Tag: soaps

Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Javi makes breakfast at home. Gabi comes in and says it’s perfect but Javi says it’s not for her which Gabi questions as Kerry then comes out from the bedroom and joins Javi.

Abe and Paulina have breakfast at home until Leo shows up, saying he came to see Abe with an update on their show’s business. Leo informs Abe that he just e-mailed Faith’s exit story since Chanel quit, but he’s writing Hattie back in which means Abe has to rehire her but Abe says absolutely not.

JJ joins Shawn at the police station and says today is his first day back on the police force. Shawn reminds JJ of his suggestion that they be partners and Jada said it was a great idea. JJ says it sounds good to him, so Shawn welcomes him back to the police department.

Jada sits in her office, re-reading the text she got from Rafe’s phone. Jada tries calling Rafe, saying she’s worried about him and hopes he answers his phone.

EJ prepares to bring Rafe food in the tunnels when he is stopped by Rafe’s phone ringing with Jada’s call. EJ remarks that he’s sorry but he’s afraid Rafe is tied up at the moment as he ignores the call. EJ is then shocked to see Arnold Feniger emerging from the tunnels.

Abe tells Leo that he and Paulina would like to get back to their evening and gives him a hard no on bringing back Hattie to Body and Soul. Leo argues that he already wrote her return scene and explains it to Abe and Paulina. Leo informs them that Hattie and Bonnie made up. Paulina complains that Hattie cursed the show leading to the tainted cupcakes, Johnny and Chanel’s marriage being put in jeopardy, and now losing a star cast member. Leo argues that none of that was Hattie’s fault and the curse didn’t make Johnny cheat on his spouse. Abe reluctantly agrees. Leo adds that if they are to blame anyone, they need to blame Lady Whistleblower.

Gabi tells Kerry that Javi never stops talking about him, so she’s been looking forward to meeting him but she wasn’t expecting it to be in their kitchen over breakfast. Javi jokes about not asking for her permission. Gabi says a little discretion never hurts. Javi brings up JJ staying the night and gives her JJ’s money clip which he had left. Javi then gives her a list of potential menus to give to Jada when she goes to see JJ at the police station.

JJ tells Shawn that he heard he and Belle are splitting up and he’s really sorry. Shawn thanks him but says he’s just glad things ended amicably since they are working together. Shawn informs JJ that Belle is the new district attorney. JJ remarks that EJ getting fired couldn’t happen to a nicer guy.

EJ tells Arnold that he nearly gave him a heart attack as he thought Rafe escaped. Arnold says he just snuck a little peek in on him. EJ questions what the hell Arnold is doing in his home and calls him a disobedient dolt as he was supposed to lie low. Arnold argues that he used the tunnels. EJ reminds him of his strict instruction to stay out of sight and asks again what he’s doing here.

Jada leaves a message for Rafe, saying she knows he’s busy but she’d like to hear his voice so she asks him to call her back.

Javi tells Kerry that he had a great time last night. Kerry says he’s fine with taking it slow and is just happy to be spending time with him. Kerry asks if he’s overstayed his welcome. Javi asks why he would think that. Kerry feels Gabi wasn’t too thrilled. Javi talks about Gabi being there with JJ the day before. Javi then gets an alert on his phone about Lady Whistleblower posting a new column, ripping Leo again. Kerry laughs at it but Javi feels it’s mean. Kerry talks about growing up watching Body and Soul and feeling like Leo ruined it.

Paulina questions Leo blaming Lady Whistleblower for the tainted cupcakes and Johnny going to Joy’s hotel room. Leo says she may not have caused those specific problems but many others. Leo talks about weaving every storyline in to one big document, but before he could submit it, Lady Whistleblower gave so much of it away that he had to trash the entire thing. Leo complains that now Lady Whistleblower is calling for him to be fired, but argues that they are only doing this because they are jealous of him going from the newspaper to a TV writer. Leo declares that he will stop Lady Whistleblower and sue them for defamation if he ever finds out who it is. Abe responds that he may have some news on that front.

Gabi goes to the police station and asks JJ how his first day is going. JJ says it’s better now and asks what brings her by. Gabi returns the money clip he left at her place. Gabi jokes about his detective skills since he didn’t even notice it was missing. JJ jokes that he could’ve left it on purpose as an excuse to come back. Gabi tells JJ to play his cards right and he might get invited back anyway.

Arnold complains to EJ that he had to get out of the motel because they only have three TV channels and he doesn’t have a data plan for his phone. EJ questions him coming out of hiding and risking them landing in prison because he was bored. Arnold remarks that variety is the spice of life. EJ warns that if he keeps this up, neither of them will have a life. Arnold asks why he’s so worked up. EJ complains that he has the former police commissioner locked up in the basement while the current police commissioner is breathing down his neck and calling Rafe’s phone every five minutes. Arnold asks what he’s going to do with Rafe anyways. EJ admits that Rafe did try to bargain with him and gave his word that he would keep his mouth shut if he let him go. EJ feels even if he could trust Rafe, he can’t trust Jada as she would leap at the chance to throw him in jail.

Shawn goes to Jada’s office. Jada tells him that she still can’t reach Rafe and her gut is telling her that something is off. Shawn asks about the evidence. Jada points out that Rafe never signs his messages “XOXO”, he said he’d be in touch but she hasn’t heard from him, and now her calls are going straight to voicemail. Shawn says if Rafe is on a case for Black Patch, she should call Steve as he might know how to reach him. Jada calls that a good idea and calls Steve.

Leo questions Abe having news on Lady Whistleblower. Abe informs him that he and Kate have been as furious as Leo is, so he put Stephanie on the case. Paulina says she apparently has a lead as Stephanie went to Chad about Lady Whistleblower’s identity. Abe explains that Chad doesn’t know who it is as they are being paid anonymously. Leo can’t believe Chad is okay with that. Paulina says that Stephanie convinced Chad that he has no obligation to protect them, so he looked in to it and found out Lady Whistleblower’s checks are being wired to a bank in Rochester, New York so there must be some connection. Leo calls this huge and says all they need to do is find them.

Kerry puts on his sweatshirt that say “I love Rochester” on the back and asks Javi to read him the rest of Lady Whistleblower’s column. Javi says he’d rather not as it’s mean and he doesn’t like the shots taken at Leo. Kerry can’t believe Javi feels bad for Leo after he accused him of being Lady Whistleblower. Javi states that Leo repeatedly apologized and they are friends now. Kerry still can’t understand why Javi would want to be friends with Leo. Javi jokingly asks if he’s jealous. Kerry asks if he has a reason to be.

JJ thanks Gabi again for bringing him his money clip. Gabi says she’ll let him get back to work. Gabi gives JJ the list of menus that Javi wanted to give to Jada for wedding planning.

Jada finishes her call with Steve and informs Shawn that Steve said he did not put Rafe on a case. Jada admits she’s starting to freak out. Shawn asks her to walk him through this. Jada recalls being at the DiMera Mansion for the New Year’s party when “Rafe” said Steve called and put him on an important case so he had to leave right away. Jada recalls that EJ was there and that it was EJ who mentioned the call. Shawn asks if she thinks EJ is involved in this.

EJ tells Arnold that if he’s so bored, he should take the money he offered him and head back to Argentina. Arnold says no because the summers there are brutal. EJ tells him that his only other option is to put up with bad television but Arnold says that’s not going to happen. Arnold questions why he would go back to that motel when he can stay at the DiMera Mansion. EJ reminds him that he can’t stay in Salem because if anyone sees him, they will assume he is Rafe. Arnold asks why that would be so bad.

Javi questions what reason Kerry would have to be jealous of he and Leo. Kerry argues that they looked pretty chummy when he ran in to them yesterday. Javi assures they are only friends. Kerry is sure Leo wants to be more. Javi says it doesn’t matter since he’s with Kerry now. Kerry complains that Leo is still going to be around and feels that Javi should hate Leo for what he did. Javi talks about not holding grudges in the new year. Kerry says he just doesn’t see the appeal of Leo. Kerry says they had one encounter and it was a total disaster. Javi remarks that some people have chemistry and some don’t. Kerry says he’ll show him chemistry as they kiss.

Leo tells Abe and Paulina about his excitement of the lead. Leo says he’ll get Rafe on this lead and send him to Rochester to find out who opened the bank account. Abe questions who Leo thinks is going to pay for the trip when Body and Soul barely have a budget. Paulina decides she will pay for it. Abe says she doesn’t have to but Paulina insists that she wants to. Paulina declares that she won’t let Abe’s show be attacked. Paulina adds that if Rafe is busy on this case, maybe it will keep him out of Jada’s cases.

JJ goes over the list of menus and says he had no idea there was this many caterers in Salem. Gabi comments on Jada and Rafe getting married in like two weeks and admits that Javi is doing a great job. Shawn comes back from Jada’s office. Gabi says she’ll get out of there hair and bring the menus to Jada, but Shawn informs her that Jada is not there.

EJ questions Arnold suggesting he impersonate Rafe. Arnold argues that he’s good at it and it would keep him out of the motel. Arnold feels him pretending to be Rafe would help EJ because Jada is clearly a problem, so he would throw her off the scent until EJ figures out what to do with Rafe. Arnold tries to convince EJ until the doorbell rings. EJ tells Arnold that he needs to get out of here but Arnold insists he can’t go back. EJ then gives Arnold the food tray and orders him to quietly bring it down to Rafe. EJ then goes to answer the door to see Jada, who says they need to talk. EJ says he’s terribly busy looking through the want ads because someone got him fired, so the answer is no. Jada responds that it wasn’t a question and walks in to the living room. EJ repeats that it’s not a good time and tells her to make it quick. Jada informs EJ that she just spoke with Steve, who said he didn’t send Rafe on a case, so she questions why EJ said he did. EJ states that he was there when Rafe took the call, but Jada doesn’t believe him.

Javi and Kerry continue kissing until Javi asks what happened to taking it slow. Kerry says he felt Javi wanted to ditch that plan and asks if he’s not in to this. Javi assures that he is in to it. Kerry asks why he stopped then. Javi says he just doesn’t want to make the same mistake with him that he made with Leo, as he rushed in to things and got hurt. Javi says he doesn’t want to rush things with Kerry when he’s starting to care about him. Kerry says he just wants them to be happy. Javi says he wants the same. Kerry says they will go at whatever pace he’s comfortable with. Kerry says he has to get to work. Javi suggests he stay and help him with wedding planning. Kerry says he has a lot to do but he will call him later. Kerry leaves Javi with his “I love Rochester” sweatshirt and says he can wear it and think about him, so Javi puts it on.

Leo says he will talk to Rafe and get the ball rolling on Rochester. Leo stops to ask Abe if there’s any wiggle room on rehiring Hattie. Leo gets the reluctance but assures that this time, Hattie will be a professional and the fans will love it. Abe agrees to run it past Kate. Leo calls them the best and then exits. Paulina calls Abe a good man. Abe says he got rid of Leo so they can get back to their breakfast, then realizes that Leo stole his bacon.

Gabi asks where Jada went. Shawn says she went out on some case. Gabi guesses she’ll just leave the menus for her then. Shawn says he’ll make sure she gets it. Gabi tells JJ that she will see him later and exits the station. Shawn asks JJ about he and Gabi. JJ says they are exploring possibilities and asks Shawn if everything is okay as he sensed that Shawn didn’t want to go in to details on Jada’s case in front of Gabi. Shawn admits he didn’t, because it’s about Rafe.

Jada thinks EJ knows where Rafe really is. EJ questions what would give her that idea. Jada feels he was acting very strange with her at the New Year’s party and with Rafe too. Jada says EJ is the only one that knows something about this case that Steve supposedly sent Rafe on which means he probably knows about where he is. EJ responds that if he wanted to go away and never be found, claiming he received a last minute open ended top secret mission would be a pretty good cover. EJ suggests maybe Rafe got cold feet. Jada asks if he thinks insulting her will make her leave and says there’s no chance. Jada tells EJ that she knows he knows something and demands to hear it now.

Abe calls Kate and tells her that Leo came by to share an idea he had for the show, so he agreed to run it by her. Abe reveals that Leo wants to bring Hattie back. Kate is upset by it so Abe suggests they table this and talk about it in person. Abe tells Kate that he does have some good news as they are very close to catching Lady Whistleblower once and for all.

Leo goes to the Hernandez home where Javi answers the door. Leo tells him that he needs to see Rafe.

Shawn informs JJ that Steve told Jada he did not send Rafe on a case. JJ calls that weird and asks what Jada’s next move is. Shawn reveals that she went to see EJ because she thinks he’s involved in this.

Jada brings up EJ threatening that she wouldn’t get away with having him fired and questions if he went after Rafe as payback. EJ calls that a preposterous accusation. Jada says he needs to tell her if he knows where Rafe is. EJ insists that he can’t help her. Jada decides they can do this at the police station then. EJ says he’s not going anywhere with her. Jada reminds him that she’s the police commissioner. EJ points out that she can’t take him in to custody without a warrant, so she can get the hell out of his house. Arnold then emerges from the tunnels, interrupting Jada and EJ.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Outside the Brady Pub, Marlena finishes her call with Shane. Steve and Kayla approach. Marlena remarks that Shane must be tired of taking her calls by now. Steve guesses she was trying to get in touch with John. Marlena says she always is, but even more so now, because she had a life changing conversation with Cat Greene.

Cat runs in to Chad in the town square. Chad questions what she’s doing here as he thought she was in Vancouver with her mom. Cat responds that she was, but she’s back now and reveals that she has decided to stay in Salem.

Xander sits in the living room of the Kiriakis Mansion, staring at the portrait of Victor. Maggie enters and says she didn’t know he was home. Maggie asks about Xander’s first day sharing the CEO position with Philiip. Xander calls it as miserable as she could imagine and that’s why he was thanking Victor for cursing him with the letter he wrote to Philip.

Philip remains at the Titan office, leaving another message for Stephanie that he needs to know she will keep quiet about the letter and to call him back. Kate arrives and tells Philip that she got his text, saying it was urgent. Philip says it definitely is. Kate thought he had dinner plans with Stephanie. Philip informs her that Stephanie is not having dinner with him any time soon and maybe never again.

At the hospital, Sarah asks if Stephanie is alright. Stephanie says not really as she and Philip just got in a huge fight about Xander. Sarah knows Xander and Philip got into an argument but she was hoping they’d keep their worst instincts in check, but she doesn’t know if the co-CEO thing is a good idea. Stephanie responds that it’s not and calls it a fiasco because Philip has no business being CEO in the first place. Sarah doesn’t understand since Stephanie helped Philip with his claim and the court ruled that Victor’s letter showed he wanted Philip to run the company. Sarah knows it’s messy for Philip and Xander but thought splitting Victor’s empire 50/50 might be the best solution. Stephanie responds that it isn’t. Sarah questions her changing her mind about Philip. Stephanie then reveals that’s because Philip’s letter from Victor was a complete forgery.

Chad questions Cat staying in Salem and not going to Vancouver. Cat explains that she and Aaron decided it was better to divide and conquer, since Aaron had enough credits to graduate early from Salem High, so he’s going to stay in Vancouver with their mother while she’s in Salem to be with Felicity while she graduates from high school so she can stay with her friends and teachers. Chad questions where Cat is going to stay. Cat informs him that their old family home is where Felicity feels most comfortable. Cat adds that she hopes it isn’t going to be a problem for Chad.

Philip reveals to Kate that Stephanie overheard him on the phone with her and knows about the forgery. Kate questions how he could be so careless and if he explained it away. Philip says there was no use and she’s obviously furious and called him a fraud. Kate encourages giving it time but Philip doesn’t think so. Kate remarks that Bradys can be very judgy. Philip states that Stephanie is really hurt because he lied to her and roped in to lying too. Kate asks if he thinks he can salvage it or if she has enough feelings for him to keep quiet. Philip says he doesn’t know since she stormed out before he could even ask.

Stephanie reveals to Sarah that Vivian forged the letter but Philip went along with it and that Vivian orchestrated the whole thing and tracked him down in New York. Stephanie can’t believe she helped Philip win his claim. Sarah understands she was just doing her job. Stephanie assures that she never would have helped Philip if she knew. Sarah appreciates Stephanie telling her. Stephanie admits she didn’t know what she was going to do with the information as she came to the hospital looking for Kayla, but when she found Sarah, she felt she had a right to know. Stephanie declares that Xander deserves to know he’s been had.

