Days Update Thursday, March 26, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Shawn is in his hospital bed, finishing a call with his sister Ciara as Jada arrives with flowers from the police department. Jada jokes about how they miss him because they are tired of covering his paper work. Jada asks how he’s feeling since she last checked on him. Shawn talks about completing his first physical therapy session. Shawn assures that he’ll be out of the hospital and back home ahead of schedule. Jada says she would expect nothing less but reminds him not to overdo it. Jada then informs Shawn that Belle offered to move in to help take care of him.

JJ is working at the police station but has trouble focusing. Theo then arrives and says he came to check on him.

The judge announces that she is inclined to impose the maximum penalty available to her. Kristen can’t believe it while Rachel worries and Brady tries to calm her. Melinda argues that seven years is a long time while the judge feels it’s fair. Kristen complains that she doesn’t even know why they are here and calls it a waste of time. Kristen thought she could get a fair shake but shouts that if this is the way it’s going to go, she can just send her back to prison right this minute, shocking Rachel and Brady. The judge responds that if that appeals to her, she can make it happen. Kristen remarks that she might as well and tells her to go ahead and lock her up.

EJ tells Marlena that he and Sarah were just discussing hospital business. Marlena questions that having to do with labs and secret rooms. EJ questions why Marlena is in the town square instead of at the hearing. Marlena tells him that the judge only wanted to deal with directly involved parties so she’s just been wandering around, waiting to hear the result. Marlena asks if EJ is nervous about his testimony. EJ says he has no reason to be and that it breaks his heart to see Rachel carry such a tremendous burden. Marlena agrees and hopes Kristen doesn’t have to go back to prison and that Rachel can get the help she needs.

The judge asks Melinda if Kristen has decided to represent herself or if she’d like to remind her how to behave in a court room. Melinda requests a recess which the judge grants for 15 minutes. Melinda then orders Kristen not to speak until spoken to from now on. Kristen complains that Rachel only wanted to confess so that she wouldn’t go back to prison and if she’s going back anyway on perjury charges, then there’s no reason for Rachel to admit what she did. Kristen questions putting her through this. Rachel argues that she needs to do this and she wants to tell the judge everything about why Kristen lied and how she protected her. Rachel believes that once the judge hears the truth, there’s no way she will send Kristen back to prison.

Shawn is surprised to hear from Jada that Belle wants to move in with him and notes that she didn’t say a word to him about it. Jada explains that she ran in to her in the town square earlier and that Sarah mentioned Shawn would need some help when he’s discharged, so she offered to stay with him. Jada notes that he doesn’t seem too thrilled about it which Shawn confirms.

Theo tells JJ that he heard about what happened last night with Shawn and he knows it’s the first time JJ had to pull his gun in the line of duty since he’s been back on the force, so he knows it probably brought up some stuff for him. JJ responds that it brought up what a screw up he is. JJ complains that he needed to step up and he froze like a damn rookie. JJ remarks that Shawn could’ve died because he couldn’t bring himself to pull the trigger and now he can’t stop seeing the moment he failed miserably as it’s burned in to his brain.

Belle tells Rachel that she does think there’s a good chance the judge could drop all the charges once she hears the whole story, but she can’t make any promises. The judge then returns to ask if Melinda has made a decision. Rachel declares that she has something she has to say and promises to tell the truth. Rachel goes over Kristen saying she shot EJ and explains that Kristen said that because she didn’t want anything happening to her. Rachel declares she’s guilty and Kristen is the innocent one as she states that she shot her uncle. The judge questions everyone knowing about this. Belle confirms that she knew and has a written statement from Rachel with corroboration from EJ. The judge says they will at some point discuss Belle’s failure to disclose this information immediately. She then asks Rachel to tell her what happened the night of the shooting. Rachel swears it was an accident and that she did not mean to shoot her uncle as she just wanted him to tell her where her Grandma was. Rachel explains that she saw the gun there and thought if she pointed it at him, EJ would tell her where she was because she’s seen that happen in movies. Rachel cries that she missed her Grandma so much and that Kristen was so sad, so she just wanted to fix it. Rachel repeats that she’s sorry and she didn’t mean to shoot EJ.

Shawn tells Jada that he’s comfortable with Belle and they get along fine, but he’s not sure about being close like that again. Jada asks what the problem would be. Shawn feels it would be awkward if she’s helping him shower and change clothes as he thinks that part of their relationship needs to stay over. Shawn assures that he appreciates the gesture but he thinks he’s going to tell Belle no. Jada says she understands but he can’t do this alone and will need someone to help take care of him. Shawn insists he’ll manage just fine. Jada then suggests he could let her take care of him.

Theo asks what JJ is talking about. JJ responds that he had a clean shot at the son of a bitch who shot Liam and he should’ve taken it as he was in the right and had the go ahead, but he still couldn’t pull the trigger. JJ adds that after it was over, he kept telling himself there was nothing he could’ve done differently but Shawn remembered that he froze, so because of him, Shawn took a bullet. Theo tells JJ that he’s sorry. JJ says he’s the one that is sorry. JJ declares that Theo was right that he never should’ve put the badge back on.

Brady and Kristen encourage Rachel that they are proud of her. Rachel cries that she’s worried about Kristen. Kristen assures that she’ll be just fine and promises they will never be apart again. The judge asks Belle how long her office has known the truth about Rachel’s confession. Belle admits she’s had knowledge for some time but with Kristen missing, it wasn’t possible for her to act on it. Belle strongly recommends that no charges be filed against Rachel in this accidental shooting and adds that EJ is ready to testify in support of that decision. Belle brings up Brady having Rachel voluntarily committed to Bayview where she received intense therapy. Belle presents a sworn affidavit from Rachel’s therapist, who confirms she is making steady progress. The judge asks how they can be sure that Rachel won’t abandon her treatment. Melinda insists that Kristen is committed to Rachel remaining in treatment and assures she will do whatever it takes for Rachel’s mental wellness. Kristen brings up that Marlena will also be treating Rachel. Melinda states that Rachel has a strong and loving family to support her. The judge declares that she’s heard enough and would now like to hear from the victim which Belle says won’t be a problem.

EJ guesses Marlena is worried about something and that she knows something he doesn’t. Marlena responds that she’s just concerned about Rachel’s mental health and well being. EJ then gets a text from Belle that the judge is ready for him and tells Marlena that it’s the moment of truth as he then walks away.

Jada tells Shawn that she has a spare bedroom and no stairs so it would be easy for him to get around. Shawn reminds her that he’s familiar with her apartment and her bedroom, but he doesn’t want to be a burden and points out that she is his boss, but she’s also been more than that. Jada calls him her friend and asks if he thinks things will get too complicated or messy. Shawn assures that he’s very at ease with her, but he hates needing help. Jada repeats that he is her friend, so it would make her feel really good to help him and he’d be doing her a favor. Shawn then accepts her offer and thanks her.

Theo tells JJ that taking his time to pull the trigger is not a bad thing. JJ argues that in some situations, it absolutely is. JJ says when everything is coming at you fast, you have to act and there’s no time to overthink it or someone could be dead and last night that could’ve been Shawn. JJ adds that on top of that, the shooter is dead so now Shawn has to live with taking a life because he didn’t. Theo can’t imagine what it must be like to have to make that kind of life or death decision and mentions only ever being on the opposite end which JJ calls another time he screwed up. Theo feels JJ is being awfully hard on himself while JJ states that he let his partner down, who is his own cousin. JJ declares he’s made two near fatal mistakes, so he’s not going to make a third. JJ feels he won’t be allowed to because he knows Jada will ask for his badge after she talks to Shawn. Theo tells JJ that he’s sorry and that he’s a good person which is why it’s hitting him so hard. JJ thanks Theo for checking in. Theo says he’ll let him get back to work, but he’s there anytime he needs to talk. Theo then exits the station.

Brady tells Rachel that Tate is in the hallway and ready to take her home. Rachel hugs Brady and Kristen as EJ arrives. Rachel tells EJ that she’s really sorry. EJ responds that he’s sorry too as she exits. The judge resumes and asks EJ to describe what happened the night of the shooting. EJ recalls being alone at home when Rachel came downstairs from the bedroom and confronted him with a gun that had been left there. Belle points out that was the gun that EJ took from Johnny in the original trial. EJ continues that Rachel was upset and blamed him for her Grandmother’s disappearance. EJ says he made the mistake of not locking the gun away when Johnny left, so Rachel picked it up and when he reached for it, the gun accidentally went off. The judge argues that’s not what EJ said in his original testimony. EJ states that at the time, he hadn’t remembered what happened nor had Rachel and if she had, she wouldn’t have let her mother go to prison for the shooting. EJ declares that Rachel is his niece who he adores and calls her a bright and sensitive girl with far too much hardship in her young life. EJ assures that Rachel never meant to hurt him and once she remembered what she had done, she owned up to it immediately and did not intentionally lie to the court in the previous hearing. The judge thanks EJ and excuses him, so he exits. She says not to celebrate just yet as she wants to review Rachel’s full file from Bayview and that they will reconvene in 30 minutes.

Brady and Belle join Marlena in the town square. Marlena questions the recess. Belle explains that the judge just called for Rachel’s full psychiatric review from Bayview. Marlena says they will find that Rachel was discharged against medical advice. Belle worries that the judge won’t be happy that she kept that information from her. Brady argues that this doesn’t fall on her but on Kristen for going rogue and taking Rachel out of Bayview when they all knew that was a terrible idea. Belle then gets a text that the judge wants Marlena to testify because Kristen invoked her as part of Rachel’s ongoing treatment.

Kristen and Melinda go to the Brady Pub where Kristen asks if the review of Rachel’s Bayview records is going to be a problem. Melinda feels it will open her up to more scrutiny. Kristen talks about Rachel making improvements and tremendous strides which is what matters. Melinda then gets a text that Marlena has been asked to testify. Kristen is sure that the judge just wants confirmation that Marlena agreed to supervise over Rachel and feels it could actually help their case. Melinda asks if she’s sure about that since Kristen told her that Marlena was furious over her taking Rachel out of Bayview against medical advice. Kristen assures that Marlena won’t say anything that could send Rachel back to that horrible place. Melinda then exits the Pub.

Jada tells Shawn the house rules about the toilet seat, toothpaste, and dishwasher, joking that she has ways to enforce the rules as police commissioner. Shawn brings up that he might snore. JJ then arrives, so Jada says she’ll give them time alone but JJ says he came to see her. JJ informs Jada that rather than have her come find him, he thought he’d deliver his badge and gun to her as he’s surprised she hadn’t already demanded it. Jada asks what he’s talking about. JJ says he figured she’d want it after Shawn’s statement. Shawn tells JJ that he doesn’t have to do this while JJ says that he does. Jada says that’s enough and questions what the hell is going on.

Brady complains that they promised Rachel that everything would be okay and she wouldn’t be punished, but now he worries that he was wrong. Belle tries to tell him not to go there but Brady questions how he can’t and shouts about Rachel being sent back to Bayview. Brady decides he just needs to be alone. Marlena says she’ll see him at the courthouse.

JJ tells Jada that he’s made an unforgivable mistake again as it’s his fault that Shawn is in the hospital bed. JJ informs her that he had a shot at Klaus and he froze. Jada asks Shawn if this is true. Shawn says it all happened so fast and JJ hadn’t slept after working on Stephanie’s case. Jada guesses it is true. Shawn argues that if he hadn’t shown up and taken the shot at Klaus, then JJ would’ve been the one lying on the ground. JJ argues that it should’ve been him. JJ declares that he knows Shawn won’t feel safe with him as his partner and he can’t keep the citizens of Salem safe either. JJ announces that he’s done and is turning in his badge, telling Jada not to fight him on it this time.

Theo comes out from the Brady Pub and runs in to EJ. EJ asks how he’s feeling. Theo says he’s getting stronger and ready to return to work. EJ asks about the transition with Johnny. Theo says they haven’t really started but it’s going smoothly. Theo admits it will be a big loss not having Johnny around at DiMera. EJ praises Johnny having a knack for leadership and jokes that it runs in the family. Theo mentions telling Johnny that he’d love to have him stay on in senior management, but he turned him down and said he wasn’t interested.

Brady, Belle, Melinda, and Kristen return to the courthouse with Marlena. The judge asks Marlena if she was aware of Rachel being discharged from Bayview against medical orders which Marlena confirms she was. The judge then brings up learning that Rachel gave Sarah a known allergen that led to her almost dying. She says that Kristen earlier led them to believe that Marlena was willing to supervise Rachel’s outpatient care and calls her an excellent witness. Marlena responds that she is Rachel’s Grandmother but she’s never treated her professionally and doesn’t know if it would be appropriate to treat her. Melinda wants that on record that Marlena’s relationship with Rachel is strictly personal. The judge asks Marlena if she believes Rachel would not be a danger being back in school with other kids or if she belongs back in Bayview under psychiatric care. Belle argues that Rachel is not Marlena’s patient, so her professional opinion is irrelevant. The judge rephrases by asking Marlena if she agreed with the decision to remove Rachel from Bayview against medical advice. Marlena admits that she did not. The judge asks if she’s had reason to change her mind since then. Marlena states that she was pleasantly surprised to see how well Rachel had done after her first time at Bayview. Marlena then flashes back to when Rachel pinched her on St. Patrick’s Day and then learning from Brady about Holly’s supplements being switched. Marlena then declares that as much as it pains her to say this, she thinks Rachel still needs to be at Bayview.

Jada tells JJ that he just did a very brave thing. JJ complains that he was a coward when it mattered and walks out. Shawn calls out to him but Jada says to let him go because he needs space. Jada then warns Shawn that she should suspend him for filing a statement that wasn’t accurate. Shawn argues that everything he wrote was true while Jada argues that it wasn’t the whole truth as he left out knowingly keeping a broken cop on the street and that could have cost someone else their life.

EJ tells Theo that it was worth a try urging Johnny to stay at DiMera but he’s always been determined to carve his own path. EJ asks Theo to come by the house tomorrow as he has something to show him that he believes will mean a great deal to him. Theo says he will see him there and walks away. EJ pulls out his phone and makes a call, saying Lexie is going to have a very special visitor tomorrow and he suspects it will mean the world to her.

The judge announces she is ready to rule that Kristen’s conviction for attempted murder is vacated and that she is sentenced to time served for perjury while the entire record of this hearing will be served. She agrees that there should be no criminal charges in the accidental shooting of EJ, based on what she’s read in Rachel’s records and Marlena’s testimony, she finds that Rachel is in need of continued in-patient care and treatment. The judge orders Rachel back to Bayview under court supervision, leaving Kristen glaring at Marlena.

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Y&R Short Recap Thursday, April 2, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Eva

Nick continues to get high. Adam, Chelsea, and Sharon notice Nick is acting strangely but they can’t tell he is addicted to drugs.

Matt wants to have a private meeting with Spider. Lily and Victoria tell Phyllis that she won’t be in control of Newman Enterprises for long because Victor always wins.

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Y&R Short Recap Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Eva

Danny hears Daniel and Tessa singing together at Crimson Lights and asks them to be his opening act for his private show in Barcelona. Daniel and Tessa agree to be Danny’s opening act and Danny is determined to persuade Daniel and Tessa to record music together.

Sharon tries to persuade Phyllis that her children are more important than Newman Enterprises but Phyllis tells her that she has realized that she will be a success alone because she doesn’t need friends or family.

Nick gets enough fentanyl for six people and the drug dealer gives Nick something extra because he may need a boost.

Spider passes Riza’s test and wins the private poker game. Riza tells Adam that she works with a partner now but she isn’t ready for Adam to meet her partner yet. Riza tells Adam that she wants him focused on her and gives Adam a long kiss.

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Y&R Short Recap Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Eva

Mariah and Tessa say goodbye before Sharon takes Mariah to the psychiatric hospital for treatment.

Abby and Devon are upset that Mariah got medical treatment and probation instead of a harsher punishment for kidnapping Dominic. Abby and Devon are upset that the judge didn’t consider their feelings before Mariah’s sentencing. Abby and Devon are also scared Mariah will come after Dominic again once she is done with her treatment.

Nate is upset that Victoria didn’t tell him that Lily helped Victor fake her and the twins kidnapping. Victoria explains that she couldn’t tell anyone and she apologizes to Nate for the pain she caused him.

Billy tells Jack that he is going to London to see Jill and he hopes that Jack will soon reconcile with Diane. Jack is determined to find a way to save his marriage.

Victoria delivers a letter from Summer to Phyllis, The letter says that Summer will never forgive her for attacking her family. Summer signs the letter “goodbye mom.” Daniel also tells Phyllis that he is done with her unless he returns Newman Enterprises back to the Newman family. Phyllis tells herself that she doesn’t need anyone…she will be just fine on her own.

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Days Update Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the hospital, Brady texts Marlena that he’s at the nurses’ station and asks if she has a minute as it’s important. Sarah comes over and brings him a coffee as she asks if he’s okay. Brady says he was nervous enough about Rachel’s hearing today and now this. Brady argues that it doesn’t make sense why Rachel would replace Holly’s supplements with her meds. Holly says she doesn’t know but at least they have an explanation for Holly’s symptoms. Brady calls that a relief but wishes he knew what would drive Rachel to want to hurt Holly like that.

Leo remains in his hospital bed with his laptop and tries to type a story about Dimitri being held against his will. Gwen then appears and asks Leo if it’s a good time for a chat.

Arianna tells Liam that she’s going to get more first aid supplies and will be right back. She tells him to text her if he needs anything and to feel free to watch something on her tablet if he wants. Arianna picks up her tablet and sees news alerts about Vivian’s death and Klaus being gunned down by police. Arianna doesn’t tell Liam about it and tells him to just make sure to lock the door behind her. Arianna then exits. Liam looks at the tablet and starts to read the news alert when the door opens before he can lock it and EJ arrives with another man with him to confront Liam.

Brady tells Sarah that Rachel shooting EJ was an accident but between causing Sarah’s allergic reaction and now drugging Holly. Sarah says not to get ahead of himself, reminding him that they don’t know what’s behind this. Brady declares the one thing he knows is that none of this would be happening if Kristen didn’t take Rachel out of Bayview. Marlena then comes over and tells Brady that she got his text and asks what’s happening. Brady responds that Rachel is in trouble again.

Kristen gets Rachel prepared for court. Rachel wants to wear her new lipstick but Kristen says no and that the judge needs to see her as the sweet innocent girl she is. Rachel responds that she is not innocent.

Marlena asks Brady why Rachel would do something like that to Holly when she thought they were friends. Brady says he did too but points out that she was getting along with Sarah too when she almost caused her to die. Marlena asks how Holly is. Brady says that according to Tate, she’s not good and was having mood swings and erratic outbursts. Sarah talks about Holly coming to see her. Brady adds that Tate decided to take what he thought were Holly’s skin supplements and started having the same reaction. Marlena talks about how the pills can have various side effects. Marlena declares that the real question is if Rachel meant to hurt Holly. Brady asks what other explanation there could be. Marlena asks to see the medication, so Brady hands it to her.

Kristen tells Rachel that she will always be her sweet and innocent girl. Rachel points out that she shot EJ. Kristen argues that wasn’t her fault and that EJ pushed her in to it. Kristen calls it an accident. Rachel admits she was mad at him. Kristen says she had every right to be because what EJ did was wrong and hurtful, so if anyone should pay for what happened, it’s him.

EJ tells Liam that he waited until Arianna left the building. Liam questions how he found him. EJ reminds him that he left him messages. Liam says he should’ve known he could track him. EJ brings up Liam alerting him to the fact that Klaus was in town and is now dead which he credits him for. Liam swears that he did not shoot Klaus. EJ suggests that Liam just provoked a police officer in to doing it for him. Liam says that’s not what happened and that Klaus was about to kill him when the cops arrived. EJ says either way, he won’t be missed. EJ questions if Liam is hiding out in a dorm room because he’s worried someone might come around to avenge Klaus. Liam says it just sort of happened. EJ responds that it just sort of happened that Vivian has joined Klaus in the great beyond, so he has nothing left to worry about.

Leo tells Gwen that she shouldn’t sneak up on him as he could’ve dropped his laptop and lost his story which Gwen mocks. Gwen questions why he’s staring at a screen instead of resting. Leo doesn’t believe Gwen cares about his well being. Gwen brings up Dimitri being stuck in Alamainia forever. Gwen says once she’s able to unfreeze access to his assets, it will only be a matter of time until she’s on top again which means Leo will be on the bottom. Gwen remarks that Leo is back to being alone again, joking that he went from having two boytoys to zero in record time. Leo says that making her happy proves that she’s a sad, lonely, miserable human being who will never know true love in her pathetic life. Gwen responds by saying screw you.

Arianna runs in to Belle in the town square. They hug as Arianna says she just heard about Shawn and asks if he’s okay. Belle thanks her and says he will spend some time in rehab but will make a full recovery. Arianna is relieved and says it must have been so scary for her. Belle says when they were married, she would hold her breath every time Shawn left the house for work. Belle comments that it just never gets easier.

Liam tells EJ that he’s heard Vivian’s name before but doesn’t really know who she is. EJ informs him that she was the other mastermind behind the crypt kidnapping and Klaus worked for her. EJ assumes Klaus was sent to eliminate Liam so no one could connect Vivian to the crime. Liam questions being sure she’s dead. EJ says it’s all over the newspapers and then mocks the fact that Liam can’t read. EJ asks if he’s told Arianna about who he really is, calling him a father, a criminal, and a functioning illiterate. Liam gets upset and tells EJ to shut the hell up.

Rachel asks Kristen if she’s not going to do something bad to EJ. Kristen assures that it’s all in the past now. Rachel notes that she sounds really mad at him. Kristen says she is, but even when angry and fed up, you have to wait until the moment is right to strike because sometimes, power is knowing when not to use it. Rachel acknowledges that Kristen has told her that many times and promises to live by it.

Marlena confirms the pills are the ones Rachel is meant to be taken. Sarah asks what the consequences are of missing doses. Marlena says it could cause a setback and she could be experiencing that already. Brady can’t believe this is happening on the day of Rachel’s hearing and worries that the judge could learn she’s committed another crime. Sarah says first they need to talk to Rachel and find out what’s really going on. Marlena says that won’t happen today as they need to let Rachel focus on the testimony. Marlena feels they can take this conversation up another time.

Leo asks Gwen if he struck a nerve. Gwen says she just forgot how incredibly annoying he can be. Leo says he knows she’s here because she’s terrified that Dimitri is going to prove that she was the one who held him captive and maybe even killed Vivian. Gwen warns him about suggesting that while Leo declares that he’s stating it as fact because they know it’s true and soon, the whole world will know. Gwen threatens Leo for publishing false claims. Leo says she should already have a whole team of lawyers on retainer because of how guilty she looks right now. Leo says he knows Dimitri wasn’t Peter Blake’s accomplice which means Vivian was. Gwen asks what it has to do with her. Leo continues that EJ would’ve wanted Vivian dead which Gwen points out again is not her. Leo argues that if Vivian was Peter’s accomplice then Gwen helped execute framing Dimitri. Gwen says he has quite an imagination. Leo argues that Vivian had Ivan try to poison their tea and then had a minion try to shoot them through the window. Gwen repeats that this has nothing to do with her. Leo calls her a liar and says the entire chain of events is because of her.

Arianna and Belle talk about Klaus and Vivian being dead. Arianna asks if that means this is over. Belle points out that Shawn wasn’t the intended target so the police are still searching. Arianna asks if he’s still a target but Belle says she can’t really talk about an ongoing investigation. Arianna asks who the intended target was. Belle reveals that it was Liam, who had some trouble with the law in the past and the police are looking for him but it seems he’s disappeared in to thin air, which shocks Arianna.

EJ guesses he hit a nerve with Liam. Liam tells him to get out before Arianna comes back because neither of them will want to explain why he paid him a visit. EJ asks if he’s not going to ask how Vivian died and at whose hand. Liam responds that he doesn’t need to ask. EJ declares their work together is done for now but warns that if he senses he can’t trust him to keep his head down, he will be hearing from him again. EJ and his man then exit the room.

Brady gets a text that it’s time to get to the courthouse. Marlena says she’ll meet him there since she told Rachel that she would wish her well as she needs all the support she can get right now. Marlena says she’s going to check on a patient and then she’ll be on her way there as she walks away. Sarah wishes Brady luck and sends Rachel her love. Brady calls Sarah amazing after everything Rachel put her through. Sarah acknowledges that she’s a little girl who has had problems and a rough go. Sarah says she feels for both of them. Brady then informs Sarah that Rachel said she has no problem with them being together and that she’s happy for them. Sarah says that’s great if she meant it. Brady notes that she sounded sincere and said she learned in therapy that it was his decision. Brady admits he had so much hope for her progress until this happened. Sarah tells him not to be discouraged since they don’t know the whole story and maybe there’s an explanation that will make sense. Brady agrees and says for today, they just need to protect her the best they can.

Rachel tells Kristen that she’s ready to go. Kristen tells her that she doesn’t have to go through with this or testify about the shooting if she’s scared or overwhelmed. Rachel assures that she’s okay and is going to tell the truth. Rachel declares that she will not let Kristen go back to prison for her ever again.

Marlena joins Rachel and Kristen at the courthouse. Rachel hugs Marlena and says she’s so glad she’s there. Marlena mentions that she can’t stay for the hearing since the judge just wants to talk to her, her parents, and the lawyers. Marlena says she will be close by and see her after the hearing, reminding her that she’s only a phone call away. Kristen encourages that she and Brady will be there along with Melinda and Belle. Marlena asks if Rachel took her meds today. Kristen assures that she did and that they are doing everything they are supposed to. Marlena encourages Rachel that she will do great today and she will see her right after the hearing. Marlena states that everyone who loves her is there to support her. Rachel tells Marlena that she loves her and hugs her as Marlena repeats that she will see her after the hearing.

