home and calls out to Stephanie that he’s back, but she’s not home. Alex pulls out his phone but Stephanie comes in behind him. Alex thought she was working from home. Stephanie says she just needed some air. Alex goes to kiss her but Stephanie pulls away and asks if Joy and Kelsey are okay. Alex says they are fine and he just changed a flat tire. Alex adds that he knows Stephanie is annoyed, but Stephanie remarks that she’s royally pissed off.

Philip goes to the hospital and brings Sarah flowers for Holly. Sarah says she will make sure they get delivered to her. Philip asks how Holly is doing. Sarah says the good news is they think they know what it is but the bad news is that it’s arsenic poisoning. Sarah says they have started treatment and she’s responding well but she’s not out of the woods yet. Philip mentions talking to Maggie and says he thought she was joking about someone leaving the medical book open, but it’s obvious that someone knew about Holly. Sarah says that now they have to figure out who.

Brady goes to the DiMera Mansion and tells Kristen that Rachel’s doctors told the judge that she’s ready to be released from Bayview. Kristen says she just got the e-mail. Brady points out that normally Kristen would be thrilled about that, but she thinks Rachel is in danger from EJ and questions what that’s about. Kristen remarks that everyone is in danger from EJ. Brady says that vague answer won’t cut it. Kristen doesn’t know what to say. Brady tells her to clue him in as to what’s going on because he saw her face yesterday when she found out EJ had visited Rachel. Brady says it freaked her out that EJ was leaving some sort of message, threat, or warning. Brady questions why Kristen didn’t ask EJ about it. Brady asks when Kristen is going to confront EJ about his visit to Bayview because he needs to be apart of that conversation. Kristen responds that it’s not going to happen. Brady argues that they are talking about their daughter’s safety. Kristen complains that they can question EJ all they want but they know they’ll never get a straight answer. Brady remarks that it seems like he’ll never get one from her either.

Tate works out with Gwen and encourages her not to go looking for a fight, but to be able to defend herself when needed. Gwen responds that what Kristen did to her called for a response. Gwen asks if Tate is mad at her because Kristen is his dad’s ex and Rachel’s mom. Tate assures that he’s not and admits he’s never been a fan of Kristen. Tate adds that he’s sure whatever happened between them, Kristen started it. Gwen asks Tate to show her some more moves so she’s ready for when Kristen starts again.

Theo reminds Gabi that he told her to leave him alone. Gabi tells him this is really important, so Theo asks what she wants. Gabi knows she has no right to ask, but she needs a favor.

Stephanie asks Alex if their life now is him constantly dropping everything to go help Joy with some problem that she should be able to figure out on her own. Stephanie argues that Joy is not his responsibility. Alex responds that his daughter is. Stephanie complains that Joy knows to say Kelsey and emergency and then Alex will go running. Alex argues that she was stranded on the side of the road and it’s not like she let the air out of her tire, herself. Stephanie asks if he’s sure about that.

Philip tells Sarah that he was surprised when Maggie told him the well water at the Horton cabin might be contaminated. Sarah says she was too as Julie sent the water test results from the last five years and they were all clean, including from this year, so they are waiting on the results from the sample they just took. Philip brings up that arsenic can occur in nature and asks if there’s any chance Holly just had bad luck. Sarah says it’s possible but she’s afraid Holly may have ingested the contaminated drug manufactured by DiMera Pharmaceuticals and she’s come across two other cases from two years ago that might support her hypothesis, pointing out that’s when EJ was running DiMera. Philip knows EJ is an evil SOB but knowingly putting out tainted meds is a whole other level of evil. Philip swears that if EJ is responsible for what happened to Holly, he will have no problem delivering his just desserts with a side of arsenic. Sarah complains that he sounds like Xander now and strongly advises him not to go looking for revenge. Philip argues that if EJ poisoned a member of his family, he can’t just let it go. Sarah says they are going to let the law handle it. Philip points out that not working well in the past. Sarah questions letting the DiMera-Kiriakis feud go on forever and points out the damage that’s been done to both families. Philip says especially his family as they are on the verge of losing everything because of it. Philip agrees with Sarah that the fighting needs to stop, so Sarah tells him to do something about it to end it. Philip asks if she thinks they’d ever get Xander on board with that.

Theo questions Gabi having the audacity to ask him for another favor, arguing that she’s not capable of being generous and selfless. Gabi knows he’s upset about her plans for her inheritance and she’s sorry about that. Theo feels she’s only sorry that she got busted betraying her boyfriend but he still felt she deserved the inheritance and then she repaid him by giving a chunk of it to his family’s chief rival. Theo thinks that’s despicable. Gabi says she is grateful that he went against his family, but says not to pretend he made some huge sacrifice by awarding her the inheritance as he admitted to selfish reasons like not wanting to see her in court. Gabi declares that it’s her money so she can do whatever she wants with it which Theo says is the real Gabi coming out to play. Gabi responds that she’s not playing when it comes to the family and Theo says he’s not either.

Gwen works out with Tate. Tate asks about her fight with Kristen as he thought they were cool. Gwen responds that they were until she started shagging Xander at the same time that she was. Gwen calls Kristen a backstabbing bitch who broke girl code. Gwen knew going in that Xander only wanted meaningless sex, but Kristen knew she wanted more than an open situationship. Gwen adds that top it all off, Kristen denied it twice when she asked her. Gwen tells Tate to go on and judge her becuase she’s used to it. Tate responds that he’s not judging her at all and feels really sorry that she had to deal with all of that as no one deserves to be treated like that, especially by someone they thought was a friend.

Kristen tells Brady that when you’re a DiMera, revenge is just a way of life. Brady questions if she’s just going to sit back and wait for EJ to make his next move which might be against their little girl. Kristen insists that EJ is not going to hurt Rachel. Brady argues that Kristen is all over the map on this as she went from not wanting Rachel released because she’d be in danger to now saying everything’s fine. Brady adds that he doesn’t know why EJ would come after their daughter in the first place. Brady brings up Rachel said that EJ came to forgive her and asks why he would do that if he was going to hurt her. Kristen asks why EJ does anything. Brady complains that they are going in circles and he’s not doing this anymore. Brady says he’s not going to let anything happen to Rachel. Brady asks Kristen if Rachel is in danger from EJ and if he needs to do something about it. Kristen responds that it’s between her and EJ, so she will handle it. Kristen says she was just venting and acknowledges that EJ loves his niece and only wants what’s best for her. Kristen says it’s just EJ being a jerk and her overreacting, so she just needs them to focus on getting their daughter home. Kristen adds that she will let him know if anything changes as Brady then exits the mansion.

Alex asks Stephanie if they can put a pin in this conversation, but she says they can’t. Stephanie argues that Joy is manipulating him and asks how he’s not seeing it. Alex repeats that it’s not like Joy got a flat tire on purpose and would never put Kelsey in danger. Alex says it’s crazy to even suggest that. Stephanie then asks if he’s saying she’s crazy. Alex shouts that’s not what he’s saying and decides now he needs some air, so he walks out of the apartment.

Brady goes to the hospital and tells Sarah that Rachel’s release is good to go home with him as soon as the judge signs the paperwork. Sarah asks if Kristen is okay with that. Brady says that she doesn’t want Rachel in the DiMera Mansion either. Brady asks about Holly. Sarah says she has begun treatment, so they are hoping for the best. Sarah adds that she is confident it’s arsenic poisoning so that’s how they are proceeding and says that Holly is responding to the meds. Sarah mentions putting a rush on Destiny’s labs and expects to see the same. Brady talks about how crazy it is to be dealing with arsenic poisoning. Sarah asks if he had any luck with the medical book left on her desk, but Brady says he’s afraid that’s a dead end.

Theo tells Gabi that he’s tired of people thinking they can walk over him because he’s the nice DiMera, including her. Theo questions Gabi thinking she can come ask for a favor after the way she treated him. Gabi clarifies that she also came to see Arianna, but she left the building as soon as she saw her. Theo is not surprised and says he would’ve done the same thing if he saw her coming. Gabi says so much for being the nice DiMera. Gabi tells Theo to keep on tearing her down as she’s lost her boyfriend, her daughter, and her good friend. Theo asks whose fault that is. Gabi admits it’s all her fault.

Alex sits in the town square as Bonnie comes by and greets him. Alex says he just needed to clear his head. Bonnie says that Justin told her what EJ is doing with Titan and asks if that’s what is weighing on him. Alex says that’s part of it, but there’s so much more. Alex admits he feels like he’s barely hanging on.

Philip goes to see Stephanie and says he came to check on her. Stephanie claims she’s good but Philip doesn’t believe her and asks what’s wrong. Stephanie cries that it’s everything as Philip comes in and hugs her.

Brady informs Sarah that he and Steve dusted the medical book for prints, but only found her prints. Sarah guesses whoever snuck in was careful. Brady says they definitely wanted to remain hidden. Sarah complains that whoever did this could’ve saved Holly’s life but also could’ve caused Destiny’s death and put Holly in this mess in the first place.

Gabi tells Theo that she admits what she did was wrong, but questions if it’s really so unforgivable. Theo responds that he cared about her and thought she cared about him too, but then she accused him of betraying her and refused to believe him when he told her he hadn’t which is not something he can easily forgive. Theo tells Gabi to just ask what she wants to ask and be on her way. Gabi says she’s sure that he’s heard EJ bought Titan’s debt and is putting the squeeze on them. Theo reveals he actually hadn’t. Gabi tells Theo that the terms of the new loan are ridiculous, so as long as Stefan’s inheritance is distributed quickly, Titan can remain solvent, but if EJ finds out the DiMera money is going to save Titan, he’ll make sure she never sees a dime. Theo responds that he thinks what she’s doing with the money is despicable, but assures that EJ won’t hear about it from him. Gabi thanks him. Theo asks if they are done now because he has to get back to work. Gabi says goodbye and exits.

Tate asks Gwen if she’s going after Xander too. Gwen says absolutely and jokes that’ll be after they complete weapons training. Tate senses that she’s not as angry at Xander as she is at Kristen when he’s the bad guy too. Gwen assures that she’s furious with Xander but he did make it clear that he didn’t want feelings involved and they didn’t talk about being exclusive, but she didn’t think he would go shag the one friend she has. Tate agrees that Xander should’ve told her. Gwen declares that she was a fool for going after Xander when he couldn’t give her what she wanted, so she only has herself to blame.

Bonnie tells Alex that she’s sorry he’s dealing with so much all at once. Bonnie encourages him to think about his daughter. Alex promises to bring her by soon and suggests doing some of his visits with her at the Kiriakis mansion since he can’t have Kelsey around Stephanie. Alex states that between work, his wife, and his daughter, he feels like he’s being pulled in all directions. Bonnie knows Alex wants to make everybody happy, but tells him parent to parent, that’s never going to happen.

Stephanie tells Philip that she and Alex had a fight over something stupid that’s not even worth talking about. Philip reveals that he spoke to Chloe, so he knows Joy doesn’t want Stephanie around Kelsey and why. Stephanie complains that she should’ve known that would get around. Stephanie admits the shooting was her fault, but swears it was not on purpose and that she’s so happy Joy was not hurt. Philip assures that he believes her. Stephanie questions him not thinking she’s crazy too. Philip responds that he doesn’t and asks what she means. Stephanie starts to talk about what Alex said, but says it’s not Philip’s problem. Philip feels it kind of his and says she’s been through Hell the past few months while a lot of what happened is his fault.

Theo talks on the phone with Johnny about an upcoming meeting and says he’s on stand by if he needs him. Theo hangs up as Kristen arrives and asks what he can do for her. Kristen responds that she needs a favor. Theo says that seems to be going around.

Brady asks Sarah who had access to her office. Sarah responds that it was unlocked, so everyone did. Brady points out that would include EJ so he thinks it’s possible that he did it. Sarah asks how to prove it.

Stephanie questions how what’s going on with her could be Philip’s fault. Philip explains that he and Sarah were just talking about the ongoing DiMera-Kiriakis feud and all the people who suffered because of it, which includes Stephanie when she was involved with him. Stephanie stops him and says that she and Alex had a similar conversation this morning. Stephanie says she’s not denying what happened in the past but she doesn’t want to drag it in to the present as she’s focused on taking control of her future. Philip tells her that he’s proud of her and agrees. Philip encourages her to keep looking forward and not to be afraid to ask for help.

Bonnie tells Alex that she knows what it’s like to try to please everybody without losing your own marbles. Alex agrees that he can’t make everyone happy. Bonnie calls it hard but doable, using Justin as an example. Alex calls it crazy how Justin made it look easy for all of his kids. Alex acknowledges that Bonnie made incredible sacrifices to protect her kids and worked really hard to change. Bonnie points out how far Alex has come and how he now has a wife and a daughter. Bonnie encourages that Alex will figure it all out as she believes in him. Alex thanks her and says he appreciates that. Bonnie reminds him that she and Justin are there to help with whatever he needs. Bonnie advises Alex to remember to pause and cherish the happy moments and be grateful for his wife and child. Bonnie says he will find clarity and all his answers. Bonnie admits she’s been reading self help books and thinks it sounds like good advice. Alex agrees and thanks her again as she hugs him. Bonnie says she just wants to see him happy as he’s like a son to her and she’ll be there for him no matter what.

Tate works with Gwen and encourages her to beat up the punching bag instead of herself. Tate praises Gwen as doing great and learning really fast. Tate adds that he needs to get to the hospital, so Gwen thanks him for the lesson and the free therapy. Gwen says to send her best to Holly while Tate says he will see her at their next session.