Xander tells Maggie that he feels like he’s been had and talks about how it felt to learn that Victor left his empire to him and that he trusted him to take Titan to the next generation. Xander complains that Philip swooped in with the letter and stole his birthright away. Maggie encourages that he hasn’t lost Titan so he still has it, he just has to share it. Xander calls it a nightmare. Maggie is sorry they are butting heads, but she’s sure they can work through it. Xander calls Philip the worst, arguing that he has none of Victor’s cunning or drive. Xander wishes there was a way he could get rid of Philip once and for all..

Sarah can’t imagine it was easy for Stephanie to tell her. Stephanie assures that her relationship with Philip is over as she couldn’t be with someone who could lie to her so easily and do anything for power. Sarah relates to previously feeling that way about Xander, but he’s proven himself as a husband and father. Stephanie is glad that she was reminded of who Philip really is before she got in too deep this time around. Stephanie asks Sarah how she thinks Xander is going to take it when she breaks the news. Sarah admits she doesn’t know. Sarah asks Stephanie to tell Kayla that she dropped off her research. Stephanie agrees to do so and wishes her luck as Sarah then exits. Stephanie sits down at Kayla’s desk and looks at a photo of Steve and Kayla, wondering where Kayla is because she could really use some of her sage advice right now.

Kayla advises Marlena to go through Kimberly to get Shane to get her in touch with John. Marlena says she thought of that but doesn’t think she could be any help. Steve points out that Shane was adamant and asks what Cat told Marlena. Marlena reveals that it turns out Victor didn’t send John to kill Catharina, but to fake her death so that she and her mother could escape from Konstantin. Steve is shocked to realize that John was the hero all along and says they should’ve known. Kayla calls it wonderful news. Marlena talks about John spending months beating himself up when this could be a burden off his shoulders. Steve points out that John’s been walking around thinking he killed Catharina while Marlena notes that it’s because of John that she lived and went on to have a family of her own.

Chad tells Cat that it’s not up to him to tell her where to live and it’s obvious that Felicity needs her, so there’s no reason for her to suffer because of what Clyde made Cat and Mark do. Cat says that’s generous of Chad to say and tells him that she will keep her distance from him. Chad assures that Salem is big enough for the both of them.

Maggie asks if Xander is going to do anything like hurting Philip. Xander assures that he would never do anything to risk being separated from Sarah and Victoria again. Maggie notes that he didn’t answer the question. Xander says he’s distracted by thinking about how much pleasure he would take in grinding Philip to dust. Maggie argues that they are brothers and insists that Victor loved them both equally. Xander complains that Victor only relied on him to do his dirty work while Maggie feels Victor valued that more than any other work. Maggie feels Philip would understand what it’s like to have a complicated relationship with his father, so they should be leaning on each other and not fighting. Xander brings up the story of Cain and Abel. Maggie questions if he wants that to happen.

Kate tells Philip to stop moping and go stop Stephanie from telling anyone about the letter. Philip says he just left her a voicemail and he doesn’t know where she is. Kate complains about how serious the situation is. Philip worries that if Xander finds out that he tricked him out of his birth right, he’s not just out of the company but he’ll be a dead man for real this time.

Marlena sits with Steve in the Brady Pub. They talk about how they each need to work less. Marlena mentions being in the process of hiring an assistant. They thank each other for keeping them company. Marlena remarks that she’s so tired of cooking for one. Steve is sure John is missing her just as much. Marlena talks about telling patients to be grateful for what they have and brings up what Julie is going through.

Maggie tells Xander that she’s already lost Victor, so she’s not going to lose another member of the family over a petty sibling rivalry. Xander questions being the bad guy getting a lecture. Maggie argues that he’s fantasizing getting rid of his brother and she’s not convinced that it’s just fantasy. Xander argues that Victor left Titan to him in his will and that should trump a letter. Maggie points out that the court already established things. Maggie knows the partnership won’t be easy, but she wants Xander to learn to work together with Philip for the company and the family. Xander compares it to how Maggie worked with Alex when she was running Titan.

Stephanie remains in Kayla’s office and listens to Philip’s voicemail, begging her to keep quiet about the letter. Stephanie deletes the voicemail and declares it’s too late. Kayla then arrives and asks too late for what.

Kate tells Philip that Stephanie is disappointed in him, but in her experience when people get upset like that, it means they care which means there’s still something between them. Kate encourages that Philip can talk reason in to her after she gets time to breathe. Philip talks about roping Stephanie and Belle in to his lie, so if it comes out, it could severely damage their careers too. Kate assures that’s why it won’t come out, but Sarah arrives and says to start thinking of a plan B because she knows everything.

Cat appreciates Chad being so gracious. Chad says he and his kids are safe, so he just wants to put the whole thing behind him.. Cat talks about just wanting to be a good guardian to Felicity and make up for lost time. Chad asks where she will work. Cat mentions having a lead on a job, revealing that she has an interview with Marlena.

Steve tells Marlena that missing her husband doesn’t mean she’s showing less compassion for anyone else’s grief. Marlena jokes that Steve could be a therapist. Steve asks if she heard anything at all from John over the holidays. Marlena tells him about the order of strawberries and cream she got on Christmas day. Marlena asks Steve if he would know that John is safe. Steve wishes he could help, but even he’s not privvy to the case he’s working for the ISA so he really doesn’t know what’s going on. Steve mentions doing some leg work for Shane on Christmas, but he wouldn’t be specific about what John is doing or where he’s doing it. Marlena keeps feeling that John is slipping further and further away.

Stephanie informs Kayla that she and Philip broke up. Kayla asks what happened as she thought they had a good time on New Year’s Eve. Stephanie says they did, so Kayla guesses something changed the way she feels about him. Stephanie responds that what changed is that Philip hasn’t changed.

Philip and Kate question what Sarah is talking about. Sarah informs them that she just spoke to Stephanie at the hospital, so she knows about Vivian and the forged letter. Sarah tells Philip not to try to deny it. Philip guesses since she’s alone, she hasn’t told Xander yet which she confirms. Kate asks why that is. Sarah responds that they all know, Xander won’t rest until Philip’s head is on a spike. Kate proposes that Sarah just not tell Xander.

Kayla says it’s obvious Stephanie is hurting, so she asks what Philip did. Stephanie says he was a little less than truthful but it’s probably best if she doesn’t know the particulars. Stephanie admits that she saw a side of Philip that made her sick and puts business and power above everything else. Kayla says maybe it’s good this happened early in the relationship so it will be easier to get over him.

Sarah questions Kate wanting her to lie to her husband to protect Philip. Kate argues that it’s to protect both of them since Xander will want blood. Sarah says she’ll do everything she can to prevent that. Kate complains that even if Xander doesn’t resort to violence, he will want to prosecute Philip. Sarah questions that being her problem. Kate argues that Philip has a rightful claim to Titan and talks about Philip being Victor’s favorite son. Kate says she knows what Victor’s wishes were while Sarah continues to argue against it. Philip questions why Sarah came here instead of going straight to Xander. Sarah says it’s because she wanted answers as to why he would screw over his own brother. Kate blames Vivian for preying on Philip’s grief and guilt, just like Gwen and Kristen took advantage of Sarah. Sarah argues that Gwen drugged her and Kristen kidnapped her while Vivian didn’t force Philip to go along with her plan. Kate brings up Xander shooting Marlena or kidnapping Bonnie and Susan. Sarah complains that Xander is the victim here. Philip talks about what Xander is capable of and questions what he’ll do with the full power of Titan. Sarah questions Philip saying that Xander needs him. Philip tells her that Xander was just talking about wanting to bribe DiMera family members for a hostile takeover and questions what his follow up will be. Philip says Kate talked about it being her and Victor’s dream for him to run Titan. Philip tells Sarah that all he ever wanted to do is make Victor proud of him while nothing he did ever seem to accomplish that, even serving in the military. Philip declares that this may be his last chance to show Victor that he’s worthy of carrying on his legacy and asks Sarah not to take that away from him. Philip states that if Sarah tells Xander what he did, he will lose his job, his freedom, and maybe even his sanity. Philip begs Sarah not to do that to him. Sarah responds that she’s sorry but she has to go think about it, so she exits the office.

Chad tells Cat that he wasn’t aware Marlena was in the marker for a new assistant. Cat explains that her recent one moved away and admits she was surprised Marlena would consider her. Chad mentions Marlena being a good friend of his too. Cat wouldn’t expect a reference. Chad calls Marlena the least judgmental person he’s ever met, especially when it comes to second chances. Cat guesses that if Marlena thinks she’s worthy of a second chance, there might be hope for her yet.

Xander tells Maggie that he didn’t mean his jab about her tenure as CEO. Maggie says he did but it’s alright. Xander asks if she’s not too offended. Maggie remarks that she was married to Victor, so it takes a lot to offend her. Maggie admits her running Titan with Alex was a cautionary tale as they proved how badly it can go when this family attempts to share power. Xander says that was exactly his point. Maggie responds that her point is that all of this could be changed if Philip and Xander manage to break the curse. Maggie asks Xander to promise to try to get along with Philip. Xander feels that’s asking a lot, but promises for her. Maggie says she will hold him to that as they say goodnight and she exits. Xander then declares that he’s sorry, but something tells him Philip won’t let him keep that promise.

Chad guesses he’ll be seeing Cat around then. Cat thanks him because in her head, she figured this could be awkward but he made it not so. Cat thanks him for making it okay. Chad tells her that it is okay. Cat tells him to take care and walks away.

Steve tells Marlena that he can relate to what she’s going through as he and Kayla have been there so many times. Marlena knows it never gets easier. Steve talks about how every day you’re apart, you become more aware how fleeting time is, but no matter who or what tried to separate them, they always found their way back to each other. Marlena thanks him for the reminder and the company. Steve tells Marlena to hang in because John will be home for her before she knows it. Steve adds that he and Kayla are there for her as they hug. Marlena then exits the Pub. Steve sits back down with his phone and calls Shane, leaving a message that they need to talk.

Stephanie tells Kayla that maybe her relationship with Philip imploding is a sign that she should focus on her career because ever since she moved back to Salem, she’s been in one failed relationship after another and it’s exhausting. Kayla would hate to see her give up on love. Stephanie jokes that Kayla just wants grandbabies. Kayla says she just cares about her happiness. Stephanie says her work makes her happy most of the time. Kayla compliments her big heart and says anyone would be lucky to share that with her. Kayla brings up that Marlena helped Belle get through her break up with Shawn and suggests they go have ice cream and watch romantic comedies. Stephanie agrees so they exit together.

Kate tells Philip that she was wondering when he was going to speak up for himself. Philip says Kate was doing such a good job defending him and speaking glowingly of him. Kate assures this is serious. Philip says that’s why he spoke to Sarah from the heart and every word of it was real. Philip hopes he got through to Sarah, otherwise she’s telling Xander the truth now and he’s on borrowed time.

Sarah goes home to Xander, who asks how it went with Kayla and if she put her back in rotation at the hospital. Sarah says Kayla wasn’t there. Xander notes that she was gone awhile. Sarah mentions running in to Stephanie and they talked about Xander and Philip. Xander guesses Philip was complaining to Stephanie about him. Xander informs Sarah that Maggie just left, but he made her a promise that he would try his best to get along with Philip and share the throne with his brother. Xander declares it is the right thing to do and probably the only way to avoid a family civil war. Xander then asks what Stephanie said. Sarah claims it’s just what he thought and that Philip is just having a tough time, but she’s sure he’ll figure it out. Xander kisses her and they hug.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Julie sits alone in the living room of the Horton house in the dark until Chad comes in and turns on the lights. Chad asks what she was doing sitting in the dark. Julie says she just dozed off. Chad says it’s late and suggests she get upstairs to bed. Julie responds that she dreads going upstairs, so she puts it off as long as she can. Chad says he understands. Julie points out that Doug isn’t there, so it’s lonely.

Holly tells Doug III that she will put his shirt in the wash, but first she needs him to tell her the truth. She says she backed him up with Sarah but she wants the truth as to why he didn’t want her to call the police. He then informs her that he had a run-in with the police before coming to Salem which she questions. He explains that he was in a bar fight and ended up in jail for a few days, so he didn’t want to risk getting in trouble again. Holly asks how he could get in trouble when he was the victim of getting mugged, but something’s telling her there is more to the story.

Xander tells Sarah that he hated the idea of splitting Titan with Philip, but he was holding on to hope that it wouldn’t be so terrible. Xander tells her that today was a disaster and talks about how Philip dragged the other desk in to his office, so they are already having major problems on their first day. Xander complains that Philip is going to undermine his every decision. Sarah tells Xander that he will have to get used to it because of the judge’s ruling. Xander says it’s all because of that stupid letter.

At the Titan office, Philip talks on the phone to Kate and says that he and Xander are off to a rocky start because he squashed one of his big plans, but he controls 50% of the company so Xander will not prevail. Philip assures Kate that there is no way that Xander will find out the letter Victor supposedly wrote him was forgery, so he tells her not to worry about it right as Stephanie arrives to the office. Philip says that as of now, Xander has no clue that the letter isn’t real so as far as he and everyone else are concerned, his claim to Titan is completely legit. Stephanie is shocked as she overhears him and backs out of the room as Philip finishes the call. Stephanie then enters the office. Philip says he was just getting ready to pick her up. Stephanie says she was in the area so she figured she’d save him the trouble and asks if it was a long day. Philip talks about clashing with Xander already and wishing he didn’t have to work with him, but there’s nothing he can do since he only controls 50% of the company. Stephanie remarks that it’s better than zero percent which is what he deserves. Philip questions her, so Stephanie reveals that she heard him on the phone that he’s been lying to everyone including her.

Xander complains to Sarah that Philip is going to ruin everything. Sarah asks what else he did besides share the office. Xander talks about working on a plan that would make Victor proud but Philip nixed the whole thing without even considering it. Sarah asks what the plan was. Xander reveals it was to obliterate the DiMeras.

Chad tells Julie that they don’t have to rush her to bed and they can stay here to catch up. Julie feels he must be tired but Chad says he’s good. Julie says he’s so kind to her and she knows he understands. Chad remembers how hard it was after Abigail died, to go crawl in to an empty bed. Chad states that Julie shared her bed with Doug for 50 years. Julie talks about a friend in California and when her husband died, she said she felt the absence of his presence every hour of every day. Julie says that those words are haunting her now. Julie feels she should’ve done more for Doug and should’ve seen that he was failing but he never complained and was always cheerful. Julie feels she should’ve seen he wasn’t doing well and taken him to the doctor. Julie asks if she just didn’t want to see it or if she is responsible because she wasn’t paying attention, but now it’s too late. Chad assures her that she was an incredible wife and Doug was lucky to have her. Chad says this feeling of not doing enough is just part of the grieving process as he felt the same thing after Abigail died, like he should’ve been able to prevent it or loved her more in what turned out to be her final days. Julie cries that Doug is gone and she can’t seem to figure out who she is now. Chad promises that she will and encourages her to just be patient. Chad adds that a lot of people love her and need her. Julie thanks him for saying that and says she will remember that. Julie adds that she’s always concerned about Chad, especially with what he went through lately in thinking Abigail was alive and grieving for her all over again. Chad responds that they don’t have to worry about that anymore because Cat Greene left town, so she’s gone.

Cat approaches Marlena in the town square and reminds Marlena of who she is. Marlena remembers Cat was pretending to be Abigail when they first met. Cat apologizes for that deception and says she’s ashamed. Marlena understands that Clyde pressured her in to doing that and they all know what he’s capable of and what that can do to a person. Cat thanks her for saying that. Cat hoped Marlena had a minute as she wanted to talk to her about her husband.

Holly tells Doug III that she wants to hear the full story. He admits that he lied about getting mugged and that those guys were collecting money that he owed their boss. Holly asks why they beat him up. He says it’s because he came up a lot short and that was their way of showing him they aren’t happy about it. Holly realizes that’s the real reason he didn’t want her to call the police. He tells her that there’s another problem and asks if he can trust her for real. Holly assures that he can. Doug III then reveals he did something awful and illegal to get the money he did have.