Leo asks Gwen if she hates him so much that she would like him to be dead. Gwen says if he was dead, she wouldn’t be able to see him suffer the consequences of his despicable actions. Leo argues that all he did was try to prove Dimitri’s innocence while Gwen set off the chain of events that could have gotten them both killed. Leo says Gwen that when he looks at her, he sees a con artist and a kidnapper, but he doesn’t think she’s a murderer unlike EJ.

Sarah runs in to EJ in the town square. EJ mentions waiting to hear from Belle. Sarah brings up that Brady told her that he is testifying on Rachel’s behalf. EJ confirms that and asks what else Brady told her. Sarah reveals that she does know the truth about the shooting.

Arianna returns to her dorm room and finds Liam gathering his things, so she questions where he is going.

Belle and Brady go to the courthouse where Belle tells Rachel that they will get started as soon as the judge gets there. Brady asks Rachel how she’s doing. Rachel tells him to stop asking her that. Brady says they are all just worried about her. Rachel says she’s fine and just wants to get it over with. Brady says afterwards, they are going to have a talk. Kristen questions what about, but Melinda arrives so they go over how they plan on things going at the hearing. Brady asks what happens next. Belle says if the judge signs off, the case will be closed and Rachel’s record will be sealed. Kristen asks if no one else will know about this. Melinda confirms that the story will be that Kristen was released with time served after Peter kidnapped her. Brady encourages Rachel that once she tells the judge what happened with EJ, she will never have to talk about this again.

Gwen tells Leo that EJ is not her partner, just her reluctant housemate. Leo reminds her that she warned him off investigating EJ. Gwen argues that she was doing him a favor since EJ was griping about Leo meddling in his business, so she was concerned about him. Leo says he’d like to believe that’s true that she still cares about him, he thinks she cares about EJ and his secret project more because she’s complicit in all of it.

Liam tells Arianna that it’s time for him to go because it’s safe now and no one is after him anymore. Arianna informs him that she just ran in to her aunt Belle which surprises Liam. Arianna reveals that Belle said the police are looking for him because they know he was the intended target and they want to talk to him as a witness. Arianna tells Liam that he’s welcome to stay but Liam says he can’t stay there forever as he has to get back to his life and so does she.

Sarah informs EJ that Brady told her that it was not Kristen, but Rachel who nearly killed him. EJ asks why he would do such a thing. Sarah says that Brady trusts her and he also said it was an accident. EJ says that’s why he’s going to tell the judge that Rachel is blameless, even if that’s not entirely true. EJ explains that he doesn’t believe she intentionally gunned him down but they know it’s not her first bad choice and likely won’t be her last. Sarah argues that Rachel is in intensive therapy and is on medication. EJ says he hopes that helps, but remarks that Rachel is very much her mother’s daughter and it’s no secret what Kristen is capable of. Sarah argues that Rachel is a traumatized little girl and that EJ is not in the position to throw stones when it comes to bad judgment.

The judge begins the hearing and says that Belle and Melinda have informed her of extraordinary circumstances requiring this. She asks Kristen about recanting her confession to shooting EJ which she confirms is correct. The judge recalls Kristen confessing to shooting EJ and swearing it was true at her sentencing. She then asks Kristen if she’s aware that recanting now would be admitting to perjury.

Arianna gives Liam a clean bandage which he says he appreciates. Liam says he knows him being there has made her life complicated. Arianna says not really and tells Liam that he can come back if he ever wants to. Liam thanks her for everything she’s done for him. Arianna says she was happy to help. They end up kissing and then Liam quickly exits the room.

Gwen asks Leo if he thinks she’s complicit in every bad thing EJ has done. Leo wants to focus on the last ten months or so. Gwen doesn’t want to rehash it. Leo brings up the free clinic and knowing something was fishy on the night of the blackout when he found Gwen locked in the lab. Leo mentions Gwen helping EJ with the mysterious delivery on the night of the gala. Gwen argues that he doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Leo adds that he read the article about the mysterious pod in the room behind the lab and asks if that was the delivery. Leo tells Gwen that all will be revealed soon enough and questions if Gwen will abandon ship when the truth comes out or if she’ll sink to the bottom with EJ.

Sarah argues that EJ has no problem criticizing a child’s bad behavior but not his own. EJ asks how this is about him. Sarah complains that EJ used her Grandfather’s name to put on his free clinic with the lab where they found Stephanie and Jeremy. EJ argues that he knew nothing about that as Owen Kent was working for Dr. Rolf. EJ asks how Sarah thinks he’s afforded to keep the hospital open all this time and pay the salaries of the employees including her. Sarah tells him to tell her. EJ credits innovative research. Sarah questions what he’s doing with the pod. EJ warns that she’s on thin ice. Sarah argues that she’s not the one being investigated or that pushed Rachel in to shooting him. Sarah remarks that if she is to believe a DiMera has changed, her money is on Rachel. Sarah then storms off as Marlena approaches EJ and asks what that was all about.

Kristen tells the judge that she’s well aware she’s admitting to perjury but that she’s telling the truth now. The judge asks if Melinda has informed Kristen how serious it is to lie under oath and how it undermines the entire legal system. Melinda insists that Kristen is sorry. The judge brings up that perjury is punishable by up to seven years in prison which shocks Kristen. Belle argues against the circumstances that led to Kristen’s confession. The judge thought Belle would be personally offended that Kristen lied and made a mockery of the system. The judge adds that she is inclined to impose the maximum penalty available to her. Kristen can’t believe it while Rachel worries and Brady tries to calm her. Melinda argues that seven years is a long time while the judge feels it’s fair. Kristen complains that she doesn’t even know why they are here and calls it a waste of time. Kristen thought she could get a fair shake but shouts that if this is the way it’s going to go, she can just send her back to prison right this minute, shocking Rachel and Brady.

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Days Update Tuesday, March 24, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Tate goes to see Holly at the Kiriakis Mansion and brings the rest of her things from the dorm room. Holly is sorry that he got caught up in her drama with Arianna and remarks that she’s sure Arianna never wants to see her again.

Arianna returns to her dorm room and checks on Liam, asking if he got any sleep. Liam says he actually did and is feeling better. Arianna says she’s so glad and tells him that she will get him breakfast from the cafeteria. Arianna puts a tie on the door so no one will bother him as she exits. Liam then pulls out his phone and calls EJ, saying he doesn’t know if he got his last message but he saw the guy he wanted him to look out for last night, so he was definitely in Salem.

At home, Rachel tells Brady that she’s making a get well soon card for Victoria for Brady to take to the hospital. Brady questions how she knew he was going to the hospital. Rachel figures Sarah will be there which means Brady would go there too because she can tell he really likes her, which surprises Brady.

Maggie joins Sarah in Victoria’s hospital room, where they talk about Victoria being on the mend and possibly being discharged today or tomorrow. Maggie asks Sarah about Holly’s doctor appointment. Sarah says she should have her blood test information later today. Maggie asks how Sarah is. Sarah admits she’s tired but holding up alright. Maggie clarifies that she meant her heart.

Xander goes to the Titan office and excitedly tells Philip that he just finished the contract for them to pick up a start up company they were eyeing and that legal should be finishing up now, but notes that Philip is distracted by reading on his tablet. Philip then shows Xander the article that says Vivian is dead.

Liam calls his son Gage and tells him he misses him and that he’ll be home soon. He’s interrupted by Gabi knocking at the door, so he quietly ends the call. Gabi argues that she knows Arianna is in there and demands she either open the door or she’ll have someone do it for her as Liam panics.

Sarah tells Maggie that her heart is okay and in one piece today. Maggie asks if she still plans on giving Xander partial custody of Victoria. Sarah confirms that she is, though she realizes the spark between them is never going away, she is resolved to not act on it again. Sarah thinks if she can make peace with that, then she can move forward with her life and maybe find love with someone kind, dependable, and not fighting homicidal impulses. Maggie asks if that could be Brady. Sarah admits that it could be.

Xander is shocked to learn Vivian has died from a heart attack. Philip mentions that Ivan said on the phone that he believed Vivian died over a broken heart from losing Stefan. Xander acknowledges Vivian as being Philip’s surrogate mother. Philip talks about only ever thinking of Kate as his mother but admits he’s a bit stunned as he kind of thought Vivian would live forever. Xander relates to how he thought of Victor.

Tate tells Holly that Arianna’s loss is his gain because now he gets to spend even more time with her. Holly points out that Maggie and Sarah are at the hospital while nobody else is home, so they start kissing.

Gabi continues knocking on the door, so Liam answers the door. Gabi comes in, asking who the hell he is and where her daughter is.

Brady tells Rachel that he does care about Sarah because they are good friends. Rachel tells him that he doesn’t have to pretend as she knows they are more than friends and she’s okay with that. Rachel admits she wasn’t before, but she feels better about it now. Brady is glad to hear that and admits there are some feelings between them, but they have a lot of reasons to take it very slow. Rachel asks if she’s one of those reasons. Brady says she is because she is their priority. Rachel insists that he doesn’t have to worry anymore because she likes Sarah and jokes that she’s definitely better than Chloe or Ava. Brady is glad they are having this conversation. Rachel guesses he was afraid she would freak out and not accept him being with anyone other than Kristen but says that was the old her. Rachel declares that she’s learned in therapy that who he chooses to be with is up to him, not her, so she’s really okay with it.

Sarah admits to Maggie that she hopes it does go further with Brady but they are taking it slow and thinks that’s exactly what she needs right now. Maggie relates with her relationships with Mickey and Victor. Maggie talks about meeting Victor later in life and encourages Sarah that she will make it, but whether it’s with Brady or Xander is up to her.

Xander tells Philip that he was going to the hospital to check on Victoria, but offers to stay if Philip doesn’t want to be alone. Philip says he’ll be fine. Philip talks about Vivian considering herself a mother to him but being more like a thorn in his side. Philip admits there were times that he actually did feel her love for him and that he felt guilty for pushing her away since she always did want the best for him in her own screwed up way. Philip adds that there are times when his heart went out to her because he felt sorry for her and that he did warm up to her a little. Xander says he totally gets it with his own complicated relationship with his mother, so he gets the conflicted feelings. Xander tells Philip to try and take care of himself as he exits the office.

Gabi asks Liam where Arianna is. Liam responds that she’s picking up food at the cafeteria and he’s sure she will be back soon. Gabi argues that he still hasn’t explained why he’s all alone in his daughter’s dorm room. Liam claims that he is Gage and a classmate of Arianna’s. Gabi argues that he looks a bit old to be her classmate. Arianna then comes back and claims he’s a non traditional student and they were in a study group together. Gabi questions believing that they were going to study but Arianna convinces her, so Gabi apologizes for barging in. Gabi gives Arianna dresses for her sorority dances that she brought for her. Arianna thanks her and then says they do need to get back to studying. Gabi acknowledges that Arianna is in college now and apologizes for freaking out. Gabi and Arianna say they love each other as Gabi then exits. Arianna jokes to Liam that was a close one.

Tate and Holly kiss in bed until Tate stops and asks if they can take a second. Holly asks what’s wrong, so Tate tells her that it’s just not happening for him down there.

Brady tells Rachel that he’s proud of her for her mature outlook. Rachel apologizes for the previous times that she did freak out. Rachel recalls being mad at Sarah after finding out she tried to take her from Brady and Kristen when she was a baby, but she’s sorry for that. Rachel brings up having to explain why she was mad at EJ in court later and wonders if she will also have to explain what happened with Sarah. Brady assures that she won’t and reminds her that if it does come up, Sarah loves her and has forgiven her. Rachel acknowledges that Sarah wasn’t herself when she kidnapped her as a baby, so she forgives her too. Brady then gives her a hug.

Liam thanks Arianna for handling Gabi as he totally froze up. Arianna questions Gabi calling him Gage. Liam explains that he didn’t want Gabi knowing his real name in case she heard about the shooting and claims that Gage was just the first name he could think of. Liam thanks Arianna for bringing the food but says he really thinks he should get going after the close call with Gabi and he would hate to get her in any more trouble. Arianna says they already got past Gabi and promises no one else is going to find him there. Arianna tells him to relax and just have breakfast since she already got the food.

Gabi goes to see Philip at Titan, where Philip is reading the Spectator article on Vivian. Gabi tells him that she heard about Vivian and wanted to see how he was doing. Philip admits he’s not great.

Sarah asks Maggie why they are even talking about this. Sarah states that Brady is a great guy and she is attracted to him, but she’s not ready for anything serious at all. Maggie says she understands but encourages that she will make it work with whoever she believes is worth having in her life. Brady then arrives and says he hopes he’s not interrupting. Maggie calls it perfect timing but then Xander also arrives.

Philip tells Gabi that he’s surprised by how hard this is hitting him since Vivian mostly drove him crazy, but he also had a soft spot for her. Philip says maybe it’s also because they ended things on such bad terms so there were so many things left unsaid. Gabi relates to Stefan’s death being so painful to her which Philip points out was all Vivian’s fault.

Holly guesses Tate’s just not attracted to her anymore. Tate argues that it has nothing to do with her and angrily questions why she has to make everything about herself. Tate shouts that the last thing he needs is her feeling sorry for herself. Holly responds that she’s just hurt as this has never happened before where they haven’t been able to make love. Tate apologizes and says he doesn’t know what just happened to him as he didn’t mean to yell. Tate says he’s suddenly feeling so angry. Holly says now he knows how she’s been feeling the last few weeks. Holly suggests she’s been a bad influence on him with her mood swings or he caught whatever psycho virus she has. Tate then stops and brings up the skin supplements, pointing out that she’s been taking them and then he started taking them and now they are acting the same way. Tate feels it’s way too much of a coincidence that they both took the pills and got angry all of a sudden. Tate declares that something very weird is going on.

Brady says he didn’t want to intrude on family time while Xander points out that here he is. Brady gives Sarah a card that Rachel made for Victoria and says that she would’ve given it in person but Kristen has to get her ready for court. Sarah calls it very sweet. Xander says he’s sure Brady must have important places to be now, but Maggie says she needs a word with Xander alone and takes him out of the room.

Liam tells Arianna that he appreciates her letting him lay low but doesn’t want her to feel like she has to keep him around if she has school work. Arianna tells him that she’s all finished but mentions that she is reading Bonnie’s book for her internship and talks about it feeling familiar, like she’s read it in another book. Arianna says she printed out the pages of that book to compare and asks Liam to help her by reading both to show her she’s not crazy.

Gabi tells Philip that she doesn’t know if she can blame Vivian for her divorce from Stefan. Philip points out that Vivian took him out of the country against his will, leading her to believe he was done with her when he most likely wasn’t. Gabi argues that even if she hadn’t, she doesn’t know how much longer they would’ve stayed together since they were always breaking up and making up. Gabi compares it to her and Philip dating for almost six months without even one fight. Philip guesses they must be doing something right.

Xander asks Maggie what she wanted to discuss with him in private or if she was just trying to give Sarah and Brady some alone time. Maggie says she actually wanted to talk about his tone with Sarah and Victoria, arguing that it’s not helping the situation at all. Xander says he’ll work on that. Maggie brings up hearing that Xander is spending a lot of alone time with Gwen lately and asks why Sarah spending alone time with Brady would bother him. Xander responds that he’ll always be in love with Sarah and even if they are incompatible, he finds it disturbing how eager Maggie is for Sarah to move on. Maggie responds that she’s eager for her to find happiness and since she can’t seem to find it with Xander, she does want her to move on. Xander questions it being with Brady. Maggie remarks that some doors close, so the right one could open.

Sarah tells Brady to tell Rachel the card meant a lot and that they love it. Sarah then gets an alert on her phone and says she has to make a phone call so Brady steps out. Sarah then calls Holly and informs her that she got her blood work back and she’s concerned about the results. Holly asks what’s wrong.

Arianna watches as Liam tries to read from the two books. She asks if they are the same. Liam remarks that they are both romance novels and all those stories are kind of the same. Arianna admits she could be overthinking it and just worries since the book is already going to press. Arianna mentions Johnny being her uncle and her boss at DiMera. Liam is shocked to learn that she is related to the DiMeras.

Holly thanks Sarah and hangs up. She tells Tate that according to her blood test, she has anti-psychotic drugs in her system which can really mess with your head, cause mood swings, appetite changes, and sexual side effects. Tate brings up Rachel taking anti-psychotic meds ever since she got out of Bayview and her meds look identical to the pills that Holly has been taking. Holly asks if he thinks Rachel switched out her skin supplements and gave her meds instead.

Arianna explains to Liam that her Grandmother was married to EJ which makes her related to a few DiMeras, but not all of them. Arianna asks why that’s a big deal. Liam says he’s just surprised and forgets how many people in Salem are related to each other which he’s not used to. Arianna asks if Liam has any one in Salem that would be missing him right now. Liam says he’s living with his mom to help her out, but he called her this morning to tell her that he was okay and she was cool about it. Arianna jokes that would never work with her mom.

Philip thanks Gabi for being there and making a tough morning less tough by being kind and compassionate which he calls a few reasons why he loves her. Philip knows they haven’t been seeing each other long, so he doesn’t want to spoil what they have by saying I love you too soon and suggests pretending he didn’t say it. Gabi doesn’t want to pretend and tells Philip that she loves him too as they kiss.

Maggie asks Xander if he heard the news about Vivian on a happier note. Xander is surprised to see her so cheerful about it. Maggie brings up Vivian locking her in a sarcophagus, so she’s not shedding any tears. Xander admits he’s not broken up about it either since she’s to thank for Titan’s current state of bankruptcy. Maggie brings up the loan coming due. Xander informs her that he has a few irons in the fire that may prove useful in that regard.

Brady rejoins Sarah in Victoria’s hospital room as Holly and Tate then rush in. Tate reveals that they think they know why Holly’s blood test showed she has anti-psychotic meds in her system. Holly presents her bottle of skin supplements as they explain they think they were switched. Tate notes that he took a few and started having the same mood swings. Sarah questions how they would’ve been switched. Tate then informs Sarah and Brady that the bottle was a gift that came from Rachel. Holly explains that Tate pointed out Rachel’s meds look the same and this all started when she was at Bayview. Brady questions why on earth Rachel would switch the pills on purpose.

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Y&R Short Recap Friday, March 27, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Billy tells Sally that he has decided to go to London and mend the rift between him and his mother. Billy asks Sally to go with him. Sally decides to work remotely for two weeks and go to London with Billy.

Cane is shattered by what Nikki told him that Lily was Victor’s partner in the fake kidnapping scheme. Victor tells Lily that there was a glitch in the plan because Phyllis double -crossed Cane and now Phyllis owns Newman Enterprises and he must use Chancellor Industries to get back control of Newman Enterprises from Phyllis.

Lily feels that Victor betrayed her again but she has no choice but to trust Victor because the pain she put her family through has to be worth something.

Adam has to play several games of blackjack to prove to Riza that he still has the talent to be a card sharp.

Nick is out of pain pills and fentanyl so he contacts a dealer to get drugs to take away the pain in his leg. Adam returns and tells Nick that he is back in with Riza.

Lily goes to see Cane so he can see she is okay. Cane tells Lily that faking the kidnapping was beyond cruel and he never wants to see her again.

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Y&R Short Recap Thursday, March 26, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Patty taunts Diane about her night of passion with Jack. Kyle talks to Diane later and asks her if she is going to believe Victor and Patty who have always hated her or believe Jack, the man who loves her.

Jack tells Victor that he will pay for what he did to him. Victor tells Jack to bring it on…he is ready.

Daniel’s heart is breaking because Tessa has decided to try and save her marriage to Mariah. Daniel tells Christine he knows that he is doing the right thing. Christine and Sharon are happy that Tessa persuaded Mariah to let Christine ask the judge for a plea deal. Christine and Mariah return from court and Mariah tells Tessa that the judge gave her medical treatment in a psychiatric facility and probation. Mariah is still conflicted because she doesn’t feel like she deserves to get better after what she did to Dominic. Tessa tells Mariah that she did this because of the trauma Ian caused her. Tessa tells Mariah they will face the trauma together so she can get better.

Lily returns and goes to the ranch to talk to Victor. Lily asked Victor if the plan worked and if he got Newman Enterprises back so he can give Chancellor Industries back to her and Devon.

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Days Update Monday, March 23, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Jeremy returns home to the Horton house where Julie is thrilled to see he’s out of the hospital and questions why he didn’t call her to pick him up. Jeremy says that JJ gave him a ride to the police impound to get his car. Julie mentions knowing JJ must be shaken up after the shooting which Jeremy confirms. Julie says it’s wonderful to have Jeremy home, exonerated, and healthy. Julie calls him the man of the hour and now everyone who doubted him sees he’s really a hero. Julie declares that she couldn’t be prouder of him as she hugs him.

Kayla has Leo set up in a hospital bed and tries to get him to focus. Kayla tells Leo that several police officers are outside and want to question him, but she doesn’t think he’s ready.

At the police station, Jada finishes a call as Alex arrives and asks if she has a second. Jada says she will make time and asks about Stephanie. Alex says she is relieved to be safe but she had some nightmares last night. Jada isn’t surprised after all she went through and asks how Alex is doing. Alex says he’s fine and was wondering if Jada could do him a huge favor.

Stephanie is asleep in her hospital bed, calling out to Jeremy and asking where he went. She then wakes up to see EJ at her bedside.

Marlena goes to the hospital and asks Kayla how Stephanie is. Kayla says she’s stable but was agitated through the night. Marlena calls that not surprising and says she will stop in to check on her. Kayla thanks her and tells Marlena that Leo was brought home from Alamainia with a pretty severe injury which Marlena says she did not hear about.

Rafe and Cat meet at Small Bar which was closed for them for the afternoon which Cat says was due to the owner being a former FBI agent and happy to help. They talk about not getting any more intel on EJ’s pod as Rafe notes it was apparently bleached. Rafe adds that they haven’t been able to find Dr. Rolf and guesses if EJ had any contact with him, he’d use a burner phone. Cat remembers the shoes she found in the DiMera secret room as they realize they could’ve been Dr. Rolf’s. Rafe says he needs to contact Jada and get a search warrant for the not so secret room. Rafe declares that if there’s any connection there to EJ and Dr. Rolf, they’re going to find it.

Alex thanks Jada for her help with this. Jada says she knows how difficult it is to be there for someone you love after going through something so traumatic. Alex acknowledges that she went through something similar with Rafe. Jada says she’s not implying they will face the same fate they did and encourages that Alex and Stephanie will get through this and come out stronger. Alex hugs Jada and thanks her. Jada tells him to send Stephanie her love. Alex then exits the station. Jada gets a call from Rafe, who says this is the moment they’ve been waiting for as he needs a search warrant for the DiMera secret room. Jada says that’s great and asks what to list as probable cause.

Marlena joins Kayla in Leo’s hospital room. Leo tells her how good it is to see her and calls her one of his favorite people. Leo then complains about the way Marlena is looking at him. Marlena assures how much she cares about him. Leo wishes he believed that because of how much she means to him. Kayla comments that Leo has a grade 2 concussion so he’s emotionally unstable. Leo admits he’s a mess and tells Marlena that he could really use a hug, so she hugs him.

Rafe tells Cat that the warrant should be approved in no time. Cat hopes EJ doesn’t get tipped off this time. Cat adds that when she went to stall him yesterday, someone had already informed him about the hospital being searched. Rafe feels that’s not surprising since EJ has eyes everywhere. Cat says what was surprising was that EJ didn’t try harder to stop the search. Rafe suggests EJ was confident they wouldn’t find the secret room. Cat thinks maybe EJ thought the pod was all they would find and asks if it was possible that EJ didn’t know Jeremy and Stephanie were being held. Rafe finds it very far fetched that Dr. Rolf wouldn’t tell him and questions her giving EJ the benefit of the doubt. Rafe asks what is going on here as he feels like Cat is under EJ’s spell or something.

Stephanie asks EJ what he’s doing there. EJ says he just wanted to check in on her and tell her how terribly sorry he is about what she went through. Stephanie calls that nice of him. EJ tells her that he put up a sizable reward for her return and he thanks God that she was found and is now on the road to recovery. Stephanie thanks him. EJ adds that he wanted to mention that he hopes she doesn’t hold the hospital accountable since he and the staff had nothing to do with it and were all horrified by what happened. Stephanie responds that she’s not so sure since EJ must know Dr. Rolf found her and Jeremy before Alex did and did nothing to help them. EJ states that he was very disappointed to hear that. Stephanie questions when exactly he did hear that since Dr. Rolf is EJ’s flunky which means he tells him everything. Stephanie admits she’s having a tough time believing that Dr. Rolf failed to mention that two people were tied up in a hidden room behind EJ’s lab.

Marlena asks Leo about having to leave Dimitri behind in Alamainia and if he’s worried about him. Leo assures that he is worried about Dimitri possibly falling prey to an assassin like he almost did and that Andrew won’t care since he despises Dimitri. Marlena brings up Andrew being the one to save them and take out the assassin. Leo explains that they believe the assassin was hired by Vivian, who is now missing and they are trying to blame that on Dimitri. Leo argues against it while acknowledging that Dimitri had means, motive, and opportunity. Leo complains that he just wants to fast forward until this nightmare is over.

Julie asks Jeremy if he’s come to a decision about staying in Salem. Jeremy reveals he’s decided that he’s not ready to say goodbye yet which Julie calls the best news, especially now that everyone who accused him and was suspicious of him owe him an apology and she will see to it that he gets every one.

EJ swears to Stephanie that Dr. Rolf didn’t breathe a word to him about seeing her until after they were already rescued and that he was apparently trying to cover his tracks about bringing Owen in to the mix. EJ says he told Dr. Rolf that there was no excuse. Stephanie questions if that means he knows where Dr. Rolf is. EJ claims he has no idea but if he hears from him, he’ll go straight to the authorities. EJ understands Stephanie being skeptical, but swears if he had known where she and Jeremy were, he would’ve come to rescue them himself, immediately. EJ tells Stephanie how much he values her as an employee and a friend. Alex then walks in and questions what EJ is doing there. EJ responds that he was just paying his respects to Alex’s wife and congratulates them. Alex thanks him but says Stephanie needs her rest, so he asks him to get out. EJ says he will give Stephanie time to process and to think about what he said as he then exits.