Kristen asks Theo if it’s a bad time. Theo says it’s fine and asks what favor she needs. Kristen informs him that Rachel is being released from Bayview soon. Theo says that’s great but Kristen is worried about EJ because they despise each other and she thinks he could possibly use Rachel to get to her. Theo asks how. Kristen says she doesn’t know and she may be paranoid, but it’s better safe than sorry. Kristen tells Theo that the favor is simple as she was hoping that if EJ says anything about Rachel, Theo could just let her know. Theo agrees to do so, but can’t believe they are talking about this. Kristen argues that Theo might see EJ as his dry old uncle but he has no idea who EJ really is.

Stephanie tells Philip that Alex told her about he and Gabi’s break up. Stephanie says she’s sorry about what Gabi did to him and Titan. Philip responds that he thought they had a great thing going, but she did something he can’t forgive. Philip brings up EJ having Titan in a vice now. Stephanie says she will help any way she can, even if Titan might need more than good PR. Philip jokes that if they need a press release on the implosion of his family’s empire, she will be the one he calls.

Gabi runs in to Gwen in the town square. Gabi compliments Gwen’s purse from Gabi Chic but then takes a closer look and questions Gwen as to where she got it. Gwen says she got it online. Gabi then reveals it’s a knockoff. Gwen is shocked as she paid a fortune for it and declares she’s been robbed. Gabi says she has too.

Alex goes home to find Philip comforting Stephanie and says he wasn’t expecting him. Philip says he was just leaving and quickly exits. Alex questions Stephanie as to what that was all about. Stephanie responds that Philip just came to check up on her, calling it very thoughtful and kind. Alex guesses she means unlike him, then apologizes. Stephanie repeats that he implied she was crazy while Alex says she knows that’s not what he meant. Alex asks her to forgive him for using that word. Stephanie admits she overreacted and apologizes too. Stephanie then asks Alex to see Joy’s actions from her perspective. Alex responds that he does and understands her concern, but promises his eyes are wide open and if he sees Joy taking advantage of their situation, he will stop it. Stephanie agrees to trust him on that. Alex tells her that he loves her. She says the same as they kiss and hug.

Brady tells Sarah that if she can get him a list of everyone working that night, he can start asking around if anyone saw EJ. Sarah thinks they’d be reluctant to rat out the boss. Sarah then gets the water analysis back. Tate arrives and asks if they know why Holly is so sick. Sarah says no but they hope to have answers soon. Tate asks if he can go see her. Sarah says that Holly’s mom is in with her now but she’s sure they would love to see him. Sarah sends flowers from Philip with Tate to deliver. Brady then asks about the water analysis. Sarah responds that it shows a concentrated amount of arsenic, but no Coriseal.

Theo tells Kristen that he hates that everyone thinks he is so naïve when it comes to their family. Kristen responds that she doesn’t think that, but she thinks he’s forgotten that EJ is his father’s son and that Stefano was far from a saint. Theo assures that he hasn’t forgotten and questions her ripping on Stefano. Kristen states that there’s just things he doesn’t know. Theo complains that Kristen is talking to him like he’s stupid when he knows who his Grandfather was. Theo argues that Stefano wasn’t perfect, but he valued his family and wouldn’t do anything to hurt them. Kristen complains that Stefano kept her from her mother and made her believe she was dead, brainwashed his own son, and even Lexie wasn’t immune. Kristen brings up what Stefano did to Lexie but stops. Theo questions what he did to his mother and demands an answer. Kristen guesses it’s time he knew since he’s likely to find out one day anyway. Kristen then informs Theo that Stefano was the reason that Lexie got a brain tumor, so it was Stefano’s fault that Theo lost his mother.

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Days Update Tuesday, July 7, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Cat goes to Marlena’s office at the hospital and asks if she has a minute so Marlena invites her in. Cat asks about making an appointment and informs her that she’s changed her mind and wants to try a hypnosis session. Marlena says she doesn’t have any appointments for awhile, so they can start right now.

Chanel brings Trey to the town square and says it’s just them today since Johnny went to work before they got up. Theo joins them and asks how they are doing. Chanel says they are about to head to a mommy & me class. Joy then comes by with Kelsey and greets them. Theo jokes that it’s like a Body & Soul reunion. Joy mentions heading to the mommy & me class, so Theo asks if it’s the same one and they are in it together. Chanel decides they are now going to skip it and claims she just remembered a lot of work she has to get done. Joy says that’s too bad and maybe she’ll catch her there next time, but Chanel says not likely.

Alex tells Stephanie about EJ buying the loan from the bank just to put the screws to Titan and question what Xander and Kate were thinking by going after Johnny like that. Stephanie guesses they weren’t thinking but calls it relatively tame for a DiMera revenge plot. Alex knows this endless feud has caused her a lot of hurt. Stephanie says it’s hurt a lot of people but it’s because of this feud that Owen kidnapped her. Alex thought the bad blood between the families would have died with Victor and Stefano but Stephanie points out that it’s alive and well, so now the next generation are hellbent on destroying each other.

EJ sits at home on the phone with Johnny, telling him that their mission was a success and they have begun treatment on Holly. EJ hangs up when Lexie arrives. Lexie warns EJ not to listen to Dr. Rolf’s medical advice so he doesn’t end up like her. EJ says he’s spoken with Dr. Rolf and he’s very sorry about the latest developments in her condition. Lexie doesn’t care as she spent 15 years hovering between life and death, then EJ brought her back without her consent and made her a human guinea pig with an experimental drug. Lexie asks if it was just to watch her suffer through the pain of seeing her body fail all over again and says she wouldn’t wish that on anyone, except maybe EJ.

Theo comments that it seems like things are still tense between Chanel and Joy. Theo knows Chanel has her reasons to not like Joy but says it’s not like she intentionally set out to hurt her. Chanel doesn’t want to get in to what happened with Joy and Johnny, saying the real issue was the cover up and the lying. Chanel states that she and Johnny have moved on. Theo says that’s good, but Joy is living in Salem and has a kid the same age as Trey, so it’s not like she can avoid her forever. Chanel says she can sure as hell try.

Alex apologizes to Stephanie as he realizes all this talk about going to war with EJ might be triggering. Stephanie says it’s okay as she’s his wife and he should be able to talk to her about whatever’s going on at work. Stephanie adds that she’s done feeling like a victim. Alex says he’s proud of her but still feels he shouldn’t be putting it in her face. Stephanie repeats that it’s okay and just hopes his cousins are okay as it’s another thing to throw gasoline on the family feud. Alex assures he’s trying to stop this from spinning out. Alex talks about Titan being his daughter’s legacy too, so he owes it to her to do whatever he can to save the company. Stephanie says she’s his family too. Alex calls her the most important as they kiss. Stephanie then declares she’s going to help him fight to save Titan and she’s already thinking about how to spin the PR as that will be a big part in stopping EJ. Alex then gets a call from Joy, who tells Alex that she needs help.

Marlena asks Cat what changed her mind about having hypnosis. Cat responds that she had a conversation with a friend who told her that she could trust her. Marlena asks who that friend was. Cat then reveals it was Andrew Donovan. Marlena didn’t know she knew Andrew and questions where they met. Cat has a feeling she can figure that out. Marlena asks if Cat is telling her that she’s ISA. Cat then confirms that she is.

Theo comments on Chanel really hating Joy. Chanel says she doesn’t hate her, she just doesn’t want anything to do with her. Theo questions Chanel forgiving Johnny, but not Joy. Chanel argues that it’s not about forgiveness. Chanel declares that with everything going on in her life, she needs positivity and not fake friends as she calls Joy a bucket of drama.

Joy tells Alex that she was on her way to a mommy & me class with Kelsey when she got a flat tire. Alex asks where she is. She responds that she’s in a grassy spot on the side of the highway. Alex if she has a spare tire. Joy confirms that she does but she’s a New York City girl and doesn’t know how to change it. Kelsey starts to cry, so Alex tells Joy not to worry as he’ll be right there, leaving Stephanie annoyed.

Marlena gets a text from Andrew, confirming that Cat is with the ISA and says she understands now why she was hesitant about hypnosis. Cat says she’s sorry she wasn’t able to tell her before. Marlena responds that she understands the rules of the ISA. Marlena then asks if working as her assistant was part of the operation. Cat says that all she can say is that Marlena and her family were never the target of any investigations. Marlena asks if she was still an ISA agent. Cat clarifies that she was an analyst. Cat asks if Marlena is still okay with doing this as she doesn’t want to put her in a position of something dangerous. Marlena responds that it’s not her first rodeo with the ISA or confidentiality. Marlena asks if Cat’s still interested in what happened at the clinic in Italy and her interactions with EJ. Cat confirms that she is and says she remembers a little bit, but it’s mostly a blur. Marlena understands since she was in a major accident. Cat brings up that EJ not remembering much under hypnosis. Marlena points out that EJ was unconscious for most of that time while Cat was awake, so she’s optimistic that they will get some answers. Cat assures that she does not intend on sharing those answers with EJ but says she does need to know for herself what happened between them.

EJ questions Lexie coming to his home to rake him over the coals after everything he’s done for her. Lexie responds that she came to see Dr. Rolf because he’s her only hope as that’s how they both wanted it. EJ asks if she thinks he wanted her to suffer and fail. Lexie thinks he didn’t care and just used the drug on her because he was in a hurry to make a buck. EJ argues that she can’t think he just did this for money. Lexie remarks that’s the reason he does everything. EJ shouts that he did this for family. EJ declares that Stefano built an empire and he must carry his vision forward. EJ screams that every sacrifice he makes, he did for this family. EJ reminds her that Stefano’s dying wish was to bring her back and he made that happen, shouting that he gave Lexie her life back. Lexie responds that he gave her life back just long enough to fall back in love with it, only to lose it and die all over again.

Marlena asks if Cat’s interest in the connection between her and EJ is personal or professional. Cat responds that it’s professional. Marlena guesses she’s investigating EJ then. Cat responds that if she was, she couldn’t tell her what the case was about. Marlena reminds her that she has a personal connection to EJ as he was married to her daughter and is the father of two of her grandchildren but she doesn’t think that will affect her ability to treat her properly. Cat says if she’s okay with it, she is too. Cat guesses EJ told her that he believes their time in Italy at the rehab hospital might have had an effect on the dissolution of his marriage to Sami. Marlena confirms EJ mentioned that. Cat hopes that she doesn’t say anything to upset her if she does remember anything. Marlena says she normally doesn’t tell her personal feelings, but if Cat had anything to do with the breakup of EJ and Sami, then she and Sami both owe her gratitude, which surprises Cat.

Lexie tells EJ that she begged Dr. Rolf to try more things but they both know how it’s going to end. EJ argues that they don’t as everything they’ve done has been groundbreaking and Dr. Rolf is working around the clock to find a cure for these unexpected side effects. Lexie tells EJ not to talk to her like one of his investors, but as his sister. Lexie argues that EJ was so determined to be a hero that he never thought about what it would do to her or the people she loves if his experiment went sideways. Lexie complains that it’s bad enough that Abe and Theo lost her once and now they have to watch as she dies before their eyes a second time and she will never forgive him for that.

Theo tells Chanel that he gets not wanting extra drama in her life, but he wonders if trying to avoid Joy will cause more stress instead of trying to peacefully co-exist. Chanel argues that she’s heard all of Joy’s excuses, but she was supposed to be her friend and trying to help her almost cost her marriage. Theo admits that he hates when someone disappoints him too. Chanel apologizes for getting upset. Theo says he can relate as he was let down recently by someone he cared about too. Chanel guesses he’s talking about the friend who accused him of lying. Theo responds that she’s not the person he thought she was.

Alex tells Stephanie that he’s sorry about this. Stephanie questions Joy not calling roadside assistance and complains that Alex can’t just be her first call for everything. Alex says he knows but he can’t leave her stranded on the side of the road. Alex says he hopes she understands and kisses her as he then exits.

Stephanie finds Chanel with Trey in the park and asks if she’s okay. Chanel says she was just on a walk with Trey and got a little queasy. Stephanie asks if there’s anything she can do. Chanel says nausea is just a normal side effect of chemo. Stephanie offers to take Trey for a walk while she rests for a minute but Chanel snarks back that she’s fine and can take care of her son.

Marlena begins hypnotizing Cat and asks what she sees. Cat tells her that she’s in EJ’s room as his face is covered in bandages but she knows it’s him and she’s reading to him. Cat talked to EJ, saying she knows it’s silly to keep coming in and hoping something would change, but she thought talking to him day after day might awaken something inside him. Cat questioned why she cared so much and pointed out that very few of Clyde Weston’s victims suffered as much as them, so she felt that bonded them for life.

EJ asks Lexie is not grateful for every moment she had in the second chance at life, like seeing Theo all grown up. Lexie responds that she is grateful for the moments and maybe it’s worth the pain she’s facing now, but she wishes she had more time with Abe and Theo as they are everything to her. Lexie cries at the thought of losing them once again as Theo then walks in and asks what’s wrong. Lexie tells him that she just got emotional while thanking EJ for everything he’s done for her. Theo says he’s happy and grateful to have her back. EJ says they all are. Theo goes to thank EJ and notices EJ’s black eye. EJ explains that he got hit while breaking up a fight. Theo says he’s not great at picking up on vibes but he feels like he walked in on something weird. Lexie claims that everything is great.

Stephanie apologizes to Chanel as she didn’t mean to overstep. Chanel apologizes as she’s a little on edge. Stephanie says she understands and that Chanel is probably still upset with her about the babysitting mess with Trey as she felt Alex was trying to pressure her and she overreacted. Stephanie states that she really loves kids but she’s not ready to be a mom herself. Chanel says she gets that and hopes things are okay with her and Alex as she’s sure it hasn’t been easy dealing with Joy and the baby. Stephanie calls it complicated but says she won’t stand here and complain to her. Chanel asks her to do so and says she’d loving nothing more than for her to complain to her.