Julie asks Chad about Cat leaving Salem. Chad explains that she took her brother and sister to Vancouver to see her mom and she’s going to try to take care of her family and do the right thing. Julie says it’s late for that now and asks about Cat’s mother being in the mental institution. Chad says she will likely be there for awhile, so he doesn’t know when or if Cat will be back. Julie hopes she never comes back.

Marlena questions Cat wanting to talk about John. Cat clarifies that she wants to talk to John and asks if they can set up a time. Marlena informs her that John is away for awhile and they’re not sure when he will be around, but suggests maybe she could talk to her. Cat isn’t sure if Marlena is aware of her mother. Marlena acknowledges her as Konstantin’s daughter. Cat reveals that she just got back from visiting her in Vancouver and Catharina told her what really happened all those years ago in Greece, so she felt like she should relay that to John. Marlena says she’d like to hear that story herself and invites Cat to join her table.

Sarah asks Xander how he was going to obliterate the DiMeras. Xander says it was a hostile takeover and he had it all planned out but Philip felt it would affect Stephanie. Sarah says she can’t blame him for being concerned because she knows what it’s like to be collateral damage of Kristen DiMera. Xander insists he would’ve found a way to protect Sarah and complains that Philip has a problem with the way he does business and doesn’t like his tactics. Sarah asks what tactics those are.

Stephanie informs Philip that she heard him telling Kate how he forged the letter from Victor. Philip admits it and informs her that it was technically Vivian who forged it. Philip explains that Vivian tracked him down in New York and convinced him to stake his claim on the company. Stephanie asks if she forced him to go along with her wicked little scheme. Philip argues that Vivian was right that he deserves to run Titan and he truly believes that’s what Victor would have wanted. Stephanie argues that Victor would’ve wrote the letter then, put him in his will, or found some other way but he didn’t. Stephanie declares that this means Titan belongs to Xander and that Philip is a total fraud. Philip thinks that’s a bit harsh. Philip argues that everyone knows he was Victor’s heir apparent. Stephanie says he still committed fraud upon a court. Stephanie can’t believe Belle helped him pull it off. Philip assures she had no idea the letter was fake. Stephanie says people will believe she knew and it could ruin Belle’s career and her career too.

Sarah asks Xander about his tactics. Xander admits that in order to get his hands on DiMera, he would have to bend the rules slightly and break the law a little. Xander argues that it’s nothing Kristen wouldn’t do and brings up Philip laundering Ava’s mob money through Titan before, but now he has a problem with how he does things. Sarah tells Xander that she doesn’t like it either.

Holly asks Doug III if he stole the money. He says sort of which she questions. Doug III brings up the diamond necklace from the time capsule. Holly thought Julie’s brother Steven stole it. Doug III reveals that’s what everyone thinks, but it was him who stole it.

Julie feels Chad is not as negative about Cat Greene as she is. Chad says he hates what she did but guesses he started to see her in a different light when they were in Vancouver. Chad says he saw the connection she had with her mother and it made it hard to ignore that she was just a girl trying to save her mother’s life. Chad acknowledges that Clyde put her in an impossible position. Julie still thinks she could’ve handled things differently. Chad states that Cat felt bad and thinks her remorse was genuine. Julie asks if he’s forgiven her. Chad wouldn’t say that, but he understands her actions a bit more. Chad admits they had a pretty good chat before she left and he told her that he was happy she would be able to reunite with her family. Julie questions if Chad is having feelings for Cat.

Cat explains to Marlena that Catharina recently learned that John had been blaming himself for her supposed death all those years ago, but John actually saved her from a terrible situation which Marlena asks about. Cat informs her that her grandmother Elizabeth was trapped in an abusive marriage to Konstantin and she was desperate to leave but knew he’d never let her go, so she reached out to Victor who sent John to Greece to fake Catharina’s death. Cat adds that once that happened, Elizabeth was able to leave Konstantin and secretly raise her daughter in the States, so thanks to John, they were both able to escape the horrible abusive situation. Marlena realizes that John was actually there to help. Cat confirms that John saved Catharina’s life and calls him a hero. Marlena calls this such important information and says that John will be so relieved to hear it. Cat says that he has her mom’s eternal gratitude. Marlena thanks Cat for sharing that story. Cat says she’s just relieved to be lifting someone’s spirits for a change.

Chad tells Julie that Cat has been through a lot and he does feel bad for her for what Clyde put her through, but he wouldn’t say they are friends as what she did was still terrible even if she was being blackmailed. Chad acknowledges that Cat hurt him badly and he will never forget that. Chad assures Julie that nothing is going to happen between he and Cat.

Holly questions Doug III stealing from Julie. He tells her how guilty he felt, especially since Julie has been so kind to him. He says he thought about giving the necklace back but he needed the money fast, so he had someone sell it. Holly points out that the necklace is gone for good and Julie thinks her brother is responsible. Doug III says he can’t come clean because he can’t live with Julie knowing that he screwed her over since he really cares about her and she cares about him because he reminds her of Doug. He declares that he can’t tell Julie the truth and he really hopes Holly doesn’t either.

Sarah tells Xander that doing something that might land him in prison is not okay with her as he needs to be here for her and Victoria. Xander assures that nothing is more important to him than they are and he wants them to be proud of him. Xander promises that from here on out, he’s devoting his life to earning her love and respect. Sarah promises that she will devote her life from here on out to keeping him in line. Xander calls her the expert at that as they kiss.

Stephanie asks Philip if it never occurred to him that if people found out about his fraud, they might think she was in on it and helping deceive the public in to believing that he was a poor victim deprived of his birth right. Philip argues that he was and if he overcame his demons sooner, Victor would have given him the company. Stephanie calls that speculation and says the will is solid which means Philip stole the company from Xander. Philip complains that Xander deserved it as he’s not an upstanding guy either. Stephanie argues that she never would’ve done PR for him if she knew he was pulling this scheme. Stephanie accuses Philip of using her. Philip asks if they can talk about this over dinner. Stephanie tells him there is no dinner and declares they are through, professionally and personally. Philip questions her seriously breaking things off over this. Stephanie questions him thinking it’s no big deal that he stole a company through a fraud. Stephanie calls it a felony and complains that he pulled her and Belle in to it. Stephanie calls him the same Philip who would go to any extremes for his family’s company and the same Philip who almost got her killed. Stephanie says she’ll be damned if she lets that happen again. Philip accuses her of just making up excuses because she never wanted their relationship to work in the first place since she still wants to be with Alex. Stephanie tells him to stop with that. Philip brings up Stephanie dreaming about Alex this morning and says if she’s going to end things between them, she could at least be honest about why. Stephanie says he’s the one who has a problem with honesty, not her. Stephanie tells him to believe whatever the hell he wants because she’s done here as she then storms out of the office.

Sarah tells Xander that her job at home is to keep him in line but says she wants to go back at work at the hospital since she is back on her feet. Sarah feels it’s time to start seeing patients. Xander calls that great news and he’s delighted that she’s feeling up to it. Sarah decides she will go talk to Kayla about it tonight. They kiss before Sarah goes.

Marlena asks Cat what her plan is and if she’s going back to Vancouver. Cat reveals she plans to stay in Salem and that her brother Aaron is going to stay with their mom in Vancouver, since he had enough credits to graduate early. Cat notes that she will stay in Salem to take care of their little sister Felicity which Marlena calls a big responsibility. Cat says she will figure it out and her first order of business is finding a job. Marlena informs Cat that her assistant is moving away so they are looking for her replacement and asks if that would interest her. Cat says that would be amazing and asks if she would really consider that. Marlena believes in second chances and says she’d have to run it by Kayla. Marlena tells Cat to call her office in the morning to set up an interview. Cat thanks her and says she has no idea how much this means to her.

Chad tells Julie that he’s supposed to be the one comforting her. Julie says comforting him comforts her. Chad gets a text from the Spectator that there’s an issue with tomorrow’s paper so he has to go. Julie says she will look after the kids and tells him to go. Chad tells Julie that after Abigail died, he found it helped when he talked to Marlena, so maybe she could do the same. Julie agrees to think about it as Chad then exits.

Doug III asks if Holly won’t rat him out. Holly says she promised not to say a word so she will stick to that. Doug III thanks her. Holly says she doesn’t approve of what he did but she gets that his life was in danger. He says it still is as he needs to find a way to pay back what he owes or else next time, those guys will do more than just beat him up. Doug III says he needs to find a job to pay them back as quick as he can, but it will take forever and he’s not dealing with patient people. Holly asks what if she gave him the money. He calls that such a kind offer but doesn’t think she understands how much he owes. Holly informs him that her Grandmother is super rich, so she could ask for a loan and come up with a reason. He says he can’t ask her to lie to her Grandma. Holly says he’s not asking, she’s offering. He questions why she would do that for him when they barely know each other. Holly says he’s been there for her through this drama with Tate and she likes him so she doesn’t want to see him die, so they have no other choice. Doug III says they have to agree that he will pay her back but it will take some time. They shake hands on the deal. Holly says now she will try to get the blood out of his shirt and exits the room.

Julie starts to go upstairs but stops and decides not tonight, so she heads back to the living room to sleep on the couch.

Cat finishes a call about Felicity and then runs in to Chad in the town square.

Marlena calls Shane and says she knows that John is deep undercover, but asks if he could get her in touch with John because there’s something really important that he needs to know.

Xander opens his laptop and says he’ll have to find another way to raise Titan’s profits with Philip’s approval. Xander looks to the portrait of Victor and says all of this is his fault as none of this would be happening if he hadn’t written that damn letter.

Philip calls Stephanie and leaves a message, saying he’s sorry about their fight and he understands why she doesn’t want to see him anymore, but asks her to call him back right away because he needs to know she won’t tell anyone about the letter being forged.

Stephanie goes to the hospital looking for Kayla but finds Sarah, who says that she was told that Kayla left. Sarah asks if Stephanie is alright. Stephanie says not really as she and Philip just got in a huge fight about Xander. Sarah knows Xander and Philip got into an argument but she was hoping they’d keep their worst instincts in check, but she doesn’t know if the co-CEO thing is a good idea. Stephanie responds that it’s not and calls it a fiasco because Philip has no business being CEO in the first place.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Stephanie goes to the Kiriakis Mansion and greets Sarah. They wish each other a happy new year. Sarah guesses Stephanie is working. Stephanie says she wanted to drop off some head shots for Bonnie. Sarah notes that Bonnie is out for dinner with Justin but she will make sure she gets them. They talk about Sarah putting baby Victoria down to sleep. Stephanie asks where Xander is. Sarah hoped he would take the night off from work, but he decided to go get a jump start on the new year. Stephanie notes that’s exactly what Philip said.

Philip goes to the Titan office and tells Xander that he’s been in accounting all day, going over the books and getting up to speed. Philip then tells Xander to get the hell out of his chair.

Brady goes to the DiMera Mansion and tells Kristen that he doesn’t have time for these petty, immature games she’s playing as Ava said she got another text. Kristen asks if Ava sent him. Brady says she didn’t and calls this childish and stupid. Brady says he’s really busy with Tate so he doesn’t have time for this. Brady threatens to slap a harassment claim on her if she doesn’t stop bugging Ava. Kristen says that isn’t necessary. Brady argues that he found out the texts came from this house. Kristen tells him that it wasn’t her and reveals that it was Rachel sending the text messages which shocks Brady. Brady asks if she’s sure. Kristen confirms that Ava just confronted her about the same thing and Rachel came running in, yelling that Ava was bullying her which is when she realized it was her. Kristen informs Brady that Rachel admitted it to her. Brady yells at Kristen that this is her fault.

Tate walks through the town square and comes across Sophia sitting at a table. Sophia says she’s just drowning her sorrows in hot chocolate. Sophia tells Tate that she went to see Holly. Tate says he just saw her too. Sophia apologizes for saying anything as she figured she already knew. Tate says it’s on him as she was just too afraid to tell her. Sophia asks what Holly said. Tate says she just got really upset and took off and he has no idea where she is now.

Holly goes to the park where she sees the two men run off after beating up Doug III. Holly then rushes over to check on him, asking what happened and who those guys were. Doug III claims not to know and that they tried to mug him. Holly wants to call the police but Doug III says no. Holly questions why not. Doug III says he doesn’t want to get mixed up with the cops. Holly wants to take him to the hospital but he insists that he’s fine. He tells Holly to just leave and forget what she saw but Holly says she can’t do that.

Sophia understands if Tate wants to go find Holly. Tate talks about how he should’ve told Holly but he was trying to work up the nerve. Tate admits he doesn’t think Holly would’ve reacted much differently if she heard it from him, because now that he and Sophia are having a baby, Holly thinks nothing will ever be the same for them and he guesses she’s right.

Kristen questions Brady blaming her for Rachel sending texts to a mob princess. Brady argues that Rachel learned these tactics from Kristen. Brady says he watched her drive Chloe out of town and he won’t let it happen again. Kristen argues that this isn’t about Rachel but about Brady and a woman he’s been seeing for two seconds. Kristen tells Brady that it’s his fault.

Sarah asks Stephanie if she and Philip are officially seeing each other. Stephanie says she wouldn’t say it’s official but they have been spending a lot of time together lately. Sarah hopes that Philip plays nice with Xander because there’s a lot of water and blood under that bridge. Stephanie hopes Philip cares more about his father’s company than one upping Xander. Sarah guesses they will just see.

Xander tells Philip that it’s his chair, desk, and office while Philip’s office is down the hall. Philip argues that this is the CEO’s office. Xander says he’s the CEO while Philip corrects that he’s co-CEO. Philip feels it’s important that employees view him as a man in charge. Philip argues that Xander had his turn and now it’s his. Xander asks if he’s really going to be this petty. Xander asks if he proposes they have a duel. Philip asks why not.

Stephanie hopes she’s not being overly optimistic about Philip and Xander finding a way to work together, but she wants to believe it’s going to work because she’s partially responsible for the situation since she helped Philip try to get the company from Xander. Sarah understands that’s what she was hired to do. Sarah thinks it all boiled down to the letter from Victor that showed his true intentions. Sarah adds that Xander was upset but does respect Victor’s wishes. Sarah says when Philip showed up with the letter, it was the worst possible timing since Xander was devastated by her accident and was willing to do anything to get the cure for her, so he felt Philip was standing in the way. Sarah says maybe that was a good thing, otherwise Kristen would be running Titan while Xander and Philip would have no company to be fighting over. Sarah talks about everything that Xander has gone through, being deprived of his relationship with his father and the inheritance that Theresa cheated him out of. Sarah says part of her thinks maybe this is how things were supposed to work out and maybe it’s good for Xander to have Philip as co-CEO.

Xander and Philip set up at two desks next to one another. Xander guesses this is better than a duel while Philip complains about Xander. Xander then informs Philip that he’s spent the whole morning working on a hostile takeover of DiMera Enterprises to start the year with a bang.

Brady calls Kristen deluded. Kristen argues that he’s in denial and tells him about focusing on being a parent instead of going from one failed relationship to the next. Kristen suggests maybe then his kids wouldn’t be so screwed up. Kristen calls Tate a walking disaster and asks if maybe his legal troubles are a cry for attention. Kristen argues that all Rachel wants is the attention Brady gives to the women in his life, but that isn’t going to happen.

Sophia asks Tate if he thinks he and Holly are over. Tate says he doesn’t know but he has no idea if they can come back from this. Tate assures he’s not giving up. Tate tells Sophia about her mom showing up at their house after Brady left her a message. Sophia asks if she wants to know what was said. Tate informs her that Amy wanted to plan their wedding. Sophia laments that she just won’t take no for an answer. Tate says that Brady told her there’s no way they are getting married, but that they will be there for her and the baby in every other way possible. Tate promises Sophia that she’s not going through this alone.

Holly worries that Doug III is really hurt but he insists it’s no big deal and he’s okay. Holly tries to help him up but he can’t get up. Holly says he’s really hurt and questions why he doesn’t want medical attention. He says they’ll just get the police involved and he can’t have that. Holly decides that she knows someone who can help that he can trust as she helps Doug III up.