Cat tells Rafe that EJ does not have her under his spell, but she spoke briefly with Mark last night and he assured that he had no idea Jeremy and Stephanie were being held and he believed that EJ didn’t know either. Cat insists that Mark would never lie to her. Rafe asks if she could get more information out of him. Cat says she tried but he used the NDA card. Rafe is glad she kept EJ at bay long enough for their rescue mission to be a success. Cat hopes that Rafe isn’t angry about how she went about it since she used their time in Italy to get closer to him. Rafe acknowledges that he doesn’t like that but the stakes were high while Cat points out that Rafe said to do whatever it takes to stop EJ. Cat then reveals that she kissed EJ and explains that she told him she remembered kissing him in Italy, but she’s starting to think that wasn’t a lie.

EJ leaves Stephanie’s room at the hospital and then gets a text from Rita that he needs to get home ASAP as there’s a situation, so he exits.

Alex sits at Stephanie’s side and asks what EJ had to say. Stephanie says just that he had no idea she was in his lab the whole time she was missing. Alex asks if she believes him. Stephanie responds that she wants to but she’s not so sure. Alex says he’s not too sure either. Alex apologizes that he wasn’t there when she woke up and that she had to deal with EJ alone. Stephanie says he doesn’t have to apologize as she knows he’s busy with Titan. Alex clarifies that what he was busy with wasn’t work related and he had something to take care of that’s a surprise for her actually. Alex pulls out her ring and reveals that Jada bent the rules and took it out of evidence so he could put it back on her finger where it belongs, but Stephanie pulls back and says no.

Jeremy tells Julie that he understands why people thought he was the culprit because Owen Kent did a hell of a job setting him up. Jeremy acknowledges that Julie never doubted him and says he can’t thank her enough for that. Julie confesses that when she heard he ran away from police, she didn’t understand it and for a few moments, she thought maybe she didn’t know him at all and maybe he is a dangerous man. Julie says she’s terribly sorry for that. Jeremy says at that point, even his own father thought it was him. Julie asks if Mike knows about his change of plans. Jeremy confirms they spoke on the phone earlier and he’s disappointed that he’s not going to New York but he’ll make plans to go see him. Julie talks about it being so quiet around without him, so she’s delighted that he’s staying.

Marlena tells Leo that it sounds like Dimitri is capable of hurting someone. Leo points out that Dimitri was a super spy, but he was with him on the day that Vivian disappeared unless he was acting. Marlena feels it sounds like he doesn’t know if he can trust Dimitri. Leo says he has trust issues in general, but points out that Dimitri saved his life twice so he does trust him. Marlena imagines some feelings might have come to the surface when he saved his life. Leo calls it terrifying because he doesn’t want to have feelings for Dimitri.

Rafe questions Cat remembering kissing EJ in Italy. Cat calls it kind of strange as in the moment, she fully believed she was lying but then an image popped in her head and she’s wondering if it’s an actual memory. Rafe warns her to be careful. Cat insists that she doesn’t have feelings for EJ and she knows now that EJ is just someone they need to contain. Rafe hopes that Kayla doesn’t tell EJ that Cat let her in to the lab. Cat assures that she will cover if EJ seems to suspect anything.

EJ goes home to the DiMera Mansion and calls Paulina to tell her that Jada is requesting a search warrant for the so called secret room in his house. Paulina says that’s not her problem but EJ begs to differ.

Alex asks Stephanie what’s wrong. Stephanie responds that it’s not the ring, but the memory of Owen ripping it off her finger as it makes her heart start pounding. Alex tells her that he’s so sorry as he was just trying to make her feel better and he had no idea. Stephanie knows it seems like a random thing to freak out about. Alex understands the ring is now tied to something painful. Alex says she’s been through Hell and back, so he’s just trying to find ways to help her but he doesn’t know how. Alex asks Stephanie what he can do. Stephanie admits that she doesn’t know if there’s anything he can do as she thinks it’s just going to take time.

Rafe goes to the police station and asks Jada about the search warrant. Jada says they don’t have it yet but it should be a slam dunk. Jada informs Rafe that Leo is back in Salem but he has a head injury and is having trouble focusing. Rafe asks about Liam. Jada says he’s still missing which is frustrating because she really wants to question him, especially now that they know Klaus was a longtime worker of Vivian’s. Rafe then gets a call from Andrew. Rafe informs Jada that a death certificate was just filed in Alamainia for Vivian Alamain.

Marlena questions why Leo doesn’t want to have feeling for Dimitri. Leo explains that his heart belongs to Javi, who called while he was in Alamainia to tell him that he missed him, but he didn’t have the guts to admit he was in Alamainia with Dimitri. Leo says that when Javi found out, he was furious, so he’s pretty sure it’s over for good this time. Leo admits he feels awful but that it’s for the best because Javi deserves better and to be set free.

Paulina asks EJ if Lexie is in the secret room. EJ says close enough but he doesn’t want anyone poking around down there. Paulina suggests moving her again but EJ says she can’t be moved again as she nearly died being moved out of the hospital. EJ asks if Paulina wants this on her conscience while Paulina argues that EJ is the one who created this mess. Paulina tells EJ to take care of it as he’s been there before but EJ says he can’t risk this being traced back to him. EJ adds that Paulina won’t want Abe finding out what she’s been keeping from him while Paulina questions EJ blackmailing her with his secret. EJ says he’s only asking her to do the ethical thing and make one call to stop the search warrant. EJ tells Paulina to use her power or else Lexie’s death is on her head. As they hang up, Abe approaches Paulina in the town square and asks if she’s alright. Paulina responds that she is not and is far from it. Abe asks what’s wrong. Paulina claims it’s just the shooting that JJ and Shawn were involved in having everyone rattled and Liam is on the run. Abe says he heard and after what happened last night, he almost gets why Liam initially decided to keep quiet about what he did. Paulina tells Abe to hold that thought as she needs to make a call.

Cat goes to the DiMera Mansion and asks EJ about wanting to see her. EJ hoped they could talk about what happened yesterday between them. Cat blames emotions running high and she got caught up in the moment, so she felt bad because she doesn’t want to send the wrong message, she isn’t ready for something serious, and EJ is still her boss. EJ says he understands, so he’ll let her take the lead on this and if she doesn’t want it to happen again, it won’t. EJ admits that he enjoys her company and finds her very attractive. EJ jokes that he’s never had a first kiss end in him being arrested before. EJ adds that they had no grounds to hold him since he had nothing to do with Stephanie’s kidnapping, but he’s sure she must have questions and he does too.

Stephanie tells Alex that she’s sorry as she knows he’s only trying to help. Alex says there’s no need to apologize and if the ring is too connected to what she went through, he’d be happy to get her a new one. Stephanie tells him not to do that because this is the ring he proposed with and the ring she was wearing when she said “I do”, so she won’t let some lowlife destroy what it means to them. Stephanie assures him, so Alex puts the ring back on her finger. Alex asks if there’s anything else he can do for her. Stephanie responds that she could use a latte from the cafeteria, so Alex goes to get that for her. Stephanie removes her ring and then puts it back on. Jeremy arrives to visit her and says he was hoping to catch her without Alex, so his blood pressure doesn’t go through the roof. Stephanie is sure he’d be fine but admits she’s glad they have a moment alone because it’s hard to talk to anyone about what they’ve been through. Jeremy agrees that no one else understands.

Marlena asks Leo why he decided to go to Alamainia with Dimitri. Leo explains that he believed Dimitri was being railroaded and wanted to help him prove that. Leo adds that he wanted to assuage his guilt since Dimitri was held captive and he never stopped loving him. Marlena wants to hear about Leo’s feelings. Leo admits he doesn’t really know how he’s feeling. Leo feels he’s treated Dimitri terribly and cruel at times. Leo says it makes sense that Dimitri would be crushed to find out he was in love with someone else, because nothing changed for him. Leo states that he fell in love with someone amazingly wonderful and raised a foster child together. Leo guesses he discovered a side of him that he didn’t even know existed. Leo asks what if that better version of him only existed because of Javi and if he will lose all of those good things because Javi isn’t in his life anymore. Marlena encourages that those things have always been inside of him so he gets to keep it.

Alex runs in to Kayla at the hospital. Kayla calls Alex her daughter’s knight in shining armor. Alex says he was just bringing lattes to her. Kayla asks how Stephanie is doing. Alex says she’s physically fine but mentally not as much and talks about trying to make her feel better but he thinks he’s doing the exact opposite. Kayla asks why he says that. Alex feels Stephanie has been distant and uneasy towards him. Alex thinks that because of all the trauma, it’s pushed them apart.

Stephanie continues looking at her ring as Jeremy brings her a cup of water.

EJ brings up Cat being at the lab when the police arrived and asks if she has any idea how they managed to get through the security door. Cat claims she doesn’t and doesn’t even have the code. EJ says he wasn’t suggesting that and brings up Mark but Cat assures that it wasn’t him since he was away for the week with Felicity. Cat suggests maybe an officer saw Mark putting in the code which EJ says could explain it. Cat then asks why it was so important that the police not find the secret areas of the lab. EJ insists that he had no idea Stephanie was back there and he’s not a monster, adding he would’ve come to her rescue immediately if he had known. Cat says she believes him but questions what’s going on with the pod and who it’s for. EJ realizes that is now a subject of public speculation but insists it’s not nearly as scandalous as the tabloids believe. EJ says he can’t tell her what it’s for, other than it’s part of their research. Cat questions if he trusts Mark more than her then. EJ says that Mark had to sign an NDA and assures that it’s nothing illegal. Cat asks why she’s reading in the press about Dr. Rolf being in a lot of trouble. EJ insists that has nothing to do with his research and claims he has no idea where Dr. Rolf is. Cat jokes that the interrogation is over then while EJ jokes that he was just warming up. EJ then gets a text from Paulina, saying “It’s done.”

Rafe and Jada look up on the computer at the police station where it says that Vivian died of heart failure. Jada wonders if it’s legit. Rafe says that’s what Andrew and Paul are flying back to Alamainia to find out. Another cop comes over and announces the judge refused to sign off on the DiMera warrant due to insufficient evidence which upsets Jada, who questions what the hell happened. Rafe tells her that EJ happened.

Paulina tells Abe that she’s sorry she had to interrupt their conversation with a phone call that took longer than expected. Paulina says it’s been crazy with everything going on. Paulina offers to take tomorrow off so they can spend the day together. Abe suggests the day after. Paulina asks what’s wrong with tomorrow. Abe informs her that he was planning on spending the afternoon with Lexie at the cemetery because it’s their wedding anniversary and he always visits her on that day. Paulina tells Abe to do what he needs to do and they can have their outing the next day.

Leo thanks Marlena for always having faith in him. Leo adds that he hasn’t given up on Javi, but he’s quite sure that Javi has given up on him while he may never see Dimitri again. Marlena asks if that upsets him. Leo feels he will be alone for the rest of his life. Marlena encourages that he will be just fine. Leo decides he won’t think like that then. Leo says he suddenly feels very sleepy but asks Marlena to say something wise and comforting first so he doesn’t wake up screaming for a do-over in life. Marlena declares that she’s come to know that Leo cares so deeply and that he’s brave with his feelings which is what makes love happen, so she is sure that he will find love again. Leo jokes that if he didn’t know better, he’d think she was a love guru sent from the heavens.

Kayla tells Alex that Stephanie has been through a terrible trauma and isn’t herself yet. Alex says he knows that part, but he was talking with Jada earlier and thinking about how Rafe’s kidnapping completely ended their relationship, so he doesn’t want that to happen to he and Stephanie. Kayla encourages that he can’t compare to someone else when they have a completely different relationship. Alex guesses he just wants to help Stephanie overcome this and move on, but he feels like she’s pushing him away. Kayla insists that things will get better when she is better, they love each other and will get through this together.

Stephanie asks Jeremy about his dislocated thumb. Jeremy says it should be as good as new in a couple weeks. Stephanie tells Jeremy again that she is so sorry for all the pain she caused him and convincing the entire town that he was a deranged stalker. Jeremy responds that there’s a reason Owen framed him, because he fit the profile and after how he treated her when they were together, maybe he deserved it. Stephanie argues that she knows now that he’s not that guy anymore. Alex comes back but stops in the door way as Stephanie tells Jeremy that she couldn’t have gotten through this ordeal or the past couple of days without him. Alex is upset by hearing that and walks away.

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Y&R Short Recap Wednesday, March 25, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Nikki tells Claire that Victor kidnapped Jack to get Chancellor Industries back and that is why she decided to move out of the ranch. Nikki tells Claire that she isn’t sure if she can forgive Victor this time. Claire tells Nikki that she and Kyle are getting to be friends again. Claire isn’t sure if she wants a romantic relationship with Kyle.

Cane is desperate to find Lily and the kids but Victor isn’t swering his phone calls. Cane goes to Nikki for answers and she tells him thet Lily and the kids were never in danger because Lily teamed up with Victor to pressure him into returning Newman Enterprises to him.

Audra tells Holden that she has decided not to go after Kyle to get him away from Claire.

Billy makes a decision about going to London to see Jill.

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Y&R Short Recap Tuesday, March 24, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Nick plays blackjack at the casino bar while he waits for Adam to talk to Riza. Riza doesn’t trust that Adam wants to go back to his card sharp days because he needs money since the Newmans lost Newman Enterprises. Riza tells Adam she will think about letting him back in the card games. Adam later tells Nick that Riza doesn’t trust him yet, so he couldn’t ask her if she knew Matt Clark ‘s. whereabouts.

Nick tells Adam that Noah called earlier and told him that Matt has been sending him text messages, so they need to find Matt right away.

Adam is worried about Nick because he doesn’t seem to be feeling well but Nick tells Adam that he is okay. Adam is unaware that Nick has been popping pain pills like they are coming out of a gum ball machine.

Daniel tells Danny and Christine that he told Tessa to try to save her marriage to Mariah even though it will break his heart. Mariah and Tessa talk. Mariah tells Tessa to be happy with Daniel because she is going to jail. Tessa tells Mariah that she can take the plea deal and get the medical help she needs and they could also work to save their marriage. Tessa tells Mariah that if she tells her to leave this time she will never bother her again but if she has the slightest bit of love for her she will stay and get through this together.

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Days Update Friday, March 20, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Tate works out at home until Rachel walks in and questions what he is doing.

Arianna takes care of Liam’s gunshot wound in her dorm room. Liam says he appreciates her patching him up but feels it’s too risky and he has to bounce. Arianna stops him and argues that he’s about to pass out so he should let her finish. Arianna mentions that her roommate just moved out, so he can stay here until the situation is under control. Liam argues that the guy was trying to kill him and if he finds out he’s here, he could kill her too.

At the police station, Belle tells Jada that Shawn just got out of surgery so Jada hasn’t been able to get his statement yet. Jada notes that she did get JJ’s and he assured that Shawn shot Klaus Muller in self defense. They talk about their teams investigating, so Jada asks if Belle thinks she’s going to file charges against Shawn.

At the hospital, Sarah is on the phone with Hope, assuring her that Shawn is out of surgery and stable. Sarah notes that it will take time to heal but he should make a full recovery so there’s no need for Hope and Bo to rush home. Sarah assures that Shawn has people around him who love him and will make sure he gets the TLC that he needs.

JJ falls asleep in a chair in Shawn’s hospital room and has dreams of when he shot Theo, then when he had his gun pointed at Klaus. JJ then wakes up in a panic and sees Shawn awake in his hospital bed across from him.

Tate tells Rachel about his workout. Rachel asks if Brady is home yet. Tate says not yet as he was at the police station all night, giving his statement about Stephanie’s kidnapper. Rachel says she’s really glad that Stephanie is okay and hopes that she will be too. Tate asks if she’s nervous about the hearing today. Rachel responds that she doesn’t want to go and she really wishes her mom was there. Tate encourages that she will see Kristen soon as she’s just going over her statement with Melinda which is why she’s here with him. Tate calls it totally normal to be nervous and says he would be too, but reminds her that she has so many people in her corner and they are there for her so it will all work out. Rachel asks if he really believes that. Tate assures that he does and hugs her.

Holly goes to the hospital and asks Sarah about Victoria. Sarah says she’s much better and that Xander is in with her now. Sarah asks what Holly is doing there. Holly mentions visiting Stephanie and says she also had her appointment today and that her doctor gave her a different brand of birth control pills but doesn’t think that’s going to solve the problem.

Belle tells Jada that she passed off the case to one of her assistants because of the conflict of interest, but feels the use of force was justified since Klaus fired first and Shawn returned fire. Belle says killing someone in the line of duty is still a lot, especially after everything Shawn went through with Bo. Belle worries about Shawn getting depressed and if he starts drinking again. Jada assures that the entire police department will be looking out for Shawn which Belle is grateful for. Jada brings up that there’s also the eye witness Liam, who was also hit and they are still looking for. Jada says she wants to hear what he has to say and also know that he’s okay.

Arianna assures Liam that she’s fine and they are both safe here. Arianna adds that she read in the Spectator that the guy who shot him is dead which shocks Liam. Arianna reveals that the police shot him, so there’s nothing for him to worry about now. Liam says he wouldn’t be so sure about that.

JJ checks on Shawn, who tells JJ that he wants answers.

Holly tells Sarah that her doctor said it’s unlikely that her birth control pills were causing her mood swings. Sarah calls it unlikely but not unheard of. Holly hopes that she’s right because she can’t get a handle on all of this. Sarah asks if something happened. Holly informs her that she and Arianna got in to a huge fight yesterday, so she moved out of the dorms after Arianna said she was done with her and she can’t even blame her because she’s been a horrible friend to her and everyone. Sarah says it’s because something is going on. Holly complains that something has her acting like a raving lunatic. Holly tells Sarah that until she figures something out, she’ll be staying with her and Maggie at the Kiriakis Mansion. Sarah assures they are happy to have her and they love her, so nothing she could ever do would change that. Holly wishes she knew what was wrong with her and talks about the rage coming over her, comparing it to Sarah leaving Xander because of his anger issues. Sarah calls it not the same but Holly argues that she keeps having these meltdowns and worries that it’s only a matter of time before Tate leaves her.

Rachel thanks Tate for being her babysitter until Brady gets back. Tate gives her something that his taekwondo teacher gave him to hold onto when you need strength, saying that sometimes even the strongest and bravest people need something to hold onto. Tate repeats that she has so many people there for her. Rachel calls him the best big brother as they hug.

Belle asks Jada if she has any idea why Liam would run away. Jada suggests he might think someone is still after him or that Klaus had accomplices. Belle brings up that Klaus was the one who hired Liam to kidnap the DiMeras. Jada feels Klaus probably thought Liam was a loose end. Jada adds that no one has heard from him since and he didn’t go home last night where he lives with his mom and his son as he probably thought they would be in danger. Jada points out that they don’t know if Klaus was working with someone else, so if anyone is helping Liam then they are in as much danger as he is.

Arianna asks why Liam is so worried if the guy who shot him is dead. Liam explains that he thinks Klaus was working for someone, like someone hired him to kill him. Liam got the vibe that Klaus works for the mob and put a hit on him. Arianna doesn’t understand how Liam got mixed up with the mob. Liam explains that he took a random job to make some money and thought it was no big deal but it turned out to be a very big deal. Liam worries that the cops killed this one guy, but whoever wants him dead is still out there so he’s not even close to safe.

JJ tells Shawn that Sarah said she spoke to him when he first woke up but that he probably wouldn’t remember after surgery. Shawn clarifies that’s not what he meant and explains that when he rushed up, he thought JJ had a clear shot as Klaus had his gun pointed directly at him, but he didn’t take the shot. Shawn questions what the hell happened.

Rachel gives Tate the bottle of “skin supplements” to give to Holly that Sophia sent her. Rachel claims that she got them for Holly to thank her for being so nice to her. Tate calls that very sweet of her and says will give them to Holly. Tate then gets a text from Brady that he just pulled in. Tate tells Rachel that he will call her and reminds her to be strong and brave.

Sarah tells Holly that she cannot compare herself to Xander as he’s had anger issues for years and is only now starting to deal with them. Sarah encourages that what Holly’s dealing with is new and she’s facing it head on to try and resolve it. Holly asks what if she can’t resolve it and argues that Tate won’t want a girlfriend who goes off on him all the time, just like Sarah didn’t want a husband who blows up all the time. Sarah tells her that she and Xander had been together on and off for a very long time, so splitting up was best for them which is not the case for Holly and Tate. Sarah talks about them always being open and honest with each other which she and Xander had never done since there were always lies and secrets. Sarah declares that she and Xander are not good for each other and can’t be in the same room for 5 minutes without things going off the rails. Holly asks if she’s not in with Victoria because she’s trying to avoid him. Sarah thinks it’s good for Xander to spend time alone with Victoria. Sarah says she initially didn’t include visitation for him but after seeing him with her and how much she adores her dad, she changed her mind. Holly asks if she thinks she might change her mind about their marriage too. Sarah says she doesn’t think so as letting him see their daughter is one thing but them as a couple is a road she can’t go down again.

Liam tells Arianna that he has to go find somewhere else to stay. Arianna tells him he’s not leaving while Liam argues that he barely knows her, so he won’t let her put her life at risk like this. Arianna insists that no one’s going to look for him in a dorm. Tate then knocks at the door. Arianna calls out to him that Holly isn’t there but Tate asks her to just let him in, so Arianna sends Liam to hide while she answers the door. Tate asks what’s going on.

Belle questions who they are dealing with and if Klaus was working with Dimitri. Jada reveals they think he was working for Vivian. Belle asks if she’s serious. Jada says that the ISA uncovered substantial evidence that Vivian set up Dimitri, so it looks like she was Peter’s accomplice, but before they could question Vivian and Ivan, they disappeared. Belle says she will take a look at the ISA evidence and look in to dropping the charges against Leo and Dimitri when they get back from Alamainia. Jada then informs Belle that Andrew and Paul are flying back now with Leo because he suffered some sort of injury while Dimitri stayed behind because he is now their number one suspect in Vivian’s disappearance. Belle remarks that the plot thickens. Jada then gets a text from the hospital that Shawn is awake which relieves Belle.

JJ tells Shawn that he wishes he had answers as he was faced off with the perp and then Shawn barrelled in. Shawn asks if this is his fault then. JJ says that’s not what he’s saying. Shawn says he gets that sometimes the training goes out the window and relates to his experiences but questions if JJ wasn’t ready to go out there. JJ insists that he was ready while Shawn argues that the bullet hole in his leg says otherwise. JJ tells Shawn that he’s replayed what happened in his head a million times and he knows it’s no excuse, but he didn’t know what to do. JJ guesses he wanted to be absolutely sure that pulling the trigger was the right choice. Shawn says there is no looking back as you either get it right the first time or you’re wrong and JJ was wrong. Shawn argues that JJ hesitated and froze when he needed to act resulting in him getting hit. Shawn says he managed to get a shot off but he had to kill a man and that’s something he has to live with.

Arianna tells Tate that nothing is going on and asks why. Tate feels it took her forever to answer the door and she seems on edge. Tate explains that Rachel wanted to give Holly her skin supplements so he wanted to know if he could leave them for her. Arianna reveals that he can’t because Holly no longer lives there and moved back home. Tate questions what she is talking about. Arianna explains that she and Holly had another big fight where she said she didn’t want to live like this anymore and was tired of tip-toeing around so one of them had to move out and Holly packed up her stuff and left. Tate is shocked as he asks if she’s serious. Arianna asks Tate to do her a huge favor and give Holly the rest of her stuff because she really doesn’t want her coming back.

Holly talks to Sarah about getting blood work done and wanting Sarah to look over the result when they came in. Sarah acknowledges that what Holly is going through is very hard and she’s not just sitting around, she’s being proactive so she will figure it out. Holly thanks Sarah for her encouragement.

Jada tells Belle that she will be going to the hospital to question Shawn. Belle says she will see her there as she has some things to finish up, but she’ll stop by on her way to the courthouse for Kristen’s hearing followed by Johnny and Chanel’s hearing to formally adopt Trey.

JJ tells Shawn that what happened was his fault because he lost his nerve in that split second and took too long to think about it. Shawn responds that it’s not on him and he has to put some of the blame on himself which JJ questiosn. Shawn explains that when they got the call about Klaus, JJ was tired and exhausted from looking for Stephanie while he was fresh, so he should’ve gone and had JJ stay behind to call for backup. Shawn says he should’ve known better while JJ says he should have as well. JJ talks about going to therapy and antibias training, trying to make sure he never repeats the mistake he made with Theo, so he was scared of pulling the trigger when it wasn’t necessary and then he went to the opposite extreme and failed to pull the trigger when it was necessary. Shawn encourages that he’s a good cop while JJ complains that he almost caused the death of two people he cares about and that’s not good. JJ blames his incompetence and says he screwed up. JJ tells Shawn that he is so sorry.

Rachel calls Sophia and says she has to be quick because Brady is home in the shower, but she did as Sophia asked and gave the “supplements” to Tate to give to Holly. Sophia thanks her and says she knew she could count on her. Rachel says she just hopes that Holly likes them since they are supposed to be from her. Sophia assures that she will.

Tate can’t believe Holly just moved out without telling him. Arianna remarks that Holly has been a bitch lately. Tate then finds Liam’s bloody bandage on the ground and asks Arianna if she’s okay and what happened.

Belle goes to the hospital and asks Sarah how Shawn is doing. Sarah responds that he’s stable but he’s lucky that the bullet barely missed an artery. Sarah says the damage is extensive and it will take awhile but he should make a full recovery. Belle asks if she can visit him. Sarah says she can but she might want to wait a few minutes since Jada just went in.