Alex and Joy go to the Brady Pub with Kelsey. Joy thanks Alex for changing her tire and admits she was impressed. Alex says he’s just glad they are okay. Joy admits standing on the side of the road was terrifying. Alex can’t believe no one stopped to help her. Joy says she wasn’t exactly waving down strangers and hopes she didn’t pull him away from anything important. Alex says not at all.

Stephanie tells Chanel that it doesn’t feel right to dump her problems on her. Chanel says she can still be empathetic and she’d rather have conversations that aren’t about her illness or her chemo. Chanel wishes people would treat her like a normal person living her life. Stephanie says she understands that very well. Stephanie relates to when she got home after being kidnapped and everyone treated her like a fragile doll. Stephanie admits she had PTSD, but like Chanel, the last thing she wanted was people feeling sorry for her. Chanel says maybe they can just try to have some casual conversation then which Stephanie says she’s all for. Chanel then asks Stephanie for the tea on Joy.

Marlena asks if Cat can see the book she’s reading to EJ. Cat responds that it’s Wuthering Heights and remembers EJ squeezing her hand as she read to him. Cat then remembers kissing EJ on the cheek. Marlena then wakes Cat from her hypnosis.

Stephanie asks Chanel how much time she has for tea on Joy. Chanel hopes she’s not being insensitive but Stephanie thinks it would help to vent about Joy, so Chanel tells her to go on. Stephanie starts with a couple days ago when Stephanie called Alex, saying there was an emergency with Kelsey at the hospital but it was a problem with her insurance card and then emergency number two was a flat tire. Chanel can’t believe Joy called Stephanie’s husband over a flat tire. Stephanie mocks Joy and says she’s seen the damsel in distress bit before. Chanel agrees that she has it down and talks about how Joy used to go on to her about being lonely in Salem without friends or family. Chanel adds that when she found out Joy took Johnny to bed, she still tried to act innocent and claimed she only did say anything because she didn’t want to hurt her feelings. Stephanie calls that lame and awful. Chanel calls Joy a real operator. Stephanie says Alex assures she has nothing to worry about but she feels he has his head in the sand when it comes to Joy. Chanel warns Stephanie to watch her back when it comes to Joy.

Alex gets Joy signed up for roadside assistance so she’ll never be stranded again. Joy says she won’t have to bother him again while Alex assures that she can call him anytime about Kelsey. Joy jokes with him and says she knows it’s her second emergency this week but promises it won’t become a regular thing. Alex says he gets it and understands she’s just getting settled in with the move, Kelsey, and all the other life changes. Joy says she’s lived on her own before, but somehow this feels more alone. Alex responds that being a mom now changes everything, but she’s not alone. Joy thanks him and says when it comes to emergencies, she will call Alex for anything Kelsey related and anything else, she’ll call 911 or handle it herself. Alex says that sounds like a plan.

Marlena asks if Cat remembered something else from the clinic. Cat informs her that she was reading to EJ and then she felt him squeezing her hand like he knew she was there which she doesn’t think he had done before. Marlena notes that Cat seemed to have a very strong emotional attachment to that moment and asks if she was excited to realize he knew she was there. Cat responds that she thinks she was. Marlena asks if there’s anything else she remembers, but Cat claims that was it. Marlena calls that a very good start for today. Cat asks if that’s all. Marlena thinks it’s good to go slowly at first and asks if she wants to book another session. Cat assures that she would because that was very enlightening. Marlena says she will get her paperwork from the front desk and get her on the calendar as she then exits. Cat says to herself that it was real.

Lexie asks what Theo came for. Theo says he was going to talk to Tony before he and Anna leave for Europe, to see if he had any parting advice for running the company. EJ informs him that Tony and Anna are upstairs packing. Theo tells Lexie that he’ll see her at home as they hug. Lexie calls Theo his mother’s delight which Theo recalls her calling him when he was little and says he still likes it as he heads upstairs. Lexie tells EJ that every time she’s with Theo, all she can see is the little boy who lost his mother and now he might lose her all over again. EJ tells Lexie that they must not give up hope as the world needs her light and her heart. EJ declares he’s not going to let it happen as he hugs her while looking panicked.

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Days Update Monday, July 6, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Steve and Kayla sit together in the town square and watch the fireworks as they kiss.

Xander goes to the hospital and finds Sarah sleeping in a chair next to Holly’s bedside. Xander wakes Sarah up and she asks what he’s doing there.

Brady runs in to Kristen in the town square as the fireworks are going off. Kristen points out that Brady is all alone and asks if his girlfriend decided to watch the fireworks with the father of her child. Brady informs Kristen that he got back from seeing their daughter and Sarah is at the hospital with Holly. Kristen asks how Rachel is. Brady says she’s actually good and that Dr. Gregory was impressed by how she reacted to the news about Sophia. Brady adds that Dr. Gregory plans to go to the board about getting Rachel released by next week, but Kristen tells him that cannot happen.

Gwen joins Leo in his room at the Salem Inn and pours a drink. Leo asks if this is about the news he shared with her earlier about Xander and Kristen as Gwen begins drinking. Leo complains that he’s recovering from a concussion and the fireworks are going to make his head explode which Gwen calls good.

EJ calls Johnny and says he needs to see him right away at the DiMera Mansion. Johnny says he’s not going over there, complaining that EJ dragged him in to this Coriseal mess and he did what he asked, so now he’s done. EJ tells Johnny that he’s afraid this is just the beginning. Johnny tells EJ that he doesn’t want to be involved in any of this anymore, so he’s out. EJ says there are loose ends to tie up and Johnny is still the CEO of DiMera. Johnny reminds him that he’s taking a step back and adds that he can’t leave Chanel because she’s sleeping and he needs to be there in case Trey wakes up. EJ says he will come to him then. Johnny says no but EJ hangs up.

Sarah questions Xander waking her up. Xander says she looked uncomfortable and he remembers how she got a crick in her neck when she was staying in the hospital with Victoria. Sarah thanks him and admits she didn’t realize she even fell asleep as she just wanted to come sit with Holly for awhile after her mom and Tate left. Xander asks how she’s doing. Sarah says her condition is worsening and they still haven’t figured out the problem. Sarah asks if he had any luck with the files on Coriseal. Xander says not yet, but reveals he’s getting help from the inside from Kristen.

Brady doesn’t understand since Kristen has been dying to get Rachel out of Bayview. Kristen says now is not the right time for her to get released. Brady questions what this is about, so Kristen admits it’s about EJ. Steve asks if Kayla has talked to Roman lately since he saw him earlier with Marlena and Kate didn’t seem to be around. Kayla informs him that Roman and Kate are going through a rough patch, so Steve questions what’s going on. Kayla thinks that Kate was a little less than forthcoming about Titan’s lawsuit against DiMera. Steve knows there were suspicions that Johnny was set up. Kayla reveals those were confirmed, so Kate moved out to the Kiriakis Mansion to give them space and time to try to figure things out. Steve hopes they can make it work. Kayla says that what Kate did to Roman’s grandson was pretty awful, but it’s too bad because she really made him happy the last few years. Steve points out that just a few months ago they were really happy while Abe and Paulina were going strong. Kayla agrees that so much has changed. Steve jokes that maybe Mercury is in retro. Steve says he doesn’t believe in that but it’s something people say when the world is going haywire. Kayla tells Steve that she’s so grateful to have him as they kiss.

Leo asks Gwen why his head should explode instead of Xander. Gwen responds that she doesn’t blame Xander. Leo argues that it’s not his fault. Gwen agrees and blames herself for being such an idiot when Xander made it clear what to expect from him which was very little, but she thought that could be enough as she thought they could just have amazing, mind-blowing sex with no feelings involved but she ended up making a fool of herself. Leo says he told her repeatedly while Gwen asks why he had to open his mouth and ruin everything. Leo asks if she wishes he hadn’t told her.

Steve can’t believe Kayla has to work the late shift on the Fourth of July. Kayla blames EJ for the hospital being short staffed. Steve jokes that EJ should be emptying bedpans there. Kayla hopes they can get rid of him. Steve asks if it is going to happen. Kayla says as long as Gwen follows through with her bid on the hospital and declares they can finally be rid of that son of a bitch.

Leo admits to Gwen that he considered not telling her about Xander and Kristen, he thought it would hurt, and that he was breaking a bro code with Xander, but he felt it was his duty to be honest with her. Leo apologizes for bringing her bad news and causing it in the past. Gwen apologizes for blaming the messenger, so Leo thanks her. Leo asks what happens now between her and Xander. Gwen responds that there is no more her and Xander. Leo says that’s probably for the best. Leo asks if she will forgive Kristen. Gwen assures that she won’t since at least Xander didn’t pretend to be something he’s not, while Kristen went behind her back and lied to her face. Leo guesses she’s going to give Kristen a piece of her mind. Gwen responds that she’s going to kill her and storms out of the room.

Brady asks Kristen what EJ has to do with Rachel being released from Bayview. Kristen complains that EJ visited Rachel and brought the stuffed animal because he wanted to send her a message and let her know that he was there because he knows the way to get to her is through her daughter. Kristen adds that EJ is now on the banned list of visitors. Brady asks if she’s telling him that EJ could hurt their daughter or if he should worry about her. Kristen responds that she can handle this. Brady doesn’t believe her. Kristen tells Brady that she’s sorry as she was just being really dramatic, but she and EJ will work this out. Kristen apologizes and says she really has to go as she hurries off.

Sarah questions Xander using his new girlfriend as a mole. Xander clarifies that she’s not his girlfriend. Sarah asks if he can really trust her. Xander assures that Kristen hates EJ and wants to see him burn as much as they do. Xander adds that this is uncomfortable as the last thing he’d ever want to do is hurt Sarah. Sarah says it’s fine as it really is none of her business who he’s sleeping with because they aren’t together anymore. Sarah states that she’s moved on and he’s free to do the same. Sarah adds that she’ll take help from anyone that gets her closer to finding out what’s wrong with Holly. Xander thought this Coriseal business was about Destiny’s death. Sarah says it was and is. Xander brings up that Sarah told him that there was a second patient and questions if Coriseal is related to Holly’s condition. Sarah thinks it’s possible that Holly took some of the contaminated pills.

EJ goes to see Johnny, who tells him to stay quiet and not wake up Chanel and Trey. EJ says he’s sorry for missing Trey’s first birthday party. EJ asks how things went at the hospital and if he gave Sarah their message.

Xander tells Sarah that he can’t believe that Holly’s illness could be connected to whatever happened to Destiny. Sarah admits she’s terrified. Sarah then gets a text with the results of Holly’s latest tests which reveal her liver and kidney function are trending towards failure which indicates some sort of poison is shutting down her system. Xander asks if she can treat it now that she knows that. Sarah says not without knowing what kind of toxin it is and they are still waiting on the test from the water at the Horton Cabin. Xander asks if she thinks the well water was poisoned. Sarah says she doesn’t know, but they are running out of time. Sarah says she has to go and rushes out of the room.

Johnny tells EJ that he took care of it and did what he asked by leaving the message for Sarah. Johnny flashes back to sneaking in to Sarah’s office and leaving a medical book open to the page on Arsenic on her desk. EJ states that he gave Sarah the tools to figure it out without incriminating himself or DiMera. Johnny just hopes she can figure it out in time to save Holly’s life.

Sarah goes to her office and finds the book on her desk, open to the page on Arsenic and declares that’s it.

Steve approaches Brady in the town square, joking that it looks like they’ve both been abandoned on the Fourth of July. Steve asks him what’s going on. Brady responds that Kristen just informed him that EJ may be a threat to her and Rachel. Steve thinks Kristen could just be being paranoid. Brady says ever since Rachel’s been in Bayview, Kristen’s been desperate to get her out and now they got news she might get released while Kristen is panicked about her coming home. Brady says that’s why he doesn’t think it’s the usual paranoia. Brady declares that if there is a legitimate threat to their daughter, Kristen better tell him about it.

Johnny tells EJ that he left the hospital as he instructed to avoid the security cameras and wore gloves so his fingerprints wouldn’t be on anything. EJ calls that excellent as there’s no way the book can be traced back to them. Johnny questions that being what he’s worried about when Holly could die because of the way DiMera disposed of those contaminated pills. EJ argues that he never would’ve approved of disposing them on Smith Island, but what’s done is done and all they can do now is try to save Holly’s life. Johnny doesn’t understand why EJ couldn’t have placed the book on Sarah’s desk and why he had to lie to his family and leave his son’s first birthday party early, then sneak in to an office when EJ owns the hospital. EJ explains that he couldn’t because he spent the evening on Smith Island, making sure the pills were dug up to avoid further contamination. Johnny hopes this is the end of it, but EJ reveals there is one more thing he needs him to do.

Xander sits at Holly’s side and talks about Victoria missing her. Xander urges Holly to keep working hard to get better so she can come home to all of them. Kayla comes in and says she was looking for Sarah to go over Holly’s latest test results. Xander informs her that she saw the results and stepped out for a break. Sarah then returns to the room and announces that she thinks she knows what it is. Xander asks if it’s treatable. Sarah responds that if it is what she thinks it is, they can beat this.

Leo remains dizzy as he gets dressed in his room and declares that Gwen is tough, but he has to put a stop to this before she runs face first in to a buzzsaw as he leaves his room.

Kristen goes to the DiMera Mansion where Gwen is waiting for her. Kristen tells Gwen that she’s relieved to see a friendly face but Gwen asks if her face looks friendly. Kristen asks what’s going on. Gwen tells Kristen that she has a much bigger problem to deal with and calls her a bitch. Kristen asks what she is missing. Gwen responds that for once, EJ was telling the truth about Kristen and Xander having an affair. Kristen says she wouldn’t call it an affair, so Gwen asks what she would call it. Kristen calls it hot, meaningless sex and says she’s sure Gwen wouldn’t judge her for that, pointing out that it’s exactly what Xander and Gwen were having. Gwen calls her a two faced cow and argues that Kristen knew her relationship with Xander meant more to her than that and lied to her face. Kristen says she didn’t know it was so serious. Kristen then says they can hash this out over martinis because she do not has time for this. Gwen grabs her and says that’s too bad.