Brady tells Kristen that his kids know they are the most important people to him while Kristen argues that Rachel doesn’t know that. Brady blames Kristen scheming for full custody and putting restrictions on his visitation. Kristen argues that she wanted him to see more of Rachel. Brady says she did until he told her that he didn’t want to get back together with her. Brady shouts that she blackmailed him and asks what they are doing. Brady thought they buried the hatchet unless that was just for Christmas. Brady says that going at each other’s throats like this is just going to hurt Rachel more. Brady accepts that’s his fault for Rachel going through this mess right now. Kristen tells Brady that he’s right that they are both at fault and that Rachel does deserve better than them being at each others’ throat. Brady suggests they just focus on being Rachel’s parents because that’s what she needs. Brady asks how they prove to Rachel that they can get along and that she is the most important thing in the world. Brady declares they need to do that to help their little girl.

Philip questions Xander wanting to take over DiMera Enterprises even though Kristen did him a major solid by giving him the serum to help Sarah. Xander argues that she didn’t do it out of the goodness of her heart and used the serum to try to blackmail him out of Titan. Philip asks if he wants DiMera to pay her back. Xander says it’s because they are a competitor and acquiring them would give them a major market advantage. Xander feels they can pay off some board members, undermine Kristen’s authority, and take it over. Philip warns Xander that he would be making a huge mistake.

Stephanie questions Sarah thinking that Philip and Xander working together could be a good thing when she’s had major problems with Philip. Sarah admits that Philip has done some shady things but Xander has too, so maybe the brothers working together can keep their worst instincts in check. Stephanie jokes that or they could team up and destroy the world, but they are just hoping for no blood shed. Holly then arrives with Doug III and tells Sarah that they need her help.

Sophia tells Tate that he doesn’t have to say anything and she doesn’t like this any more than he does. Sophia adds that he might think her mom is a loon but she really does love her. Sophia states that her mom has very strong beliefs that are very different than her beliefs. Sophia and Tate agree that they were responsible. Sophia says that it’s too late for a do over and now her pro-life mom won’t let her have an abortion and get on with her life. Tate then tells Sophia that there is another option and asks if she’s thought about putting the baby up for adoption.

Xander says he’s not shocked that Philip objects to his plan. Philip is shocked that Xander came up with the plan. Xander questions when Philip started caring about breaking the law when he was laundering mob money through Titan, last time he was in charge. Philip says he has a second chance now and that’s not how he wants to operate anymore. Xander asks if he wants to prove to Victor’s memory that he’s a moral, ethical person now. Xander points out that Victor must have bribed thousands of people throughout his life and he’d be salivating at the opportunity to take over Stefano DiMera’s company, especially when the DiMeras are vulnerable right now. Philip worries that Kristen is the biggest viper of them all, so he’s not eager to mess with her. Philip reminds Xander that the last time the DiMera-Kiriakis feud heated up, he was right in the middle of it and Stephanie almost got killed. Philip shouts that he will never let that happen again.

Sarah asks what happened to Doug III and sends Stephanie to grab her medical bag. Sarah says it looks like somebody really worked him over. Holly confirms it was some guys in the park. Sarah asks if they called the police. Holly claims they did. Sarah questions not going to the ER. Holly says that Doug III doesn’t have insurance. Sarah can’t guarantee he doesn’t have broken ribs but thinks they are just bruised, though she won’t know without an x-ray. Sarah asks how he’s feeling. Holly says he was pretty out of it but didn’t lose consciousness. Sarah says his cut will need stitches. Doug III tells her to do what she has to do.

Sophia questions Tate thinking she hasn’t thought of adoption and says that would be a great solution but her parents would hate the idea. Sophia says that her mom is determined to dictate every choice she makes and knowing what a control freak she is, she’d rather raise the baby herself before giving it up to strangers and she totally gets that. Tate guesses it is weird thinking about their baby just being out there raised by strangers. Tate complains that they are not ready to be parents, so maybe it is best for the baby and both of them. Sophia says and for he and Holly. Tate says that’s not what he’s saying. Sophia knows he’s right since having a child is a huge, life changing responsibility, so maybe putting the baby up for adoption would be the best thing for everyone.

Kristen agrees with Brady that they need to focus on helping Rachel. Kristen informs him that she sent Rachel to her room, took her phone, and asked Harold to turn off the wi-fi after those texts. Brady says that Rachel is clever and will find a way to turn it back on. Brady adds that Rachel is also defiant and has no problem defying them. Brady worries that when she gets older, that defiance will be very problematic. Kristen gets it and asks what he would have her do. Brady thinks Rachel needs professional help which Kristen refuses. Brady asks what is the problem with therapy and says all of them could use family therapy. Kristen argues that they aren’t a family. Kristen thinks Brady just wants Marlena to ride to the rescue and turn Rachel against her. Brady says Marlena would never take her granddaughter on as a patient. Brady tells Kristen to put her paranoia aside and says he’s just trying to help their daughter because her life has been a mess since day one, mainly because they’ve made a mess of things. Brady feels they need to jump on this now and fix it or else Rachel will end up just like them when she could be a better person than both of them and he hopes she will be.

Doug worries about Julie when he goes home all bloody. Sarah thinks he should take something for the pain and then lay down before he goes anywhere. He doesn’t want to impose but Holly assures that they have plenty of room. Doug III thanks Sarah for everything. Sarah says that’s what family is for as Holly helps him out of the room. Sarah tells Stephanie that was an unexpected interruption. Stephanie is glad that she was able to help him and she hopes they figure out who mugged him. Stephanie decides she should get going as she has dinner with Philip. Sarah tells her to enjoy. Stephanie jokes that she can’t wait to hear how his day at the office went.

Xander asks Philip if this is really about Stephanie. Philip says it is, partly, as they are seeing each other again and he refuses to let her be caught in the crossfire of the DiMeras and Kiriakis feud like last time. Xander jokes that he just broke up with her last time. Philip says what Xander is suggesting is not how he wants to operate. Philip feels there’s plenty they can accomplish without going to war with DiMera. Xander disagrees but Philip reminds him that he can’t make a decision without him, so his plan isn’t happening. Xander remarks that he knew this would be a disaster as he exits the office.

Tate brings Sophia hot chocolate and offers his jacket if she’s cold but she says she’s fine. Tate offers to go with her to talk to her parents about adoption but Sophia doesn’t think her mom is ready to hear that and there’s no rush since she’s going to be pregnant for a long time. Tate tells her to just let him know. Sophia says there is something else he could do. Sophia informs him that her mom made her a doctor’s appointment to make sure everything is okay with the baby and she’s kind of terrified while her mom will just make her more nervous, so she asks if Tate will go with her. Tate assures that he will. Sophia thanks him. Tate wishes there was more that he could do. Sophia says he’s doing a lot just by being there for her as there’s no way she could get through this without him.

Holly helps Doug III to a guest bedroom. Doug III remarks that he can’t believe she lives in a mansion. Holly helps him remove his shirt.

Kristen tells Brady that she will go along with it if Brady finds Rachel a therapist. Brady says it’s good that they are on the same page and thinks they should be on everything regarding Rachel from here on out. They agree to try their damndest. Brady says he would love to talk to Rachel. Kristen asks if she can go with him which Brady accepts, so they head upstairs together.

Sophia thanks Tate again while Tate says she doesn’t have to thank him for anything. Sophia says she should get home, so Tate says he will see her tomorrow at school. Sophia walks away and then Tate sits back down to call Holly.

Holly sits with Doug III and ignores Tate’s call.

Tate puts his phone down, looking upset.

Holly tells Doug III that she will put his shirt in the wash, but first she needs him to tell her the truth. She says she backed him up with Sarah but she wants the truth as to why he didn’t want her to call the police.

Xander goes home to Sarah at the Kiriakis Mansion. Sarah tells him that she tried to get Victoria to stay up for him but she went to sleep. Sarah asks how his day was. Xander responds that it started off great but it turned in to a nightmare, thanks to Philip.

Philip talks on the phone to Kate and says that he and Xander are off to a rocky start because he squashed one of his big plans, but he controls 50% of the company so Xander will not prevail. Philip assures Kate that there is no way that Xander will find out the letter Victor supposedly wrote him was forgery, so he tells her not to worry about it right as Stephanie arrives to the office.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Tate sits at home, looking at photos of he and Holly on his phone. Brady comes home and tells Tate that he was thinking about getting chicken wings for the game. Tate responds that he’s not really hungry at the moment. Brady asks if he talked to Holly. Tate says he hasn’t figured out how to tell her, so she has no idea that Sophia is keeping the baby.

Holly sits at home at the Kiriakis Mansion when she gets a call from Doug III. Holly wishes him a happy new year and asks how 2025 is treating him. Doug III says he has no complaints. Holly says she had fun last night too. Doug III says he’s glad and was just calling to thank her for hanging out with him. Holly feels that she should be thanking him because if he hadn’t of invited her, she would’ve spent New Year’s alone and been thinking about Sophia and Tate driving God knows where to get an abortion.

Tate tells Brady that every time he thinks about telling Holly that Sophia is keeping the baby and he’s going to be a father, he freezes. Tate says that his life has changed completely because of one night and one mistake. Brady knows he’s overwhelmed and agrees that his life is going to change no matter the circumstance. Brady says he can tell him about the wonderful aspects of being a father and the blessing of having a child. Brady knows Tate doesn’t want to hear that and he’s not with Sophia as a couple, but he has faith in him and encourages that his heart is always in the right place. Brady knows telling Holly will be rough and advises him to let her know that he still cares about her. Tate agrees to do that, but says he keeps thinking about if Sophia’s mother didn’t find out about the pregnancy, all of this would have been over. Brady tells him there’s no point in going there now. Tate knows it’s unfair but feels he can’t help but blame Ava, because she told Mrs. Choi that he and Sophia were involved that made her freak out and confront Sophia. Tate questions why Ava had to make a bad situation worse.

Ava goes to the DiMera Mansion to confront Kristen, who asks what the hell she wants. Ava responds that she just wants a confession. Kristen asks if it’s about the silly text messages that Brady has been harping on about. Ava says not to sell herself short and shows her the latest text, telling her to stay away from Brady. Ava informs Kristen that the text was sent from the DiMera Mansion. Kristen questions how she would even know that. Ava reveals that she hired Steve, who used an app that can track cell phone locations and it came through with flying colors, which means Kristen was sending the texts. Ava tells Kristen to save them the time and just admit it.

Brady tells Tate that none of this is Ava’s fault. Tate argues that Ava blabbed to Sophia’s mom and now his life is ruined. Brady calls it a misunderstanding. Tate questions why Ava was talking to her in the first place when it’s none of her business. Brady insists that Ava is not the reason he’s in this position. Tate argues that he knows and complains that they used protection so he doesn’t know what else they could’ve done. Brady points out that they could have not had sex. Tate argues that it’s so easy for Brady to say while Brady says there’s nothing easy about this. Brady doesn’t want to pretend that he’s not worried. Tate complains that none of this is helping. Tate tells Brady he can finish his lecture later and declares that Holly needs to hear the news from him, so he storms out.

Doug III asks Holly how her New Year’s Day is going. Holly says she’s just been nervously waiting to hear from Tate. Holly assumes the abortion should be done now and complains about her Christmas break being spent finding out that her boyfriend got another girl pregnant. Doug III encourages that when Tate gets home it will all be over so they can start putting it behind them and moving on with their lives. Doug III tells Holly that she’s a good person that deserves to be happy. She says he’s a good person too and thanks him for being so nice to her. Doug III tells her that he’s around if she needs someone to talk to. Holly thanks him again and hangs up. Holly declares that he’s right that there’s no reason she and Tate can’t put this behind them. Sophia then shows up, surprising Holly, who asks what she is doing there. Sophia says she came to apologize for everything as she just wants her to know that she never wanted this to happen since she and Tate were careful and used protection. Sophia insists that she didn’t set out to make trouble for them. Holly thanks her but says she didn’t have to come and that she’s probably tired after everything she’s been through. Sophia says it’s been a rough couple of days but felt she had to do this in person. Holly asks if she should be here and if she doesn’t need to sit down. Sophia talks about it taking a couple months and the upcoming nausea which Holly questions. Sophia then remarks on how she’s going to get as big as a house.

Tate answers the door to see Sophia’s mother Amy, who informs him that she got a voicemail from Brady, saying they should talk. Tate questions this being an ambush. Brady explains that he just wanted to connect and says he didn’t know if she got her message. Amy thought it was best to speak in person. Tate says he’ll let them talk but Amy thinks he should stay for this discussion which Brady agrees with as they sit down. Amy brings up Tate’s mother no longer being in the picture which Brady confirms, so she acknowledges him being responsible for Tate. Brady asks where to begin. Amy thinks the first priority is planning Tate and Sophia’s wedding which surprises them.

Doug III calls Leo and says he’s supposed to pay off his debts today after they send him a meeting place, but notes that he’s still a little short since the money for the diamond necklace wasn’t enough, so he’s just hoping they accept it.

Rachel listens in from behind the door as Kristen and Ava argue. Ava insists the text came from the DiMera Mansion and asks who sent the text if not for Kristen, bringing up EJ, Johnny, Chanel, or the staff. Kristen says they are all solid possibilities. Ava questions why someone like Chanel would send her threatening texts when she barely knows her. Kristen brings up Ava’s history with Johnny. Ava states they are friends. Kristen suggests maybe he tried to get revenge because she rejected him or maybe Chanel wanted to eliminate the competition and she doesn’t have to tell her what EJ is capable of since he hates her for driving his mother off a cliff. Kristen tells Ava that she is not too popular with most of the people who live in the house and they have many reasons to despise her. Ava argues that Kristen is the only one who has a problem with her being with Brady and urges her to just admit what she’s done. Ava declares that she’s done with the harassment and with Kristen not being able to accept that Brady doesn’t want to be with her anymore. Rachel then bursts in and yells at Ava to leave her mother alone.

Doug III ends his call as Julie comes in and wishes him a happy new year. Julie talks about missing the entire day and having no idea it was this late as she didn’t get much sleep the night before. Julie encourages that Doug would always say the new year is a fresh start and talks about how they would always plan all the things they were going to do together in the year. Julie complains that she should’ve gotten up earlier and accomplished something for the day, but instead she just laid in bed, looking at the space where Doug used to sleep. Julie talks about being blessed and lucky to be loved by an extraordinary man, who will always be in her heart. Doug III hugs Julie as she cries.

Holly questions Sophia saying she’s going to get as big as a house since she’s confused as she thought Sophia was having the abortion. Sophia questions Tate not telling her. Holly asks if something happened at the appointment. Sophia reveals that they never went because her mother found out she was pregnant and now she’s insisting that she have Tate’s baby.

Brady questions Amy wanting Tate and Sophia to get married. Amy argues that a child born in a teenage pregnancy is already at a huge disadvantage, so she doesn’t want them to be born out of wedlock as well. Tate argues that he’s not getting married. Amy points out they are minors. Tate says that doesn’t mean they don’t know what they want. Amy declares that what they want and what is right are two different things and remarks that doing what they want got them in to this in the first place. Amy believes they need to start making decisions to protect their children and grandchild. Brady thinks they are both trying to make the best out of a bad situation, but he agrees with Tate in this moment as they are just kids. Brady admits they used poor judgment, but they have their whole lives ahead of them and he doesn’t think getting married when they aren’t even a couple is the answer. Amy responds that abortion is not the answer so she questions what they are going to do about this.

Rachel complains that Ava is being mean to her mom and it’s wrong. Kristen says they were just having a conversation while Rachel argues that Ava was bullying her. Kristen says she can handle this and tells Rachel to go to her room. Rachel tells Ava that she needs to go as she doesn’t belong here. Ava says they were having a conversation. Kristen tells Ava that she’s upsetting her daughter so she can leave. Rachel threatens to call security. Ava agrees to go, but warns that if the harassment doesn’t stop, she’s calling the police. Ava then exits the mansion. Kristen then asks Rachel if she is the one who sent Ava the texts. Rachel claims not to know what she’s talking about. Kristen demands the truth so Rachel admits maybe she sent a text or two, but says she had a good reason because if Ava got out of the way, Kristen and Brady could be together. Rachel says she was just trying to scare Ava off and that she did it for Kristen, but she never thought Ava would blame Kristen. Kristen explains that she did and she traced the messages to their house, so she has to figure out a way out of this mess.