Jada goes to Shawn’s hospital room and says she was hoping to ask him a few questions if he’s up to it. Shawn assures that he just wants to get it over with. Jada asks JJ to excuse them, so JJ exits. Jada tells Shawn that she’s so happy he’s okay as this could’ve been a lot worse. Jada knows he’s probably tired so she will make it quick. Jada says she understands Klaus was about to shoot Liam until JJ rushed in, distracting Klaus, and then Liam took off while Klaus fired a shot at him. Shawn mentions not knowing if Liam got hit. Jada says the blood trail says that he did. Jada then asks Shawn to walk her through what happened next. Shawn recalls Klaus pointing his gun at JJ when he rushed in, then Klaus shot him and he managed to shoot back while next thing he knows, he’s waking up here. Shawn mentions hearing that Klaus is dead which Jada confirms. Jada points out that Shawn and JJ are not dead and that Shawn did what he had to do. Shawn says that’s what he keeps telling himself. Jada says the team is investigating so Shawn will have to undergo mandatory psychological testing and they took his gun for ballistics. Shawn guesses he’ll be on desk duty for quite awhile. Jada says he has a long recovery ahead so she doesn’t want him to worry about anything as his job will be waiting for him. Shawn thanks her and says he appreciates that. Jada says that’s all for now unless he has anything else to add. Shawn agrees that about does it.

Arianna tells Tate that she’s fine and claims that she was using the bandages because she cut herself shaving. Arianna adds that she’s in a rush and thanks Tate for doing her the favor of taking Holly’s stuff back. Tate responds that he really hopes they can work things out. Arianna tells him not to hold his breath as Tate then exits. Liam comes out from hiding as Arianna apologizes for that. Arianna says she does have class and tells Liam to just stay there and not open the door for anyone. Liam feels he really should go, but Arianna stops him and tells him just to relax while she will be back soon. Liam doesn’t know how he will ever thank her. Arianna tells him to start by trying not to get himself killed. Liam says he’ll do his best as Arianna then exits the room.

Sarah tells Belle that when Shawn is released, he will have some health care needs. Belle stops her and says she will move in with Shawn for as long as he needs. Sarah says she didn’t realize while Belle clarifies that they are divorced but they are still good friends who love their daughter and each other. Sarah says she’s impressed. Belle admits that it didn’t happen overnight as there were bumps in the road but it is nice. Sarah wonders if she and Xander will ever get there. Belle encourages to just be patient and give it time.

Jada tells Shawn that she is so happy that he’s okay as she holds his hand. Jada brings up how scared she was when she heard he was shot and says she thinks her prayers were answered.

Sophia questions Rachel not being at school. Rachel informs her that she has court today for a hearing about her almost killing two people, so she has to tell the judge what she did and she’s scared of getting punished again. Sophia encourages that there’s no way as she already did her time in Bayview. Rachel worries that she could get sent back. Sophia assures that won’t happen because she knows Rachel is smart, slick, and knows how to get what she wants and that she’s sorry for what she did. Sophia says the judge will believe her because it’s the truth. Rachel thanks her and hopes she gets out soon too. Sophia responds that she feels like she will.

Holly runs in to Tate in the town square. Tate says he was just looking for her at the dorms and Arianna told him that she moved out. Holly says she was going to tell him. Tate says it’s okay and that Arianna gave him the rest of her stuff, so it’s in his car. Holly guesses Arianna never wants to see her again. Tate says he will miss having her right down the hall. Holly assures that she will come visit him as much as she can and will just have to stay clear of Arianna until she figures out what’s wrong with her. Tate asks about her doctor appointment. Holly says it was fine, they took her blood and switched her birth control pills. Tate then gives Holly the bottle of supplements from Rachel which he says was her thank you gift. Holly calls that nice of her but also a little weird as a gift. Holly calls it very thoughtful. Tate asks if the supplements actually work. Holly assures that they do to prevent breakouts and make her skin softer and smoother. Tate says maybe he should take some then since he started breaking out recently. Holly says his skin looks perfect but that he can have the bottle since she still has a bunch. They agree to just not tell Rachel as Tate then keeps the bottle of “supplements” for himself, not knowing that Sophia switched them with her meds, and puts it in his backpack.

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Days Update Thursday, March 19, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

JJ goes back to the Brady Pub and greets Abe, who mentions that he’s waiting on Paulina. Abe asks how JJ is. JJ says he’s good but feeling a little dumb since he and Theo were just there and he realized he left his credit card behind the bar. Abe relates to doing that at times as well. Abe says he’s really glad that JJ and Theo worked things out. JJ responds that he’s beyond grateful they are friends again. JJ says that Theo’s forgiveness and friendship have changed the way he sees things and he’ll never forget what Theo has taught him by just being who he is.

Leo and Dimitri ask Andrew if they can go home. Andrew informs them that there’s another problem as Vivian and Ivan have been reported missing, there’s suspected foulplay, and Dimitri is now the top suspect. Dimitri calls it impossible as there’s no way. Andrew asks if he’s not capable of disappearing someone. Leo calls Vivian and Ivan bad people. Andrew brings up how Dimitri joined the ISA under a fake name and false pretenses. Dimitri calls that such a long time ago. Andrew argues that Dimitri lied to his friends and his team for some heirloom. Andrew declares that it may have been a long time ago, but that’s just how long he’s been waiting to nail his ass to the wall.

Gwen sits at home at the DiMera Mansion and makes a call that goes unanswered. Gwen throws her phone in frustration as EJ walks in and asks if she’s not happy to see him. Gwen questions EJ not being in jail. EJ says he was just let go as the evidence was never going to stick so Belle had no choice. Gwen is thankful as she’s been worried sick about Lexie and brings up that the tabloids have been having a field day with the lab and that the Spectator reported finding the pod empty. Gwen asks EJ if it’s true and where the hell Lexie is which EJ laughs off and suggests she ask nicely. Gwen then asks again so EJ reveals that he did nothing, but Dr. Rolf moved Lexie to a safe place where their work continues.

Abe tells JJ that he knows Theo is also beyond grateful that they repaired their friendship. JJ says it’s because Theo gave him a second chance and he knows that kind of grace comes from the example that Abe has set for him all his life. Liam comes by while finishing a phone call with his son Gage and then greets them. JJ informs Abe that he and Theo ran in to Liam and Arianna earlier. Abe asks if Liam talked to Theo. Liam confirms that he did and that he apologized for helping the kidnappers. Liam admits that he should’ve gone to the police with what he knew and that Theo was right, so he promises to do better. Liam asks if there’s been any update on the case. Abe says not as far as he knows.

Dimitri admits to Andrew that it was wrong of him to have him kidnapped. Andrew calls it sadistic and criminal. Dimitri argues that someone just tried to kill them, so it’s not a good time to drudge up old grievances. Andrew tells him he’s talking about the new grievance, a crime spree that possibly involves the disappearance of Ivan and Vivian. Leo argues that they were supposed to show up at the cemetery to pay their respects to Stefan but they both no showed. Andrew questions how he knew that. Leo spills that he was keeping a look out so Andrew could snoop around the Alamain estate. Andrew points out that puts Dimitri right there at the scene of the crime.

Gwen asks EJ about Stephanie and if she stumbled upon their experiment and he put her on ice. EJ assures he had nothing to do with Stephanie and Jeremy’s kidnapping, that it was all Owen, and he had no idea that Dr. Rolf even hired him. Gwen questions his story but EJ insists it’s the truth. EJ says he’s just grateful that Stephanie and Jeremy are safe and sound, so they can get past all of these distractions and move forward with their project as planned. Gwen responds that she’s not sure that’s going to happen. EJ questions what she means and demands an answer. Gwen then informs EJ that she got a call from Elsa, the woman she hired to be on staff to be at the house in Alamainia to make sure that Dimitri stayed locked up and they would keep their mouths shut. EJ doesn’t like where this is going. Gwen reveals that according to Elsa, the ISA searched the house for evidence that Dimitri was there and somebody on the staff broke their NDA to admit that Dimitri was there and not with Vivian. EJ complains that he told her that her plan would blow up. Gwen argues that the ISA still can’t trace it back to them. EJ argues that all they have to do is follow the money trail. Gwen insists that she’s sure they won’t find it. EJ screams that it’s just like how she was sure she could frame Dimitri and sure about bringing him back to Salem. Gwen says there’s no need to shout. EJ warns Gwen that this can not get back to him, so if she knows what’s good for her, she will make damn sure that the investigation stops at her and the connection goes no further than here.

Dimitri tells Andrew that he can’t know for sure that Vivian and Ivan were taken from their estate or if they were even taken at all. Dimitri adds that they weren’t even home when he went there and that the maid can back him up. Leo tells Andrew that Ivan tried to poison them with tea and that Dimitri saved his life. Andrew calls that helpful information because now he knows that Dimitri had a motive to get rid of Ivan and Vivian.

Shawn joins JJ, Abe, and Roman at the Brady Pub. Roman goes to get them meals while Abe steps aside to call Paulina, feeling she should’ve been there by now. Shawn and JJ get text messages from the police station which Shawn notes is that dispatch got information on Klaus Muller being a suspected staff member of Vivian’s. Shawn asks JJ if he’s on duty. JJ says he can be and asks if they are bringing Klaus in. Shawn says there’s only one way to find out, so he and JJ exit the Pub for the police station. Paulina then arrives and apologizes to Abe for being late. Abe understands the Mayor’s work is never done and asks what it was this time. Paulina tells him that EJ weaseled his way out of police custody even though he’s guilty as Hell of a lot of things. Roman comes over and asks if she’s talking about EJ and his top secret mystery pods. Roman guesses EJ learned from Megan and wonders what EJ and Dr. Rolf are planning this time. Paulina claims she has no earthly idea.

Gwen asks EJ if she bankrolls his future and then he runs for the hills. EJ mocks the idea that they were in this together while Gwen insists that they were because EJ jumped at the chance to have Dimitri on ice since he needed her cash to fund his special project. Gwen complains that now EJ is hanging her out to dry when the going gets a bit tough. EJ argues that it’s more than a bit tough because Gwen screwed this up by going rogue instead of listening to him. Gwen argues that EJ is the one who left while EJ says that doesn’t excuse Gwen being stupid enough to bring Dimitri back out of spite. Gwen tells him to stop throwing that in her face while EJ declares that Gwen ruined their chance to harness immortality all because she wanted to ruin a wedding. EJ adds that Gwen trying to cover their tracks by plotting with Vivian of all people was a wretched idea when Vivian conspired with Peter to kidnap him and his family. Gwen questions why he went along with it then. EJ wishes he hadn’t because now it’s coming back to bite them in the ass just like he knew it would.

Andrew asks if Dimitri and Leo decided to take Vivian out before she could take them out. Leo says absolutely not. Dimitri wants to get back to Vivian trying to kill them which they have evidence of. Dimitri argues that the gunman was hired by Vivian, Gwen, or both. Dimitri reminds Andrew that he and Paul just found evidence of him being held in Alamainia for two years and insists that Vivian was Peter’s accomplice. Andrew says that’s what Dimitri says while Dimitri argues that’s what the evidence says. Dimitri says they have a lot to lose if he proves his innocence and that’s why they are working so hard to get rid of him.

Klaus confronts Liam in the park and says he’s a hard man to get alone. Liam tells him that the entire police department are looking for him and questions what he’s doing here. Klaus pulls his gun out and says he thinks he knows.

Roman brings Paulina and Abe their food but Paulina asks him to take it away, saying she’s not hungry, so Roman takes it back. Paulina tells Abe that she’s just kind of queasy. Abe asks if she’s coming down with something. Paulina says maybe and that she has a lot on her mind like Jeremy and Stephanie’s rescue and EJ’s secret labs. Paulina feels she owes Roman an apology since she didn’t thank him for bringing the food. Abe thinks Roman sensed that she was upset and didn’t take it personally. Abe assures Paulina that he’s here for whatever she wants to talk about. Paulina responds that she’s so lucky to have him. Paulina declares that as long as they are together, everything is fine and perfect.

EJ complains about Peter putting a camera in the crypt to get traced back to Alamainia. Gwen takes the blame for partnering with Vivian. EJ calls Gwen the real kidnapper and points out that now the ISA has found the home where she held Dimitri prisoner. EJ warns that if they find any evidence that she was involved, she will be completely cut off from the Von Leuschner fortune and Vivian would come after her too if she could. Gwen questions what that means. EJ responds that Vivian will no longer be a problem.

Leo complains that his head is spinning. Dimitri asks Andrew to take another look at Leo, so he does. Andrew admits Leo could have a concussion or a brain injury. Leo claims he’ll be just fine.

Liam argues that Klaus doesn’t want to do this as the town is crawling with cops. Klaus asks if he really thought he could rat them out and live. Liam pleads with Klaus not to do this because of his son. Klaus says he doesn’t give a damn and tells Liam to say goodbye to life, but JJ interrupts with his gun drawn. Klaus fires his gun which grazes Liam’s arm. Liam runs away while JJ starts to have flashbacks to shooting Theo.

Roman asks Abe and Paulina if he can get them anything else. Paulina says no and apologizes since he was kind enough to bring her a meal and she didn’t even thank him. Roman understands she’s been under a lot of pressure as Mayor. Paulina jokes that they can switch jobs. Abe asks Roman how Stephanie is doing. Roman says she’s traumatized for sure but she will be okay, especially once they know Owen Kent will be behind bars for good. Paulina hopes it won’t be long before he is. Paulina then exits to check in on the case against Owen. Roman guesses that Abe is worried about Paulina. Abe admits that she’s just not herself lately. Abe acknowledges that she’s been stressed but he knows there’s something going on and he has to find out what.

Gwen asks EJ how he knows Vivian won’t be a problem. EJ responds that he understands she is missing, possibly permanently. Gwen asks what EJ did but EJ gets a call and says he needs to take it in private, so Gwen exits the room. EJ then answers the call from Paulina and asks what he can do for her. Paulina needs him to tell her what’s going on and questions the pod being empty. Paulina asks what he has done with Lexie. EJ responds that she has been taken to a safe place and is being well taken care of, so what has been set into motion will proceed uninterrupted.

Dimitri tells Andrew that Leo needs medical attention now and that it’s too risky for them to stay here. Dimitri asks Andrew to help Leo, even if he has to leave him behind to his fate. Dimitri tells Andrew to get Leo back to the States so he can be treated. Leo then passes out.

Shawn joins JJ’s side as Shawn and Klaus both fire shots at each other and collapse.

Dimitri helps Leo sit back up and says it’s probably a concussion but he’d feel better if he had an MRI. Leo tries to stand but can’t. Andrew then agrees to take Leo back to the States, but says he won’t make promises that he won’t face charges. Dimitri argues that he’s innocent and was charged with crimes he didn’t commit. Dimitri says the only thing he admits to is that he forced Leo to come here but that Leo did not commit any crime. Leo says except for breaking Javi’s heart which Andrew notes they don’t prosecute for. Leo asks what about Dimitri. Andrew explains that Alamainian authorities won’t let him leave, especially if they believe he’s responsible for the abduction of Vivian and Ivan. Dimitri insists that he didn’t abduct anyone. Andrew says he has to trust the local authorities on this one to be the judge on this as the ISA told him to collaborate with them and let them decide, so he can’t help their main suspect escape. Dimitri tells Leo that he has nothing to worry about and the next time he sees him, they’ll both be back in Salem and he will be exonerated. Leo tells Dimitri that he will see him in Salem then. Andrew and Dimitri then help Leo up as Andrew exits with Leo.

EJ visits Lexie in a new lab, where she is hooked up to machines in a hospital bed. EJ says luckily for them, Rita got this room setup just in time for her. EJ adds that he asked Dr. Rolf to wait outside so they could have time alone. EJ talks about Dr. Rolf taking good care of her and monitoring her progress, so he says that she will be waking up quite soon which will make so many people happy and rich.

Someone walks past Stefan’s grave and lays flowers at the grave next to it which has a headstone with Vivian Alamain’s name on it.

Liam runs in to Arianna in the town square. Arianna sees his gunshot wound and asks what happened to him. Liam claims it’s nothing and that he has to go but Arianna says he’s not going anywhere as he’s hurt and needs help. Liam insists that he’s fine and she can’t get involved. Arianna says to watch her and wants to call 911 but Liam says no cops. Arianna then promises not to call the cops but says he’s coming with her, so they rush off together.

JJ kicks Klaus’s gun away and checks his pulse. JJ then goes to check on Shawn and calls in that an officer is down. JJ urges Shawn to stay with him as he promises help is on the way but Shawn begins to lose consciousness.

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Days Update Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

EJ is held in the interrogation room and allowed his one phone call. EJ calls Rita and leaves a message, questioning her not answering and says he needs to know about their project. Belle arrives and calls it interesting that EJ would call his assistant instead of his lawyer.

In the town square, Gabi questions what Philip means by it being all his fault. Philip responds that he is the reason they are at risk of losing Titan because he did something stupid. Gabi says whatever it is, he should just let it go as it’s in the past and they all make mistakes. Philip says not like this and he feels Gabi needs to know what he did because he feels what they have is something really great, so he doesn’t want any secrets between them.

At the Brady Pub, Roman brings St. Patrick Day themed mocktails to JJ and Theo, saying he’s grateful for their help in bringing Stephanie home. JJ says he’s just relieved she’s back home. Roman says their prayers were answered, just like they were when Theo came home. Theo hopes there won’t be any more kidnappings in Salem for a very long time. Outside, Liam walks by the Pub and stops when he hears a noise. Liam shrugs and heads on in to the pub. Klaus then comes around the corner and checks his gun as he was following Liam.

Leo tells Dimitri that he can’t wait to see Gwen get what’s coming to her and says to imagine the look on her face when she sees them coming back to Salem together. Dimitri then spots a red laser through the window pointing at Leo and rushes to tackle him to safety as a shot is fired through the window. Dimitri slowly looks up and whispers to Leo that he thinks they are safe now. Dimitri then realizes Leo is unconscious and wakes him back up. Dimitri explains that he had to tackle Leo and he hit his head but they need to get up and get somewhere safe before whoever took a shot realizes that they missed. Dimitri tries to pick Leo up but they fall onto the bed.

JJ appreciates Theo’s honesty in his reaction to him rejoining the police force. JJ calls shooting Theo the worst mistake he ever made in his life, so he’s grateful that Theo found a way to forgive him. Theo admits he hasn’t made it easy on him. JJ says it shouldn’t be easy and calls it a reminder of how bad things can go if you give in to fear and suspicion. JJ states that Theo made him a better cop which Theo says he’ll drink to. Liam goes to the bar and looks over the menu while Klaus sits at a table nearby. Klaus gets a call from Renata and says it’s not a good time, so it better be important. Klaus tells her to calm down as he can’t understand her. Klaus questions what she means that they never came back from the cemetery as that was yesterday. Klaus then hurries back out of the Pub.

Belle asks EJ if even Rita won’t take his calls. EJ asks what the hell she wants. Belle questions if that’s any way to talk to the prosecutor who holds his fate in her hands.

Gabi questions Philip telling her that Vivian forged the letter from Victor that gave him half of Titan. Philip confirms that not only did he go along with it, he roped other people in to his lie like Sarah, Maggie, and eventually Xander. Gabi guesses Xander kept it secret because of what it would do to the company if the truth came out. Philip says that he got away with it for a long time until Tony found out and notes that he still doesn’t know how. Philip calls it devastating as Tony used that leverage to take back DiMera and decimate what was left of Titan. Gabi asks if that’s bad. Philip assures that he honestly doesn’t know if they will survive. Gabi says she’s so sorry. Philip says he is too. Philip can’t stand the thought of being the one to bring the downfall of Victor’s legacy. Gabi then says there’s something that she needs to tell him.

Theo asks JJ about getting more drinks but then he sees Liam at the bar and tells JJ to excuse him as he goes to talk to an old classmate. Theo approaches Liam, who acknowledges him as Abe’s son. Theo is glad he remembers him and says they have a lot of catching up to do as he sits at Liam’s table.

Philip tells Gabi that he just admitted to being a total screwup so she can tell him anything. Gabi says this isn’t easy, but they get interrupted by Arianna walking by in tears. Gabi thought she was heading back to the dorm. Arianna says she was just there but she needed to get out. Gabi asks why. Arianna says it doesn’t matter and hugs Gabi as she asks what’s wrong. Arianna cries that she thinks she just lost her best friend.

Dimitri tells Leo that whoever tried to kill them is still out there so they have to go. Leo says he’s fine and tries to get up but he’s dizzy and falls back on the bed. Dimitri decides maybe he can just carry him but Leo says he’s tired and tells Dimitri to go ahead before it’s too late.

Belle tells EJ that he wasted his one phone call. EJ responds that he didn’t call an attorney because he is an attorney. EJ asks why not represent himself as he’s the best man for the job and points out that she has nothing to substantiate the allegations against him because he is in no way involved in Stephanie’s abduction. Belle says she read his statement. EJ adds that he and Stephanie have had an excellent relationship since they started working together at the hospital and he even matched the reward money for her return. EJ says he’s just glad she’s home safe. Belle asks about EJ’s connection to Owen Kent. EJ responds that he doesn’t have one. EJ admits that he previously was an employee of his but that was many years ago and he hasn’t seen or heard from since. EJ adds that he had no idea Owen was working in the lab and certainly didn’t hire him. EJ asks if Owen said otherwise. Belle confirms that Owen backed that story and said Dr. Rolf hired him without EJ’s knowledge and that Jeremy and Stephanie also confirmed that. EJ says that’s great and suggests letting him go then but Belle says she doesn’t think so. EJ questions why he can’t leave when she just admitted that he had no involvement in Stephanie’s kidnapping and that he was innocent. Belle says she did not say that and she would never call him innocence. Belle adds that he’s only made her more suspicious as to what he was up to. Belle questions EJ about the false wall in the lab which he didn’t mention in their initial search which would’ve led them to Stephanie a lot sooner. Belle asks what EJ was hiding back there. EJ says maybe it was all Dr. Rolf. Belle responds that they haven’t been able to locate and asks if he knows Dr. Rolf is. EJ says it’s hard to say. Belle argues that Dr. Rolf found Jeremy and Stephanie, then left them there to die. EJ says he only found out about that after Jeremy and Stephanie were found safe. Belle finds that hard to believe because she knows EJ and Dr. Rolf were working on a project together and that EJ would’ve done anything to keep that project a secret. EJ thinks back to instructing Dr. Rolf to make sure Stephanie and Jeremy are never found again. Belle snaps him out of it and asks where he went just now. EJ claims that he was just thinking how tired he is of these baseless accusations. Belle argues that they both know they aren’t baseless and warns EJ to get used to it because the FBI and the ISA are all over his research project and they are not going to let go of that pod as they have a whole team working to figure out it’s purpose. EJ calls it none of their damn business. Belle says she can see that really upsets him but she can help.

Liam apologizes to Theo, swearing he had no idea what he was being hired for. Theo says he’s already heard the whole story from Abe that Liam has a son and needed money to support him while Peter Blake convinced him that he was just stocking the crypt in case of a disaster. Liam thanks Theo for understanding. Theo clarifies that just because he understands doesn’t make it okay because at some point, Liam did realize that his family members were being stolen away from their loved ones. Theo guesses Liam had to connect the dots at some point. Liam admits he figured something was up. Theo tells Liam that he had two choices, to do the right thing and alert the authorities or keep quiet like a coward and they know what he chose. Theo tells Liam to just do better for his son’s sake. Theo then gets up and goes back to his table with JJ.

Gabi asks Philip to give her a minute with Arianna so Philip tells her to take her time and walks away. Gabi asks Arianna what happened with Holly. Arianna cries about how Holly has been distant and cold and treating her with disrespect. Arianna thought she would give her time but it all blew up because Holly started in on how she’s a bad friend for joining the sorority. Arianna cries that she finally stood up for herself and they argued back and forth until she said one of them had to move out and Holly volunteered to do it. Arianna says she left Holly to pack and asks if she went too far. Gabi thinks she did what she had to do to protect herself as she deserves peace of mind and not mistreatment by a so called friend. Gabi encourages Arianna to get out and live her best life without worrying about Holly or anyone else. Gabi promises it will all work out how it’s meant to as they embrace.

EJ questions Belle saying she wants to help him now. Belle calls it her responsibility to protect the interests of the people of Salem and to do that, she needs answers, so if he’s open and honest with her then she’ll put in a good word which could go a long way in keeping EJ out of federal prison. Belle asks EJ who was in the pod or maybe they haven’t gone in yet. EJ asks when medical research became illegal. Belle thinks EJ and Dr. Rolf both know the answer to that. EJ calls it a private lab funded by private money so he doesn’t owe anyone an explanation. Belle argues that the unauthorized use of electricity is illegal along with human experimentation, especially if the occupants of the pod went in against their will. EJ argues that she has no idea what she’s talking about. Belle tells him to enlighten her then and asks what he’s trying to accomplish in there.

Dimitri tells Leo that he’s not leaving without him again. Leo says he’s so tired but Dimitri repeats that he won’t. Leo tells him to be his normal selfish self. Dimitri responds that he’d rather die himself than let Leo die. Leo asks if he means that, but they are interrupted by Andrew Donovan knocking on the door. Andrew calls out that they are safe as he took out the shooter, so Dimitri lets him in. Dimitri asks who the shooter was. Andrew responds that Paul is outside trying to make a positive ID and asks if no one was hit. Dimitri says no but that Leo might have a concussion and need medical attention.

Gabi cries that she hates when Arianna hurts. Arianna says she’ll be fine and that she already feels better from talking about it with her because she said all the right things. Arianna mentions that she’s going to meet a friend at the Pub, so Gabi tells her to have fun and that she loves her. As Arianna walks away, Philip comes back and asks Gabi if everything is alright. Gabi responds that it’s just Holly Jonas being Holly Jonas but she knows not to mess with her daughter. Philip calls Arianna as feisty as her mom. Gabi thanks him and questions him thinking she’s feisty. Philip calls that one of his favorite things about her. Gabi asks about his other favorite things. Philip says he’ll tell her as soon as she tells him what she was about to say earlier because it seemed important. Gabi claims that it was not important at all.