Xander finds Brady at the hospital and tells him that Sarah and Kayla are in with Holly. Brady asks how Holly is doing. Xander says she’s not good but that Sarah thinks she’s figured out what’s wrong and it’s arsenic poisoning. Brady questions how she figured it out. Xander says there was a medical book left open to the page on her desk. Brady questions it just being left for her to see. Xander says it seems that way but the question is why they would want to remain anonymous. Brady suggests maybe it’s the person connected to why Holly is sick in the first place. Xander mentions Sarah believing it as tainted Coriseal. Brady notes that’s the drug in the missing DiMera files. Xander declares it has to be EJ.

Johnny tells EJ that when he took this job, Chanel warned him that it would be a slippery slope and he really tried to do things the right way, but he got set up with the lawsuit and now he’s leaving his sick, pregnant wife to sneak around, make fake phone calls, and break into an office. Johnny says he doesn’t want to lie to Chanel anymore. EJ says he understands, but he’s doing this for her and their growing family so she never needs to know. Johnny asks what more EJ needs from him. EJ responds that he needs him to ensure that Theo never finds out either. Johnny argues that Theo is his co-CEO and they are equal partners. EJ states that only Johnny understands what needs to be done to protect their family.

Sarah can’t believe she didn’t think to test for arsenic or recognize the symptoms. Kayla argues that it’s so uncommon and there might no longer be a detectable amount in Holly’s system. Sarah says they have to begin treatment. Kayla talks about having to wait on a 24 hour analysis but Sarah worries that she might not have that kind of time. Kayla asks if she’s suggesting they start therapy without a definitive diagnosis. Sarah says she knows why not to but she’d rather deal with the side effects because if they don’t do something soon, Holly is not going to make it and they’re going to lose her. Kayla questions how arsenic could’ve gotten in Holly’s system anyway. Sarah points out that she tested positive for Coriseal. Kayla wonders if Destiny died of arsenic poisoning too. Sarah calls it awfully coincidentaly and that maybe the pills were contaminated. Kayla asks if Holly took the pills willingly. Sarah says she can’t rule it out, so she’s either dealing with Holly took the pills or it came from the water. Kayla decides to go contact the lab to have them test for arsenic and Coriseal. Sarah promises Holly that they are going to figure this out and get her feeling better.

EJ tells Johnny that there are parts of the job that they both know Theo is not equipped for. Johnny asks if he means because Theo is not okay with lying. EJ says Theo sees the world a certain way and sometimes the lines are blurrier than that which is why he never wanted him to make Theo co-CEO. Johnny argues that he and Theo both want to change DiMera for the better and make it something their kids can be proud of. EJ commends their vision but says the company has a past that the CEO must reckon with whether he likes it or not and if the truth about Coriseal gets out to anyone including Theo, there won’t be a company left to run. Trey wakes up crying, so Johnny tells EJ he needs to go. EJ thanks Johnny and says to send his love to Chanel and Trey as he exits.

Xander repeats that it had to be EJ, but Brady questions why EJ would leave the book open, arguing that he would never risk his neck for his ex-stepdaughter. Xander calls that a valid point. Brady wonders if it could be someone from DiMera Pharmaceuticals that was afraid to come forward, but Xander says they wouldn’t know about Holly. Brady says it has to be someone connected to DiMera and Holly which Xander says brings them back to EJ.

Gwen questions if Kristen is loyal to anyone but herself. Kristen warns that she does not want to do this. Gwen can’t believe she apologized for accusing her of sleeping with Xander and she confided in her about being cheated on, yet Kristen still decided to find the one guy in Salem. Kristen doesn’t know what to say. Leo arrives and listens in from outside the living room. Kristen argues that it meant nothing to her and even less to Xander. Gwen complains of all the betrayals she’s been through and declares she’s tired of it and done with allowing people to get off free for the pain they cause her. Kristen asks if she’s done with this pity party. Kristen argues that if she really cared about Xander, maybe she would’ve worked harder to satisfy him. Gwen then grabs Kristen and pulls some of her hair out as Leo runs in to separate them. EJ comes in and holds Kristen back as Leo holds Gwen back as they scream at each other.

Brady tells Xander that Kayla will take Steve to Sarah’s office to dust for fingerprints and then they will look at the security footage. Xander comments on Brady acting like a real private investigator and guesses he made a good decision in walking away from Titan and Basic Black when he did. Brady asks if things aren’t going so well. Xander informs him that EJ used a shell company to buy their loan and made the terms impossible to pay back, so they could lose everything. Brady asks Xander to tell him what he can do. Xander says right now his primary concern is getting Holly well, but if they could take EJ down in the process, even better. Brady agrees and declares he’s on board with whatever it takes.

Sarah wakes Holly up to give her medication and says that her mom is okay with starting her therapy to clear out her system. Sarah apologizes for not figuring this out sooner.

Kayla brings Steve to Sarah’s office. Steve notes there’s no sign of forced entry while Kayla mentions that Sarah left the door open. Kayla shows Steve how Kayla found the book opened to the page on arsenic poisoning. Steve says whoever left it seemingly knew what’s going on with Holly. Kayla is grateful for the break but questions who would do something like this. Steve tells Kayla to focus on saving Holly while he and Brady focus on who left the book and why.

Johnny watches over Trey and talks about all he ever wanted was to be someone that he, Chanel, and the baby could be proud of. Johnny doesn’t know what’s coming but promises he will never become his father’s son.

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Days Update Friday, July 3, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Jada comes home from work to find Shawn getting dressed. Jada asks if he’s going out. Shawn responds that he is, with her which makes her smile.

Marlena greets Belle at home as they wish each other a happy 4th of July. Marlena guesses Belle isn’t just going out for the fireworks. Belle confirms that Chad is taking her out to dinner at the Bistro. Belle hopes it’s fun for Chad since he’s been a little sad about the kids spending the summer with Jack and Jennifer in Boston. Marlena thinks it’ll be just what the doctor ordered.

Chad finds Lexie in the town square. They talk about Tom and Alice watching over their town square. Chad tells Lexie how wonderful it is to have her back in their lives as she was truly the best of them. Lexie says that’s what they say about him. Chad asks where everybody is as he assumes they are there for the fireworks. Lexie says that Abe and Theo went to get dinner, but while it’s just them, there’s something she wants to talk to him about.

Abe and Theo walk through the park. Theo questions if Abe and Lexie are sticking around the town square for the fireworks which Abe confirms. Theo admits he was hoping they’d do their own thing elsewhere because Johnny and Chanel are having a birthday gathering for Trey and of course Paulina was invited. Abe then points out that he was not invited.

Johnny sits at home wrapping a birthday present for Trey when he gets a call from EJ. Johnny questions EJ saying he can’t make it to Trey’s first birthday. EJ then confirms to Johnny that Holly has arsenic poisoning.

Chad asks Lexie what’s going on and if everything is okay. Lexie claims everything is fine and she just wanted to thank him for being there for Theo in her absence. Chad says there’s no need to thank him and says he’s really proud of the man Theo has become. Lexie is glad they are close and asks Chad to stay close and keep looking after him. Chad says of course, but questions where this is coming from and if something’s wrong.

Theo tells Abe that it’s not that he wasn’t invited and he knows he loves Johnny and Chanel, but it’d be hard for Paulina and Lexie who are both going through a lot right now. Abe wishes he handled the situation differently. Theo knows how hard it was for Abe to abide by Lexie’s wishes to not contact Paulina. Abe states that he and Paulina had something very special, so he can’t just turn off his feelings for her. Theo says he loves Paulina too, but he knows it’s harder for Abe since he can only have one wife.

Belle asks Marlena about her visit with Rachel. Marlena says it was good but she was surprised to learn that EJ came to visit her and told her that he forgave her for shooting him. Marlena says that’s good for Rachel’s recovery, but they know EJ doesn’t do anything without an ulterior motive.

Johnny tells EJ that he has to tell them. Chanel comes in behind Johnny as Johnny tells EJ that he can’t do that as it will be a little hard to get away tonight, so he asks why EJ can’t do it. Johnny then hangs up as he sees Chanel, who asks him what’s going on.

Belle tells Marlena that she knows EJ’s motives are always suspect but Rachel is his niece, so it’s possible that he just wanted to show he cares after almost losing his son. Marlena supposes that’s possible. Belle says she has to get going to the Bistro. Marlena says she will walk her out as she’s going to stop by Trey’s birthday party and then she will pop in to see a dear old friend.

Jada asks Shawn if they are not just going to sit on the couch with ice cream and watch the fireworks on TV. Shawn asks why they would do that when they could watch the fireworks in person on an actual date. Jada says she will go change and freshen up then. Jada comments on it being backwards to be living together and now going on a date. Shawn feels it’s about time. Jada asks if it’s not weird. Shawn says he’s been looking forward to wining and dining her. Shawn also wants to thank her for everything she’s done for him in his recovery. Jada says he doesn’t have to thank her as it was all her pleasure as they kiss.

Johnny claims to Chanel it was just business stuff and nothing important. Chanel points out that he was talking to EJ and thought he wasn’t involved in his business anymore. Johnny says that EJ just likes to keep his hand in everything. Chanel says she can tell when Johnny is dancing around something and asks if there is a problem. Johnny claims there was just a situation that they disagreed on how to handle, but it’s taken care of now so he can give his full attention to Chanel and Trey.

Lexie tells Chad that nothing is wrong but she told Theo that she’s proud of him for taking the lead at DiMera, but she wants him to keep listening to his better angels while in that job. Chad promises she has nothing to worry about as Theo will always do the right thing. Chad says he has to go and will see them later as they hug and wish each other a happy 4th. Chad heads to the Bistro while Lexie sits down at a table looking frustrated as Lani enters the town square.

Shawn and Jada go to the Bistro for dinner. Chad and Belle then arrive as well. Shawn waves to them. Belle comments to Chad that Shawn is on a date with his caregiver. Chad asks if that makes her uncomfortable but Belle says it’s fine. Jada asks Shawn if he’s uncomfortable but Shawn says they have both moved on and he’s glad that if Belle is going to date a DiMera, it’s Chad instead of EJ. Shawn says he’s happy for them and thinks they are for them too. Jada guesses they are about to find out as Belle and Chad approach their table.

Marlena goes to the Brady Pub and wishes Roman a Happy Fourth of July. Marlena invites Roman to join her at a table which he accepts. Marlena tells him that she was on her way to their great grandson’s birthday party so she decided to stop and check in on him. Roman says he’s planning to head there too so he will see her there. Marlena asks Roman how he is on Independence Day. Roman responds that he’s independent for sure because Kate moved out.

Chanel questions Johnny saying that he and EJ had a little disagreement and calls it vague. Johnny says it’s just work stuff and what’s important to him is her and asks how she’s feeling. Chanel says she’s good and feels her energy coming back. Chanel says she’s really excited about the 4th and their son’s first birthday so it will be an amazing day. Chanel decides they should get Trey ready and reminds Johnny not to forget the birthday candle.

Lani approaches Lexie and greets her, asking if she’s okay. Lexie says she is and it’s just been a long day. Lexie brings up the emotional toll of being back. Lani asks what she means. Lexie explains that when she left, her son was so young and now he’s all grown up, but she reacts to him as if he was still a child and wanting to protect him from pain and sorrow. Lexie says she’s so proud of the man Theo has become, but she’s always a mom. Lani assures that she gets it. Lexie asks where her babies are. Lani says they are with Julie at the Book Club. Lexie asks Lani not to say anything to Abe about her moment before because of how he worries. Abe and Theo then arrive to join them. Lani says she’d love to stay and hang out but she has to pick up the twins, so she will see them later. Abe apologizes for the line taking forever. Abe notes that the town square looks pretty crowded, so he suggests moving to a more secluded spot to eat and watch the fireworks. Lexie disagrees and says being next to Tom and Alice’s plaque is so comforting, so she thinks it’s the perfect spot.

Belle takes Shawn’s picture and says their daughter Claire will be happy to see him out and about. Shawn suggests she take one of herself to send as well because she looks beautiful tonight. Chad agrees and says he will take a picture. Belle tells them to have a good night as they walk away. Jada comments to Shawn that she’s sure Claire has been worried about him since the shooting. Shawn confirms that she was until he told her that he had Jada taking care of him. Belle and Chad sit together at their table. Belle talks about missing Claire. Chad asks if Marlena is still okay with them poking around the chess board mystery. Belle admits that she was relieved when she said Paul was going to help out, so she may not have told her that they are still poking around. Belle adds that it’s not high priority for Paul but Chad says there are potentially high stakes when Stefano’s involved.

Marlena tells Roman that she’s sorry to hear about him and Kate. Roman says he is too but he kind of forced her hand by giving Arianna the room that Kate was staying in when she was no longer welcome in their bed. Marlena mentions Will telling her that Arianna had moved out of Gabi’s. Roman says that kind of brought matters to a head and he told Kate no to moving back in to their room and that she was on her own. Marlena asks if there are no other rooms available. Roman confirms there are not now that Joy and her daughter are staying. Marlena asks if Kate went to the Salem Inn. Roman says that’s where he thought she would go, but she’s back at the Kiriakis Mansion.