Brady questions Amy thinking Sophia is ready to have a baby, arguing that it will completely upend their lives right before they go to college. Amy argues that she will not throw away her beliefs out of convenience. Amy remarks that Sophia was reckless and naïve as she trusted Tate who was irresponsible which was a foolish decision. Brady doesn’t think that means it has to change everything. Amy says if Brady knew her, he would understand that unlike most people, she believes every life is sacred including the one Sophia is carrying which means she has to make the best decision for them and hopes he will too. Brady calls it Sophia’s decision while Amy calls it their family’s decision, so she expects them to be supportive. Brady states that if Sophia is having the baby, he and Tate will do whatever they need to do to meet the needs of Tate’s responsibilities. Amy calls that the very least they could do and says she will be in touch as she then exits. Tate thanks Brady for having his back. Brady says he was trying to tell him before that he always will and that they will get through it together, but they have a lot to talk about. Tate says they will, but he needs to get to Holly now.

Holly questions Sophia about her and Tate having the baby. Sophia says it wasn’t what they wanted but they don’t have a choice because of her mom. Sophia apologizes for blurting it out but she was sure Tate had told her. Holly questions how this happened when they were going out of state. Sophia explains that her mom found out before they could and she’s super strict and pro-life, so she not only expects them to have the baby but also for her and Tate to get married which Holly can’t believe. Sophia says her mom wants them to get married soon before people can tell she’s pregnant. Holly questions Tate marrying her. Sophia points out that Tate said he wouldn’t, but her mom has a way of getting what she wants.

Julie apologizes to Doug III for leaning on him. He tells her not to worry about it as they are family and he can’t imagine what she’s been going through. He calls her incredibly strong for welcoming him in to her home and taking care of her whole family, so he’s just glad he could be there for her. Doug III then gets a text from an unknown number to meet in the park in 20 minutes. Julie asks if everything is okay. He claims that it was just Holly texting about hanging out but says he doesn’t have to go. Julie assures that he doesn’t have to take care of her and he can go ahead. He says he’ll be back soon and tells her to take care as he then exits.

Ava goes to see Brady and they wish each other a happy new year. Ava hopes it’s not a bad time. Brady says it’s a bad time for everyone in his family but he’s glad to see her. Ava asks what happened. Brady explains that he just met Amy Choi and she was full of dirty looks and judgment. Ava knows that wasn’t fun. Brady reveals that she wants Tate and Sophia to get married. Brady says he shut it down for now but thinks it’s the first of many uncomfortable conversations. Ava apologizes as she feels responsible for all of this. Brady says it’s not her fault but Ava says she is the reason that Amy found out and Sophia couldn’t get an abortion. Brady repeats that it’s not her fault and suggests changing the conversation. Ava is not sure the conversation she came to have is going to be much better, so Brady asks what’s going on. Ava explains that she went to see Kristen about the texts as she got another one. Brady complains that he wanted to handle that. Ava understands he’s been distracted and she just wanted to keep him in the loop. Brady asks what Kristen said. Ava says that Kristen denied it and when she informed her that the texts were coming from the DiMera Mansion, Kristen threw everyone else in the house under the bus and then Rachel threw her out. Brady feels that Kristen is putting their daughter in the middle of this. Brady declares that he’s going to handle this once and for all.

Kristen tells Rachel no more texting. Rachel complains that Kristen hates Ava too. Kristen says that’s not her concern and that she can’t go around threatening. Rachel points out that Kristen and EJ do it and Stefano did too. Kristen acknowledges their family have a rich tradition of fighting for what they want and never taking no for an answer, but that makes a lot of enemies and you end up alone. Kristen wants better for Rachel and says to do as she says, not as she’s done. Rachel argues that she knows Kristen wants to be with Brady. Kristen says it’s not their decision and it’s taken her a long time to accept Brady’s choices. Kristen points out that Rachel lied and caused a lot of trouble, so there will be consequences. Rachel questions her punishing her. Kristen demands Rachel hand over her phone and declares that she will have Harold change the wi-fi password so that Rachel can’t access any device. Rachel complains that this isn’t right while Kristen says that threatening her father’s friend isn’t right either. Kristen then sends Rachel to her room. Kristen looks to the portrait of Stefano and asks if he’s happy.

Holly goes to her phone and goes to Tate’s number, but instead calls Doug III. Doug III is in the park when he gets Holly’s call. Holly asks if now is a good time to talk. Doug III says he’s at the park but Tate arrives at the Kiriakis Mansion so Holly says she’ll talk to him later and hangs up. Tate apologizes to Holly for not calling and says he really needs to talk to her. Holly reveals that she already knows that they didn’t get the abortion because Sophia’s mom found out and now expects them to get married. Holly informs him that Sophia was just there. Tate says that he really wanted to be the one to tell her. Holly points out that he wasn’t and she felt like an idiot when Sophia just blurted it out. Holly questions why Tate didn’t just tell her as soon as it happened. Tate says he was trying to find the right way and hoped things would change. Tate insists they are not getting married. Holly complains that Tate said this would all be over. Tate says it will be in 9 months. Holly argues that they will have a baby so it will never be over. Tate asks if they can just sit down, but Holly declares that she can’t deal with this and storms out.

Two men meet Doug III in the park and ask if he has the money. He hands over the money and explains that it wasn’t easy for him to get. They question where the rest of the money is. Doug III swears he will get the rest and asks for more time, but they say he had plenty of time and time is up.

Julie sits at home and reads a text from Maggie that she’s sending love and thinking of her. Julie also reads a text from Marie asking how she’s doing. Julie reads a text from Jennifer that says she’s just checking in, but she deletes it.

Brady goes to the DiMera Mansion and tells Kristen that he doesn’t have time for these petty, immature games she’s playing as Ava said she got another text. Kristen asks if Ava sent him. Brady says she didn’t and calls this childish and stupid. Brady says he’s really busy with Tate so he doesn’t have time for this. Brady threatens to slap a harassment claim on her if she doesn’t stop bugging Ava. Kristen says that isn’t necessary. Brady argues that he found out the texts came from this house. Kristen tells him that it wasn’t her and reveals that it was Rachel sending the text messages which shocks Brady.

Tate walks through the town square and comes across Sophia sitting at a table. Sophia says she’s just drowning her sorrows in hot chocolate. Sophia tells Tate that she went to see Holly. Tate says he just saw her too. Sophia apologizes for saying anything as she figured she already knew. Tate says it’s on him as he was just too afraid to tell her. Sophia asks what Holly said. Tate says she just got really upset and took off.

Holly goes to the park where she sees the two men run off after beating up Doug III. Holly then rushes over to check on him.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Leo finds Joy in the town square and says he wanted to give her a heads up about some rewrites in the show because he had to write her out of scenes with Chanel. Joy guesses he heard what happened which Leo confirms. Leo says it’s too bad they can’t harness it on screen. Joy worries about it ending up in Lady Whistleblower’s column. Leo gets up to walk away but runs in to Javi. Leo stops him to wish him a happy New Year and complains about the latest from Lady Whistleblower. Javi stops and asks about it.

Stephanie sits at home, reading Lady Whistleblower’s column talking about Alex and Joy hooking up which upsets her. Abe then arrives, also upset about the column and declares that they have to do something about this menace.

Bonnie sits at home reading Lady Whistleblower’s column, running down Body and Soul. Bonnie is upset until Hattie appears and startles her, wishing her a happy New Year.

Chanel goes to the Body and Soul studio and tells Johnny that she knows she had nothing to say to him, but she realized she does have something to say to him. Chanel then tells Johnny that she quits. Johnny argues that she doesn’t mean that and she loves working on Body and Soul. Chanel responds that she did until her husband cheated on her with her co-star who she thought was her friend, so she’s done with the show and with Johnny. Johnny asks if something else happened for her to come to this decision. Chanel asks if cheating on her wasn’t enough but admits that she ran in to Joy. Johnny asks how it went. Chanel says she tried to apologize but she didn’t want to hear it. Johnny understands she’s upset and angry with he and Joy, but argues there has to be some way that she can stay on the show. Chanel says there isn’t. Johnny encourages that she loves acting and is so talented. Johnny asks what she will do instead if she quits. Chanel responds that she will go back to her first love.

Stephanie and Abe read the rest of Lady Whistleblower’s column which runs down Abe as a producer. Abe declares that he wants the column shut down immediately and tells Stephanie that it’s her job to make that happen.

Javi asks Leo what Lady Whistleblower said. Leo says that they somehow found out how he screwed things up with Javi. Leo says he still has no idea who is writing the columns since Hattie denied having anything to do with it. Javi questions believing her. Leo responds that he doesn’t know what to believe and only knows someone is out to get him.

Bonnie questions how Hattie got in. Hattie responds that she just walked in the front door as it was unlocked, questioning their security. Bonnie asks what the hell she’s doing here and what she wants. Hattie declares that she came to apologize.

Joy sits at the Brady Pub, commenting on not thinking things could get any worse. Alex arrives and runs in to Joy. Joy tells him about Lady Whistleblower’s column and shows it to him. Alex guesses any publicity is good publicity. Joy tells Alex that she ran in to Chanel and it didn’t go well, as Chanel pretty much hates her guts.

Johnny questions Chanel going back to her first love. Chanel says she meant her bakery. Johnny admits at first he thought she meant Allie. Chanel reminds him that Allie has a boyfriend. Chanel points out that at the Bakery, she won’t have to see him every day or work with a cheating slut like Joy. Johnny stops her and asks her to think about this, arguing that she can’t quit the show or on them because the show needs her and so does he.

Abe and Stephanie talk about needing to put an end to Lady Whistleblower. They don’t understand why they have been targeted. Abe wishes he knew who it was. Stephanie assures that she’s on it. Abe thanks her and says he better get to the office, but he hopes no new problems pop up today as he then exits. Stephanie wonders how to solve this problem and declares that she knows exactly where to start.

Bonnie accuses Hattie of being Lady Whistleblower but Hattie denies it. Bonnie questions her apologizing then. Hattie insists that she did not write the column and that she’s not responsible for the tainted cupcakes either. Bonnie asks what the hell she’s apologizing for then. Hattie says it’s for trying to get her best friend fired.

Javi questions Leo being worried that Lady Whistleblower could get him fired and if it even matters what they think. Leo complains that their criticism is ruining his life. Leo mentions Rafe investigating but he hasn’t heard back from him. Javi assures Rafe will get to the bottom of it soon. Leo says he’s only sure that it’s not Javi but wishes he realized that before it was too late for them. Leo repeats how sorry he is for accusing Javi of going behind his back and says he’s just paranoid from getting burned in past relationships. Leo says he should’ve recognized that Javi was different and how lucky he was to have found him. Javi tells Leo not to feel bad as it’s over and they should move on. Leo asks about Kerry but Javi says he was out of town. Leo asks what Javi did on New Year’s. Javi says he went out by himself but came home early which Leo notes doesn’t sound like him. Javi says he’s still new to Salem so he doesn’t have many friends. Leo offers to be Javi’s friend.

Stephanie goes to the Horton House to see Chad. Chad says it’s nice to see a friendly face and tells her about the kids. Stephanie asks Chad to tell her who Lady Whistleblower is before they get Body and Soul cancelled.

Alex encourages Joy to give it time and things will get better. Joy questions how it will get better when she ruined Chanel’s marriage. Alex argues that Johnny and Chanel were having trouble before Joy was in the picture. Joy says not like this and questions how they can continue to work together.

Johnny pleads with Chanel to take a little more time before she makes a decision she can’t take back. Abe arrives and asks if he’s interrupting. Chanel tells Abe that he’s just in time for her to make her resignation official. Chanel declares that she is quitting Body and Soul effective immediately which Abe refuses.

Hattie tells Bonnie that they were going at it, trying to be the star of the show and she was really trying to be the top diva but her character ended up killed off. Hattie wonders if Bonnie can find a way to forgive her. Hattie insists that she’s learned an important lesson and she misses Bonnie. Bonnie admits that she misses her too. Hattie tells Bonnie that she’s so good on the show and calls her a star. Bonnie remarks that Lady Whistleblower doesn’t think so, but thanks her. Bonnie acknowledges that they did have good times. Hattie asks if Bonnie is thinking she can forgive her. Bonnie decides it is the new year, so maybe it’s time to wipe the slate clean. Bonnie tells Hattie that she could never stay mad at her and they embrace.

Alex asks if Joy is thinking about quitting the show. Joy assures that she’s not going to give up her career. Alex encourages that the new year gives her a chance to figure out how to face it all. Alex says they’ve all made mistakes but she needs to forgive herself, move ahead and start fresh. Joy agrees on no more feeling guilty like a bad person. Joy declares that it’s a new year and she’s treating it positively. Joy says that Chanel can hate her, but she’s done hating herself.

Abe reminds Chanel that she signed a contract. Chanel questions if Abe is seriously going to sue his stepdaughter for breach of contract. Abe says he’s sympathetic to what she’s going through, so Chanel questions why he’s making her stay. Abe argues that she is one half of their most popular couple. Chanel argues soap operas recast all the time. Abe says not these days and that Twitter will rip them to shreds the minute they announce Chanel is leaving, if Lady Whistleblower doesn’t beat them to it. Chanel hopes that doesn’t happen but says she can’t do this anymore. Johnny tells Chanel that she doesn’t have to quit the show to get away from him, because he will quit.

Chad tells Stephanie that he’s sorry but he can’t reveal who Lady Whistleblower is because they choose to remain anonymous which he has to respect. Chad argues that one column won’t bring down an entire production. Stephanie complains about the hurt the column has caused and argues that Chad controls what goes in the paper. Chad responds that he doesn’t want them to be hurt, but at the end of the day, he’s going to back his columnist. Stephanie asks what about his friends.

Leo knows Javi said he wanted nothing to do with him, but says he could use one less person hating him. Javi says he doesn’t hate him. Javi adds that he was pissed at him for calling him a thief and a liar, but he’s over that now. Javi admits he was glad to see him, so Leo suggests maybe they can be friends. Javi agrees that he would like that, so they shake hands on being friends. Kerry then arrives and questions what they have here.

Bonnie tells Hattie that now that they’ve buried the hatchet, she has an idea. Bonnie suggests they go talk to Leo about getting Hattie back on Body and Soul. Hattie points out that her character is dead. Bonnie argues that nobody stays dead in a soap opera. Bonnie explains how Leo wrote in a plot to resurrect her one day which excites Hattie.

Javi excitedly greets Kerry with a kiss. Kerry says he just got back a while ago, but guesses Javi was busy. Javi says that he and Leo just ran in to each other. Kerry brings up Leo accusing Javi of being a spy. Javii says they’ve put that behind them. Leo hopes Kerry is okay with that. Kerry asks why he wouldn’t be. Kerry invites Javi to lunch. Javi suggests going back to his house which Kerry accepts. Javi tells Leo that he will see him around as he walks off with Kerry.

Chad tells Stephanie that he wants to help her but they have policies in place to protect their employees. Stephanie argues that he’s enabling gossip that is damaging his friends. Stephanie calls it a vendetta while Chad argues that Lady Whistleblower is attracting attention. Stephanie asks Chad again to get her the information on their identity. Chad agrees to see what he can do.

Abe doesn’t know what is worse, losing Chanel or Johnny. Johnny assures that he won’t lose Chanel as he is the one who will quit. Chanel argues that she didn’t ask him to do that. Johnny says she didn’t have to and points out the fans won’t even notice while there’s only one Chanel. Chanel asks what about Joy, since she’d still be forced to work with the woman who hooked up with her husband and lied to her about it. Chanel tells Johnny to keep his job because she’s done with Body and Soul. Chanel then storms out while Abe tells Johnny it was a nice try.

Javi brings Kerry home with him and asks if he’s okay. Kerry questions why Javi wants to be friends with a guy like Leo. Javi calls it a new year and says everybody deserves a second chance.

Leo works in his room at the Salem Inn until Bonnie and Hattie show up at his door. Leo questions what they are doing here and why they are together. Bonnie reveals they made up and they explain that they forgave each other and they are all good. Leo congratulates them but says he has to get back to work. Bonnie tells Leo that he’s going to have to write Hattie’s character Charlemagne back in to the show. Leo reminds them that it’s not only his decision to make. Bonnie figured if he was on board, it’d be easier. Leo says they caught him in a good headspace as he’s in the mood to mend faces today. Leo then presents them with the Body and Soul story bible, saying he needs Hattie to swear on it so he knows he can trust her. Leo has Hattie swear that she is not Lady Whistleblower. Leo then declares that with Abe and Kate’s approval, he will write her character back to life. Leo welcomes her back as they hug.