EJ tells Belle that she couldn’t possibly understand the significance of the research he’s funding as it could change their understanding of the world. Belle asks if he’s trying to sound like a super villain. EJ says it’s no joke. Belle knows that when Dr. Rolf is involved, it’s never funny and usually against the law. EJ remarks that nothing great has ever been achieved by following rules and regulations. Belle asks if he’s admitting that what he’s doing is against the law. EJ responds that what he’s doing is for the greater good which Belle mocks. Belle argues that they both know that all that matters to him is money and power. EJ responds that he’s put a great deal of money in to this. EJ states that innovation requires risk and the one willing to take those risks deserves to reap the rewards. Belle says he knows what she thinks he deserves. EJ tells Belle that he feels sorry for her because she wants to hate him so much, but she can’t. Belle says that she can and does, adding that the only thing she hates more is that she has to let him go.

Arianna goes to the Brady Pub to meet Liam as they wave at each other. She walks past JJ and Theo on her way and greets them. JJ asks her how it’s going. Arianna says it’s just college stuff and roommate drama. Arianna congratulates them on finding Stephanie and says she hears Theo is going to fully be back at DiMera soon. Theo confirms he and Johnny are in the process of transitioning leadership. Arianna says that will make Theo her boss since she’s interning there and she’s excited that he’ll be back in charge because she hears he has exciting ideas for the future. Arianna tells Theo that she looks forward to working with him and she’ll see him around the office, leaving Liam looking on.

Philip is glad Gabi stuck around after what he told her about he and Vivian. Gabi says that everybody makes mistakes. Gabi feels they have something really great going so she’s not about to throw it away over corporate ethics. Philip says that makes him deliriously happy and invites her back to his room at the Salem Inn, suggesting they cuddle in bed and see where it takes them as they kiss.

Liam watches on as Arianna talks with Roman at the counter. Roman asks if there’s anything he can do to help, offering to invite Holly over for a sitdown. Arianna says they will figure it out but she appreciates his offer. Arianna then makes it over to Liam’s table and he jokes about her seeming to know everyone. Arianna informs him that Roman is her great grandfather. Liam asks what else he doesn’t know about her family. JJ then comes over and tells Arianna that it’s not his place to tell her what to do or disclose official police business, but warns her to steer clear of Liam as he then exits the Pub with Theo. Arianna then reveals to Liam that JJ is also her overprotective cousin, the cop.

Andrew checks on Leo and agrees that his symptoms suggest a concussion. Dimitri thanks Andrew for having their backs. Andrew clarifies that they weren’t there to protect him but it just happened to be an assassination attempt. Dimitri points out that he still saved their lives while Andrew says they were just doing their jobs. Dimitri asks Andrew if he checked out the estate where he was held captive. Andrew reveals that the place was wiped clean from top to bottom but they did manage to pull some fingerprints and DNA and confirmed the fingerprints were Dimitri’s. Leo calls it great news and asks why Dimitri doesn’t look happy. Dimitri feels it’s not enough to prove he was held captive there.

EJ asks if Belle is cutting him loose so he’s free to leave. Belle says she would love nothing more than to take it to trial and put him behind bars where he belongs but the case isn’t strong enough. EJ guesses she doesn’t want another blemish on her record. EJ asks if there’s anything else she needs. Belle reminds him that he’s needed at Rachel’s hearing tomorrow. EJ assures that he’ll be there as he knows how important his victim statement is. Belle then tells EJ that he’s free to go and remarks that he should be used to handcuffs by now. Belle says until next time as she’s sure there will be a next time. EJ says it’s always a pleasure. Belle warns that if EJ takes one step out of line with his lab, she will bring her entire office down on him and if she finds out it’s illegal, his life as he knows it will be over.

Outside the Pub, JJ and Theo talk about not liking that Arianna is hanging out with Liam but they know if they tell her what to do, she’ll do the opposite. As they walk away, Klaus comes back around the corner.

Arianna tells Liam that she does have several family members in law enforcement. Liam asks if she gets that JJ was trying to say he’d been arrested. Arianna says so has her mom and half of Salem. Liam questions her not caring. Arianna says he’s here now and paid his debt to society. Arianna says it’s in the past and all she cares about now is his present and hopefully future. Klaus watches through the window and loads his gun outside of the Pub.

Philip and Gabi head in to the Salem Inn together as JJ and Theo come around the corner of the town square and see them. Theo asks JJ if Gabi’s the one that got away. JJ responds that he only has himself to blame.

Andrew confirms that fingerprints and DNA are not enough to prove that Dimitri was held captive, but they did get a lead from a local grocer to a German cook. Dimitri recalls telling the FBI about a German chef. Andrew reveals that she confirmed his story and attested that Dimitri was held captive there from May 2024 until the end of last year. Dimitri asks if she said who hired her and if they could trace it back to Gwen. Andrew says unfortunately no as they used a hiring company. Dimitri urges him to keep trying and promises it will lead to Gwen. Andrew reveals that they do believe he was held captive, so Leo and Dimitri ask if that means they can go home. Andrew informs them that there’s another problem as Vivian and Ivan have been reported missing, there’s suspected foulplay, and Dimitri is now the top suspect.

EJ walks through the town square and gets a call from Rita. EJ answers, reminding her to answer when he calls and says she better have a damn good explanation. Rita informs EJ that it’s been handled, so EJ apologizes for doubting her and hangs up.

 

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Days Update Tuesday, March 17, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Holly, Maggie, and Sarah watch over Victoria at the hospital. Maggie comments on how peaceful she looks while Sarah says that Victoria is catching up on sleep now that she’s feeling better. Maggie says she’s missed her and can’t wait to have her home. Holly adds that Sarah must be relieved that Victoria is well enough to go home now. Sarah says she’s been so on edge all week between Victoria getting sick and Stephanie going missing. Holly thanks God that Stephanie was found while Maggie is thankful Jeremy was found innocent, saying she was never so glad to be wrong about someone.

Marlena is at home on the phone with Kayla, talking about how relieved she was to hear Stephanie was found. Marlena says if Stephanie needs to talk to anyone, her or her colleagues would be happy to. Marlena thanks Kayla and sends her love, saying she’ll see her soon as they hang up. Rachel (now played by Lorelei Mote) comes in and asks who she was talking to. Marlena says it was her aunt Kayla and shares the great news that Stephanie has been found. Rachel asks to go see her but Marlena suggests giving her some time to breathe first. Rachel asks if Stephanie being found means Jeremy is going to jail forever. Marlena reveals that it turned out Jeremy was innocent.

Gabi is at home on the phone with Javi. Gabi says she’s so sorry and that Leo is a damn fool. Arianna comes in as Gabi finishes the call, telling Javi to hang in there. Gabi suggests Arianna give Javi a call because he could use some cheering up. Arianna asks what’s wrong. Gabi says that Javi found out Leo ran off to Alamainia with Dimitri and he’s totally heartbroken. Arianna questions how he found out. Gabi responds that he found out on his own in the worst way possible.

Leo and Dimitri sit in their room on their laptops in Alamainia. Leo is excited to read that Stephanie has been found and adds that Jeremy was totally innocent. Dimitri then exclaims that he found the house he was looking for where he was held captive.

Gwen sits in the town square and calls EJ, leaving a message that she heard he was arrested for Stephanie’s kidnapping and that they found the pod empty. Gwen questions where Lexie is and hopes that EJ is not still incarcerated so he can call her back. Gwen says she will be waiting and hangs up as Philip walks by behind her.

Marlena informs Rachel that Jeremy was one of the people who helped rescue Stephanie. Rachel guesses he’s not so bad after all. Marlena feels there’s a very good lesson that people are innocent until proven guilty. Rachel relates it to Kristen being proven guilty of shooting EJ even though she was innocent. Marlena says they are trying to make that right. Marlena says she knows Belle has spoken to her, but asks how Rachel is feeling about going to court tomorrow. Rachel admits she’s scared as Marlena hugs her.

Gabi explains to Arianna that Leo lied about where he was and who he was with until Javi heard Dimitri’s voice in the room, so any hope Javi was holding onto just vanished. Arianna says it’s good that Javi wised up to who Leo truly is and now he can move on to someone who will treat him right. Arianna thinks they’d all be better off if Leo and Dimitri just live unhappily ever after. Gabi adds that hopefully it would not be in Salem.

Dimitri shows Leo what he says looks like the house he was held captive at. Dimitri talks about how hard he fought to get out of there to get back to Leo. Leo says he’s still just processing all of this, reminding him that just a few months ago he was about to marry Javi. Leo adds that he misses Javi every second of every day but what’s done is done and Javi wants nothing to do with him, which means they are back to square one.

Maggie suggests a girls night now that Victoria is coming home and asks Holly if they can steal her away from the dorm for a slumber party. Maggie notes Holly being distracted and asks if everything is alright. Holly mentions that she just didn’t get in to the sorority that she rushed. Maggie calls it their loss and then leaves to go check on Jeremy. Sarah encourages Holly that they are just worried about her since she’s been distant lately. Holly assures that she’s not pregnant which Sarah says must be a load off her mind. Sarah remarks that she still doesn’t feel like herself most of the time and she doesn’t know why.

Philip sneaks up behind Gwen, startling her and causing her to spill her drink. Gwen questions if he was eavesdropping or something. Philip responds that he didn’t hear a thing but guesses he just missed something pretty juicy and asks if she cares to fill him in.

Marlena understands Rachel is scared because of how important tomorrow is. Rachel knows she needs to tell the truth and asks if she’s not going to jail for shooting EJ. Marlena assures that she’s not. Rachel questions why Kristen confessed to protect her if everyone is so sure that nothing bad is going to happen. Rachel guesses that no one is really sure she won’t be sent away.

Gabi complains that Leo has lived rent free in their minds for far too long, so she’d rather spend this time catching up with Arianna than spend another second talking about Leo. Gabi asks Arianna if she could convince her to crash her again tonight. Arianna says she should get back to the dorm since she has to study and also has a sorority party. Gabi says she’s really proud of her for getting in the sorority. Arianna thanks her but feels like she’s having impostor syndrome about it. Arianna points out that Gabi is a big deal to the other girls, so they just like having her daughter in the sorority. Arianna adds that pledging was Holly’s idea in the first place and her not getting in makes her feel weird. Gabi realizes that doing laundry wasn’t the only reason she stayed here last night. Arianna admits that Tate asked for alone time with Holly, but she was honestly glad to get away from her. Gabi asks if Holly is jealous that she got in to the sorority and if she’s been acting out about it. Arianna says it’s more than acting out and admits that Holly has been a total bitch to her lately.

Sarah points out that being on the pill can sometimes affect people’s mood and asks if Holly thinks that could be what’s going on. Holly doesn’t think so she’s been on the pill for awhile. Sarah suggests trying a different brand or method. Sarah asks if she knows what’s in her skin supplements. Holly says she doesn’t but she knows they really help her. Sarah asks to see the bottle so Holly shows her. Sarah says she doesn’t know the brand. Sarah warns that supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA and have their own regulations when it comes to ingredients and claims. Holly says she’s been taking them since high school so she would’ve known if she had a bad reaction. Sarah says that’s unless they changed their formula and asks if Holly could stop taking them. Holly says she can’t because she’d start breaking out. Sarah suggests trying for a little while and if there’s no change, they will know they are safe. Holly agrees to think about it.

Gwen tells Philip to bugger off after making her spill her drink. Philip offers to get her another one and asks if she wants to tell him what has her so wound up. Gwen tells him to just get her another white chocolate martini. Philip warns Gwen not to talk about sensitive matters in the town square because he’s been burned that way far too many times. Gwen tells him to just go get her drink so he walks away.

Dimitri asks Leo if square one means they go back to the way things were. Leo says not exactly as first they need to focus on clearing his name and getting out of Alamainia. Leo suggests they go to the house and pose as a couple interested in buying the house. Leo then remembers the staff will recognize him from being held captive for over a year. Dimitri thinks he has an even better idea and suggests having the ISA do their dirty work for them.

Maggie returns to Victoria’s room as Holly is saying goodbye since she needs to get back to campus, so she exits. Sarah confirms to Maggie that Holly is not pregnant. Maggie is relieved and appreciates Sarah stepping in. Sarah assures that they all know how lucky they are to have Maggie and that nothing makes her feel safer than knowing Maggie has her back as they hug.

Marlena tells Rachel that EJ knows the shooting was an accident, so he’s going to tell the judge that. Rachel asks if she’s sure. Marlena assures that EJ loves her and doesn’t want anything to happen to her as he knows she would never hurt him. Rachel feels it will be weird seeing EJ now that he knows the truth. Rachel asks if Marlena will be there tomorrow too. Marlena responds that she’s not sure she will be allowed in the judge’s chambers, but she will be right outside and everyone who cares about her will be too because they are all in her corner. Marlena promises that nothing bad is going to happen to her.

Holly joins Arianna in their dorm room. Arianna asks if she and Tate had a good night. Holly says it was great and thanks her for letting them have the room. Arianna guesses she will catch her later, but Holly stops her to apologize for acting like a jerk to her lately. Holly doesn’t know what’s going on with her and says Sarah suggested switching birth control brands since her crazy mood swings might be a side effect. Arianna says that makes sense and she hopes it helps. Holly says it’s been awhile since they’ve hung out and invites her to the St. Patrick’s Day party with her and Tate. Arianna appreciates the invite but says she’s not in the mood to be a third wheel. Arianna suggests they hang out together later and then admits she already has plans tonight, so Holly questions if she means the Gamma Gamma sorority party.

Dimitri calls Andrew at the ISA to give the address to the house and says all the evidence is at the estate if they are here to investigate. Leo calls it ironic that Andrew and Paul may be the ones to prove his innocence. Dimitri says they’ve been determined to settle their personal beef with him but instead, they will find an entire estate with his DNA and irrefutable proof that he was framed.

Philip brings Gwen another drink and sits with her, saying they’ve never been formally introduced. Gwen responds that she knows who he is as his photos are all over social media. Philip states that he knows her for the same reason. Philip comments on her accent. Gwen says she no longer has ties to the UK and mocks him. Gwen warns that she’s in a very fowl mood and suggests he take a hike to let her enjoy her drink. Philip informs her that he can’t take a hike because he’s meeting his gorgeous girlfriend here. Gabi then arrives, so Philip greets her. Gabi questions if he and Gwen know each other. Gwen says they just met while Philip jokes that they hit it off immediately.

Marlena tells Rachel that she’s so glad they had this time together as it meant a lot to her. Marlena says she’s going to put their cookies in the oven a little longer but Rachel pinches her, hurting Marlena who questions why she did that.

Sarah asks Maggie how Jeremy is. Maggie says he’s doing better and was gracious in accepting her apology. Sarah says she’s glad and brings up Jeremy thinking about leaving town. Sarah wonders if he will change his mind now that everyone knows he’s innocent. Maggie thinks he already has and reveals he said he’s thinking about staying in Salem because he has unfinished business here.

Leo talks to Dimitri about proving that Gwen kidnapped him. Dimitri says the ISA are professionals while Gwen is an amateur. Dimitri says Gwen left a packing slip behind and who knows what else. Leo asks what if Andrew and Paul don’t follow the lead. Dimitri responds that he will do it himself then and declares that he wants his life back, with or without anyone’s help.

Gwen calls Philip a pest who made her spill her drink. Philip points out that he graciously replaced it. Gwen tells Gabi it was nice to see her and they agree to have lunch soon. Gwen wishes Gabi luck with Philip, remarking that Kiriakis men are a handful as she walks away. Philip questions Gabi actually being friends with Gwen. Gabi says they are more friendly than actually friends.

Arianna confirms to Holly that she’s going to the Gamma Gamma party and asks if that’s a problem, arguing that Holly encouraged her to join. Holly complains that she was just being nice and didn’t think Arianna would actually join. Arianna says she can’t read her mind. Holly argues that it’s about being sensitive to her feelings. Arianna says she’s been trying not to set her off but no matter what she does, Holly goes off on her. Holly argues that Arianna didn’t even want to join a sorority and she had to beg her to join, so she expected her to be more loyal after how they treated her. Arianna argues that Holly was acting crazy and then tried to bite her head off when she tried to smooth things over. Holly says she doesn’t care what they think of her and questions why Arianna would rather spend time with stuck up bitches than her real friend. Arianna argues that she hasn’t been acting like a real friend to her and has been treating her like a bug to squash. Arianna tells Holly that she’s sorry but she’s unfriending her in real life.

Marlena questions why Rachel pinched her. Rachel points out that it’s St. Patrick’s Day and she’s not wearing green, saying she learned from a classmate that those are the rules. Marlena tells her not to pinch someone for any reason. Rachel apologizes for hurting her and asks if she forgives her. Marlena says of course she does. Rachel tells her that she loves her and hugs her. Marlena decides to take the cookies to the oven and sends Rachel to get the mail.

Maggie tells Sarah that it was sweet of Xander to bring all the gifts for Victoria. Sarah responds that he’s very good with little gestures, but she can always feel his anger creeping in. Sarah tells her that this morning, she said he didn’t have to stay and could go back to work, then he got really frustrated and acted like she kicked him out. Sarah complains that things were going so well and she even decided to revisit their custody arrangement for regular scheduled visits, but now she wonders if that was the right decision. Sarah points out that Xander did beat Philip to a bloody pulp. Maggie says she won’t defend Philip as a husband, brother, or son, but she can’t deny he’s a good father so if she feels that he should be apart of Victoria’s life, she accepts and supports her decision. Sarah assures that she does think it’s the right decision or at least she hopes so.

Philip questions Gabi having a soft spot for Gwen. Gabi says she does, calling her smart and funny, adding that she can relate to being treated like a pariah as she’s survived her share of scandals. Philip says he has too but that’s all in the past and now they are both captains of their industry. Gabi calls it kind of funny because Philip couldn’t stand her when they first met and now she can’t walk in a room without him showering her with compliments. Philip says that’s because he got to know the real her as he continues to praise her and they then kiss.

Leo asks Dimitri what his plan is when he does prove his innocence. Dimitri says he’s going back to Salem and asks why he would even ask that. Leo points out that he doesn’t have ties there anymore and the world is his oyster. Dimitri says that might be the case but there’s something he wants in Salem desperately and he’s not willing to give it up without a fight. Leo asks if it’s about him. Dimitri clarifies that it’s about Gwen as he wants to divorce her and make sure she doesn’t get a cent. Dimitri wants to punish Gwen and make sure she pays for what she did to him.

Gwen goes home to the DiMera Mansion and pours a drink. Gwen then gets a call. Gwen answers and says she told them never to call her. Gwen argues that the ISA can’t search that house or know where Dimitri was being held. Gwen questions how this happened when they told her he would never find it. Gwen tells them that they need to stop this and shut it down before it goes any further as she hangs up in frustration.

Holly questions Arianna saying she’s unfriending her. Arianna declares that she’s so tired of being treated like crap. Arianna gets things are rough for her but she’s done everything she can to be there for her. Arianna brings up Holly nearly drinking herself to death, setting their room on fire, and wanting to run off to Paris. Holly questions her throwing that in her face now. Arianna complains that she has hit her breaking point and she can’t keep showing up for someone that won’t show up for her or support her choices. Arianna declares that she’s done. Holly points out that they are roommates. Arianna says that she can’t keep living like this so one of them will have to move out.

Gabi tells Philip that they better stop or they’ll never decide where they are going for dinner. Philip reveals it’s already handled as he made reservations for 7 at the Bistro. Gabi asks if he’s checked on Stephanie today. Philip says no as he wanted to give her time to settle first, so he will stop by tomorrow. Gabi says she’s really glad Stephanie is okay. Gabi adds that on a shallow bright note, since Alex found Stephanie, Titan is off the hook for the reward money. Philip notes that they did offer it to Jeremy but he turned them down. Gabi calls that big of him. Philip says it was more that Jeremy was pissed at Alex for accusing him of being the kidnapper and stalker, so he didn’t want to accept anything from him. Philip says whatever the reason, he’s glad that Titan doesn’t have to pay up because they need all of their capital with the loan payment looming. Gabi encourages that Philip has overcome worse and he’s got this. Philip says that’s sweet but it’s more complicated than that. Philip says he’s been meaning to tell her something for awhile now but he was sworn to secrecy by Xander and Maggie, though he knows he can trust her. Gabi assures that he can tell her anything. Philip then declares to Gabi that this mess with Titan is all his fault.

Rachel comes back from getting the mail with the box that includes the bottle of pills disguised as Holly’s skin supplements that Sophia sent. Rachel quickly hides the box in her backpack and then texts Sophia that she sent the box to her Grandma’s and she doesn’t live there anymore, so she’s lucky she was there to get it before Marlena noticed. Marlena then comes back from the kitchen, so Rachel tells her that the mail looks like mostly junk.

Holly tells Arianna that she will be the one to move out because she hates it here and she’ll pack her things right now. Arianna tells her to do that and storms out. Holly starts to cry and begins packing her things.

Maggie asks if Sarah is having second thoughts about letting Xander have scheduled visits with Victoria. Sarah says she’s not sure as she’s just reminded how much better off she is without Xander in her life. Maggie points out that he will be in her life, especially if she co-parents with him. Sarah remarks that she can live with that as long as he keeps Gwen away from their daughter.

Gwen worries about it being found where Dimitri was held.

Leo tells Dimitri that he can’t wait to see Gwen get what’s coming to her and says to imagine the look on her face when she sees them coming back to Salem together. Dimitri then spots a red laser through the window pointing at Leo and rushes to tackle him to safety.

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Days Update Monday, March 16, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Cat talks about how everyone warned her not to get close to EJ and that she can’t trust him. Cat realizes that she’d be a hypocrite if she held his past against EJ when he took a chance on her but says she can’t ignore what everyone is saying. EJ asks what they are saying. Cat responds that it’s something she doesn’t want to believe. Cat then asks if EJ is responsible for Stephanie’s kidnapping. EJ says absolutely not and swears that’s the truth. EJ knows most people think the worst of him and it doesn’t bother him, but he values her opinion a great deal as an employee and as a friend and perhaps even more than a friend. Cat then grabs EJ and kisses him. Cat stops and says she shouldn’t have done that but EJ says he begs to differ and continues kissing her.

Rafe breaks in to the first door of the secret pathway and finds Lexie’s pod.

Paulina brings Kayla herbal tea at the hospital and talks about knowing she must be tired of everyone telling her to stay optimistic, but encourages that her family is so loved and respected and that’s why all this positive energy is coming to her. Paulina insists that Stephanie will be coming back to her soon and hugs her.

Steve and Brady go to Owen’s family’s mortuary, feeling it’s worth a shot. Owen then appears, walking by in a hoodie. Steve grabs Owen, demanding to know what he did with his daughter and where she is. Owen responds that he’ll never tell.

Alex bursts in to the secret room and calls out for Stephanie. He then sees Jeremy holding her on the ground and calls him a son of a bitch as he demands that he get off of her.

EJ admits to Cat that he felt embarrassed about almost kissing her a few weeks ago as he didn’t intend to be that forward and it was obvious she didn’t reciprocate his feelings. Cat responds that she didn’t think she did either, but now while they were kissing, she says she remembers kissing him in Italy too.

Kayla talks to Paulina how it’s so hard to be here while Stephanie is out there with a psychopath. Kayla says she took an oath to do no harm but feels like she could break that oath in a heartbeat. Paulina is aware of how far people will go for someone they love.

Steve holds Owen while Brady tells him that Stephanie called 911 and the police traced the call so they are going to find her. Owen says he wouldn’t be so sure and doubts they ever find her.

Alex throws Jeremy against the wall and wakes Stephanie up. Stephanie asks if it’s really him. Alex helps her up and says he loves her so much as he checks on her. Alex tells Stephanie that they have to get out of here. Alex then tells Jeremy that he’s not going anywhere and punches him down.

Rafe looks over Lexie’s pod which is now empty. Rafe then hears Alex fighting Jeremy and runs out of the room.

Cat asks EJ if he remembers her kissing him in Italy. EJ asks how he could when he was unconscious. Cat says it’s hazy for her too. EJ asks what she does remember. Cat says she had just finished reading to him and maybe she had an emotional reaction. Cat says it was a long time ago so it doesn’t matter and feels that it’s disturbing to him so she’s sorry. EJ assures that she has nothing to be sorry for.

Alex yells at Jeremy while Stephanie tries to tell him to stop. Rafe rushes in and pulls Alex away from Jeremy. Alex yells for Rafe to arrest Jeremy while Stephanie shouts that Jeremy is innocent and did not kidnap her. Stephanie reveals it was Owen Kent.

Steve questions Owen as to if Stephanie is alive. Owen says he would never hurt her, but if he can’t have her then no one can. Steve warns that if he doesn’t tell him where Stephanie is, he is going to die right here right now. Brady stops Steve and tells him not to do it, so Steve releases the chokehold and they walk Owen away.

Stephanie tells Alex and Rafe that Owen kidnapped her and locked her up while Jeremy saved her, but got locked up too. Rafe decides to call it in to let everyone know she’s safe. Alex tells Jeremy that he’s got it and can take care of his wife.

EJ gets a text from Dr. Rolf that the mission was accomplished while Cat gets a text from Rafe, asking where EJ is. Cat responds that EJ is at the DiMera Estate while EJ asks Dr. Rolf about the surprise visitor problem.

Kayla tells Paulina that she can’t do this anymore and she needs to find Alex, so she asks where he was going. Alex then emerges from the elevator with Stephanie. Kayla is so relieved to see her. Kayla tells Paulina to call Steve while she and Alex take Stephanie to an exam room at the hospital.

Brady and Steve bring Owen Kent to the police station where Jada calls him a son of a bitch. Jada thanks them and says she has it from here. Jada begins reading Owen his rights while Steve gets a call from Paulina that they found Stephanie and she’s at the hospital. Paulina tells him that she is conscious and Kayla is with her. Steve says he’ll be there soon and hangs up. Steve announces that they found Stephanie. Jada says thank God while Brady tells Steve he knew they would as they hug. Steve thanks Brady for everything he did and tells him that he did his dad proud. Brady responds that he’s just happy they found her as that’s all that matters.