Lexie asks why Abe and Theo are looking at her like that. Lexie then turns around and sees Johnny, Chanel, and Paulina setting up for Trey’s birthday. Lexie says now she gets why they wanted to move to somewhere else. Theo asks if she minds if he joins them. Lexie tells him to go ahead. Abe asks if Lexie still wants to stay there. Lexie assures that she believes the town square is big enough for everyone. Theo joins Johnny, Chanel, and Paulina to celebrate Trey’s birthday. Johnny looks for Trey’s cup while Theo and Chanel go to get the cake. Paulina sits down and looks over at Abe and Lexie. Abe sits with Lexie and asks if she’s sure she’s not uncomfortable. Lexie promises she’s fine and suggests eating their food before it gets cold. Abe looks over as Chanel and Theo bring out the birthday cake. Lani joins them for Trey’s birthday. Paulina points out that it’s also Lani and Eli’s six year wedding anniversary, so they all congratulate her. Lani wishes Eli was there to celebrate with them. Chanel is sure he will make it up to her. Chanel decides Trey needs a diaper change, so Paulina goes with her. Theo then goes to check on Abe and Lexie. Lani tells Johnny that the evening turned out pretty good. Johnny agrees and says he hates to do this but he has to check his phone. Lani asks if everything is okay. Johnny says he’s sorry but he has to take a call with a business associate. Johnny asks Lani to let Chanel and Paulina know as he steps away for the call.

Shawn asks if Jada wants to order dessert before the fireworks. Jada suggests taking the dessert and fireworks somewhere more private, so Shawn calls for the check. Chad tells Belle that he doesn’t want anyone to get hurt over Stefano’s mystery either. Belle talks about not even knowing what they are looking for. Chad thinks they need to establish ground rules. Chad suggests making a pact that if they ever start to feel uncomfortable, they drop it no arguments which they agree to. Chad then reveals he bought them tickets for the Salem String Quartet performing the music of Verdi in the town square and says maybe they’ll get a little inspired.

Marlena tells Roman that it makes sense that Kate would go to Victor’s since her son lives there. Roman says framing Johnny like she did feels like a Kiriakis plot and now her living there feels like they are circling the wagon. Marlena agrees the optics are not good but suggests Philip was just trying to help his mother in her hour of need. Roman brings up Kate swearing and insisting that his family was her family but clearly not. Roman asks what Kate would do if someone screwed over her kids like she did to Johnny. Marlena points out it’s exactly what Sami did to Kate and Austin a few times. Roman knows Kate doesn’t always walk the straight and narrow but to do what she did to her grandson, he doesn’t know how to live with that. Roman adds that he also doesn’t know how not to as he doesn’t know how to live without Kate.

Theo rejoins Abe and Lexie, telling them that the birthday was all good fun but too bad Trey won’t remember any of it. Lexie says at that age it’s more for the parents and talks about vividly remembering Theo’s first birthday party. Abe reminisces about that as well. Lexie says what she remembers most at that age is how Theo looked at her when she held him. Lexie gets emotional and asks to hold him now so Theo hugs her. Chanel and Paulina return with Trey to Lani, who tells them about Johnny having to go return a phone call with a business associate. Paulina questions Johnny working on a holiday and during his son’s birthday party. Chanel assures that it’s okay and that Johnny is catching up from being behind. Chanel decides it’s past Trey’s bedtime so she should get him home. Chanel tells Lani and Paulina to enjoy the fireworks as she exits with Trey. Lani hugs Paulina and tells her that she loves her.

Johnny sneaks in to Sarah’s office at the hospital and puts on a glove.

Shawn and Jada go home. Shawn asks if she’s sure she doesn’t want to watch the fireworks. Jada thinks they can set a few off of their own as they kiss onto the bed while the fireworks go off outside the window.

Marlena hopes Roman and Kate find their way back together but encourages him not to rush or force it. Roman thanks her and says that was helpful. Roman says enough about him and wants to know what’s going on with her. Roman suggests they walk and talk through the town square, watch some fireworks, and wish their great grandson a happy birthday. Marlena says she’d like that so they exit the Pub together.

Abe and Lexie watch the fireworks together in the town square as they wish each other a Happy Fourth of July. Chad and Belle watch the fireworks in the town square as they hold hands and kiss. Theo stands with Paulina and Lani, watching the fireworks. Lani invites Paulina to come get the twins with her but Paulina decides to go home, so they say goodnight. Marlena and Roman walk in to the town square, watching the fireworks. They talk about Johnny sending them a video of Trey this morning. They come across Paulina, who informs them that Trey’s birthday party is already over. Paulina jokes that Trey won’t remember it anyway. Roman says they will celebrate another time. Paulina says she’s heading home, but Marlena invites her to stay and enjoy the end of the fireworks with her and Roman which she accepts.

Johnny returns home to Chanel and joins her on the couch. Chanel tells him that Trey went to sleep while Johnny apologizes for having to leave the party early. Chanel asks if everything is okay at work. Johnny says it should be fine now and decides no more talk about work or talk at all as they kiss.

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Days Update Thursday, July 2, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Holly wakes up in the hospital with Tate at her side. Tate tells her that Sarah let him stay the night. Tate then gets a text that Holly’s mom Nicole just landed at the airport and will be coming straight there. Holly feels bad that she rushed all that way just for her. Tate says that’s what moms do and she probably couldn’t have stopped her anyway. Tate asks how she’s feeling. Holly responds that she is much better which Tate likes to hear.

Brady brings Sarah coffee at the hospital and asks how Holly is. Sarah responds that her vitals are stabilized but her overall condition is not improving. Brady hopes the water sample result will give them some answers. Stephanie arrives and greets Kayla, wishing her a happy fourth of July. Stephanie brought flowers for Holly and asks if she’s doing any better. Kayla says unfortunately not, but they are hoping to get a diagnosis to find out what is making her so sick. Stephanie is sure she’s so worried. Kayla notes that she’s surprised to see her as she thought she and Alex would be at the parade. Stephanie responds that it was the plan, but it turns out that Alex went with his daughter, so that means no parade for her.

Alex and Joy bring Kelsey to the Brady Pub, talking about how much Kelsey loved the parade. Joy mentions that Roman said he has rocket pops and invites Alex to join them upstairs for Kelsey’s first brain freeze. Alex says he’d love to, but he has to go to work for an emergency meeting that his cousins don’t think can wait until after the holiday.

At Titan, Philip tells Xander that he doesn’t get the tripled payment rate. Xander assures they are going to fight it. Philip questions why they’d force them to anyways, knowing the terms are impossible. Xander says they’d only do it if they’d want them to fail. Philip remarks that it’s almost like it’s personal. EJ then arrives and declares he’s damn right it is.

Tate wishes Holly a happy Fourth of July and it’s also their one year anniversary. Holly remembers Tate kissing her as the fireworks started and guesses there’s not much chance of this today. Tate says they can stream them on the TV. Holly asks about Tate’s session with Stephanie today. Tate says it’s not until later and he’s sure she’d understand if he cancelled to be with her. Holly encourages him to still go and says she’ll just be going back to sleep, joking that she’ll need to be well rested for their TV fireworks show. Tate agrees to go, but promises to be back as soon as he can. Tate wishes her a happy anniversary and then exits.

Sarah talks to Brady about the possible diagnosis that align with Holly’s symptoms but they keep striking out. Sarah says she’s trying to stay positive for Holly and the family as he hugs her. Stephanie complains to Kayla that this is their new normal that Alex will make plans without her and go running any time his baby mama calls. Kayla guesses she’s referring to Joy’s insurance problem. Stephanie remarks that she still doesn’t know why Joy made it sound like something was wrong with Kelsey and scared the life out of Alex when it was her problem that had nothing to do with Kelsey. Kayla agrees that she should’ve been more clear on that but points out that Joy has a baby with Alex, so any of her problems will be his as well. Stephanie says she gets that and that’s what keeps her up at night.

Joy tells Alex that she doesn’t get how much of a work emergency it could be on the holiday but Alex points out that it’s a regular day for the rest of the world and Titan is a global company. Joy says she gets that and that’s the duty of a Kiriakis to take care of the family company, joking that it might even be Kelsey’s one day. Alex assures that she’ll be a natural like him. Joy tells Alex that she heard Kelsey trying to say “dada” earlier, so Alex tries to get her to say it and says he’s looking forward to it. Joy says she feels very lucky to be Kelsey’s mom and to have Alex as her dad.

Xander questions EJ being behind on ARO Wealth Management. EJ thought it was painfully obvious and explains that ARO is ORA backwards. Philip realizes that’s for One Rainy Afternoon, the title of Bonnie’s novel. EJ mocks that they call Philip the dumb one and calls Xander a miserable human being. EJ brings up his child being screwed over and says Xander is the scum that set Johnny up to nearly being a public disgrace and asks if he really thought he’d let him get away with it.

Tate comes out from Holly’s room and tells Brady, Kayla, and Stephanie that Holly said she’s feeling better but she wanted to rest, so he agreed to head to the gym. Tate asks if Stephanie is still up for their training session, which she assures she is, so Tate says he’s going home to change and will meet her there as he exits. Stephanie goes to bring her flowers to Holly. Kayla tells Brady that she’s glad their kids are getting a chance to spend time together. Brady says that Tate needs the clients so he’s grateful. Kayla thinks after everything with Owen, Stephanie could use anything to help her regain her confidence, so she’s all in.

Sarah goes to check on Holly as Stephanie arrives with her flowers. Stephanie says she wanted to discuss something with Holly, so Sarah says she will check on her in a little bit and exits. Holly guesses it’s about her internship. Stephanie confirms it is and apologizes for not reaching out sooner as she had a lot to deal with lately.

Alex says he had a lot of fun with Kelsey at the parade, but he should get to his meeting. Joy asks if Alex is going to see the fireworks tonight because she’s definitely bringing Kelsey, so she’s wondering if he’d like to join them. Alex thanks her but says he promised Stephanie that he would go with her. Alex says he’s sure they will have a blast and that Kelsey will love it. Alex says he’ll see them soon as he exits the Pub.

EJ says now that he knows Titan were the bastards trying to take down Johnny all along, he will do everything in his power to tear down their empire piece by piece. Philip argues that he knows their families have always been going at it but there’s no reason to turn this in to an all out war. EJ says he should’ve told Xander that before he decided to fan the flames. Xander argues that he did what he did to save his company and that EJ would do the same thing which Philip says is true. Philip adds that every time they get in to this revenge cycle, it only ends up weakening both sides. Philip suggests they cut their losses and call a truce. EJ says that would assume they are still in the game when they clearly are not. EJ calls it inevitable and the fall of the Kiriakis pride as he says cheers to another glorious DiMera victory.

Stephanie tells Holly that she’s sorry she hasn’t had much work for her lately. Holly says it’s okay as she enjoyed working on her Anastasia Sands books, but figured when she stopped writing, there wouldn’t be much for her to do. Stephanie admits she lost the muse after everything with Owen which Holly says she gets. Stephanie wondered if Holly had any interest in working on the PR side since she is getting that business up and running again slowly. Holly agrees to try and do anything she needs. Stephanie says that’s perfect, but first she needs to focus on getting better and she doesn’t just mean getting out of the hospital since she knows certain things can leave more than just physical scars and they owe it to themselves to heal from those too.

Kayla asks Brady if he and Sarah had any luck linking EJ to the Coriseal deaths, mentioning that Steve brought her up to speed. Brady says they don’t have any definitive proof yet but they are looking. Kayla responds that she wouldn’t put it past EJ to be involved as she wouldn’t put anything past him. Brady hopes the fallout from Lexie being back will lead to EJ being ousted from the hospital.

EJ tells Xander and Philip that he will leave them to figure out their next career move and jokes that they could be flipping burgers. Alex then arrives and says he thought they were having that emergency meeting, so he questions what EJ is doing there. Philip and Xander explain that EJ was behind their loan buyout and used a shell corporation to make the terms almost impossible to pay off. Alex questions if EJ would then become owner of the company. EJ confirms that’s the idea and comments on how it’s such a shame that the Titan-DiMera merger fell apart and now he will make Titan a corporate footnote. EJ declares that the Titan name will be scrubbed from relevance.

Joy sits with Kelsey at the Pub as Kayla arrives and asks if she’s seen Roman. Joy says she hasn’t, so Kayla decides it’s a good time for them to talk. Kayla knows they don’t know each other well, though she did feel a connection during her tenure on Body and Soul. Kayla adds that now they have a much more important connection since Kelsey is her new step granddaughter. Joy asks if this is about Stephanie. Kayla understands her concerns since having an unsecured firearm in the apartment was not safe for anyone, but Stephanie has now gotten rid of the gun so she has no reason to feel Kelsey is in any danger with Stephanie. Kayla argues that Joy asking Alex to choose between his child or his wife is unfair.

Holly tells Stephanie that she keeps telling herself that she should just get over what Sophia did to her but she can’t move past it. Stephanie relates to what she went through with Owen. Holly says the other day, she convinced herself that Sophia came back from the dead to stalk her. Stephanie relates, saying she did something incredibly stupid because she thought Owen was breaking in to her apartment. Holly asks if she wants to talk about it. Stephanie says she doesn’t and that she should get going. Stephanie tells Holly that she’s always there to listen if she wants to talk. Holly thanks her and says she really appreciates that. Stephanie tells her to feel better as she exits the room.

Brady and Sarah wish they could get the sample results faster. Sarah is praying that there’s Coriseal in the water, otherwise Holly took it herself. Brady talks about getting addiction and Holly having a lot of triggers lately. Sarah knows that Holly’s been through enough to make her relapse.

Philip complains that they should’ve known from the start that EJ was behind this. Alex questions how they fight this. Xander suggests using the money from Gabi’s inheritance. Philip points out it won’t be enough to cover the entire loan while Alex feels it won’t cover any of the loan if EJ is involved. Alex points out that if EJ finds out they are using his family money to fight the takeover, he will do everything in his power to stop Gabi from getting it. Xander declares that’s why they have to make sure EJ never finds out.