Alex is glad to hear Joy took his advice and won’t beat her up anymore. Joy jokes about him taking credit but admits his advice really helped. Joy decides she should get back to her room to learn her lines. Alex says he will see her on set as Joy then heads upstairs. Chanel then enters the Pub and greets Alex. Alex asks if she’s okay. Chanel thinks he knows the answer to that. Alex tells her that he didn’t say anything about Joy and Johnny because he didn’t want her to get hurt. Chanel remarks what good that did. Alex asks about her and Johnny. Chanel responds that her marriage is over and so is her career as she quit Body and Soul. Chanel cries that she knows it was the right thing to do, but she’s going to miss it. Alex hugs Chanel as she breaks down crying.

Johnny tells Abe that he understands it but he hates that Chanel quit the show. Johnny says he’s really sorry for any trouble that this is going to cause Abe, Kate, and for Leo having to write Chanel’s character out of the show. Abe worries about Lady Whistleblower. Abe prays that Stephanie can find out who Lady Whistleblower is before they cause Body and Soul to fade to black for good.

Chad and Stephanie look in to trying to find out who Lady Whistleblower is. They find that they are paid to a bank in Rochester, New York.

Javi asks Kerry if they can not talk about Leo which Kerry agrees with. Javi says that he’s going to shower and then they can eat, then he wants to hear all about his time in Rochester with his family. After Javi goes to shower, Kerry pulls out his phone, revealing to be Lady Whistleblower. He writes for his next column that he hopes everyone enjoyed the latest tea on Body and Soul, but he’s just getting started.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Rafe is tied up in the secret room of the DiMera tunnels. His phone lays nearby as Jada calls but he can’t reach it.

EJ prepares to head in to the tunnels with a tray of food but he’s stopped by a phone call from Belle, who says they didn’t get much of a chance to talk last night. EJ accuses her of stealing his job and asks what else there is to say.

Leo sits in his room at the Salem Inn, complaining about spending New Year’s alone. Leo then gets an alert on his laptop that the new Lady Whistleblower posted a new column, who writes about the mystery of their identity driving Leo mad.

Javi is at home when he gets an alert about Lady Whistleblower’s new column which he laughs at.

Chanel walks through the town square and answers the call. Johnny wasn’t sure she would answer. Chanel responds that she has nothing to say to him and hangs up. Chanel then turns around and sees Joy sitting in the town square, so she confronts her and says she has plenty to say to her. Chanel accuses Joy of pretending to be her friend, lying to her, and ruining her marriage. Chanel questions how the hell she lives with herself.

Leo goes to the Body and Soul studio and says he wasn’t expecting to see Johnny today. Johnny responds that he just missed Abe, who had the same thought. Leo wishes him a happy new year. Leo talks about having writer’s block and then coming across Lady Whistleblower’s column, which lit a fire under him to write a new story that they won’t spoil. Leo adds that he has an idea to run past Johnny. Leo suggests having Regan and Faith trapped together in a cave while they both fight to get back to the man they both love. Johnny responds that it’s definitely not going to work.

Joy assumes Johnny told Chanel everything which she confirms. Joy points out that they didn’t actually sleep together and swears that Johnny stopped it before anything happened because he loves Chanel like crazy. Joy asks if there’s any way Chanel could possibly forgive Johnny.

Belle wants EJ to know that she did not pursue the position and that Jada asked her to take it. EJ argues that she didn’t have to say yes but notes that she didn’t owe him her allegiance but feels Paulina and Jada betrayed him and conspired against him. Belle argues that Paulina was just making a change and that EJ will land on his feet like he always does. Belle suggests EJ accept the situation with grace and forget about the revenge and retribution. EJ asks what he could possibly do to Paulina or Jada as he looks over towards the tunnels.

Rafe struggles with being tied up as he tries to reach his phone. Rafe is able to accept Jada’s call with his foot and tries screaming despite being gagged.

Leo questions Johnny not thinking his story will work. Johnny tells him that Joy and Chanel won’t do it because of him.

Chanel tells Joy that it’s none of her damn business if she forgives Johnny. Joy says she cares about them both and that this only happened because of a misunderstanding between Chanel and Alex. Chanel calls Johnny an idiot for believing she would be unfaithful and not coming to her about it while instead hopping in bed with another woman and lying about it over and over again.

Marlena goes home and greets Belle. Belle mentions being at the DiMeras for New Year’s for Johnny and Chanel’s impromptu party which she calls a very strange little party as they ran out of food and the hosts disappeared. Belle adds that for her, it was very awkward because Paulina fired EJ yesterday and gave her his job which surprises Marlena.

Jada asks where Rafe is but EJ comes down to the room and hangs up the phone. EJ guesses Rafe’s phone fell out of his pocket when he dragged him down there, so it looks like he got there just in time. EJ tells Rafe that he can blame Arnold for telling him everything he didn’t want him to hear, so that he had to drag him down here. EJ tells Rafe that there’s no point in screaming because no one will be able to hear him. EJ removes Rafe’s gag, so he tries screaming for help anyways.

Javi goes to the living room and wishes Jada a happy new year. Javi says he’s off to the gym and asks if everything is okay. Jada says she hopes so as Rafe is away on a case for Black Patch which suddenly came up and he had to leave. Jada mentions that she just tried calling him and he picked up but didn’t say anything and the call just dropped. Javi suggests she try calling him again, but it goes straight to voicemail.

Chanel questions why Joy wasn’t upfront with her from the beginning, arguing that she befriended her, invited her in to her home and tried to look out for her. Chanel talks about knowing what it’s like to be the new girl in town. Joy argues that she didn’t ask her to look out for her and acknowledges that she’s been so kind to her. Chanel asks if she thought it would be easier to lie to her face than admit she climbed in to bed with her husband. Chanel adds that Joy let her keep inviting her over. Joy complains that she wouldn’t take no for an answer. Chanel says now she knows why she kept making excuses and remarks that Joy let her make a fool of herself over and over. Joy says she’s sorry but Chanel says she was only sorry that she was found out. Chanel adds that Johnny told her that she was afraid of losing her job at Body and Soul. Chanel accuses Joy of betraying a friend to protect her job which says a lot about her character.

Johnny informs Leo that he hooked up with Joy so he thinks Faith and Regan in an enclosed space would not be good. Leo questions how this could have happened when Chanel and Johnny were the epitome of a happy couple. Johnny says he thought so too and explains that this thing with Joy happened before she was cast, when he stupidly thought that Chanel was cheating on him with Alex. Johnny clarifies that he didn’t sleep with Joy as he stopped it before it got that far. Leo asks if it’s technically even cheating. Johnny says it doesn’t matter as he was half naked with another woman on a bed and lied about it for weeks. Johnny adds that when Chanel found out, she was livid and walked out. Johnny wishes he talked to Chanel instead of accusing her of something she didn’t do. Leo says he understands because the same thing just happened to him.

Jada leaves Rafe a voicemail to call her when he gets it. Javi tells Jada that they have to do something about the expression on her face and assures that Rafe is fine. Jada wishes she could talk to him. Javi asks about their wedding plans. Jada informs him that they decided to get married on Rafe’s birthday at the end of the month. Jada notes that they’ve both been married before so they figured on something modest. Javi argues that in their culture, a wedding is an excuse to party for days and offers to step in to plan the wedding. Javi encourages that this time they will get it right. Javi knows how busy they are and declares that with him at the helm, they won’t have to lift a finger.

Rafe continues screaming for help. EJ says he told him he’s wasting his breath. Rafe questions why bother gagging him if no one can hear him. EJ calls it a failsafe and a psychological factor. Rafe calls him a son of a bitch and demands to be untied but EJ says he can’t because he knows too much. Rafe talks about EJ faking Arnold’s death and shipping him out of the country before he could testify against him. EJ says he had no idea that Arnold would show up at his house and that he was getting him to leave before Rafe snuck back in to his home. EJ adds that when he came back and found Rafe knocked out, he had no other choice but to drag him down here. Rafe questions EJ saying it’s his fault that he kidnapped him. EJ argues that Rafe was trespassing on his property. Rafe warns EJ that he’s engaged to the police commissioner and believes she’s out looking for him now but EJ responds that he knows she is not.

Marlena is thrilled to learn that Belle is the new district attorney and hugs her. Marlena calls it well deserved and a great accomplishment which also means Belle will be in Salem a lot longer. Marlena asks how EJ is taking it. Belle admits things are going to be more uncomfortable between them but at least she won’t be bumping in to him every day. Marlena brings up that Belle will also be seeing a lot of Shawn. Belle confirms they talked and Shawn was very supportive, but admits she is working closely with Shawn because when they split up, she thought they would be on different continents and not seeing his face every day. Shawn then shows up at the door. Shawn apologizes for dropping by on New Year’s Day, but says he is pretty sure Belle will have a stack of cases when she goes to the office tomorrow, so he brought her a few cases that EJ refused to prosecute that he thinks she should re-evaluate.

Rafe realizes that Jada has no idea he’s missing because EJ replaced him with Arnold, just like last time. EJ informs Rafe that Arnold did kiss Jada at midnight on New Year’s, but nothing further. Rafe swears he could kill them both with his bare hands and asks where Arnold is now. EJ reveals that he sent him to a motel to lie low while he cleans up the mess. EJ explains that he told Jada that Rafe had to go on a Black Patch mission. Rafe asks about when Jada finds out from Steve that it’s all BS. EJ insists that she won’t. Rafe argues that EJ will run out of options and can’t keep him down here forever. Rafe offers to make EJ a deal, saying they could work together to take down Arnold for good this time.

Jada tells Javi it’s so kind of him. Javi says she will be family and wearing his mom’s ring. Jada still feels a little self conscious about the ring but Javi encourages her. Javi talks about loving weddings but feeling like it isn’t in the cards for him. Jada asks Javi about seeing Kerry. Javi says he’s great and he spent the holidays with him, but he’s not sure he is the one.

Leo tells Johnny about how he accused Javi of being Lady Whistleblower when he wasn’t and the impostor is still out there torturing him, while Javi wants nothing to do with him. Johnny says he’s sorry as that sucks. Johnny assumes that Leo has tried to apologizing which Leo confirms, but says Javi won’t accept. Leo adds it’s all moot now since Javi is seeing someone else. Leo encourages that won’t happen with he and Chanel, but Johnny is not optimistic.

Joy tells Chanel that it wasn’t just about the job and talks about how no one knew her here, so she didn’t want her first impression to be as the homewrecker and her mother would have killed her. Chanel admits that she’s done her share of stupid things, but she thought she was her friend and that’s not how you treat a friend. Joy agrees that makes it so much worse as she really likes Chanel and thinks she’s a great person. Joy admits there’s no excuse for what she did. Joy then reveals that EJ offered her money to leave town, which shocks Chanel. Joy says she should’ve gone while Chanel shouts that she wishes Joy never came in the first place. Joy apologizes but Chanel says that doesn’t make it any better. Chanel advises Joy to take the money and pretend this conversation never happened. Chanel declares that Joy is not a good person and she hopes she never sees her again as she storms off.

Leo encourages Johnny that Chanel will eventually forgive him. Leo says until then, he’ll do his best to keep Chanel and Joy apart as best as he can. Johnny thanks him but is sorry if that means he has to come up with a new story. Leo tells Johnny to hang in there as he goes to get coffee.

Jada asks Javi what makes him say that Kerry might not be the one. Javi wonders if anyone is really the one and guesses he’s just in a bad mood from a lame New Year’s Eve. Javi hopes he doesn’t run in to Leo at the gym and questions what he ever saw in him. Javi admits that he was smitten with Leo and thought they were compatible until Leo ruined it. Jada points out that Leo did apologize but Javi declares it’s too little, too late and they are done for good.

Belle asks Shawn about working on the holiday. Shawn says he told Jada that he would volunteer. Belle promises to do her best to make the charges stick in the cases. Shawn decides he’s intruded long enough. Marlena tells Shawn that he will always be a part of their family. Shawn thanks her and wishes them a happy new year as he exits. Marlena tells Belle that they both handled that very well and professionally, so she’s proud of her. Marlena thinks Shawn seemed very pleased that Belle is the new district attorney. Belle thinks it’s more that it’s not EJ. Marlena encourages her. Belle talks about knowing how to handle EJ and acknowledges that they had a thing in the past and that Sami wanted to murder her over it. Marlena advises Belle to be careful which she promises to do.

Rafe insists to EJ that they can work together to put Arnold away. Rafe promises not to say anything about EJ’s involvement as he just wants to go home and get Arnold off the streets. Rafe gives EJ his word, insisting that he can trust him. EJ says maybe he can trust him, but he can’t trust Arnold. EJ says even if Rafe kept his name out of it, he doesn’t think Arnold will. EJ then informs Rafe that Jada already got him fired and somehow convinced Paulina to replace him with Belle, so he has no doubt that Jada will take the first opportunity to put him away. Rafe insists that Jada won’t say anything and he will talk to her but EJ doesn’t believe she will listen. EJ tells Rafe that he’s sorry but he will have to stay put until he figures out what to do with him, so he urges him to eat.

Chanel goes to the Body and Soul studio and tells Johnny that she knows she had nothing to say to him, but she realized she does have something to say to him. Chanel then tells Johnny that she quits.

Leo finds Joy in the town square and says he wanted to give her a heads up about some rewrites in the show because he had to write her out of scenes with Chanel. Joy guesses he heard what happened which Leo confirms. Leo says it’s too bad they can’t harness it on screen. Joy worries about it ending up in Lady Whistleblower’s column. Leo gets up to walk away but runs in to Javi.

Rafe continues to struggle with being tied up.

EJ emerges from the tunnels with Rafe’s phone and deletes Jada’s voicemail. EJ uses Rafe’s phone to text Jada that he’s sorry about earlier as he couldn’t talk due to being super busy with the case and that he’ll be in touch soon. EJ decides that will shut Jada up for awhile.

At the police station, Jada gets the text from Rafe’s phone as Shawn arrives and asks if everything is okay. Jada informs him that she just got a text, allegedly from Rafe but she has a really weird feeling that it’s not really from him.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Stephanie has a dream about Alex, then wakes up in bed with Philip, who wishes her a happy New Year.

Alex and Joy wake up in bed together. They comment on it being a little awkward while Joy jokes that at least he’s not married.

Johnny goes to the Body and Soul studio and finds Abe there. Johnny wasn’t expecting to see anyone there on New Year’s Day. Abe says a producer’s day is never done and questions Johnny not being at home with his wife. Johnny responds that the problem is Chanel is gone.

Chanel surprises Paulina at home and tells her that she came from the guest room as she figured Paulina wouldn’t mind if she crashed there. Paulina questions her not being home with her husband. Chanel reveals that she left him. Paulina asks why she would do that and what happened. Paulina acknowledges their rough patch when Johnny thought Chanel was sleeping with Alex, but she thought they got past that. Chanel responds that she forgave Johnny for thinking that she cheated on him, only to find out that he cheated on her.

Johnny reveals to Abe that he cheated on Chanel and he feels awful about it. Johnny adds that Abe will be even more upset with him when he tells him who he cheated on her with.

Alex tells Joy that she doesn’t have to feel guilty since he’s not married. Joy asks if he’s sure about that as she’s wondering if there’s still something going on between he and Stephanie.

Stephanie wishes Philip a happy New Year as well and asks if he slept okay. Philip confirms he did after all the champagne, but guesses it didn’t work for her as she was tossing and turning just now. Philip guesses she was having a pretty intense dream. Stephanie claims not to remember what it was about. Philip wonders if she does remember, but doesn’t want to hurt his feelings by admitting that it was about Alex.

JJ and Gabi wake up in bed together. They both say they are glad JJ stayed and they kiss until they heard the sound of a plate crashing which Gabi questions what that was.

Paulina questions Chanel as to when Johnny cheated on her. Chanel explains that it was when Johnny thought she cheated on him with Alex and he thought he was getting revenge on her for something she didn’t even do, so she pretty much grabbed the first girl he saw and reveals that it was Joy Wesley.