Rafe brings Jeremy in to the hospital and calls for help as a doctor rushes over to help. Paulina goes over to Rafe and asks what happened. Rafe reveals that it turned out they were in the hospital the whole time, hidden behind a false wall in EJ’s lab. Rafe says that’s not all they found as there was one of Dr. Rolf’s pods in there too. Paulina asks if he opened it. Rafe informs her that it was empty, shocking Paulina.

Kayla gets Stephanie set up in a hospital bed and tells her how much she and Steve have prayed for this moment. Kayla wishes Steve was there to share it with them but he’ll be there soon. Kayla says she’s sorry for how she suffered. Stephanie tells her it’s over now. Kayla says she loves her and hugs her.

Jada orders Owen to be booked on aggravated kidnapping and to be held until she gets back. Steve asks Brady to hang around and try to get more out of Owen. Brady says he’ll be happy too. Steve and Jada then exit the station while Owen is escorted aside.

Kayla tells Stephanie that she checked out fine, so she’s relieved that Owen didn’t hurt her physically. Stephanie says that Owen never touched her like that, but flashes back to Owen kissing her. Alex asks what it is but Stephanie claims it’s nothing. Steve then arrives and embraces Stephanie as he breaks down crying.

Owen is handcuffed to a chair at the police station. Brady tells him that he’s pretty lucky he was there or who knows what would’ve happened with Steve. Owen asks if he owes him. Brady says he does a little bit. Brady asks Owen what brought him to town this time and if EJ hired him. Owen says no and reveals it was Dr. Rolf. Brady asks what he brought him to do. Owen responds that he can’t talk about that. Brady offers to get him something to eat from the vending machine but Owen responds that all he wants is Stephanie.

Steve tells Stephanie how happy he is to see her. Stephanie thanks him for all he did to find her as she’s grateful for everyone that helped. Kayla says just having her back safe is all the thanks any of them need. Jada joins them and sits at Stephanie’s side, saying she’s so grateful to have her back and she loves her so much.

Rafe goes to the DiMera Mansion and tells EJ and Cat that he’s sorry to interrupt but he has questions for EJ about Stephanie’s disappearance and where she was found. EJ is surprised and says it’s wonderful that she was found. Rafe says she’s okay physically but he’s sure she will have some trauma from being kidnapped and being held in a room behind a false wall in EJ’s lab in his clinic. Rafe asks what EJ knows about that.

Jada assures Stephanie that Owen will not hurt her or anyone else ever again as Steve and Brady caught him. Steve says if it were up to him, Owen wouldn’t still be breathing. Jada tells Stephanie that she’s just sorry they didn’t figure it out sooner. Stephanie says it’s not her fault as they all thought it would be Jeremy. Stephanie asks if he’s okay. Jada says he’s being taken care of. Jada says she needs to talk to Jeremy so she will be back. Jada tells Stephanie to get some rest and that she loves her as she then exits the room. Alex checks on Stephanie and asks if she needs anything. Stephanie responds that everything she needs is right here as Alex hugs her.

Jeremy lays in a hospital bed and calls Julie, assuring her that he and Stephanie are fine. Jeremy says she doesn’t need to come to the hospital but understands that she insists. Jeremy asks her to call his dad. Jeremy says he has to let her go and hangs up as Jada arrives. Jada asks if Jeremy is up to answering a few questions which he agrees to. Jeremy asks how Stephanie is. Jada responds that she’s with Alex and her parents and that Kayla said she’s going to be fine. Jada asks how Jeremy is. Jeremy says that depends on if he has to lawyer up again. Jada says of course not and that Owen Kent has been reprehended. Jada tells Jeremy that she and many others owe him a huge apology.

Paulina paces with worry at the hospital over the pod being empty and wonders what the hell is going on as she flashes back to EJ revealing Lexie to her. Paulina then pulls out her phone and calls EJ but he doesn’t answer.

EJ tells Rafe that he has no idea how this happened. Rafe tells him to save it because his man Owen Kent is spilling his guts at the police station now. EJ argues that he hasn’t seen or heard from Owen Kent in 17 years while Cat questions who Owen Kent is. Rafe responds that he’s a fugitive who has been on the DiMera payroll for decades. Rafe guesses Owen was hired to babysit one of Dr. Rolf’s patients. EJ claims to have no idea. Rafe informs EJ that they have finally discovered his secret project and reveals a photo on his phone of the empty pod. Rafe asks who he’s putting in the pod, then says maybe the better question is who came out of it.

Owen’s personal belongings are taken away at the police station, which includes Jeremy and Stephanie’s phones.

Steve checks on Stephanie, who says Kayla has been taking good care of her. Steve says he just wants to do something for her. Stephanie says he’s done so much already. Steve cries that he still feels like he failed her. Stephanie argues that he can’t be serious. Steve says he planned everything out so carefully to trap her stalker and they botched it while she paid the price and went through Hell. Steve tells her that he’s so sorry. Stephanie tells him that she’s here now and he didn’t botch anything. Stephanie says that what happened couldn’t have been predicted and she thanks him for everything he did to protect her. Steve still wishes he had done more or done better. Stephanie says there’s no more looking back as it’s over now. Stephanie adds that she’s so grateful that Owen has been captured and this will never happen again.

Alex goes to Jeremy’s hospital room and apologizes for believing the worst of him. Jeremy points out that he wasn’t the only one. Alex agrees that a lot of people owe him an apology. Jeremy responds that he’s just glad Stephanie is okay. Alex notes Jeremy’s dislocated thumb. Jeremy explains how it was done to escape the handcuffs and tried to get to the door but Stephanie collapsed in his arms. Jeremy says he was trying to keep her warm and that’s what he walked in on, nothing more. Alex tells him he doesn’t have to explain himself. Alex reveals that Titan put up a reward and EJ did too, so he wants Jeremy to have it. Jeremy laughs it off and says he doesn’t want his money. Jeremy says no one would believe him but all he ever wanted was for Stephanie to be safe and happy. Jeremy asks about hearing Alex call Stephanie his wife. Alex informs him that they eloped on Valentine’s Day. Jeremy points out that she never mentioned that in all the time they spent together. Alex asks if Jeremy is still leaving town. Jeremy responds that he doesn’t know and will have to give it some more thought.

Brady guesses that finding out Stephanie was engaged made Owen not so happy. Owen says that all those years, he really thought he was over her but then being back in Salem and near her was triggering and it reawakened his feelings. Owen adds that then he found out she was Anastasia Sands and he read her book. Owen declares that he realized then that his feelings had never gone away and now he knows they never will.

Steve and Kayla walk through the hospital. Kayla says she thinks about what might have been. Steve says now she doesn’t have to and they can just think how lucky they are to have such a wonderful daughter, who is beautiful and strong like her mom. Kayla calls something like this such a reminder to cherish all the happy moments and never take them for granted as they hug.

Alex returns to Stephanie’s side. Stephanie says that she hates that Owen took her engagement ring. Alex is thankful that’s all he took and tells her not to worry as he will get her another one. Alex tells Stephanie that he’s so sorry for what happened to her and what happened before with Owen. Stephanie says she doesn’t like talking about it as it makes her feel weak. Alex encourages that she’s stronger than anyone he knows. Stephanie cries that she may need him to keep telling her that for a little while as Alex hugs her. Stephanie flashes back to tricking Owen and making the 911 call while he kissed her which scares her. Alex asks her what’s wrong. Stephanie says it’s nothing and asks Alex to just hold her tight to calm her.

EJ tells Rafe that he’s afraid he can’t answer any more of his questions without his counsel present. Rafe says then he’s under arrest. EJ questions what for. Rafe responds that Stephanie was being held in a room that no one knew about but him, in his lab, so they can start with kidnapping. EJ calls it ridiculous while Rafe asks if Stephanie found out what he was doing and that’s why he held her captive. EJ says he had nothing to do with the kidnapping. Rafe handcuffs EJ while Cat asks if there is anything she can do. EJ instructs Cat to call Rita immediately as Rafe escorts EJ out of the mansion.

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Y&R Short Recap Wednesday, March 18 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Billy tells Phyllis that he, Diane, and Kyle found Jack last night and he was back to Genoa City before she signed the deal to give Chancellor Industries back to Victor. Billy tells Phyllis that she should have called him before signing the papers with Victor. Phyllis tells Billy that he should have called her as soon as they found Jack. Phyllis tells Billy that she can’t do anything now. Victor already owns Chancellor Industries.

Billy later tells Sally that Victor played Phyllis and now he lost Chancellor again. Sally encourages Billy to think about what he wants to do for his future. Sally suggests he go visit Jill and mend the rift between them. Billy tells Sally that he will think about it but he is worried about Jack because he is heartbroken Diane moved out last night.

Adam calls his old friend Riza Thompson and tells her that he is in town and wants to see her. Lauren takes the job Phyllis offered her to help her run Summers Conglomerate.

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Days Update Friday, March 13, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Alex and Brady talk in the town square about Stephanie’s kidnapping. Alex says it doesn’t make sense to be at or near the hospital when they have searched everywhere. Brady suggests the kidnapper could be moving her around to evade the police. Owen then walks by with his eye on them.

At the DiMera Mansion, Dr. Rolf tells EJ that if it means the secrecy of their project will be kept then he will see to it that Stephanie and Jeremy disappear permanently. EJ states that a DiMera’s life is on the line, so Stefano would have agreed that sacrifices such as these must sometimes be made for the greater good. EJ repeats that they must first deal with Lexie now that the hospital is under this increased scrutiny. Dr. Rolf worries that Lexie is in a crucial period, so she cannot be moved from the lab. EJ is afraid they have no choice.

Cat brings Kayla to the lab and has her promise not to tell EJ. Cat tries different codes on the door and ends up succeeding. Kayla excitedly texts Steve as they head in to the lab. Cat looks around and tells Kayla that she’s so sorry as there is nothing there. Kayla admits she thought for sure Stephanie could be there. Cat insists they will keep searching every inch of the hospital as she looks around the lab.

Jeremy tells Stephanie that they have to come up with another way out of the rest of the handcuffs. Jeremy points out the door is locked but he needs to focus on getting Stephanie out of the handcuffs. Stephanie disagrees and says Jeremy has to go for help.

Dr. Rolf tells EJ that they are so close to jeopardize their project. Dr. Rolf feels the pod is safe where it is and brings up Paulina agreeing to keep quiet. EJ points out that Stephanie calling 911 will cause them to search again and even if it’s unlikely they find the secret rooms, they can’t take that risk again. EJ orders Dr. Rolf to get back to the hospital and get to work, so he exits through the tunnels. EJ looks up at the portrait of Stefano and then at the ring on his finger. Paulina then arrives, questioning why EJ wasn’t answering her calls. EJ says he hasn’t had time, so Paulina tells him to make time because she just heard the police and FBI are going to search the hospital all over again which shocks EJ. Paulina tells EJ that he needs to do whatever he did with the pod before. EJ says he will let Dr. Rolf know and asks if something prompted this renewed search. Paulina explains that the FBI traced Stephanie’s 911 call to the hospital. EJ questions how it’s possible that she’s still in the hospital. Paulina tells EJ to tell her.

Jeremy tells Stephanie that he’s not leaving her down here. Stephanie feels he’s in better shape so she would only slow him down while if he gets out, he can let the police know where she is. Jeremy worries about what Owen will do if he comes back. Stephanie refuses to be the reason he dies. Jeremy says she won’t be because they are getting out together.

Kayla tells Cat that she doesn’t even know what she’s looking for. Steve and Rafe arrive looking for Stephanie but Kayla says she’s not there. Steve argues that she has to be close. Rafe suggests searching the rest of the hospital and thinks it will be faster if they split up. Rafe tells Cat that he has some questions for her as a member of the hospital staff. Cat agrees to anything that could help. Kayla thanks Cat for helping. Rafe gives his word that they will find Stephanie. Steve and Kayla then exit together.

Owen keeps an eye on Alex and Brady in the town square. Alex tells Brady that he hopes that Owen is rotting in a prison cell. Brady notes that he escaped but he hasn’t been seen in nearly 20 years which is why he didn’t think he would be a suspect in this kidnapping until this morning. Owen quietly walks away.

Steve and Kayla talk about where to start the hospital search. Kayla hears the search team talking and says she thinks she’s going to be sick.

Rafe asks Cat what she couldn’t say in front of Steve and Kayla. Cat explains that it has to do with the layout of the lab and shows Rafe pictures from last time she was there. Rafe agrees that the room is a lot smaller than it should be.

EJ tells Paulina that he’s so tired of her baseless accusations and claims he’s as shocked as she is that Stephanie could be anywhere near the hospital. Paulina warns that he better be telling the truth because she’s only turning a blind eye to his lab experiment, but if she finds out he had the slightest involvement in Stephanie’s disappearance, there will be hell to pay. EJ argues that she knows what’s happening in the lab has nothing to do with Stephanie and he resents the accusation that he would be involved in something so heinous. Paulina supposes he’s too focused on his experiment to be wrapped up in anything else. Paulina asks if he’s sure Dr. Rolf will be able to hide the pod before the police get there and questions what if they stumble upon his secret experiment while searching for Stephanie.

Cat points out to Rafe where the lab is significantly smaller and the thought of a hidden wall that could be covering an entire secret area. Rafe tells Cat that she needs to get out of there first. Cat questions why since helping Rafe wouldn’t blow her cover when the entire town is looking for Stephanie. Rafe thinks Cat could be more useful somewhere else, like where ever EJ is because someone needs to distract him so he doesn’t come back and stop this. Cat asks if he really thinks EJ is responsible for what happened to Stephanie. Rafe argues that EJ was behind it last time with Owen Kent. Cat points out that they don’t know if Owen is involved. Rafe asks if it really matters since EJ owns the hospital where the 911 call was traced to and combined with all the other crimes EJ has committed, he’s definitely a suspect. Rafe asks if Cat doesn’t think so.

Alex questions Brady about Owen being a suspect now too when all the evidence is stacked up against Jeremy. Alex questions why come up with a new theory this late in the game, feeling they need to focus and not be chasing down some ghost from 20 years ago. Brady says that Alex is probably right but given the lack of solid leads, they have to explore every possibility. Brady suggests forgetting about Owen Kent and getting back to the hospital to regroup and figure out where to search next. Alex tells Brady that Jeremy Horton is their guy and swears that when he gets his hands on him, he’s going to kill him.

Stephanie tells Jeremy that they aren’t getting out until they get past the door. Jeremy offers to try kicking it down but Stephanie points out that it opens inward, so she thinks their best bet is to try and pick the lock. Stephanie tells Jeremy to find the bobby pins in her hair and explains that she researched lock picking for her novel, so she can talk him through it. Jeremy tries it to unlock his other handcuff.

Cat tells Rafe that she realizes EJ is capable of terrible things but when she talked to him earlier, he seemed genuinely worried about Stephanie. Rafe argues that there’s nothing genuine about EJ and that he’s just putting on an act to convince her that he’s human. Rafe asks if she thinks he’s just a cynic who sees the worst in people. Cat thinks she’s just seen a side of EJ that he hasn’t. Rafe thinks EJ just puts on an act to get what he wants and he’s seen the damage done when he doesn’t get what he wants. Rafe says he’s been on the receiving end and seen the cruelty he’s done to others, so he’s not going to sit because she sees the qualities that he’s apparently blind to. Cat complains that she gets that he thinks she’s naïve to EJ. Rafe says he doesn’t want to come down on her and that she can react to EJ or whoever however she wants as it’s none of his business. Rafe warns Cat that there will be a cost to trusting EJ. Cat admits she’s heard that a lot. Rafe points out that Cat acts like she still wants to trust EJ. Cat argues that she just wants to do her job as well as she can. Rafe argues that she doesn’t have to like EJ. Cat complains that she never said she liked him, just that he seemed genuinely worried about Stephanie so she believed that he was. Cat adds that she can’t find any plausible reason why EJ would kidnap Stephanie and asks if Rafe can. Rafe suggests EJ could’ve just wanted to upset the people who care about Stephanie because he hates everyone that’s not a DiMera. Cat doesn’t think that’s plausible. Rafe admits he may have been pushing it, so he suggests that Stephanie could’ve seen something she wasn’t supposed to while working at the hospital which Cat admits is plausible. Rafe declares that the bottom line is that EJ can’t find out that they know about the wall and that EJ is up to something. Cat agrees to do what he says and go stall EJ. Cat then stops and remembers the blueprints to the lab are still in EJ’s office so that might can help them find the secret wall. Rafe says he’ll go look for them and reminds Cat that Stephanie’s life is on the line, so he tells her to do what she has to do to stop EJ.

Jeremy successfully picks the lock to his handcuffs and then says he’ll do Stephanie’s next but Stephanie tells him to get the door first. Jeremy goes to the door and tries picking the lock but the bobby pin breaks and he’s unsuccessful.

EJ remarks that Paulina almost sounded hopeful. EJ thinks she would find it a stroke of luck if the authorities shut down his project now because she wouldn’t have to deal with Lexie coming back and it wouldn’t be her fault. EJ says that would be a win for her and a loss for Abe. Paulina argues that a loss for Abe could never be a win for her. Paulina says if EJ ever knew love, he might have compassion for her. EJ says he does, but the possibility of Abe losing interest in her when Lexie reappears in his life hardly strikes him as tragic. Paulina calls EJ a son of a bitch. EJ argues that Paulina is a wealthy, attractive woman so if Abe does leave her, she won’t have to be alone for long and jokes that he’s sure there’s a dating app for women of her advanced age. Paulina says she’s met a lot of snakes in her life but he’s in a league of his own. EJ thinks they are done here. Paulina wishes they were done forever so she’d never have to look at his smug face again. Paulina gets that EJ doesn’t care how his experiment affects her but she says it would be met with terrible sadness. Paulina argues that she and Abe are happy together and Abe loves her, so she won’t let him trivialize that. EJ says he won’t do that again. Paulina argues that EJ plays God with other people’s lives and only cares about himself as she walks out of the mansion. EJ flashes back to telling Dr. Rolf that he would have to make sure Stephanie and Jeremy are never found again, while Stefano’s portrait looms on the wall.

Steve talks to Jada on the phone while Kayla says she’s going to the chapel. Alex and Brady arrive at the hospital. Kayla tells them there’s no news. Kayla thinks Stephanie needs their prayers more than anything, so Brady decides to go to the chapel with her. Alex says he’ll catch up with them after he calls Justin to fill him in. Rafe comes over and tells Alex to come with him and he’ll explain on the way.

Cat goes to the DiMera Mansion and says thank God she found EJ.

Jeremy works on picking the lock to Stephanie’s handcuffs, explaining that the lock on the door is deeper, so he can at least get her out of the chair.

Steve tells Kayla and Brady that someone said they saw Owen going in and out of the Thunderbird hotel across town. Steve reveals that Jada checked it out and confirmed that Owen had been staying there under a fake name since the fall and that he checked out today, but the police are already there searching his room. Kayla questions where to begin looking as Brady points out that he and Alex searched all around the hospital. Steve says that if Owen checked out because he’s afraid they are onto him, that means he’s scared and when a criminal gets scared, they usually go some place they know. Brady thinks he knows where that might be. Steve says they should get there. Kayla decides to hang back in case Stephanie is found. Steve says he’ll be in touch as he and Brady exit

Rafe brings Alex to EJ’s lab and goes over the blueprints, informing of what they know about the secret wall. Alex wants to just break it down while Rafe says it’s easier to find the secret passage way. Rafe adds that Alex won’t be going in there. Alex disagrees since his wife could be in there. Rafe is surprised to learn that Alex and Stephanie eloped, but points out that they have no idea what’s behind the wall and Alex is unarmed. Alex grabs a scalpel from the lab and says not anymore. Rafe says fine but if anyone asks, he told him to stay behind. Rafe goes over the blueprints and how there’s no mention of a secret entry but EJ is no stranger to secret doorways. Alex checks the wall and says he thinks he’s got it. Alex then pulls on it and the secret wall opens up.

Jeremy picks the lock of one of Stephanie’s handcuffs and she unlocks the other. Stephanie says they are halfway there and now just need to get the door. Jeremy notes that Stephanie is shaking and asks if she’s okay. Stephanie says she’s just cold but then she collapses in Jeremy’s arms.

Paulina goes to the hospital and tells Kayla that her heart aches for what she’s going through and that she and Abe haven’t stopped praying for Stephanie. Paulina assures that she and Abe are there if she needs anything. Paulina notes that she doesn’t see EJ around and asks if the police and FBI are able to get to the lab without him. Kayla responds that it was the first place they looked and they found nothing.

EJ questions Cat looking for him. Cat tells him that they are searching the hospital again. EJ says he’s heard. Cat asks if there’s going to be a problem. EJ says no but he thinks she should be there too, so they can go together but Cat stops him.

Jeremy tries to wake Stephanie up and tells her that they are going to get out of there, but notes that she’s freezing. Jeremy says he’s going to get her warmed up and everything will be fine as he holds her on the floor.

Rafe tells Alex there’s two doorways, so they will each search one.

Steve and Brady go to Owen’s family’s mortuary, feeling it’s worth a shot. Owen then appears, walking by in a hoodie.

EJ warns Cat that every second wasted is another second that Stephanie could be in danger, so if the authorities believe she could be in his hospital then he feels a personal responsibility to be there. Cat then stops him and questions if EJ is personally responsible. EJ asks what she’s thinking. Cat talks about how everyone warned her not to get close to EJ and that she can’t trust him. Cat realizes that she’d be a hypocrite if she held his past against EJ when he took a chance on her but says she can’t ignore what everyone is saying. EJ asks what they are saying. Cat responds that it’s something she doesn’t want to believe. Cat then asks if EJ is responsible for Stephanie’s kidnapping. EJ says absolutely not and swears that’s the truth. EJ knows most people think the worst of him and it doesn’t bother him, but he values her opinion a great deal as an employee and as a friend and perhaps even more than a friend. Cat then grabs EJ and kisses him.

Steve grabs Owen, demanding to know what he did with his daughter.

Paulina questions Kayla about nothing being found in the lab. Kayla guesses EJ wasn’t hiding anything after all.

Rafe breaks in to the first door of the secret pathway with his gun raised and finds Lexie’s pod.

Jeremy promises Stephanie that they’ll be out of there soon. Alex then bursts in and calls out to Stephanie.

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Days Update Thursday, March 12, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Paulina tells EJ that she knows how much Abe loved Lexie and how heartbroken he and Theo were to lose her. Paulina says as devastated as she would be if Abe chose to go back to Lexie, she couldn’t live with herself if she denied Abe the chance to see Lexie again. Paulina declares that she won’t interfere with EJ’s experiment, so if Lexie is meant to live again then she will. EJ is relieved they are on the same page and reminds Paulina not to say a word about it to Abe or Theo as he doesn’t want to get their hopes up because losing Lexie once was bad enough. Paulina knows they would be devastated all over again if this fails, so she agrees to stay quiet. Paulina admits that she feels this project is going to backfire on EJ in ways that he can’t even imagine.

Owen comments on Stephanie kissing him back and says he never thought this day would happen. Stephanie tells him that it finally did and she can’t believe she waited so long. While Owen kisses her again, Stephanie uses his phone behind his back to call 911. Owen is shocked as Stephanie then screams for help in to the phone. Owen grabs the phone from her and questions what she has done.

Rafe is at home with Cat, complaining that every law enforcement agency is looking for information on Owen but can’t find anything. Cat says she’s trying but there’s nothing on Owen after 2009.

At the hospital, Kayla tells Steve that she can’t believe it would be Owen Kent after all this time. Steve then gets a call from Jada and says he’ll be right there. Steve informs Kayla that a 911 call just came in and Jada is pretty sure it was Stephanie.

Stephanie tells Owen that she just panicked as she was scared, so she made a mistake and she’s sorry. Owen argues that she’s not sorry, but she will be and Jeremy will be too. Jeremy yells at Owen to let her go and not to touch her.

Paulina can’t believe she’s in cahoots with EJ. EJ points out that it’s not the first time they worked together. Paulina complains that she’s being forced to go along with this outrageous scheme of his. Paulina reminds EJ that he worked for her and they know how that turned out. EJ suggests she shouldn’t have fired him as district attorney while Paulina argues that he broke the law and tried to pass himself off as a hero. Paulina compares that to what he’s doing now and says the stakes are much higher now. EJ says that is why her discretion is key. Paulina repeats that she will keep his secret. Paulina then asks why Lexie. EJ responds that his sister was a wonderful woman who was taken from them far too soon and her resurrection was the one thing Stefano wanted to achieve before his death. Paulina hopes when God calls her home, she is resting for eternity and no one messes with her. EJ jokes that he will keep that in mind as Paulina then exits the mansion.

Cat tells Rafe that her research shows the DiMeras were believed to have facilitated Owen’s disappearance and that he may have gone underground, unlikely to resurface, or could be deceased given how much time has passed. Rafe says that’s a lot of reasons why no one was looking at Owen for kidnapping Stephanie. Cat says it was mainly because Jeremy was the prime suspect. Rafe says he will get with Jada to have officers start canvassing in case Owen is their guy. Cat decides she should get back to the hospital. They agree to keep each other posted as Cat then exits. Rafe then makes a phone call.

Kayla asks if Stephanie calling 911 means she got away. Steve says it sounds like the kidnapper caught her so the call was abruptly cut off, but they know Stephanie is fighting and alive while now they have a way to track her down. Kayla tells Steve to go find her and bring her back, whatever it takes. Steve says he’s going to call Jada and tells Kayla to keep the faith.

Jeremy tells Owen that he doesn’t want to hurt Stephanie because he loves her. Owen argues that Stephanie means everything to him, but he doesn’t believe she loves him or that she ever will. Stephanie says that’s not true. Owen complains that she betrayed him and called the cops. Stephanie repeats that she just panicked and she’s so sorry. Owen shouts that he doesn’t believe her and tells Stephanie that it’s over. Stephanie asks what that means and what he’s going to do.