EJ returns home to the DiMera Mansion and meets his worker George, who informs EJ that he did as he asked and got a sample of the water from the Horton Cabin on Smith Island and confirmed that it contained both Coriseal and arsenic. EJ concludes that means Holly was poisoned by a product of DiMera Enterprises.

Joy asks Kayla if Stephanie asked her to come fight her battles for her. Kayla says she didn’t and this isn’t a battle, but a child’s life. Joy argues that it’s her child and talks about not telling Alex when she got pregnant and bowing out of Alex’s life to give he and Stephanie a chance. Joy declares that she was happy to raise Kelsey on her own until realizing that Alex might want a chance to get to know his kid, so she will not be made out to be the villain. Kayla questions if she’s implying Stephanie is the villain.

Stephanie joins Tate at the gym for self defense class. She thanks him for doing this on a holiday. Tate says he didn’t have any plans until later anyway when he and Holly plan to watch the fireworks on TV from her hospital room while Stephanie mentions she and Alex plan to watch the fireworks live. Stephanie calls it a special night for them and flashes back to Alex first telling her that he loves her, then calls it a certain anniversary for them. Tate says it is for he and Holly as well. Tate asks if Stephanie went to the parade earlier as he and Holly were going to but obviously weren’t able to. Stephanie says she had to miss it too but notes that Alex went with his daughter and her mom, then remarks that she’s sure they had a great time, just the three of them.

Philip states that keeping the truth from EJ shouldn’t be hard and he doubts Gabi would say anything to him. Xander worries that EJ might wonder where their sudden influx of cash came from and start poking around. Xander suggests taking a page out of EJ’s book and use a shell corporation. Alex thinks they need to call Maggie to let her know what’s going on. Xander calls that a bad idea. Alex thinks Maggie needs to be looped in but Philip agrees with Xander and says that Maggie has enough on her plate right now. Xander declares that with any luck, Gabi’s money will be able to handle the payments and Maggie will never have to know that EJ came after the company.

EJ questions George as to how the hell contaminated Coriseal ended up on Smith Island. George reminds EJ that he had his best fixer get rid of the bad batch and it turns out that he buried it on Smith Island. George guesses the pills dissolved and ended up in the water. EJ argues that the Horton Cabin isn’t the only one. George says they are in the process of testing all the wells but the nearest one came back clean. EJ question why only Holly got sick. George assumes the others didn’t drink as much of the water. George adds that he has some other bad news and reveals to EJ that he wasn’t alone on Smith Island as he shows him a photo he took of Brady in the window. George informs EJ that Brady left with a water sample, leaving EJ frustrated.

Sarah returns to Holly’s hospital room with Brady, who brings her flowers that were delivered at the front desk. Holly opens the card and is shocked to learn they are from Amy Choi.

Joy tells Kayla that she never said Stephanie was the villain. Kayla feels she implied it and argues that Stephanie is a good person who was put in an impossible position. Joy questions if she was supposed to keep Alex from knowing he had a child. Kayla argues that she’s using that to her advantage and brings up Joy calling Alex and letting him think it was an emergency with Kelsey’s health because she knew he’d come running. Joy argues that Alex hung up before she could explain. Kayla suggests Joy make her the one she calls for any hospital related concerns. Kayla then exits, leaving Joy shaking her head.

Stephanie tells Tate that she knew things would get complicated when Joy showed up with Alex’s baby but she didn’t know how complicated. Tate relates to when he thought Sophia was having his baby and he’s sure Alex is also feeling caught in the middle. Stephanie says it’s hard being on the outside, having so many things going on that she can’t control. Stephanie calls that another reason she’s grateful for these sessions. Tate says it will definitely help her feel control. Tate says he should be thanking her since with everything going on with Holly, he’s feeling helpless.

Holly can’t believe and this and complains that first Amy sends the processor after her and now this which Sarah questions. Holly then reveals that Amy is suing her over Sophia’s death which shocks Sarah and Brady as Sarah questions why she didn’t say anything until now. Holly cries that there was so much going on and she’s been feeling so sick that she couldn’t deal with it. Sarah is glad she said something now as she’s going to need a lawyer, so she will get Justin on it. Holly then reveals that she already talked to a lawyer, EJ. Sarah is shocked and questions why she would talk to EJ of all people. Holly reminds her that EJ was there when Amy cornered her in the town square and that he said to call him if she had any more issues with her, so she did. Holly then remembers that Amy first sound the processor out to Smith Island and now sending flowers to the hospital, so she questions if Amy is stalking her like Sophia was.

Alex says he knows Maggie has a lot going on, but he also knows she’s freaking out about losing the Kiriakis Mansion. Alex talks about EJ possibly taking control and how Victor would be turning in his grave. Alex complains that this has gotten out of control. Xander tells him not to panic as they are going to fight this to their last cent. Philip says to their last breath if they have to.

EJ complains that Brady and Sarah love nothing more than to cause him misery. George encourages that it will be several days before Brady gets any results on the water sample while they got theirs quicker because they knew what they were looking for. EJ says that Brady must have gave the sample to Sarah. EJ asks if Holly will recover. George responds that they don’t know they are dealing with arsenic poisoning and based on the symptoms he described, it will likely kill her.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, July 22, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sarah went to Holly’s room and saw that she was gone. She went back to Brady and wondered if their argument caused her to get drugs. Holly ran into Gabi at the town square. After they talked, Holly went to the Salem Inn. She ended up passing out in Leo’s arms. Leo realized that she escaped the hospital. Xander found Gabi and wanted to talk. Before he could say anything, Sarah called him so he could help look for Holly. Gabi heard the conversation and told him that Holly was at the Salem Inn. Leo ended up calling for help. Gus and Xander showed up. Xander was the only one who could get Holly back to the hospital. He texted Sarah that Holly was going back to the hospital. Later on, everyone was back at the hospital. Sarah left Xander and Brady to check on Holly. Brady told Xander about the pills. Xander still thought EJ was the one behind it. Brady said they couldn’t deny the proof of the pills and how they were in Holly’s bag. Sarah and Holly argued in the exam room. Gus came in and said his exam didn’t show any signs of drugs. He said Holly was dehydrated. Holly wanted to leave again. Sarah accused her of wanting to meet her dealer. Holly said she wanted another doctor. Sarah agreed to get another doctor if she would stay.

EJ was upset about Gwen taking over the hospital. Rita showed up and asked if he had anything to do with Gwen’s disappearance. EJ said he didn’t have anything to do with it. They talked about money and it wasn’t good. The drug issue was a financial blow. There was good news. The Coriseal was contained at Holly’s expense. EJ was upset about it, but he didn’t have a choice. He said he would be there to help Holly with Amy. He said if the truth ever came out, he would be in prison and that would be the end of DiMera. Leo met up with Gabi to talk about the counterfeit bags. Gabi told him that she accused Xander and Philip of doing it. She told him why she thought they did it. Leo told her it was circumstantial but he would look into it. Sarah told Brady and Xander that Holly didn’t want to talk to her, but she would talk to Xander since he and EJ were the only ones who believed her. Gabi and Leo thought something was wrong with Gwen since neither one of them were able to get in touch with her.

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Days Short Recap Monday, July 20, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Belle showed Chad the microscopic word she found in the insert. It said Viva Verde which meant long live Victor Emanuel who was the King of Italy. Belle said it connected the Celtic knot and several sites in Italy. While they were talking, she said she thought she knew who was leaving the clues. Belle said it was Dr. Rolf. Chad said Rolf was bad news and that it could be his father’s trap. He told her he couldn’t live with himself if anything happened to her. Belle said she needed answers. She wanted to go to Italy and investigate what was going on. Gabi told Rafe that she got her inheritance and was going to use it to pay back a debt and start a trust fund for Arianna. She told him about the counterfeit bags and how she was getting Gwen and Leo’s help. Rafe was shocked that she went to them for help. She told them that they know about the counterfeit world. Brady went to the hospital to check in with Sarah since he heard that Holly was being discharged. Sarah said she was going to keep an eye on Holly. She left to check on a patient. Tate showed up and showed Brady the pills he found in Holly’s bag. EJ was watching them and flashed back to putting the pills in Holly’s bag. Marlena came up from behind EJ and told him that she heard about what was going on with the hospital. EJ let her know that the sale hasn’t gone through. He was sure that Gwen’s buyer would back out.

Sarah went back to Brady and Tate. They told her about the pills in Holly’s bag. She told them she would have the pills tested, but they had to talk to Holly. Brady said he would search around the Kiriakis mansion. Sarah and Tate went to talk to Holly. When they went to Holly’s room, they showed her the pills from her bag. Holly said she didn’t know what they were. Tate told her he found them in her bag. Holly said she never saw the pills before. Sarah said she wanted to get her the help she needed, but she had to admit to the problem. Holly said that the bag was empty for months. She said she wasn’t using drugs again and was sick of being accused of doing something she didn’t do. Sarah left to get something to calm Holly down. Holly yelled at Tate who said he believed her. She let him know that it would have been stupid of her to ask him to look in the bag if the pills were in there. Sarah came back with the sedative. Holly took it and told them to get out of her room. When they left the room, Holly took the pills out of her mouth. Gabi wondered how the companies were getting her designs when the only people who had access to her designs worked for her or were the manufacturers. She said she knew who was behind it. Brady came back to the hospital to let Sarah and Tate know that Holly’s room was clean so the pills were the only ones she had. Sarah said she sent them to the lab. Tate said Holly denied the pills were hers. Holly put her stuff in the bad and snuck out.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, July 21, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Kristen met with Lexie in the park. She had a suggestion for her. Kristen told her to go to the island in her place so her family wouldn’t watch her die, and she would escape under EJ’s nose. Lexie didn’t think the idea would work because people wouldn’t confuse them. Kristen found out that the people on the island weren’t that loyal to EJ. They are just expecting to see EJ’s sister. The people weren’t told which sister to expect. Kristen said they had to find a way to switch places after she’s kidnapped but before she was put in the container. Lexie thought the idea was brilliant, but she thought the truth would come out soon. Kristen felt like it didn’t matter because they would have time to get far away. She could get away, and Lexie could live her final days in paradise. Lexie didn’t think she would be on the run forever. Kristen wanted to be away long enough to outsmart EJ. Lexie wondered what happened between them to make EJ want to punish her. Kristen let her know that she did something out of anger that she regretted now. Since she didn’t have anything to lose, Lexie agreed to her plan. They hugged each other. Lexie wondered what was next. Kristen just had to figure out when EJ’s plan would take place.

Gabi stormed into Titan and informed Xander and Philip that she was rescinding her offer to save the company. Shocked, Philip reminded her that it was her idea to do it and told her they had a contract. Gabi told her there was a moral clause in the deal and accused them of stealing her designs to make knockoffs of their own. They didn’t know what she was talking about. Xander let her know that she misunderstood what was happening. Gabi informed them that only someone with access to her designs could have taken them. Xander thought one of her employees made the fake copies, but she refused to believe that. Gabi told him that was the first time it happened. The theft started when she started shipping with Titan. Her debt to Titan has been paid. Gabi warned them to say goodbye to Titan, the mansion, and everything they hold dear. Xander reminded her that Arianna was a Kiriakis and that would hurt Sonny. He said that Arianna wouldn’t forgive that. He’s not surprised that her daughter won’t speak to her. Gabi stormed out of the office. Xander and Philip insisted they were innocent.

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Days Update Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Lexie sits at home, tearfully thinking back to her meeting with Dr. Rolf and telling him to do whatever he has to do to help her, until Abe comes home.

Javi and Gus talk at home as Gabi comes home and says she just wants to make sure Arianna is in her room and tell her that she will do her best to stay out of her way since she’s still furious with her over the Liam situation. Javi asks what Liam situation so Gabi admits to paying Liam off to leave town, complaining that he’s a criminal who has been sniffing around her daughter for weeks. Gabi argues that what she did was to protect Ari for her own good and that sooner or later, she will realize that and forgive her. Gus informs her that it’s going to be later as he reveals that Ari already moved out.

Kate goes to the Brady Pub and informs Roman that the lawsuit against DiMera has officially been dropped which means Johnny won’t have to go to court or have to worry about paying Titan a huge sum. Kate guesses they’ll just find another way to repay the loan. Roman informs Kate that Arianna is going to be staying at the Pub upstairs after a fight with her mom. Kate argues that they don’t have any available rooms upstairs but Roman reveals it’s the one that Kate had been sleeping in.

Gwen finds Philip in the town square, reading the book she recommended to him. Gwen asks if he’s found it helpful. Philip says no, so Gwen asks what is not landing for him. Philip responds that one of the author’s suggestions is finding a new hobby like rock climbing and mocks that being romantic. Philip declares that he’d rather remain single eternally before signing up for that. Philip adds that signing up for an improv class is another lame suggestion. Gwen says she bought those books as a quick fix but the truth is there is no fix from being betrayed by someone you love and you can’t put yourself out there until your heart is ready.

Leo remains dizzy as he staggers through the hall of the Salem Inn. He then hides behind a bush as he sees Kristen and Xander come out from her room. Kristen asks Xander if they’re on for the same time tomorrow. Xander says he’ll call her. Kristen says he better as they kiss.

Abe joins Lexie and happily goes over the paper that revokes Lexie’s death. Abe declares that she got her life back and they are going to live every minute of it together, side by side.

Kate questions Roman giving Arianna the spare bedroom and asks where she’s going to sleep as she assumes he’s not inviting her back to their bedroom. Roman says not until they work things out, if they ever do.

Gabi can’t believe Arianna actually moved out. Javi guesses they really got in to it over Liam. Gabi says that Ari said she didn’t want to live under the same roof but she didn’t think she meant it. Gabi asks if they have any idea where she went. Gus informs her that she said something about a room above the Pub if Roman was okay with it. Gabi cries that she was just trying to protect her and never meant to hurt her as Javi hugs her.