Abe questions Johnny cheating on Chanel with Joy, an actress from their show. Johnny explains that Joy wasn’t on the show yet and hadn’t even auditioned yet as she was a complete stranger and he had no idea she would have any connection with Body and Soul. Johnny knows it’s no better but assures he did not use his position to take advantage of a cast member as it was a terrible coincidence, but he thought it was important that Abe know as executive producer. Abe appreciates his honesty and doesn’t think it will be an issue for HR. Johnny assures that it is completely over, but he’s just worried that his marriage is over too.

Alex assures Joy that she’s not stepping on anything between he and Stephanie. Alex comments that there hasn’t been anything between he and Stephanie in a long time. Joy points out that wasn’t really their choice after everything that happened on set. Alex says there’s a lot of other things that went down between them but that doesn’t matter anymore because Stephanie is actually seeing his cousin, Philip.

Stephanie questions Philip thinking she was dreaming about Alex. Philip calls it just a hunch. Stephanie then admits he was right that she was dreaming about Alex. Philip then declares that he made a huge mistake staying over. Philip thought he could help her get over Alex, but guesses that he was wrong and he failed. Philip gets out of bed while Stephanie asks if they can talk about this. Philip says there’s nothing to talk about as it’s obvious she’s not over Alex. Philip says he can tell by the look on her face when his name comes up. Philip says he’s realizing more and more that he was genuinely interested in her but he needs to get over that. Philip declares that he wants a relationship with Stephanie, so if she doesn’t want the same thing, they should just cut their losses and end this before it’s too late.

Joy senses that Alex is not too thrilled with Stephanie dating Philip. Alex claims that he’s fine with it and says it’s not surprising since they dated before and were even engaged at one point. Alex says that Philip is trying his best to get things back where they were before. Alex encourages Stephanie for whatever she wants. Joy questions what Alex wants.

Abe tells Johnny that Chanel must be furious about what happened but questions their marriage being over. Johnny talks about how hurt Chanel was, so he doesn’t think Chanel will ever be able to look at him the same or be able to forgive him. Abe says he’s so sorry for both of them. Johnny admits he was so stupid as he had himself convinced that Chanel and Alex were sleeping together and he was so focused on his anger and how betrayed he felt. Johnny says he was too cowardly to just confront Chanel like an adult or else he would’ve known nothing happened between them and he instead acted on his anger, but by the time he found out the truth, it was too late. Abe questions Johnny and Joy having already slept together by that point but Johnny clarifies that they didn’t sleep together.

Paulina questions Chanel about Johnny cheating on her with Joy. Chanel explains that it was before Joy was cast on Body and Soul, so they didn’t know who each other were at the time. Paulina can’t believe Johnny jumped in bed with a total stranger. Chanel explains that Johnny was mad because he thought she was sleeping with Alex, so they met at the bar and went back to her room at the Salem Inn. Chanel notes that Johnny said they didn’t sleep together. Paulina questions going back to her hotel room and not having sex. Chanel confirms that’s what Johnny said, so Paulina asks why she’s so upset then.

JJ and Gabi go to investigate the crash sound in the living room, only to find that it was Gabi’s cousin Javi. Gabi tells Javi that he scared them. Javi blames the mixing bowl being on the highest shelf and declares that he’s making his special New Year’s pancakes with champagne. Javi then introduces himself to JJ and says he’s seen his pictures. Javi jokes that JJ is even hotter in person. JJ thanks him. Javi thinks Gabi should be thanking him and remarks that it looks like they had fun last night. Javi suggests they all sit down and get to know each other better.

Chanel tells Paulina that she’s upset because Johnny did fool around with Joy. Paulina asks what exactly he did. Chanel guesses they started making out and took off all their clothes, then hopped in bed but basically stopped right before the point of no return. Chanel feels that’s still cheating and asks if Paulina doesn’t agree. Paulina assures that she does agree that Johnny never should’ve gotten himself in to that situation, but points out that Johnny did this because he thought Chanel was cheating on him. Chanel questions that making it all fair and that he was just evening out the score because Paulina was just upset as she was at first. Chanel feels it’s even worse that Johnny didn’t sleep with Joy because that means he knew what he was doing the whole time and he had such little faith in her that instead of just asking her about Alex, he goes to the bar and picks up a total stranger and comes this close to going all the way with her. Chanel declares that she is not going to forgive Johnny, he does not get another chance, and that she is done with him.

Johnny informs Abe that he stopped himself from sleeping with Joy at the last possible second. Abe suggests he was more clear headed than he thought then. Johnny responds that all he knows was that in that moment, he realized how much he loved Chanel and couldn’t bring himself to betray her. Johnny admits that he betrayed Chanel the second he walked in to Joy’s hotel room and now that Chanel knows what he did, she’s obviously disappointed in him, hurt, and angry. Johnny declares that he honestly doesn’t think Chanel even loves him anymore.

Stephanie tells Philip that she won’t deny she has some residual feelings for Alex, just like Philip does for Chloe. Stephanie points out that they talked last night about how they both want to move on with their lives, but it’s not like they can just forget the people who once meant something to them ever existed. Philip supposes that’s true. Stephanie declares that no matter how she felt or feels about Alex, he’s the past and Philip is the present. Stephanie tells Philip that she likes him, she likes talking to him, laughing with him, and just being around him, noting that she wouldn’t have asked him to stay over if she didn’t. Stephanie assures that last night really did mean something to her too. Stephanie promises to try to stop dreaming about Alex and asks if they can just have breakfast together which Philip agrees to.

Alex tells Joy that he and Stephanie had a lot of good times together, but when they hooked up on set, it really screwed things up for them. Alex adds that even if they weren’t working together, he highly doubts they’d ever be able to get back to where they were because of the basic incompatibility between them. Alex thinks Stephanie feels the exact same way, so maybe the policy that Kate put in effect is for the best as it makes sure that he and Stephanie move on which is what he’s trying to do. Alex questions if Joy doesn’t believe him but she says she does. Alex knows it’s extremely weird for her to lay in bed with someone talking about another woman. Joy decides they won’t talk about the other girl since he’s moving on, so they continue kissing instead.

Philip makes breakfast for he and Stephanie. Stephanie encourages Philip about being co-CEO of Titan and tells him that she believes in him. Philip thanks her and admits that he had doubts he could still do this, so it means a lot that she fully supports him.

Javi asks Gabi to tell him about last night. Gabi says if he wants to hear the details of their night, he has to cough up his first. Gabi asks if Javi went out with his new friend Kerry. Javi responds that Kerry is out of town with his family, so he spent the evening alone. Gabi says she’s sorry but points out that Javi wasn’t home when they got back. Javi says he went out by himself and admits it wasn’t fun, calling the whole night a bust but Gabi notes the look on his face. Gabi guesses that Javi is thinking about going back to Leo Stark. Javi insists that he’s not and that it’s over after Leo accused him of being Lady Whistleblower. Javi decides he’s going to change and go to the gym. Javi tells JJ it was great meeting him and reminds Gabi that she owes him details. Javi adds that maybe by the time he gets back, they’ll have more details.

Abe tells Johnny that he knows Chanel is upset with him right now, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t love him and that she just needs time to deal with what happened. Johnny questions her just needing time. Abe encourages that time will help. Johnny insists that he’s willing to do whatever it takes. Johnny thanks Abe and admits that he wasn’t expecting him to be so charitable towards him. Abe acknowledges Johnny as his son in law and family. Abe assures that he doesn’t hate him, but notes that Paulina might be a tougher nut to crack.

Paulina tells Chanel that she could just kill Johnny for hurting her like this. Chanel asks if she gets it now. Paulina says she got it, but was just trying to give Johnny the benefit of the doubt. Paulina agrees with Chanel that there is no excuse for what Johnny did. Chanel appreciates her seeing it her way now. Chanel adds that the worst part is that after everything with Alex, she thought she and Johnny had gotten past that and their marriage was in a really good place but now she can’t even look at him. Paulina cries that she’s so sorry she has to go through this. Paulina declares that Johnny and Joy did her wrong. Paulina suggests Chanel take a shower and get dressed since it’s the first day of the new year and she will feel better after. Chanel agrees to go do that, but doubts she will feel any better.

Alex asks if Joy wants to go downstairs for breakfast. Joy says she needs to start learning her lines. Alex insists she needs a quick breakfast break but Joy worries that she has a ton of scenes tomorrow with Chanel and that Chanel has to know everything by now. Joy can’t imagine what’s going to happen when they see each other. Alex says it will be super uncomfortable, but reminds her that Johnny was married, not her, and he made her keep the secret from his wife. Alex feels that no matter what Joy did, she was in a no-win situation. Joy doesn’t think Chanel will want to hear it from her. Alex says Chanel is tough, but he’s not worried because Joy is too.

Gabi and JJ have breakfast while Gabi congratulates JJ on surviving Javi. JJ decides he should get going and get dressed as he’s sure she has things to do today. Gabi informs him that her staff forced her to take the week off, so she actually doesn’t. JJ notes that he doesn’t start at the police department until tomorrow, so they agree to spend the day together.

Philip tells Stephanie that he looks forward to more opportunities to cook for her in the future, but he needs to get to the office and bets Xander is already there, looking for any excuse to point out that he’s not working. Stephanie says she should get to work as well and catch up on what she missed over the holidays. They agree to having dinner later. Stephanie walks Philip out and they kiss right as Alex begins coming home and stops around the corner. Stephanie and Philip both say they had a great time last night. Philip then turns around and greets Alex. Philip hopes he enjoyed his New Year’s Eve. Alex says he did and thanks him. Philip and Stephanie say they did too. Philip tells Stephanie that he will see her later and walks away. Stephanie and Alex wish each other a happy New Year.

Abe goes home. Paulina thought he’d be in the office all day. Abe says he intended to but he needed to talk to her after he saw Johnny. Paulina informs him that she knows everything as Chanel snuck in last night and slept in the guest room, so she gave her every detail about what happened between Johnny and Joy. Abe notes that Johnny does feel horrible about what happened. Paulina responds that he should and that she doesn’t see Chanel forgiving him anytime soon.

Johnny remains at the studio and looks at his wedding ring. Johnny pulls out his phone and calls Chanel.

Chanel walks through the town square and answers the call. Johnny wasn’t sure she would answer. Chanel responds that she has nothing to say to him and hangs up. Chanel then turns around and sees Joy sitting in the town square, so she confronts her.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

JJ and Gabi talk about having fun at the DiMera Mansion. JJ notes that Gabi has been keeping her distance from EJ. Gabi says she plans to let EJ know what a colossal loser he is at midnight. Gabi and JJ talk about having a crappy year. JJ says he’s grateful for everything Gabi did to try to help them find Abigail. Gabi says he doesn’t have to keep saying that. JJ tells Gabi that he’s really glad he gets to start the new year with her. Philip and Belle have champagne. Philip asks Belle how she’s doing. Belle says she’s alright but it’s hard not to be thinking about Shawn since it’s the first New Year’s she has spent as a single woman in a long time. Philip encourages her and they toast to the good old days and even better new ones. Alex asks Stephanie where her date is since it’s almost midnight. Stephanie points out Philip and asks where Alex is. Alex responds that Joy seems to have disappeared. Stephanie mentions not seeing Johnny or Chanel either. Gabi calls everyone’s attention for the countdown to the ball dropping. Arnold kisses Jada and JJ kisses Gabi at midnight. Alex wishes Stephanie a happy new year and walks away as Philip comes over and apologizes for missing the big moment. Philip asks for a do over as he and Stephanie kiss while Alex watches uncomfortably. EJ angrily shakes his head at Arnold kissing Jada and drinks his champagne. EJ looks over at JJ and Gabi kissing. Belle comes over and wishes EJ a happy new year. Belle jokes that aside from Alex’s date missing, they are the odd ones out. EJ suggests they could change that but Belle thinks that wouldn’t be a good idea based on their history. EJ argues that he was just going to give her a respectful friendly kiss, which Belle allows on the cheek. Alex looks around for Joy, wondering where the hell she is.

Johnny brings Joy to his room. Joy asks what he wants when it’s going to be midnight soon. Johnny questions why Joy came tonight. Joy argues that his wife invited them and she’s not easy to say no to. Johnny complains that they have to figure something out because it’s very stressful having her there. Joy argues that it’s stressful for her to have to pretend to be having fun and worries about if Chanel knew what happened between them, right as Chanel appears in the doorway and backs out after hearing her. Chanel then walks in and tells Joy to spill the tea and tell her what happened between her and her husband.

Alex watches on as Stephanie and Philip continue kissing. Alex then interrupts and suggests they get a room. Stephanie apologizes and Philip guesses they forgot where they were. Belle pours more champagne while EJ declines a refill. Belle walks away while EJ complains about Arnold. EJ approaches them and says he needs to tear “Rafe” away since Johnny and Chanel have disappeared, while he needs help bringing out the rest of the food. Arnold kisses Jada and says he’ll be right back as EJ takes him to the kitchen. Philip questions Alex standing all alone and what happened to Joy.

Johnny tells Chanel that he thought she was downstairs. Chanel explains that it was almost midnight and she couldn’t find him, so she guesses he lost track of time. Johnny says they should get back downstairs to the party but Chanel tells him that he already missed the countdown. Chanel declares that she’s not going anywhere until they tell her what the hell they were talking about. Joy claims that there was misunderstanding and she was just talking about one of the scripts and her character. Chanel tells Joy not to insult her intelligence and have the decency to tell her the truth. Johnny tells Joy that he needs to speak to Chanel alone, so Joy exits. Chanel then demands Johnny start talking and asks what is going on. Johnny explains that this whole thing started when he thought she was cheating on him with Alex, but he was wrong and so jealous, angry, and hurt. Johnny admits that he went to drown his sorrows at the Small Bar which is the night he met Joy. Chanel argues that she was there when they met on set. Johnny clarifies that they just acted like they didn’t know each other. Johnny tells her that when Joy walked in to the bar, he had no idea who she was, why she was in Salem, or how long she would be there and they just started talking, so he confided in her that his wife was cheating on him. Chanel questions him telling that to a complete stranger. Johnny says she was going on about her horrible day, so he just blurted it out and then it all came out. Johnny adds that Joy was sympathetic to his story but couldn’t understand why he hadn’t confronted Chanel. Johnny knows he should’ve talked to Chanel and wishes he had, so he wouldn’t have made the biggest mistake of his life.

Alex tells Philip that he has no idea what happened to Joy as she disappeared on him. Joy then returns to the room in a rush. Alex asks if everything is alright. Joy claims she’s just peachy. Philip tells Joy it’s great to see her and asks how her sister Chloe is. Joy questions why he cares when he dumped her ass. Joy then goes to get a refill of champagne. Stephanie guesses Joy is not Philip’s biggest fan. Philip notes that Joy and Chloe don’t always get along, but they are very protective of each other. Philip guesses that even though he and Chloe agreed it wasn’t working between them, he did the actual breaking up. JJ and Gabi come over as JJ wishes Stephanie a happy new year. Gabi comments on Philip worming his way back in to Titan and congratulates him. Philip asks if he doesn’t have to worry about her stealing it out from under him again. Gabi remarks that he’ll have to look a little closer to home for that and she’s quite happy at Gabi Chic. Gabi brings up when Philip tried to blackmail her out of her company. JJ suggests they go, so he and Gabi go to get their things while Philip tells Stephanie that he was just making conversation. Alex asks Joy where she was. Joy informs him that she was upstairs with Johnny and Chanel. Alex asks what happened. Joy responds that she will tell him all about it, but asks him to take her home first, so they exit together. Philip guesses they can’t wait to ring in the new year in private. Stephanie tells Philip that she wouldn’t mind leaving and suggests they call it a night, so they exit as well. Belle and Jada talk about Paulina’s generous offer. Jada tells Belle that everyone will be thrilled to find out that she’s the new district attorney. Belle says except EJ as she hasn’t had a chance to tell him yet and she feels he is going to be livid.

Outside of the living room. EJ complains to Arnold about him kissing Jada. Arnold calls EJ an idiot and asks what it would look like if he’s not kissing her on New Year’s Eve. EJ declares that’s as far as it goes and that he is not to sleep with Jada. Arnold asks why it matters. EJ argues that she cannot give consent, just like Arnold did with Sami. Arnold says that didn’t bother him then. EJ says his anger towards Sami clouded his judgment, the world has changed and his views have evolved. EJ calls Arnold the same disgusting pig he’s always been and warns that if Arnold continues to defy him, things will not end well for him. Gabi and JJ then come over to ask what is going on here.