Dr. Rolf watches over Lexie in the lab and declares that Stefano would be elated as they have fulfilled his final wish as Lexie will be returning to her family and reclaiming her life.

Paulina goes home and pulls out her bible, saying she prayed for the lord’s guidance and did as he told her to do, but she’s struggling and scared. Paulina asks what if Lexie comes back and gets another chance at life, declaring that her life as she knows it could be over. Paulina admits part of her hopes this doesn’t happen and that EJ fails, so Lexie never comes back. Paulina asks if that makes her a horrible person.

Cat runs in to EJ in the town square and asks if there’s any word on Stephanie. EJ says nothing yet. Cat asks if he’s okay.

Paulina says she knows the answer and that God would tell her she’s not a horrible person but that she is being selfish. Paulina cries that what she and Abe have is so perfect and she waited so long for him, so she doesn’t want to lose him. Paulina recalls Abe saying he thought he experienced the last great love of his life but he was wrong as there was more great love in his future and he met that with her. Theo then comes in and says he didn’t hear her come home. Paulina didn’t know he was home. Theo asks how Chanel is since Paulina said she was going to see her, but now she looks upset, so he asks what’s wrong.

Steve goes to see Rafe, who says he just spoke to Jada. Steve says he listened to the 911 recording so he knows it was Stephanie’s voice, but they need more to get a location. Rafe says he’s already on it with the FBI.

Owen joins Dr. Rolf in the lab. Dr. Rolf questions where he’s been and why he left Lexie unattended. Owen says she’ll be fine and tells Dr. Rolf that he quits and he’s not babysitting this thing anymore. Dr. Rolf argues that they are in the most crucial period and forbids him to leave. Owen responds that he might as well kill him then, because he has nothing left to live for. Dr. Rolf argues that Owen’s girlfriend turning down his proposal doesn’t matter now. Owen agrees that nothing matters now and walks out of the lab.

Stephanie tells Jeremy that she doesn’t think Owen is coming back because he said it’s over, so now they are going to die here. Jeremy reminds her that the 911 call went through. Stephanie worries that the call didn’t last long enough for them to get their location. Jeremy assures that they will figure it out. Stephanie wonders what if they don’t and either Owen lets them starve to death or comes back to kill them. Jeremy says they are not giving up while Stephanie asks what they are supposed to do. Jeremy says he’s been working on the handcuffs and is going to need her help.

Rafe tells Steve that they are working as fast as they can while Steve expresses his frustration. Rafe gets a call and they are able to pull up the cell phone tower where Stephanie’s 911 call was routed. Steve notes that it is within 2000 square feet of the hospital. Rafe decides that is where they will start looking.

Theo asks Paulina if something is wrong with Chanel and the baby. Paulina tells him they are fine and asks why he asked. Theo says she seems upset so he thought something was wrong. Paulina claims all is good but Theo points out that she won’t look him in the eye. Theo asks her what is going on.

EJ tells Cat that he’s fine while Cat notes that he seems stress. EJ complains that Stephanie was taken from his hospital and he prays that she is found soon and that she’s alright. Cat acknowledges that he really cares about her. EJ calls Stephanie a wonderful person and an excellent employee who has been instrumental in crafting a positive image around the hospital and promoting the clinic. EJ says that selfishly, he could use her now more than ever.

Steve questions how it’s possible that Stephanie could be near the hospital when they searched the area top to bottom multiple times. Rafe says they will just search it again, but they will not give EJ a heads up. Steve asks if he thinks EJ might be involved in this. Rafe says he wouldn’t put it past him and he could’ve put up the reward to deflect suspicion. Steve agrees that it’s possible. Rafe acknowledges that they can’t access EJ’s lab without his cooperation since it has a high security door with electronic access, so he would know if it was breached. Steve reveals he has an idea that might get them in there.

Jeremy instructs Stephanie to dislocate his thumb so that he can get out of the handcuffs. Stephanie cries that she can’t hurt him but Jeremy insists that she has to do this, so she agrees. Dr. Rolf hears Jeremy scream in pain from the lab and wonders what that was. Stephanie tells Jeremy that she’s so sorry while Jeremy encourages that they are almost there. Stephanie tells Jeremy that she believes him now that they will get out of here. Dr. Rolf then slowly opens the door and peeks his head in, shocked to see them inside.

Paulina tells Theo that she’s had to make some very difficult decisions at work lately and they are just weighing on her. Theo points out that she’s helped him with tough decisions, so he’d be happy to reciprocate. Paulina says she appreciates that but she has to deal with this on her own. Theo says he appreciates her too and tells her how grateful he is to have Paulina in their life. Theo talks about Paulina bringing joy back in to Abe’s life after his mom died and says if she ever needs support, they are here. Theo brings up that Paulina always chooses others even when it comes at a great risk to her. Theo declares that Paulina would do anything to make he and Abe happy, so they would do the same for her.

Steve calls Kayla and tells her that Stephanie’s call came from inside the hospital or within the vicinity. Kayla argues that it doesn’t make sense since they searched everywhere including EJ’s lab. Steve talks about EJ keeping the lab locked up tighter than Fort Knox and then was suddenly let the police poke around. Steve questions if EJ is really willing to help or if he was setting it up so they only see what he wanted to see. Kayla asks if he thinks EJ is hiding something. Steve assures that he will find out and says he needs Kayla to get him in the lab without EJ knowing. Kayla tells him that she can’t because the hospital and the lab are separate, so her credentials don’t get her in there and she doesn’t have the passcode for the door. Steve brings up Mark Green and suggests leaning on him. Rafe suggests asking Cat for help. Steve thinks she would go straight to EJ, but Kayla says she has a good relationship with Cat so she’ll see what she can do.

EJ tells Cat that his stress is just do to the press of Stephanie’s kidnapping and worrying that patients won’t come to them. EJ feels this shouldn’t be happening under his watch. Cat insists that it’s not his fault. EJ says he can’t just sit by and let this play out, so they head to the hospital.

Dr. Rolf questions what Stephanie and Jeremy are doing here. Stephanie tells him that Owen Kent kidnapped her again and guesses he’s been working for him again. Dr. Rolf calls this a catastrophe and says they shouldn’t be here. Stephanie agrees and tells Dr. Rolf that he needs to get them out and call the police which he questions. Stephanie insists that they will tell the police that he had nothing to do with what Owen did. Jeremy warns that Owen is out there and dangerous, so they have to stop him before he hurts anyone else. Stephanie tells Dr. Rolf about her 911 call but she doesn’t think it was long enough while Jeremy warns that if they can trace it, they’ll be swarming the place any second. Dr. Rolf puts the gags back on them and says he’ll be back to deal with this soon as he rushes out, leaving Jeremy and Stephanie struggling. Dr. Rolf goes back up to the lab and worries that Owen has jeopardized everything he has worked for. Dr. Rolf then texts EJ to meet him in the tunnels ASAP.

EJ and Cat go to the hospital. EJ stops and tells her there’s something he has to deal with. Cat asks if she can help but EJ says he’s afraid not as he rushes off.

Paulina tells Theo that she loves him and Abe so much and she’s so blessed to have that love in her life. Abe comes home and informs them that he just came from the police station and there’s reason to believe Stephanie is being held at or near the hospital. Paulina thought they already searched there. Abe says they are going to comb every inch of it again.

Steve questions Rafe wanting to bring Cat Green in to this. Rafe calls Cat their best bet. Steve question what he’s talking about and why not Mark. Rafe points out that Mark is on parole and won’t want to risk pissing off EJ. Steve doesn’t trust Cat since she’s EJ’s assistant and loyal to him. Rafe feels she won’t be when Kayla tells her that EJ might be behind the kidnapping. Rafe points out that Cat’s been where he is, desperate to save someone she loves and won’t want anyone to suffer like she has. Rafe declares that their best bet at getting in to the lab undetected is Cat.

Cat calls EJ and leaves a message, saying she doesn’t know where he went but if he needs anything, she’ll be at the office. Kayla approaches Cat and says she needs to get in to EJ’s office and that Rafe said she should ask her and that she would be on their side. Kayla explains that her daughter’s life is on the line, so she needs her help right now and asks if she will help. Cat responds that she doesn’t know the code to the lab door. Kayla asks about Mark. Cat says he’s not working today so Kayla asks her to call him and get the code. Cat flashes back to using the decoder on the door. Cat then tells Kayla that she did see Mark punch in the code one time and she’s not sure what it is but she can give it her best shot.

Dr. Rolf meets EJ at the DiMera Mansion and tells him about Owen Kent having Stephanie and Jeremy locked up. EJ questions Dr. Rolf hiring Owen and if he would’ve hurt them. Dr. Rolf argues that he’s used Owen on projects over the years and he’s always been very discrete, so he seemed ideal for this job. EJ argues that his apparent goal in life was abducting the girl he’s infatuated with. EJ complains that Dr. Rolf’s carelessness could ruin everything and says they have to do damage control. Dr. Rolf tells EJ to just tell him how he wants him to deal with their unwanted guests and it will be done.

Abe informs Paulina and Theo that Stephanie’s 911 call came from either inside the hospital or very nearby. Theo questions missing them on the first check. Abe says they are pulling out all the stops with full search and rescue teams, so if anyone or anything is hiding in the hospital they are going to find it. Paulina that flashes back to EJ revealing Lexie to her.

Cat brings Kayla to the lab and has her promise not to tell EJ. Cat tries different codes on the door and ends up succeeding. Kayla excitedly texts Steve as they head in to the lab.

Steve gets Kayla’s text that they are in the lab. Rafe says he told him that Cat would help as they hurry out together.

Jeremy screams and then reveals to Stephanie that he managed to get his hand out of the handcuffs.

EJ tells Dr. Rolf that first they must deal with Lexie so their research is not interrupted and then he must make sure that Jeremy and Stephanie being there can never be tied back to them. Dr. Rolf worries that they’ve seen him and will figure it out, so EJ declares that a choice must be made that pains him deeply to make, but there’s simply no other way. EJ instructs Dr. Rolf to see to it that Stephanie and Jeremy will never be found again.

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Days Update Wednesday, March 11, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Steve goes to the hospital where Kayla rushes up to hug him.

Owen sits in the lab at Lexie’s pod and says that Dr. Rolf said she’s getting closer to waking up which will be great for her loved ones and for him. Owen declares that once she is back on her feet, he and Stephanie can ride off in to the sunset together.

Stephanie and Jeremy passed out together in their chairs while holding hands.

Sarah and Xander fell asleep in Victoria’s exam room at the hospital with Sarah’s head on Xander’s shoulder. Brady arrives with coffee and food from the Bakery, but sees them together so he drops it off and quietly leaves the room.

EJ goes to the lab and guesses that Owen is the night watchman. Owen keeps his back turned so EJ doesn’t recognize him. EJ asks for a moment alone with Lexie so Owen quickly hurries out. EJ declares that it won’t be long before Lexie opens her eyes and everyone will be happy to have her back with them, except for Paulina Price.

Paulina wakes up and calls out to Abe, but finds a note that Abe and Theo got an early jump on looking for Stephanie and didn’t want to wake her. Paulina flashes back to arguing with EJ over Lexie. Paulina sits down and questions if Abe will still love her if Lexie is brought back to him.

Johnny and Chanel watch over Trey at home, talking about how tomorrow is the day they make Trey’s adoption official. Chanel declares that they finally reached the light at the end of the tunnel after all the ups and downs as they will officially be a family.

Owen goes to check on Stephanie and Jeremy and is furious to see them holding hands. Owen pulls them apart and questions what the hell they are doing, waking them up.

Kayla assumes Steve doesn’t have good news. Steve says not yet but he and Jada have a couple of promising leads so Kayla says she will remain hopeful. Kayla tells Steve to text her if he hears anything at all. Steve tells Kayla that he loves her as she then goes to check on Victoria. Brady comes over and greets Steve. Steve thanks Brady for helping with the search last night. Brady wishes they had better luck instead of hitting all these dead ends. Steve is starting to think maybe he’s been going about it all wrong.

Kayla goes to check on Victoria and finds that Sarah and Xander had fallen asleep. They then wake up and greet her. Kayla apologizes for waking them. Xander asks how Victoria is doing. Kayla responds that her vitals look good and it seems the antibiotics are doing their job. Sarah is surprised to see Kayla on call. Kayla admits she’s technically not, but she didn’t want to leave the hospital in case Stephanie is brought in. Kayla adds that she’s not even taking patients but she wanted to check on Victoria. Sarah sees the bakery good and calls that thoughtful of her but Kayla says she didn’t bring them.

Johnny tells Chanel that he’s heading to the office but if they are serious about celebrating tomorrow, maybe they should throw something together at the Pub. Chanel agrees, pointing out that’s where they had his baby shower too. Johnny says it will just be something small while they save the big celebration for when Eli and Lani arrive. Chanel adds that hopefully also when Stephanie comes home. Johnny says they will have a lot to celebrate. Chanel feels guilty celebrating with Stephanie missing but says it’s okay to be grateful for all that they have. Johnny assures that he’s grateful too, especially for her as they kiss.

EJ apologizes to Lexie for telling Paulina about her since the timing wasn’t ideal and she could expose what they are doing to have Abe all to herself, but he knows Paulina’s conscience, so in the end he believes that Paulina will do right by Lexie no matter what it might cost her, which means Lexie will get her second chance at life again.

Owen drags Jeremy’s chair away from Stephanie and calls him a stupid son of a bitch as he warns that he just made a huge mistake.

Paulina goes to see Chanel, who asks her what’s wrong. Paulina wishes she could tell her, but says she’s been asked to make a choice and she’s been praying for guidance but she doesn’t know what to do, so she needs her help.

EJ goes to see Johnny at the DiMera Enterprise office. Johnny says he doesn’t have time for this as he has a meeting. EJ reveals that he already knows Johnny’s meeting is with Matthew Tyler about his new startup. Johnny starts to question him, then realizes that EJ is Matthew Tyler. EJ apologizes for the subterfuge but feels it was the only way he knew he could see him. EJ asks Johnny how he would feel if Trey treated him like this one day. Johnny argues that he doesn’t have to worry about that because he’ll never do anything to make Trey despise him. EJ warns him to just wait and see.

Kayla notes that Victoria has considerable less congestion. Sarah asks about the possibility of asthma. Kayla doesn’t think they should worry about that right now and assures that what’s important is Victoria is going to be just fine. Sarah tells Kayla that she’s so sorry for what she’s going through and encourages how strong Stephanie is, like her. Xander assures they are there for her if there’s anything they can do. Kayla says she’s just so happy that their baby is on the mend and says that Victoria reminds her of Stephanie when she was little. Kayla then exits the room. Sarah tells Xander that they have to treasure every moment with Victoria.

Brady asks Steve about being more open to his suggestion that Jeremy was not the one who kidnapped Stephanie and what changed his mind. Steve informs him that Chad called him last night and told him that Thomas found Stephanie’s phone at the school before they left and turned it over to Jeremy. Brady questions if someone planted evidence to frame Jeremy. Kayla comes over having overheard and questions if that’s a new lead. Steve says that he and Jada are considering the possibility but they haven’t completely ruled Jeremy out yet since it’s still pretty damning that he disappeared at the same time as Stephanie. Brady points out that Jeremy could’ve just taken off, knowing that everyone in town suspected him. Kayla asks if it could just be an obsessed fan. Steve says if it was, it would have to be someone who knew that Jeremy would be the perfect scapegoat. Brady feels it would have to be someone with ties to Salem who knew about Jeremy and Stephanie’s relationship. Steve calls that one possibility, but the other one is that it has nothing to do with Stephanie at all and maybe someone grabbed her to get to him or Kayla.

Owen complains that he thought he could trust them to behave. Owen declares that it doesn’t matter because he and Stephanie will be off on their way soon. Owen threatens to send Jeremy on a one way ticket where no one will ever find him and then it will be just he and Stephanie.

Chanel asks Paulina what’s going on. Paulina wishes she could tell her but says all she can say is that she has been asked to make a choice that could make some very happy consequences for someone she loves, but very unhappy consequences for her. Chanel asks what her heart is telling her to do. Paulina says her heart is telling her to protect herself, but her conscience is telling her to do the opposite.

Johnny questions if EJ is saying he’s going to be a bad father. EJ says it’s inevitable that parents make mistakes and disappoint their children. EJ realizes his mistakes have been very serious which he deeply regrets. EJ notices that Johnny kept the cup he sent for Trey and remarks that he doesn’t think Johnny would have kept it if his heart was so hardened towards him.

Xander apologizes to Sarah if he made things awkward with Kayla earlier when he asked if there was anything they could do to help. Sarah says she didn’t give it a second thought and there’s no apology necessary. Sarah complains about a crick in her neck from sleeping in a chair. Xander comments that not long ago, he would’ve given anything to spend the night with her again but he never imagined it would be quite like this.

Kayla questions Steve thinking Stephanie could’ve been kidnapped because of them. Steve says it’s just a theory but brings up all the people that tried to hurt them in the past like Orpheus. Kayla argues that Orpheus in a super max prison but brings up Ava. Brady assures that Ava would never do that to Tripp’s sister. Steve agrees and thinks their original theory is most likely that somebody wanted Alex out of the way so they could have Stephanie to themselves. Brady asks if they can think of anyone else in Stephanie’s past besides Jeremy who had a relationship go bad or someone so obsessed with her that they still might be.

Owen tells Jeremy to get ready for his trip and begins choking him out until Stephanie begins screaming about a pain in her leg. Stephanie asks Owen to make it feel better so he starts massaging her leg.

Chanel respects that Paulina can’t get in to details but asks why this decision would cause her so much heartbreak. Paulina repeats that she wishes she could tell her, but assures that Chanel won’t be affected by it directly. Chanel says if it helps, whenever she’s faced with a difficult decision, she remembers Paulina’s mom saying you can never go wrong when following your conscience. Paulina decides that’s exactly what she needed to hear. Chanel asks if she’s made her decision then. Paulina says not yet, but she’s getting there. Chanel says she will keep her in her prayers. Paulina responds that she’s not the only one who will need them. Paulina thanks Chanel and then quickly exits.

Johnny tells EJ that he didn’t plan on keeping the cup that he sent, but he saw the DiMera crest on it and didn’t want to awaken an ancient curse by throwing it away. EJ asks if he will just be keeping it at the office. Johnny says he didn’t want to upset Chanel. EJ assumes she wanted him to send it back which Johnny confirms, so EJ asks why he didn’t. Johnny admits he didn’t want to hurt his feelings. Johnny asks if EJ is here to chastise him for not sending him a thank you note. EJ says he just wanted to see how he’s doing. Johnny responds that he’s doing great and asks if that’s all. EJ adds that he’s also here because he misses him and wanted to tell him how proud he is of how he’s running DiMera and the father and husband he’s become. EJ calls Johnny a much better man than he ever was. EJ states that being a parent means being capable of a love that doesn’t need to be reciprocated and that Johnny will learn that soon enough. EJ tells Johnny that he can hate him until his dying breath, but he will always love him. EJ then exits the office.

Sarah tells Xander that since they know Victoria is going to be okay, he doesn’t have to stick around. Sarah notes that she already called off work so she can stay. Xander offers to stay to keep her company but Sarah says it’s okay and she’s sure he has to get back to work. Xander asks to be clear if she is kicking him out.

Steve brings up other people who were obsessed with Stephanie such as Everett Lynch and Ford Decker but Kayla points out that both are dead. Brady then announces that he just thought of Owen Kent.

Owen continues massaging Stephanie’s leg. Stephanie thinks she would feel better if she could stand up. Owen wishes he could trust her. Stephanie says he can hold onto her the entire time. Owen worries that this is all an act and that she’s playing him. Stephanie insists that it’s not. Stephanie brings up that Owen said he wanted to prove his love to her and that’s what she thought he was doing, but if he’s willing to watch her suffer then he doesn’t love her. Owen assures that he does love her and he’s going to prove it to her now. Owen then unlocks her handcuffs while warning her not to try anything. Owen helps Stephanie stand up and holds her in his arms.

Sarah tells Xander that she’s not kicking him out. Xander feels that’s what it sounded like but in th e most polite Horton way. Sarah apologizes if that’s how it came off as she just thought they could take turns watching Victoria. Xander doesn’t think he would be able to focus on work and feels she’s making him out to be a heartless jerk while Sarah argues that he’s blowing this out of proportion. Xander questions if he is as he feels she was dying to get rid of him. Sarah brings up Xander’s temper always escalating things. Xander calls that unfair as his anger issues are not some trump card for her to win an argument. Xander insists that he’s working on himself and becoming a better man, but guesses he was just deluding himself in thinking that Sarah would see it. Xander complains that Sarah will always view him as a danger to their daughter but keeps dangling being involved in her life in front of him. Xander talks about being excited when she let him give Victoria a toy. Victoria then starts coughing which Sarah blames on Xander.

Chanel brings Trey to see Johnny at work. Chanel says she had to run by the Bakery, so she figured they’d come surprise him but they won’t stay long. Johnny says he’s glad she’s there. Chanel sees the cup and asks about it. Johnny responds that it’s a gift for Trey. Chanel looks it over and talks about how nice it is, then notices the DiMera family crest and questions who it’s from. Johnny admits it was from EJ.

Paulina goes to see EJ at the DiMera Mansion. EJ offers her a drink. Paulina says she wishes she could get hammered but she needs her wits about her for this conversation. EJ tells her that the floor is hers. Paulina wants him to know that she’s been up all night because of this impossible position that he put her in. EJ argues that she put herself in it because he warned her to stay out of it. Paulina wishes she had, but here they are. EJ asks if that means she’s made her decision. Paulina confirms that she has.

Brady, Steve, and Kayla talk about Owen being obsessed with Stephanie. Steve says that Owen escaped custody 16 years ago and hadn’t been heard from since. Steve mentions that Owen’s a wanted man so he doesn’t think he’d come back to Salem. Steve brings up Owen’s family owning a funeral home and says he’ll go pay them a visit to see what Owen’s been up to.

Stephanie thanks Owen for helping her. Owen says he’s always got her. Owen then kisses Stephanie which she uses as a distraction to steal his phone from his back pocket.

Sarah tells Xander that if he’s going to continue his rant, he needs to do it away from their daughter because Victoria is all that matters and what she needs is peace and quiet. Sarah says if he can’t put her first then maybe they need to reassess things, pointing out their custody agreement has not been amended yet. Xander questions if she’s changed her mind already. Sarah says she hasn’t and she’s begging him not to give her a reason to. Xander tells Victoria that he will see her later and he loves her as he then exits the room.

Chanel questions if the cup is the gift that EJ sent a few weeks ago as she didn’t know he opened it. Johnny admits that he did and after he saw what it was, he couldn’t bring himself to throw it out or send it back. Johnny apologizes for keeping it from her. Chanel says it’s okay. Johnny questions her saying it’s okay that he lied to her. Chanel doesn’t love that he did but she gets why he didn’t want to upset EJ. Chanel acknowledges that their parents sometimes need them more than they need them. Johnny asks if everything is okay. Chanel says that Paulina is going through something and she doesn’t know what it is. Chanel says this is about Johnny and EJ. Chanel acknowledges their relationship is complicated but what isn’t complicated is that EJ loves him. Chanel admits she’s been harsh towards him but maybe she’s been wrong. Chanel decides she never wants to get in the way if Johnny wants a relationship with his father. Chanel agrees to take the cup home, acknowledging that Trey is a DiMera so it’s part of who he is.

Steve finishes a call with Rafe, who says he will find out what he can dig up on Owen Kent. Brady sees Xander leaving and says he’s going to check on Sarah, but asks them to keep him updated. Kayla thanks Brady for giving them another lead while Steve says he might have cracked the case wide open. Brady goes to check on Sarah and Victoria, mentioning that he saw Xander at the elevator looking like he was about to blow. Sarah explains that he got mad about something, then she got mad at him and calls it the usual. Brady says he was surprised and reveals that he came by earlier and it looked like they were getting along well. Sarah realizes that Brady brought the coffee and food and asks why he didn’t stay. Brady says he didn’t want to intrude while Sarah wishes he would have.

Paulina tells EJ that she knows how much Abe loved Lexie and how heartbroken he and Theo were to lose her. Paulina says as devastated as she would be if Abe chose to go back to Lexie, she couldn’t live with herself if she denied Abe the chance to see Lexie again. Paulina declares that she won’t interfere with EJ’s experiment, so if Lexie is meant to live again then she will.

Kayla talks to Steve about what Owen did to Stephanie in the past and how it reminds her of how much she has been through. Steve encourages that she’s always come out stronger because she’s tough like Kayla. Steve says they know Stephanie won’t go down without a fight which gives them time to get to her. Steve promises that they will find her.

Owen comments on Stephanie kissing him back and says he never thought this day would happen. Stephanie tells him that it finally did and she can’t believe she waited so long. While Owen kisses her again, Stephanie uses his phone behind his back to call 911. Owen is shocked as Stephanie then screams for help in to the phone.

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Y&R Short Recap Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Eva

Nate is upset that Cane didn’t tell him and Devon that Victor kidnapped Lily, Charlie, and Mattie.

Phyllis makes a deal with Victor and she gives him Chancellor Industries in exchange for Jack. Phyllis doesn’t know that Billy, Diane, and Kyle have already found Jack.

Jack tells Diane that he thinks his scotch was drugged with ecstasy and that is why he slept with Patty. Diane tells Jack that ecstasy isn’t a mind control drug and he could have stopped himself from having sex with Patty. Jack tells Billy and Kyle what happened and they believe him . Jack arrives home and is having a drink when Diane enters.