Kristen kisses Xander and says until they meet again as she walks away. Leo then staggers out from around the corner. Xander asks if he’s alright. Leo responds that he’s trying to find his room but thinks he’s lost. Xander thinks he’s on the wrong floor and asks if he’s been drinking. Leo says he wishes, but he slipped on slime. Leo says he got scooped up by a hot firefighter who happens to be dating his ex and they must be laughing about what a loser he is. Xander argues that’s negative and encourages that he’s not a loser. Leo brings up what his mother told him which Xander relates to. Xander says it’s time they start focusing on their own truths which Leo says was very like Marlena. Xander notices Leo’s hospital band and questions him being in the hospital. Leo blows it off as just a concussion but then falls in to Xander’s arms. Leo jokes that he’s just as hot as that firefighter. Xander says he will get him to his room and helps him down the hall.

Lexie tells Abe how lucky she feels to be with him and Theo to enjoy every morning. Lexie declares that she’s never felt alive as she has everything she ever wanted and she never wants to let it go as they hug.

Kate asks Roman how they are supposed to work things out if he won’t talk to her. Kate asks where she’s going to sleep. Roman responds that he’s sure she’ll figure something out as she always does. Kate tells him not to be vague and to just tell her if they are done.

Gabi walks through the town square and comes across Philip. Gabi sees that he’s reading “So Long, Soulmate”. Philip insists that it’s not about her as they were not soulmates and more like a slow motion car crash. Gabi responds that she’s not over him either and probably never will be.

Gus and Javi are no longer hungry as they feel so bad for Gabi and Arianna. Javi says he gets that Liam is bad news, but he feels for Arianna as well. Javi talks about how his mother didn’t accept his sexuality, so he never felt like he could be himself around her. Javi argues that if he had been comfortable enough in Texas, he and Gus could’ve been together a long time ago and maybe he never would’ve come to Salem. Gus points out that would also mean never meeting Leo.

Xander is helping Leo to his room as Gwen comes home and questions what happened. Xander explains that Leo fell and got a concussion while he found him on the wrong floor. Gwen is surprised they would discharge him in this condition. Leo admits they didn’t and that Sarah was taking forever, so he just left and took a rideshare. Gwen says he looks awful so she wants to rush him back to the hospital straight away. Leo refuses, Xander suggests listening, but Leo insists he’s fine. Gwen asks Xander to get Leo in his room and then she’ll take it from there and see Xander later. Xander feels Gwen will probably have his hands full, so he suggests they take a rain check.

Javi tells Gus that he doesn’t regret meeting Leo. Javi says he hates that Leo hurt him but it wasn’t all bad. Javi adds that being with Leo led him back to Gus and helped him remember how amazing he is. Javi says he regrets leaving Texas while Gus understands he wasn’t ready. Javi talks about knowing he wasn’t the son that his mother wanted, so he hid and denied himself and even let his mother set him up with girls. Javi says he doesn’t regret his relationship with Sylvia because they had a daughter. Gus says he’s sorry as he knows how heartbreaking it was to lose his daughter. Javi says he still wouldn’t give up their short time together for anything or his time with Leo and Trey. Javi states that all of those experiences led him to where he is today, where he can be fully honest about who he is and what he wants which is Gus.

Gwen helps Leo onto his bed and asks if he wants to listen to music or watch TV. Leo says he appreciates her but she can be on her way. Gwen argues that he has a concussion so he shouldn’t be alone. Leo vaguely remembers Sarah saying that. Gwen decides she’s not going anywhere and sits next to him on the bed. Leo says that’s so sweet and he doesn’t deserve it as he cuddles with her.

Xander goes to Titan and talks on the phone about not being able to find out any information on ARO Wealth Management. Xander gets frustrated and says he’ll call them back on Monday.

Philip tells Gabi that he’s actually glad he ran in to her to talk about the peace offering she made to Titan. Philip states that he’s not happy that Xander accepted taking her inheritance, but since they did, he asks her not to say anything to EJ. Gabi says she doesn’t speak to EJ, but she is looking forward to rubbing it in Tony’s face after he double crossed her. Philip then reveals that it wasn’t Tony who told him what she did, it was Anna. Gabi is shocked as she thought Tony and Theo were the only ones who knew. Philip tells her that she was wrong, so there’s nothing to rub in Tony’s face. Gabi swears not to say anything to EJ. Kristen then comes over and asks if she heard her brother’s name. Kristen declares that if they are having an EJ trashfest, she wants in. Philip says that would be his cue. Gabi tells him that he doesn’t have to leave but Philip says he’s not getting in the middle of a DiMera family feud as he has enough of that in his own family. Gabi says that makes three of them as Philip walks away. Kristen then asks what Gabi was saying about EJ. Gabi says it’s what everyone says about him. Kristen calls EJ an evil bastard, so Gabi asks what nefariou deeds he’s up to now. Kristen invites Gabi for a drink but Gabi says she’s heading to the Pub to see Ari if she will see her. Kristen asks if she’s having mother-daughter troubles. Gabi admits that she messed up big time and she has to fix this as she wants her daughter back.

Lexie asks Abe how his visit with Chanel was. Abe responds that she’s a trooper, staying so strong and positive, but he wishes he could make it easier. Lexie encourages that Abe showed up and let them know he’s there for them like they were when she was gone which she’s grateful for.

Kate asks Roman if they are done. Roman responds that she broke his trust and then made it worse by lying about it. Kate argues that she’s facing what she did and taking responsibility for it. Roman says there’s not much else she can do. Kate points out that he didn’t answer the question of if they are done. Roman thinks the best thing to do is take some time apart. Kate says fine and that she’s going to pack her things as she heads upstairs.

Leo tells Gwen about waiting for the ambulance at the Pub and he thought maybe Javi would be the paramedic dispatched to the scene to be his EMT in shining armor, but it was his hunky boyfriend Gus. Leo cries that he just wants to crawl in a hole and never come out. Gwen argues that Leo has survived worse. Leo starts to say only Gus and his partner saw him in that state but then realizes, Roman, Chad, and Chad’s kids also saw him. Gwen encourages that he’s going to be okay. Leo wishes he hit his head hard enough to get amnesia and forget everything with Javi.

Gus tells Javi that it was so nice how he and Leo took care of Trey. Gus adds that he knows Javi ran in to Leo at the Pub while getting soup for Chanel. Javi can’t believe Leo got a concussion from slipping on slime and says he hopes he’s okay since he had a pretty severe head injury not too long ago. Javi wonders if he should go check on Leo and make sure he’s not alone but Gus informs him that Leo told him at the hospital that he had someone taking him home and that it was a he.

Philip joins Xander at Titan. Xander questions where he’s been and says he hasn’t found anything more about the company that bought their loan. Philip questions if Xander was busy on a booty call. Xander says there was some business involved. Philip assumes it was with Gwen, then realizes it wasn’t because he was with Gwen at the book store and guesses Xander’s been with someone else.

Abe tells Lexie that he’s surprised as he thought she didn’t like the idea of him being around Paulina and her family. Lexie says ever since he told her that Paulina was a big part of her second chance, she did some soul searching and realized she should be grateful to Paulina for taking care of him and Theo. Lexie understands that Abe thought she was gone forever so it’d be small and selfish to think he should be alone forever. Lexie declares you can never have too many people loving you. Lexie tells Abe that she loves him very much as they kiss.

Kate returns downstairs with her bags packed and tells Roman that she will send for the rest of her things tomorrow as she exits the Pub.

Gus tells Javi that Leo could’ve just been picked up by a friend. Javi is sure he’s being well taken care of then by his friend. Gus remarks that he sounds jealous. Javi asks why he would be jealous if Leo is seeing someone. Javi says he’s moved on, so Leo has every right to do the same.

Gwen tells Leo that she knows what he means as there’s a few memories she wishes she could scrub clean as well. Leo says he will resist the urge to bring the conversation back to himself and practice empathy which he’s learned in therapy. Leo then asks Gwen how she is and if she’s getting any more harassing texts from Dimitri. Gwen says she thankfully hasn’t, so perhaps he’s found something else to distract him other than revenge on her. Leo hopes EJ has been leaving her alone. Gwen says for the moment, he has. Leo then asks if there’s anything new with Xander. Gwen says sadly no as he won’t reciprocate her feelings for him and that he probably noticed the way he rushed off earlier. Gwen wishes she had more self respect but complains that the sex is so good. Gwen adds that it’s not like she has lots of other options.

Kristen tells Gabi that she’s sorry and really hopes things work out with her and Ari. Gabi thanks her and calls motherhood the toughest job they’ll ever have. Gabi asks about Rachel. Kristen says she’s doing a little better and the doctors felt she was strong enough for her and Brady to tell her about Sophia’s death. They relate over wishing nothing could ever hurt their daughters. Gabi complains that Arianna would probably hate her more, but if she could seal her away from harm forever, she would. Kristen agrees that she would do anything for Rachel.

Xander tells Philip that his personal life is none of his concern. Philip says he’s just surprised he could tear himself away from Titan for some afternoon delight. Xander repeats there was some business involved. Philip asks who the business was with. Philip then gets a call from Kate. He tells her it’s not a good time so Kate says she’ll make it quick and that she’s coming over. Philip says he’s not at the house while Kate clarifies that she’s moving back in. Philip responds that it’s good that Maggie is out of town because he’s not going to like this. Kate doesn’t give a damn what Maggie thinks and says she’s in the trenches doing everything she can to preserve Victor’s legacy, so she will see him at the damn house and hangs up. A man then enters with a delivery for Philip and Xander to sign. Xander opens it and sees it’s from their new lender, ARO and is shocked by what it says.

Lexie tells Abe that there is one thing he could do to make her really feel alive. Lexie says she’s never been more sure and that she’ll see him in the bedroom. After Lexie heads to the bedroom, Abe looks down and removes his wedding ring.

Gus asks Javi if he has no reason to be jealous of Leo and how worried he should be. Javi tells Gus that he will show him as he kisses him and then they head to their bedroom.

Leo argues that Gwen has plenty of options besides Xander. Gwen complains that all the men tend to be toxic, married, imagined, or in love with another woman. Leo praises Gwen and argues that she should be out there looking for someone who appreciates her. Gwen asks why he’s telling her this now. Leo thinks back to seeing Xander kissing Kristen. Leo then brings up that Gwen told him that EJ told her that Xander and Kristen were sleeping together. Gwen calls that a stupid attempt at retaliation from EJ and that Kristen is one of the only true friends she has. Leo says he’s only telling her because he loves her and she deserves to know that it is true.

Kristen remains in the town square and talks on the phone to EJ’s daughter Sydney. Kristen says when they talked before, Sydney said she had no big summer plans. Kristen adds that she was thinking about a week in Paris and invites Sydney to join her.

Kate sits outside the Pub, making a call to have the rest of her things picked up tomorrow. Gabi walks by so Kate remarks that a bad day just got worse. Kate tells Gabi that Arianna isn’t here and she doesn’t know where she is. Gabi questions if Kate is going somewhere. Kate informs Gabi that she’s moving back to the Kiriakis Mansion. Kate comments on Gabi’s fallout from screwing over Philip and Arianna being furious with her to move out. Gabi guesses that Kate thinks she deserves it. Kate responds that when it comes to paying Liam to leave town for sniffing around her daughter, she would’ve done the same thing as she then walks away.

Xander tells Philip that this is outrageous as ARO has tripled the payment rate and want payments every two weeks instead of the once a month they were paying. Philip says this can’t be happening as there’s no way they can meet those terms. Philip asks what they are going to do. Xander says he doesn’t know but they need to figure it out fast or else they’re going to lose everything.

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Days Update Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Leo goes to the Brady Pub and sees Javi (now played by Jacob Martinez) sitting at the bar, texting. Leo guesses Javi is texting his boyfriend but admits it’s none of his business. Roman comes out to take their order and they both end up ordering the same chicken soup.

Chad brings Thomas and Charlotte to the book store and tells them to pick out whatever they want while Julie talks about being happy to stay open for them. Julie says they can’t go away for the whole summer without something to read and asks when they leave. Chad informs her that the kids are going with Jack tomorrow morning to Boston. Julie encourages them to have fun and admits they will be missed but they will video chat every day. Julie then directs the kids to get books. Julie tells Chad that she knows it will be hard on him to go all summer without his kids around. Chad says it’s not like he has a choice. Julie comments on on Chad, Jack, and Jennifer working through the custody dispute and notes that she thinks it’s important for the kids to know their grandparents as it’s what Abigail would’ve wanted. Chad says not like this.

Tate sits at Holly’s side in the hospital as Arianna arrives to ask how she’s doing. Tate says there’s still no change and that Sarah still has no idea what’s going on with her. They talk about if Holly possibly ate something that’s interacting with her meds.

Brady brings Sarah a sandwich and espresso at the hospital. Sarah thanks him as she can’t remember the last time she ate which Brady notes is not good. Sarah says she can’t bring herself to take a break until she figures out what’s going on with Holly. Brady asks how she’s doing. Sarah responds that she’s not getting any worse, but not getting any better. Sarah wants to assures Holly that she’s fine but she won’t make promises that she doesn’t know she can keep.

Roman goes to get Leo and Javi’s orders and tells them to help themselves to coffee. Leo comments on Javi not feeling well since he always ordered chicken soup when he was coming down with something. Javi clarifies that he’s getting it for Chanel since she started chemo today. Leo says that great minds think alike as he was also ordering for Chanel and picked up some groceries for them which Javi acknowledges is good of him. Javi talks about visiting Tesoro and they talk about how much he’s grown. Leo hopes to babysit while Johnny and Chanel are busy. Javi mentions that he’s offered too. Leo suggests coordinating their child care schedules so they don’t end up at the apartment at the same time.

Brady knows Sarah is scared for Holly and frustrated because she can’t find answers, but asks her to go easy on herself since she’s doing everything she can. Sarah says all she has is a gut feeling that Destiny and her sister’s death were related to Coriseal and now it’s in Holly’s system. Brady points out that none of Holly’s side effects are tied to Coriseal. Sarah calls it a medical mystery that they are no closer to solving.

Tate tells Arianna that Holly got sick before they had dinner, so the only things she ate were the snacks that they all ate. Ari points out that Holly was only drinking water all weekend which Tate questions. They realize that Holly drank from the tap which could be the only thing she had that they didn’t. Tate decides he has to tell Sarah because it could be the one thing that helps, so he rushes out of the room.

Chad tells Julie that it’s not that he doesn’t want the kids spending time with their grandparents, but he hates being away from them for months. Julie talks about when Jennifer and Hope went to sleepaway camp when they were little and had to write letters home while Chad has modern technology to see and talk to Thomas and Charlotte anytime. Chad guesses he has to be grateful for that. Julie suggests he make some fun plans for himself this summer and asks if he has any ideas. Chad then asks if Julie has any books on Verdi.

Arianna goes home to pack her bags. Javi’s boyfriend Gus questions her really moving out. Ari responds that there’s no way she’s living there after what Gabi pulled.

Leo asks Javi how work is going. Javi says it’s fine and he’s finally off probation after disobeying protocol. Leo is glad Johnny survived and Javi wasn’t hurt. Leo asks how Gus is. Javi responds that he’s loving life in Salem and fitting in well at the fire department. Leo says that’s great and asks if it’s not too close for comfort to be living together and working together. Javi says it’s actually going great. Roman brings them their chicken soups. Leo decides to pay for both and says it’s his treat for Chanel. Javi thanks him and tells him to take care as he exits the Pub.

Brady tells Sarah that when John was stuck on a case, he would throw out the theories and speculation and just look at the facts, so he thinks they should think about what they really know as the facts. Sarah states that four teenagers went on a getaway and they know sometimes teenagers experiment with alcohol. Brady calls that a theory while what they know is that all the kids said Holly did not drink or take anything but her prescription meds. Sarah adds that all that showed up in her blood work was Coriseal and the antidepressants she was taking. Brady asks if there was any way the meds could’ve been swapped out with Coriseal. Sarah says that the lab confirmed they were not and she wants to believe Holly, but brings up her past. Sarah admits she went through Holly’s purse while she was sleeping but didn’t find anything. Tate then comes running over and announces that he thinks he’s figured out why Holly is so sick.

Julie is surprised Chad is interested in Verdi and says she’s thrilled that he has any interest in classical music. Thomas and Charlotte come back with books. Julie says she’ll go get the Verdi book but Chad says he can get that later. Chad says they were going to the Pub for milkshakes and invites Julie to come. Julie says she’d love to but she was going to visit Holly at the hospital. Chad asks about her getting sick at the lake. Julie tells him that nobody knows what’s causing it. Julie then encourages that Holly is young and strong with great doctors, so she’s sure she will be just fine.

Tate explains that it dawned on he and Ari that Holly was the only one who drank the tap water and asks if that could mean something. Sarah responds that it could. Brady points out that it wouldn’t be tested like water from the lake, so it could’ve been contaminated. Brady decides he will head to the cabin to get a sample and leaves the hospital.

Arianna packs her bags in her car as she prepares to leave. Gus tells her that Javi had to run an errand and is sorry he wasn’t there to see her off. Ari tells Gus that she’s really happy they are together as she sees how happy he makes Javi. Gus says he’s loved getting to know the family. Ari asks if he’s sure since he’s been caught up in all of the drama going on now. Gus says he’s just said that she and Gabi aren’t getting along and that she won’t be living there anymore. Gus hopes they can work it out but Ari doesn’t know how she can forgive Gabi for going behind her back and betraying her the way she did. Gus responds that he gets that the people you care about most can hurt you the most.

Julie visits Holly in the hospital and asks how she’s really doing. Holly admits she’s not great and the worst part is that they can’t figure out why she’s sick which is scaring her. Julie encourages that Sarah is a terrific doctor and that everyone is trying to figure out what’s wrong, so when they do, she will get better. Julie says she brought Holly a book to read and wishes she could do more. Julie sends love from Maggie and adds that she’s here anytime Holly needs to talk about anything. Holly thanks her as Tate returns to the room with news. Tate says he’s not sure yet and doesn’t want to get her hopes up but explains that he and Ari realized that Holly is the only one who drank the tap water at the cabin, so Brady and Sarah think the water could be contaminated. Julie says that she has it tested at the beginning of every season but it’s possible it could’ve missed something. Tate says they don’t know for sure but Brady is up there now getting a sample, so it could be a clue as to what’s going on with her.

Leo sits alone at the Pub, looking at photos of he and Javi on his phone. Chad then arrives with Thomas and Charlotte, who excitedly greet Leo. Charlotte mentions getting slime which Chad tells her not to open until they get home. Chad sends the kids to a play table and asks Leo about his assignment. Leo promises to have a draft for him later but for now he’s going to deliver chicken soup to Chanel. The kids come running by and Leo ends up slipping on the slime toy. Roman calls 911 while Leo tries to claim he’s fine but then complains of dizziness when he tries to stand up. Roman gets a call and has to step away so Chad says he will watch Leo. Charlotte comes over to apologize. Leo says it’s fine and jokes that maybe it will be the perfect end to his day as some handsome EMT will come whisk him away, but it turns out to be Javi’s boyfriend Gus arriving at the Pub.

Holly comments on the gift Ari brought her while Sarah comes in to the room and says there’s no update yet. Julie asks about the water at the cabin which Sarah confirms Brady is looking in to now. Julie says she will get her a copy of the last official test run on the water. Julie tells Holly to take care and that she loves her as she exits. Tate asks Sarah what their next steps are. Sarah says she will run more tests to rule out anything else while they wait for Brady to come back with the water sample. Sarah mentions that Brady texted her that he made the last ferry, so he should be there now.

Brady arrives at the Horton Cabin on Smith Island to get a sample of the water from the sink. Someone appears outside the window and watches him.

Chad tells Roman that he’s sorry about all that. Roman says it happens. Chad asks how Roman is doing. Roman says he’s been better and guesses he talked to Kate. Chad confirms he did and hates seeing them at odds since they are so good together. Roman says that’s what makes this so hard. Roman says he really loves Kate, but her lies didn’t just hurt him, they hurt his grandson. Arianna arrives with her bag packed and announces she’s moving in to the Pub.

Javi finds Gus at the hospital and asks how his shift went. Gus calls it eventful as always and asks if he got the chicken soup to Chanel. Javi confirms that he did and he got to spend some time with Trey, while now he gets time with Gus so he’s having a damn good night. Gus says he knows how to make it even better as soon as the coast is clear. Javi jokes that he can be patient.

Holly tells Tate that she can’t really concentrate. Tate encourages her about all the amazing and fun things they will do when she’s out of the hospital, suggesting a road trip before she goes back to school. Holly tells Tate that she’s feeling really weird, her heart is beating fast and she can’t breathe as Tate calls for help.

Sarah checks on Leo at the hospital. Sarah is concerned that this is his second concussion in less than three months and the long term effects of serious head injuries, so he has to be more careful. Leo insists it’s not that bad and that he needs to go check on Johnny and Chanel. Sarah responds that she can’t discharge him until he has someone to pick him up and take him home, to make sure he doesn’t fall asleep in the next few hours. Sarah then gets paged and orders Leo to stay put as she will be back in a few minutes as she hurries out. Leo goes ahead and leaves the room, calling Sarah to tell her that he thinks she forgot about him and that he’s going to leave. Leo remarks that heh as places to be and people to see as he then looks ahead and sees Javi and Gus kissing, which Leo comments to himself that he wishes he didn’t see. Leo then gets dizzy and stumbles, prompting Gus to come over and asks if he’s okay. Leo says he’s fine. Gus comments that it’s good to see him back on his feet. Javi asks what he means. Gus then informs Javi that he had to bring Leo in earlier. Javi questions if he’s alright. Leo says it was just an unfortunate incident with some slime. Javi gets a text that his partner is ready to get back on the road, so he’ll see Gus back at home and exits. Leo claims to Gus that the doctors gave him the all clear. Gus offers him a ride home but Leo declines, saying he has a friend coming to pick him up. Gus tells Leo to take care of himself and walks away.

Sarah checks on Holly and says the machine went off because her heart was beating at an irregular rhythm. Holly asks if it will happen again. Sarah says it could but she ordered medication to help regulate it. Sarah encourage Holly to try to get some rest as she exits. Tate decides to resume talking about the fun things they will do when she gets better. Holly tells Tate that she loves him. Tate promises her that they will make a ton of fun memories when this is over.

Arianna tells Roman and Chad that she needs space from her mother as they wouldn’t survive being under the same roof all summer. Roman jokes that Chad’s in for a lot of drama when his kids grow up. Chad decides to get the kids home, so they exit. Roman gives Arianna a room key. She thanks him for letting her stay. Roman assures that he’ll always have a place for her and an ear to listen. Ari asks if he doesn’t think she’s overreacting. Roman says it’s not his place and he doesn’t need to know what happened between her and Gabi. Ari feels he deserves to know since he’s giving her a place to stay. Ari then informs Roman that Gabi dug up dirt on Liam and paid him to leave town. Ari declares that she doesn’t know how she can ever trust her again after she betrayed her like that. Roman responds that he knows the feeling.

Brady returns to the hospital and gives Sarah the water sample, which she says she will get to the lab right away. Sarah says she will put a rush on it since the usual turnaround time is 3-5 days but if Holly isn’t getting better, they might not have that kind of time.

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Days Short Recap Friday, July 17, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Rita gave EJ an envelope while he was at work. He got his inheritance just as Rita gave him the letter. EJ wouldn’t get any money from the drug since it didn’t work. He said that Lexie only had days left to live. EJ went to the reception area and ran into Sarah. She yelled at him and told him to stay away from Holly. He got tired of her mouth and tried to fire her in front of everyone. Xander was the first to defend Sarah and then Kayla stepped up to defend her. Kayla told EJ that he wasn’t the owner anymore and had 90 days to vacate the hospital. She told him once the buyout was complete that he would be out, and Gwen would be the new owner. After her conversation with EJ was done, Sarah noticed that Xander her Holly’s bag. She wanted to know why he had it. Sarah realized that Holly was ready to leave the hospital. EJ lingered around while Sarah talked to Xander about the arsenic and Coriseal. Xander let her know that she believed Holly. He thought it was EJ’s fault. Xander left Holly’s bag unattended when he showed Sarah a video of Victoria.

Alex arrived home and found Theo in his apartment, and Stephanie hungover. She was stumbling in the apartment. Theo woke up and wanted to leave, but Stephanie said he could stay. Alex threw his clothes at Theo and demanded to know what was going on. They told him what happened. Alex wasn’t happy about what happened between them. Stephanie thanked Theo for being a good listener. Theo left nervously. Alex and Stephanie started arguing. He told her that Joy wouldn’t drive a wedge between them unless she let it happen. Stephanie apologized for everything.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, July 16, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Lexie tried to reach out to Kristen, but she only got her voicemail. She collapsed on a chair and tried to hide it when Abe approached her. Abe wanted to find Theo, but she didn’t know where he was. She talked to him about needing space. Lexie wanted to see her mother without him. Abe thought he would lose more time with Lexie. Kristen called her back so Lexie had to leave. Lexie met with Kristen to warn her about EJ’s plan, but she collapsed before she could tell her anything. Kristen was about to call the police when Lexie stopped her. She didn’t want her family to know that she’s dying again. Lexie made Kristen promise her that she wouldn’t say anything. She didn’t want them to watch her die again. Lexie planned to disappear so they wouldn’t see her die again. Kristen got chocked up and apologized for telling Theo about Stefano’s involvement in Lexie getting cancer. Lexie told her that she had something else to tell her. Brady and Marlena talked about Rachel coming home and Kristen being afraid of EJ. Kristen wouldn’t tell them about her concerns about EJ so they shrugged it off. They didn’t care as long as Rachel wasn’t involved. Brady and Marlena chose to talk about the arsenic poisoning. He was still convinced that DiMera Pharmaceuticals was behind it. Brady thought it was possible that Holly was back on drugs too. He went back to the Horton cabin to get another water sample because he knew that EJ would have tampered with the original sample. They wondered if EJ had a heart or not. Marlena wanted to call someone to help him out.

Holly was worried about Amy’s lawsuit. Sarah came to her room and Holly became upset. Holly was upset that her mother went back to Paris. The only person she had left in her life was an aunt who thought she was a drug addict. Holly was thankful that she saved her life, but if she didn’t believe her, she didn’t want her in her life. Brady and Marlena arrived at the hospital. Marlena spotted Cat and wanted to talk to her about EJ. She thought it would be relevant to her investigation. Marlena discussed the Coriseal and arsenic situation with her. Sarah ran into Brady at the hospital. She told him what happened with Holly. He said they had to wait for the results from the water sample he had sent to ISA. The results arrived a few minutes later. Unfortunately for Sarah and Brady, there wasn’t any Coriseal or arsenic in the water. EJ went to Holly’s room with flowers. She was happy to see him. Holly was even happier when he told her that he could get her case with Amy dismissed. He was determined to have her back. Holly opened up to him about her situation. She didn’t feel like she had any family left because Sarah didn’t believe that she wasn’t doing drugs. EJ reminded her that he was her family too and that he believed her. Sarah wasn’t happy to find EJ in Holly’s room. She threw him out of Holly’s room. Holly was upset that she threw him out of her room. Sarah told her that she didn’t need his help. Holly became enraged and threw her out of her room. Sarah met up with Brady, and he told her that Julie had to the water decontaminated at the Horton cabin so there was nothing left to test.

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