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Days Update Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Liam sits with Julie in the town square and thanks her for taking over his tutoring from Abe. Julie says she’s glad to help and that no matter the mistakes he made, he deserves another chance. Julie talks about how the literacy program can improve his life if he puts the work in. Arianna walks by and sits on the bench nearby. Liam assures Julie that he will put the work in, so she passes him a book as Arianna looks over at them and hides a smile.

Belle joins Brady at his apartment and says she really likes the place. Brady says he was lucky to find it and calls it a great location, being across from Rachel’s school and close to Marlena and Belle. Belle asks how Rachel is adjusting. Brady says she’s better now and thinks she’s very happy. Belle says she’s glad to hear, then asks if Kristen is behaving herself. Brady responds that Kristen has been away, taking care of her mother so it’s been quiet on that front. Kristen then comes home and announces she’s back.

Leo complains to Dimitri that he ruined everything as it was the first time he had talked to Javi in two months. Dimitri swears he had no idea Javi was on the phone or he wouldn’t have made a sound. Leo still blames himself for lying Javi and feels he betrayed him. Dimitri thinks Leo is being dramatic and suggests it being for the best. Dimitri reminds Leo that they are about to embark on a mission that is life or death, but he’s hearing now that it’d be best if he goes alone but Leo refuses. Leo declares that he just lost the love of his life, so he’s not going to lose Dimitri too.

Kristen remarks that Brady looks like he’s seen a ghost and mocks the warm welcome. Brady asks how her mom is doing. Kristen says as well as one could expect and she spent time updating her will now that Peter is no longer with them. Belle acknowledges it must have been hard for both of them. Kristen confirms that it was and says she’s going to check on Rachel but Belle stops her and says since they are both here, she thinks they should talk about the upcoming hearing.

Julie presents Liam with the book “Okay For Now” by Gary Schmidt as one of her favorites. Liam looks it over and notes that it looks hard. Julie encourages that they will tackle it together and she’s here to get him through it. Liam asks what Julie has heard about him. Julie says just what she’s heard from Abe, that he’s made a few wrong decisions but he’s a hard worker and devoted father. Liam asks if Abe also told her that he was involved in kidnapping Theo and the DiMeras. Liam swears he’s not an evil person and he had no idea what the job was about. Julie admits that Abe wasn’t keen on her taking him on, but she has a soft spot in her heart for people who make poor choices because she made so many herself. Liam spots Arianna and they smile at one another. Julie notices and turns around to see who he is smiling at.

Dimitri complains that it sounds like Leo is calling Javi the love of his life while he’s just the consolation prize. Leo says he just doesn’t want Dimitri to die. Leo insists that he said he would be Dimitri’s lookout, so he will be. Leo goes over how Vivian and Ivan go to pay their respects at Stefan’s grave and when they do, Dimitri will go to the house to question the staff and grab his belongings while he keeps a lookout to let him know when it’s time to get out, assuring it will be no problem.

One of Vivian’s staff members at the house communicates over the phone with Klaus, who is now in Salem. She tells him that security says Dimitri is approaching while Vivian is still at the cemetery and asks what to do. Klaus instructs her to let him in because keeping him out would just make him more suspicious. He tells her to lull Dimitri in to a false sense of security which she says is her specialty. She asks if he will then take care of him. Klaus responds that it won’t be him as he has a loose end to tie up in Salem, but he assures that Dimitri and Leo won’t be leaving alive.

Leo dresses up as a woman and goes to the cemetery, asking himself how he went from almost married at the altar to this. Leo practices getting in to character and looks around for Vivian and Ivan.

Dimitri arrives at Vivian’s estate and speaks with her staff member. She assumes he expects to see Vivian but she’s not home. She says he is welcome to have some tea but Dimitri passes. Dimitri then questions how she knows his name. She responds that he stayed there for months and questions him not remembering her.

Kristen questions Belle wanting to discuss the hearing and asks what if Rachel overhears them. Brady points out that Rachel is asleep while Belle says she would prefer to do it out of the office. Brady asks Kristen to hear her out while Kristen complains that they have gone over it enough. Belle argues that was before Kristen made the rash decision to pull Rachel out of Bayview.

Julie asks Liam about Arianna catching his eye. Liam admits she is really pretty. Julie then reveals that she is her cousin which Liam questions. Julie explains that her Grandfather is her first cousin, so she knows Arianna is not 21. Liam clarifies that he knows she’s over 18 as they met at a restaurant. Julie asks Liam to just not be distracted during their studies. Julie then goes to get them some coffee. Arianna then approaches Liam while Klaus hides nearby behind the bushes and watches Liam as he clutches his gun.

Kristen asks Brady to make sure Rachel’s door is closed. Brady assures that it is and she’s asleep. Kristen argues that she’s gone over so many times why she took Rachel out of Bayview. Belle says that what is relevant is that Kristen appear serious in court about Rachel’s treatment. Kristen says that Rachel has had daily sessions with Dr. Fuller, taking her meds, and doing everything she was doing in the asylum except she’s here where she belongs with her and she’s thriving. Brady admits that Rachel is happy here. Belle says she’s very glad to hear that. Kristen thinks the court would be happy too and adds that she voluntarily gave Brady joint custody too. Brady questions it being voluntary. Belle brings up them living under the same roof and presenting themselves as a happy family. Kristen calls it a brilliant idea while Belle calls it a sham that won’t hold up in court.

Arianna questions Liam not texting her. Liam insists that he was going to but he got busy. Arianna tells him not to worry about it and it seems fate has intervened anyways. Arianna asks how Liam knows Julie. Julie comes back over. Liam claims that he was just interviewing for a job at Julie’s book store. Julie goes along with it and claims she always asks in her interviews what their favorite books are, so Liam claims that Okay For Now is his favorite book. Arianna says it sounds familiar and then remembers to tell Julie happy birthday. Julie thanks her and says she’s really touched that she remembered. Arianna tells Julie that she hopes she has a wonderful day and she won’t interrupt Liam’s interview. They agree to see each other soon as Arianna walks away.

Dimitri says that he was never here as the woman introduces herself as Renata and asks how else she would know him if he wasn’t there. Dimitri argues that she could’ve been coached or searched his name, but assures that he’s prepared to offer her a massive amount of money to testify in court that he was never there. Dimitri asks if she’s too loyal or afraid of Vivian to tell the truth. Dimitri asks her to escort him upstairs so he can collect his belongings from the room they were planted. Renata claims to have no idea what he’s talking about but warns him to make himself scarce before Vivian returns from the cemetery as she would be displeased to see him there. Dimitri guesses she won’t let him grab her things then and decides he’ll just wait here until Vivian comes back from the cemetery then. Renata warns that’s not a good idea and orders him to leave. Dimitri responds that he’d rather stay and he won’t bother her doing whatever she needs to do. Renata repeats that she just ordered him to leave. Dimitri then agrees to leave but warns that he will definitely be back as he exits.

Leo remains at the cemetery in disguise. Leo comments on Stefan and Jake both being taken way too soon and then hears footsteps coming.

Kristen tells Belle that she doesn’t appreciate her condescending tone and comments on Belle being single while living with her mom. Brady questions Kristen thinking it’s a good idea to antagonize the district attorney. Belle argues that it won’t stop her from busting her ass for Rachel and Brady. Belle says Kristen can demean her but reminds her that she’s a damn good lawyer who knows how judges think. Belle remarks that some judge might fall for Kristen’s lies, but they drew the same judge from Johnny’s trial where Kristen blew in to court to confess, so she’s going to have a lot more questions than someone unfamiliar with the circumstances. Belle warns that the judge is tough and thorough, so she will know everything about Kristen’s custody battles and visits from CPS, so she will need to be on her best behavior, starting with not misrepresenting her domestic situation. Belle tells Kristen to just stick to the plan.

Julie tells Liam that’s enough for today and encourages that he’s making real progress. Liam thanks her for covering for him with Arianna. Julie suggests he be honest about his history if he plans to have a friendship with Arianna. Liam assures that he really likes Arianna and would never want to hurt her. Julie and Liam agree to meet at the same time next week as she then exits. Liam then goes back over to Arianna while Klaus hides nearby. Arianna asks if Liam got the job. Liam says that Julie said she’ll think about it. Arianna says she’ll put in a good word.

Leo puts on his act at the cemetery but it turns out to just be a gravedigger walking by with a shovel.

Dimitri remains at Vivian’s estate and disarms the security system and motion detectors. Dimitri then gets a text from Leo that there’s no sign of Vivian or Ivan and warns him to get out of there before they find him. Dimitri ignores the text and begins searching a drawer.

Kristen complains about Belle’s tone while Brady argues that Belle is trying to help and is on their side. Kristen argues that she should stop insulting her then and insists that she understands the plan better than anyone. Belle says she just felt compelled to spell it out more clearly that Kristen is just to walk in to the court room and recant her confession, then she will not berate the judge, stray from the testimony that they agreed to, or do anything that will cost her Rachel’s custody or freedom.

Liam asks what Arianna is working on. Arianna says it’s just a book that DiMera is going to be releasing soon. Liam questions her working at DiMera. Arianna explains that it’s an internship and she’s reading the book “One Rainy Afternoon” to decide how to best market it to socials. Liam comments that it looks interesting. Arianna assures that it is.

Dimitri continues searching through drawers at Vivian’s estate and ends up finding something.

Belle asks Kristen if they are clear. Kristen says they are and she won’t do anything to screw this up, but warns that Belle better not either. Belle doesn’t think she’s the one anyone is worried about. Belle mentions to Brady that she heard Victoria was in the hospital and how that must be so hard for Sarah. Brady says it was but she’s doing better now. Belle tells Brady to give Sarah her best next time he sees her which she assumes will be very soon. Kristen decides she will go read Rachel a bedtime story. Brady reminds her that she’s already asleep. Kristen responds that she doesn’t care and storms out. Brady tells Belle that he’s sorry about that. Belle says she can handle Kristen as she’s used to her behavior. Belle apologizes for using Sarah as a cheap shot because she knew it would make her jealous. They talk about knowing Kristen can get under her skin. Brady thanks Belle for being so direct with Kristen because she doesn’t listen to him. Belle hopes it landed because they don’t need any surprises in court.

Leo rejoins Dimitri in their room and they talk about there being no sign of Vivian and Ivan at the cemetery or the home. Dimitri explains how Renata kicked him out but he snuck back in and disarmed the security system. Dimitri then reveals that he found a shipping label that was used to send all of his things to Vivian’s house with a return address which is a location he pinpointed as one of the places he could’ve been held. Dimitri declares that he just needs to go there and talk to the staff to prove he was setup and then they can go home.

Liam asks if Arianna spends her nights working overtime at an internship when she’s not at Small Bar. Arianna thought it would just be a good way to kill some time. Arianna then admits that her roommate and her boyfriend wanted to be alone tonight in their room. Liam then invites her to a movie which she accepts. They walk off together as Klaus watches on. Klaus then gets a call from Renata, who says she got rid of Dimitri but she’s still worried because Ivan and Vivian haven’t returned from the cemetery and when she tried to call Ivan, no one answered.

The gravedigger at the cemetery begins digging at Stefan’s grave.

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Days Update Monday, March 9, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

In Alamainia, Leo and Dimitri talk about being unable to sleep the night before and their nightmares. Leo says they need to focus on clearing Dimitri’s name so he can return to Salem as a free man. Dimitri agrees and goes to take a shower. Leo then sits down and gets a call from Javi.

Melinda goes to the DiMera Mansion to meet Gwen. Melinda says her message sounded urgent, so she assumes she wants to make a deal in her divorce with Dimitri. Gwen clarifies that she called her to be her divorce lawyer. Melinda says she can’t be serious since she’s already representing the opposing party and that would be highly unethical. Gwen asks when that’s ever stopped her.

Theo runs in to Gabi in the town square. Theo tells her that she looks great, then apologizes if that’s inappropriate. Gabi says she’ll never turn down a compliment. Theo says it feels great to be driving again and to be back in the land of the living…

In the lab, Paulina asks EJ what the hell is going on here. EJ tells her that her timing is fortuitous because there’s someone he’s finally ready to show her. EJ then opens the pod, revealing Lexie Carver, EJ’s half sister and Abe’s wife, who had passed away 14 years ago (now played by Nikki Crawford), leaving Paulina in total shock. Paulina asks how this is possible. EJ says it’s through the miracle of science. Paulina asks if she’s alive. EJ says in a manner of speaking.

Gabi asks what Theo is up to this evening. Theo says he just decided to go for a walk. Theo wants to remember to enjoy the simple stuff and invites Gabi to join him for a beer which she accepts.

Leo answers Javi’s call and asks how he is. Javi says he’s okay and asks him the same. Leo says he hasn’t been fine since Javi left and he misses him more than he could possibly say.

Melinda asks Gwen if insulting her is her big pitch. Gwen says she’s just saying this is a judgment free zone. Gwen brings up that they both used the same shady broker and suggests they work together. Melinda repeats that she’s already been hired by the opposing party. Gwen argues that Dimitri is a wanted man who ran off to Alamainia and he’s not coming back ever again. Melinda points out that he has family here. Gwen argues that his family despises him for his role in kidnapping them. Gwen adds that she’s sure Melinda would like the money, so she suggests she make the right move and work with her.

EJ explains to Paulina that Lexie was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in 2012 and when Stefano learned of it, he was beside himself and blamed himself for her illness. Paulina recalls hearing that Stefano was responsible. EJ says whether he was or not, he was determined to save her life but he was presumed dead when she succumbed to her illness, but he had already set a plan in motion. Paulina says she should’ve known Stefano did this. EJ continues that Stefano never believed in the finality of death and refused to accept Lexie being gone, so he had Dr. Rolf freeze her body. Paulina questions why bring her back now instead of right away. EJ explains that they couldn’t without curing her brain tumor first and at the time it was incurable, but now after many years, a breakthrough has presented itself. EJ declares that Stefano’s beloved Alexandra is on the verge of being resurrected.

Leo tells Javi that Rafe told him that his dad is doing well, which Javi confirms. Leo says he’s happy to hear that and really glad Javi called but surprised. Javi says he needed space and thanks Leo for giving that to him. Leo points out that he didn’t give him much choice but he knows what he means. Leo asks if Javi calling now means he doesn’t need that space anymore. Javi explains that when his dad was going through surgery, he had a long time in the waiting room and thought about how much he wished Leo was there with him. Leo says if he picked up the phone, he would’ve got on a plane. Javi says that was the problem because the more time he spent there, the more he missed Leo and his dad even picked up on it. Javi reveals that his dad told him that life is short and to not let go of love.

Gwen tells Melinda that the Von Leuschner fortune is right there and ready for the taking. Melinda argues that she has a signed contract with Dimitri. Gwen points out that he broke that contract by leaving Salem. Melinda admits she’s technically right, but the inheritance is legally his, so the best Gwen could do is half while right now she has zero and her assets are frozen. Gwen assumes Melinda had a part in making that happen. Melinda confirms that she does what’s best for her clients. Gwen wants that tenacity on her side. Melinda says she’s sure she does, but she’s broke and if she doesn’t win, she won’t get paid. Melinda declares that she’s not stupid enough to take that risk.

Theo and Gabi have beers in the town square as he asks how her fashion show went. Gabi says it did not go well, explaining that one of her models tripped over a stage light and almost fell off the cat walk. Theo comments on Gabi having a cool and creative job while he’s more of a numbers and code guy. Gabi says maybe that’s why they get along so well as they toast their drinks.

At the Brady Pub, Roman tells Abe that he checks his phone a thousand times a day, hoping for good news about Stephanie. Roman asks if Paulina is waiting for him at home. Abe says that she is and that she was in the mood for Shepherd’s pie which Abe recalls was always Lexie’s go to for comfort food. Abe remarks that Paulina and Lexie are so different, but both very wonderful in their own ways, so he’s a lucky man that got to love them both.

Paulina realizes this is the secret project that EJ has been working on and why the power has been draining from the rest of the hospital and half of the businesses in town. EJ guesses she could understand. Paulina calls it criminal and threatens to shut him down. EJ says it’s certainly in her authority to shut down Dr. Rolf’s experiments or her other option is to turn around and pretend she never saw this, allowing them to continue bringing Lexie back to life.

Gabi tells Theo that she doesn’t think working at DiMera is just numbers and code, adding that it does take creativity, then jokes that you also need a bulletproof vest and a crash helmet. Theo guesses fixing problems is a creative endeavor and that they have more in common than they think. Gabi reminds Theo that when Stephanie is safe, maybe they can redo their double date at the Pub with Jada and Philip which Theo says sounds good.

Leo tells Javi that he’s relieved to hear that he hasn’t given up on him because he thought he lost him for good and that’s not a reality he wants to live in. Javi says he’s glad to hear that. Leo questions him having doubt. Javi reminds him that he said he couldn’t ask him to wait around for him. Leo assures that he did wait. Javi adds that he also asked if Leo could be fully all in on their relationship and if he would ever be over Dimitri. Javi says he’s not calling to pressure him, but it has been two months.

Gwen thought Melinda had more faith in herself. Melinda responds that she has plenty of faith in herself, but not in Gwen, as this could be a scheme to get her disbarred and tank Dimitri’s case. Gwen argues that Dimitri doesn’t have a case because he’s stuck in Alamainia and if he came back, they’d just throw him in prison. Gwen complains that she’s not asking Melinda to break the law, but to walk away from a deal that can no longer be honored. Melinda argues that her time is limited and valuable, so she only takes on clients who have the means to make it worth it. Gwen says she may not have the money now, but she will very soon. Melinda says that’s if she wins, unless there’s something she’s not telling her. Gwen warns that if Melinda walks away from this, she’ll be making a really big mistake and an enemy. Melinda responds that she’ll take her chances as she’d rather have Gwen as an enemy than Dimitri. Melinda officially declines Gwen’s offer and tells her to go find another attorney as she exits the mansion, leaving Gwen frustrated.

Paulina tells EJ not to put this on her. EJ argues that she put it on herself by sticking her nose where he told her she had no business being and judging him for the beautiful, life affirming thing he’s doing. Paulina argues that it’s more like macabre and ghoulish. Paulina calls EJ a careless bastard with a heart of stone and argues that this is not an act of love for his sister or his father. Paulina accuses EJ of planning to take this technology and sell it on the black market. EJ says she sees the vision while Paulina calls him someone with no decency. EJ argues that decency doesn’t pay the bills. Paulina asks what if it doesn’t work. EJ insists that Lexie will wake up. Paulina asks what if she wakes up and she’s not herself. EJ says Paulina likes to pass judgment on him and his family, but he knows that Paulina is thinking this is the love of Abe’s life and her awakening would change everything for her. EJ states that if Paulina wants to pull the plug, he can’t stop her, but questions if she’s really willing to play God with Lexie’s life.

Theo finishes his beer and points out that Gabi barely touched her beer. Gabi responds that she’s more of a tequila and soda girl, so she thought she’d try a beer but she can’t stand the taste. Theo asks why she didn’t say anything. Gabi says it sounded good when he said it and she likes to mix things up. Theo says he likes routine and asks if that makes him boring but Gabi says no. Gabi feels it is good to have a little chaos but Theo feels he’s had enough of that in his life. Gabi suggests variety instead of chaos which Theo says is doable. Theo says he should get going since Abe picked up food from the Pub. Gabi jokes about him having a curfew. Theo explains that Abe worries and has been even more since the kidnapping. Gabi relates to feeling that with Arianna. Theo says he can tell she’s a good mom. Gabi states that Arianna thinks she’s overprotective but that’s just the way she is. Gabi thanks Theo for the beer and jokes that next time they can have tequila. Gabi tells Theo that it was nice running in to him and that next time, she wants a ride in his convertible. Theo says anytime as he then walks away.

Leo tells Javi that he loves him more than he ever has. Leo looks back at the bathroom door where Dimitri is showering and tries to leave the room, saying he wants to go somewhere quieter but he starts losing signal so he has no choice but to stay in the room. Javi mentions that Rafe told him that Leo was out of town, but felt like he didn’t want to tell him where he was or why. Leo claims that he is working on a story with a confidential source. Javi asks if he’s anywhere interesting. Leo reveals that he’s in Eastern Europe and says the story is about whether or not Stefan DiMera is really dead. Dimitri then comes out from the shower, asking Leo if he’s seen his phone and asks who he’s talking to as Leo tries to keep him quiet.

Roman asks Abe if he’s okay or if it’s still about the Lexie thing. Abe admits he’s been thinking about Lexie a lot lately and guesses it started when Theo took the CEO job at DiMera. Roman knows Abe had a lot of doubts about it. Abe says his fears were realized. Roman knows how Abe felt when Stefano came back in to Lexie’s life. Abe says this brought him right back to those terrible times and her death. Roman asks if Abe talked to Theo about it. Abe confirms that a few weeks ago, they brought out old family photo albums and home movies. Abe mentions a video that Lexie made before she died where she was so worried that Theo would forget her. Abe apologizes for getting emotional and then says that Paulina has healed him in so many ways and he loves being married to her, but admits Lexie is still in his heart.

Paulina tells EJ that she is not God and neither is he. EJ responds that even God took seven days to create the world, so maybe she should take just one to think this through. EJ warns that if Paulina does decide to keep Abe from his dearly departed wife and Theo from his sainted mother, he’d hate for them to find out it was her who stopped this miracle from happening. Paulina responds that miracles don’t come from the devil and runs out of the lab as EJ clutches his hand with Stefano’s ring on. EJ tells Lexie that he knows Paulina will make the right choice because she has to.

Melinda runs in to Gabi in the town square. Gabi asks if she has a minute because she’s been meaning to reach out with a question about Stefan. Gabi explains her belief that the divorce papers were forged. Melinda confirms that she didn’t see Stefan deliver them so it is possible they were tampered with. Gabi mentions the FBI wanting more handwriting samples and she doesn’t know if they will ever get a clear answer. Melinda calls that a hell of a twist. Gabi states that she is happy in her new relationship with Philip but Stefan will always be in her heart. Gabi adds that if it’s possible that she’s not just Stefan’s ex-wife, but his widow, then she would have a claim to his inheritance.

Gwen angrily finishes a call trying to find a lawyer. EJ then comes home and pours a drink as Gwen asks where he’s been. Gwen mentions meeting with Melinda since EJ never got her a divorce lawyer like he promised. EJ informs her that no one wants to take her case. Gwen doesn’t know why they all think she’s an idiot going against the DiMeras and going to lose. EJ asks where they’d get that idea. Gwen argues that Dimitri is a fugitive but EJ cuts her off and screams that he doesn’t care about Melinda or Gwen’s divorce. Gwen questions what his problem is. EJ then reveals that Paulina knows everything.

Abe goes home to Theo and says they should wait for Paulina before eating. Theo asks about Stephanie but Abe says there’s unfortunately no word. Paulina then comes home and greets them. Abe notices she’s emotional and asks if she’s okay. Paulina claims she’s fine, then admits she went to confront EJ.

Javi questions Leo who that was. Leo claims it was the TV, but Javi tells him not to lie to him and asks if he’s with Dimitri now. Leo says he can explain but Javi tells him not to and says no wonder he was surprised to hear from him. Javi takes it that all his talk about waiting for him was all lies. Leo tries to explain but Javi says goodbye and hangs up on him. Dimitri whispers to Leo that he’s sorry. Leo says not as sorry as he is.

Gabi asks Melinda what she thinks. Melinda confirms that if Gabi was still legally married to Stefan when he died, it would change everything, but questions if she really wants to go there. Melinda points out that Gabi finally got out from the DiMera family and asks if she really wants to jump back in to battle with them. Gabi agrees that she finally wrestled Gabi Chic away from them, so she doesn’t want another war with them. Gabi adds that she doesn’t even care about the money as she has plenty, but feels Stefan got screwed, so she’s not going to sit back while the same snakes who betrayed him cash in on his legacy. Gabi declares that his memory deserves so much better than this. Melinda says she hears her but unless she has solid proof that the divorce wasn’t legal, then there’s nothing she can do. Gabi says that’s what she figured and thanks her for being straight with her. Melinda tells her to take care as she then walks away. Gabi then gets a call from Javi. Gabi says she’s so glad to hear his father is doing better and asks how he’s doing. Javi reveals that he spoke to Leo and questions why no one told him that Leo was away with Dimitri. Gabi informs Javi that Dimitri got busted for being apart of the DiMera kidnappings and that Leo helped him escape. Javi asks if they’re now on the run together. Gabi insists that she wanted to tell him but Rafe said it wasn’t their place. Javi says that now he knows and whatever he and Leo had is now over. Gabi tells him that she’s really sorry. Javi acknowledges that they all warned him and now he can finally move on. Gabi tells Javi that he deserves so much better than Leo as he’s a great guy who will be with someone who makes him happier and deserves him.

Dimitri questions why Leo would call Javi. Leo clarifies that Javi called him to give him a second chance and he blew it by letting him down again. Leo says maybe Javi was right about him not being the right guy for him and that he should just let him go. Leo complains that he loves Javi and doesn’t want to hurt him again.

EJ reveals to Gwen that Paulina saw Lexie. Gwen asks how he could let that happen. EJ argues that he didn’t have a choice as she was getting too close, so it was only a matter of time before she brought a task force to shut them down. EJ says it was the only chance he had to talk to her one on one and go on the offensive to try to force her hand. EJ remarks that he practically begged Paulina to pull the plug. Gwen is shocked, pointing out that Paulina is married to Lexie’s husband. EJ says no matter how worried Paulina might be about what it will do to her marriage, he doesn’t believe she would want Lexie’s blood on her hands. Gwen asks what if he’s wrong. EJ says they would move on to other subjects and set up shop elsewhere. Gwen questions if he would let Lexie die. EJ responds that God took Lexie away from them a long time ago, so he, Abe, and Theo already said their goodbyes. EJ remarks that it would be a loss, but no matter what, the work must continue.

Theo offers to talk to EJ for Paulina but she says no, so Theo goes to keep the food warm. Abe asks if Paulina is okay. Paulina repeats that she’s fine. Abe asks if she found out what EJ is doing in the secret lab of his. Paulina then claims that she didn’t.

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