Jada and Belle laugh together and then realize that everyone’s already gone home just after midnight. Belle guesses they are the only fun ones. Jada admits she wants to go home as her feet are killing her. Belle suggests they make a break for it but Jada says she has to wait for “Rafe” and wonders what is taking he and EJ so long.

Gabi questions why EJ is ripping in to “Rafe” while JJ says he heard something about things not ending well for him. EJ claims he was merely pointing out that Jada screwed Rafe out of a job and now came for his as she convinced Paulina to fire him earlier today. Gabi and JJ celebrate that but Gabi questions how it’s Rafe’s fault. Arnold says it’s okay as he can handle EJ. Gabi says she and JJ are going home and to tell Johnny and Chanel that they had a lovely evening as they exit. Arnold guesses that’s his cue to go as well since Jada wants to go home. EJ warns that he is not to go home with her so Arnold asks where he’s supposed to go. Jada then comes out and asks “Rafe” if he’s ready to go, but EJ says she can’t go home with him so Jada questions why the hell not.

Philip brings Stephanie home. She asks if he wants to watch TV or put on some music. She then offers to heat up dessert that her mom gave her. Philip stops her and asks her why she’s acting so weird. Stephanie questions how she’s acting weird, pointing out that it’s the new year and she wants them to have a good time. Philip asks if that’s all it is or if it’s also about Alex.

Alex brings Joy home, where Joy tells him that she assumes Chanel now knows the truth. Alex wonders if Johnny could have talked his way out of it but Joy says Chanel was determined to get answers, so she doesn’t think Johnny had any choice but to tell her everything.

Chanel asks Johnny what his big mistake was or if she should start guessing. Johnny admits that eventually, he and Joy went back to her hotel room where they kept talking and drinking as he flashes back to that night. Johnny then claims that they kissed and that’s all that happened but Chanel says he’s not getting off that easy as she wants every last detail, no matter how painful it is. Chanel tells Johnny to keep going, guessing they are just getting to the good part. Johnny reminds her that he honestly thought their marriage was over and he was desperately trying to get away from the pain and hurt he was feeling. Chanel feels he was trying to get back at her for her supposed betrayal. Johnny guesses that had something to do with it too. Johnny then admits that after they kissed, things went a little further. Johnny says that he stopped before it went all the way and left her room. Chanel questions him expecting her to believe they were half naked on her bed and didn’t have sex. Johnny says that’s the truth and hopes she will believe him. Chanel responds that she believes him so Johnny breathes a sigh of relief, but Chanel then slaps him.

Alex tells Joy that in a way, this is probably for the best that it’s all coming out. Joy says that’s easy for him to say since he won’t be receiving Chanel’s wrath. Alex points out that he kept the truth from her too. Joy knows that Alex just didn’t want her to get hurt. Alex says it’s too late for that but at least there’s no more secrets. Joy talks about how much she hated it and how nice Chanel was to her, but the days of Chanel liking her are certainly over. Alex feels she doesn’t know that for sure and suggests maybe it won’t get as ugly as they think since Joy and Johnny didn’t actually do the deed. Joy says they didn’t, but if she was Chanel, she’d still be super pissed.

Stephanie asks Philip why she would be acting weird because of Alex. Philip feels that Stephanie has been bothered ever since finding out Alex and Joy were going to the party together, like she still has a thing for him. Stephanie admits that maybe he’s right that she’s not entirely over Alex, but she wants to be. Philip calls that a start. Stephanie explains that they were together once and it ended badly, then eventually they started hanging out again but she could never figure out what either of them wanted from the relationship. Stephanie adds that they aren’t allowed to see each other anyway because of work. Philip asks if it wasn’t for work. Stephanie still doesn’t think they are right for each other. Stephanie admits that they had a connection, but ultimately they are not compatible so she should be happy that Alex is moving on with Joy and she wishes she could find a way to move on too.

Jada questions EJ as to why she can’t go home with Rafe. EJ claims that he just got a call from Steve to take a big job for Black Patch. Jada questions that being on New Year’s Eve and he has to leave now. Arnold says it’s top secret stuff and he apparently has no choice. Jada calls it very disappointing to not be able to spend the new year together. Jada asks how long he’ll be gone. Arnold admits he has no idea. Jada reminds him they are getting married at the end of the month and if he’ll be back before then. Arnold promises he wouldn’t miss that and he’ll be there, but for now, he better hit the road. Jada tells him to be careful out there and she loves him. Arnold hugs Jada and says he’ll see her soon as he then exits the mansion.

JJ brings Gabi home where they decide on leftover pizza. JJ can’t believe they ran out of food at the party while the hosts disappeared and EJ was acting stranger than usual. Gabi calls it bizarre but a DiMera affair, so it’s to be expected. JJ guesses she must be sorry that she agreed to go out with him tonight. Gabi says no way and that EJ was having a worse night, so that’s a win. Gabi adds that she also got an amazing kiss at midnight. JJ knows she’s just coming off a divorce and he doesn’t want to make things complicated so they can just call it a new year’s kiss between friends that doesn’t have to mean anything more than that. Gabi asks what if she wants it to mean more.

Joy tells Alex that she knows it’s selfish but she can’t stop thinking about how this is going to affect her and worries that she could get fired since Abe is Chanel’s stepfather. Alex reminds her that she’s on contract. Joy hopes Chanel won’t hold a grudge but Alex assures that she will from personal experience. Joy says she should’ve just taken the money when EJ offered it while now she could end up with nothing and go back to New York, proving her mother right that all she ever does is screw things up. Alex encourage that it’s not Joy’s fault. Joy points out that she somehow destroyed a marriage, so even if she keeps her job, everyone will hate her. Alex assures that he won’t hate her and thinks she’s very kind, funny, and hot. Joy doesn’t believe him, so Alex then kisses her.

Johnny thought Chanel said she believed him. Chanel says she believes he didn’t go all the way with Joy but infidelity can mean a lot of things and he was half naked with another woman, making out with her on her bed, so that’s still cheating. Johnny agrees that he totally betrayed her but insists that nothing like that ever happened again between he and Joy. Johnny adds that once Joy gave him back his wedding ring, he thought he would never see her again and then she got cast in Body and Soul which he assures he had nothing to do with. Johnny calls it a horrible coincidence and says he almost had a heart attack when Kate brought her on set. Johnny says Joy had no idea he worked on the show and they both agreed to keep their mouths shut. Chanel complains that all this time, she was working with the woman he almost slept with and he allowed her to make a fool of herself by trying to be her friend. Johnny apologizes and says he hated deceiving her but things got complicated and Joy was terrified of losing her job. Chanel asks who cares about Joy and argues that Johnny should’ve been honest with her. Chanel then realizes that Joy implied she was mistaken about her and Alex which means they didn’t sleep together and complains that Alex was in on it too. Johnny explains that Joy told Alex, so Alex got angry and came over to give him hell about it which is what they were arguing about when Chanel came home that day. Chanel then realizes that Johnny was covering his own ass by saying that Alex was the one who slept with Joy and just completely threw Alex under the bus. Johnny admits that he did. Chanel questions why Alex would agree to that. Johnny says Alex didn’t want her to get hurt and neither did he. Chanel complains that he just lied to her for months. Johnny argues that he wanted to tell her the truth so many times but he couldn’t bring himself to do it as their marriage was hanging on by a thread and he was terrified of losing her. Johnny tells Chanel that he is so sorry and knows that he messed up. Johnny cries that he’ll do whatever it takes to make it up to her if there is a way they can move past this. Chanel tells Johnny that there is no way that she can ever forgive him.

JJ asks if Gabi is saying she wants something more than just friendship. Gabi says she’s not necessarily looking to start a relationship, but she’s ready to explore the possibility. Gabi doesn’t know where this is going, but feels that old spark between them and asks if it’s just her. JJ assures that he feels it too, so Gabi asks JJ if he wants to spend the night which he accepts. JJ then takes Gabi’s hand and they head to her room.

Belle points out that it’s down to three while Jada says she should head out as she has a really busy day ahead. EJ remarks that he’s sure she’ll have to get her new district attorney up to speed and wishes best of luck to that unfortunate son of a bitch. Belle then informs EJ that she’s been trying to tell him that the unfortunate son of a bitch is her.

Philip tells Stephanie that he knows how she feels since he and Chloe are totally over, but he still thinks about her and what might have been. Stephanie says it can be hard letting go. Philip suggests they can help each other with that. Stephanie likes that idea. Philip then tells her that ever since their amazing midnight kiss, he’s been dying to kiss her again, so they begin kissing again and then they get up to head to the bedroom.

Alex apologizes to Joy for kissing her and says he shouldn’t have done that because she’s in a vulnerable place right now and he doesn’t want to take advantage of that, so he will see her at work. Joy stops him and asks him not to go, so they continue kissing. Alex begins removing his shirt as they kiss onto her bed.

Johnny tells Chanel that he knows he doesn’t deserve her forgiveness but begs for her forgiveness, swearing that he can fix this. Chanel says it’s too late and maybe if he told her from the beginning but he kept lying to her and even called her a cheating slut. Johnny wishes he could take all of this back. Chanel says he can’t and that he betrayed her in the worst possible way. Chanel declares that her heart is completely broken and she just needs to get away from him. Johnny asks her not to leave and says she can yell at him or hit him, but pleads with her to stay. Chanel tells Johnny to get out of her way. Johnny cries that he can’t lose her because he loves her too much. Chanel screams at him to get out of her way as she storms out.

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Days of Our Lives Update

Update written by Joseph

Gabi and JJ bump in to each other in the town square. They talk and then JJ asks if she would like to ring in the new year together.

At the Body and Soul studio, Stephanie finishes a call as Philip arrives and says he knew she’d be working on New Year’s Eve. Stephanie responds that the soap world never rests. Philip says he just wanted to confirm their plans for New Year’s Eve as he made reservations at the Bistro. Stephanie says that sounds amazing, but she can’t go.

At the hospital, Joy and Alex talk about how intense their scenes were. Alex praises Joy for nailing it while Joy remarks that it helps that she’s no stranger to breaking up a happy couple. Chanel then joins them and asks what they are talking about.

Arnold goes to the Brady Pub to meet Jada and pretend to be Rafe. He asks about her big news. Jada starts to talk about the district attorney situation but stops to question him changing his clothes since Rafe was wearing something different when she went to work, so she asks why he changed.

EJ declares that the last day of the year has gone from bad to worse, so he hopes Arnold doesn’t screw things up worse than he already has as EJ prepares to drag Rafe’s body in to the underground tunnels and says they’ll see what happens to him after that.

Alex tells Chanel that they were just talking about the scenes they shot together. They talk about Joy’s character Reagan being pregnant. Chanel asks if they have plans tonight because Johnny wanted to do something just the two of them, but she convinced him that throwing a party would be more fun. Chanel says they are going to order food and watch the ball drop. Chanel asks if Joy is going to come up with some excuse, but she convinces Joy to come as long as Alex comes too. Chanel thought they were a one time thing. Joy says it was, but they are still on good terms. Chanel says she will see them both there then.

Gabi tells JJ that she would love to spend New Year’s with him and asks what he had in mind. JJ admits he hadn’t gotten that far, so Gabi decides they’ll figure it out together and says maybe there’s a party they can crash. Johnny then approaches and says they are welcome to crash their party.

Arnold claims to Jada that he changed clothes because he spilled coffee on himself. Jada says she hasn’t seen these clothes before. Arnold claims they are new since he didn’t have time to go back home, so he went to the mall. Arnold asks Jada about her big news again. Jada then informs him that EJ is out as district attorney. Arnold asks what happened. Jada responds that he got fired and it was kind of her idea.

EJ re-emerges from the tunnels, surprised to find Belle waiting in the living room. EJ questions how she got in. Belle tells him that Harold let her in and she was hoping they could talk. Belle asks if everything is okay since he’s out of breath and looked like he could’ve jumped out of his skin when he saw her, so she questions what he was doing down in the tunnels.

Chanel tells Joy and Alex that she will see them both later and exits the hospital. Joy tells Alex that it looks like they are both going to a New Year’s Eve party, but she wishes Chanel would stop inviting her to things. Alex wishes Johnny never told Chanel that they were together and admitted that he was the one that Joy hooked up with.

Gabi didn’t know Johnny was throwing a party. Johnny says they weren’t but Chanel wanted people over. Johnny hopes they can make it and says they miss having Gabi around the house, or he does anyway. Johnny adds that Gabi could bring Arianna too but Gabi says she stayed in Arizona with Will and Sonny. JJ hopes Arianna will be back home next year. Johnny knows Gabi has complicated feelings about the DiMera Mansion and some of the people who live in it, but he would love to see them tonight. Gabi says they will talk about it, but if they don’t see him later, they wish a Happy New Year. Johnny then walks off. JJ gets the vibe that Gabi doesn’t want to go to this party. Gabi says it’d be fun to party with the TV stars who were just ordinary Salemites a few months ago, but she doesn’t know if she ever wants to go to the DiMera Mansion again because it’s haunted.

Philip tells Stephanie that he thought they had plans tonight. Stephanie explains that she can’t go to the Bistro, but she still wants to spend the evening with him and guesses he didn’t get her message which he confirms. Stephanie tells him that Johnny and Chanel are throwing an impromptu party with the cast of Body and Soul, so she felt like she needed to be there to kind of chaperone. Stephanie talks about still trying to figure out who the new Lady Whistleblower is and if they show up looking for gossip, she needs to prevent another scandal. Stephanie adds that she didn’t know that Philip already made plans. Philip says it doesn’t matter and understands she has to work, so maybe they can meet up after. Stephanie responds that she was hoping he would come to the party with her. Philip questions going to the DiMera Mansion when EJ hates his guts. Stephanie understands if he’s uncomfortable, but admits she would love it if he would be her date.

Arnold questions it being Jada’s idea to give EJ the axe. Jada confirms she pitched it to Paulina and she went for it. Arnold asks who, so Jada says Paulina Price, the mayor. Arnold claims he just didn’t hear her right and says it is big news that she got EJ fired. Arnold asks how EJ took it. Jada says not well. Arnold laughs and says he had it coming. Jada didn’t expect him to be so giddy about it. Arnold says EJ had it coming since he’s a pompous ass. Arnold then asks who she found to replace him with. Jada responds that it’s someone very qualified, who EJ knows quite well actually.

EJ claims to Belle that he was just overseeing construction in the tunnels. Belle questions having construction workers down there on New Year’s Eve. EJ says if you pay them enough, they will work and claims he’s just having damage fixed from when Connie tried to blow up Gabi and Melinda. Belle jokes that then the DiMeras can hold more people captive down there which EJ laughs off. EJ tells her not to bother if she came all this way to gloat about getting Hattie released, because he was just fired. Belle says that she heard. EJ guesses good news travels fast and asks how she found out. Belle says that’s what she wanted to talk to him about.

Philip tells Stephanie that he would love to be her date. Stephanie asks if he’s sure about the DiMera Mansion. Philip says as long as she’s sure. Stephanie confirms that Chanel said she’s welcome to bring a plus one and asks about the money he spent reserving the Bistro. Philip suggests he’ll let his assistant take it. Stephanie asks if he really doesn’t mind. Philip says he’ll take a date with her instead of overpriced food. Philip tells her that it’s really great to be spending time with her again. Stephanie feels the same and decides she should get going to get changed for the party. Philip says to text him and he will come pick her up. Philip kisses her on the cheek and then exits.

Joy tells Alex that she’s really sorry that she and Johnny dragged him in to their mess. Alex says it’s fine. Joy offers to set the record straight but Alex says he doesn’t want to cause any more drama and he doesn’t want to hurt Chanel or Joy. Joy thanks him and admits that she hates lying like this too, but things would be so awkward at work if Chanel found out what happened between her and her husband. Joy ads that she would die if Chanel found out what happened.

JJ questions Gabi saying the DiMera Mansion is haunted. Gabi says for her, it’s haunted by the people who lived there like Stefan who left without saying goodbye or EJ who said horrible things about her character. JJ points out that he’s not EJ’s favorite person either and suggests they just go somewhere else. Gabi thanks him for understanding but says for them to just go to the damn party because she doesn’t want to run scared. Gabi adds that going back to the DiMera Mansion might help her exorcise the ghosts of her marriage and might stick it to EJ too.

Arnold tells Jada that it sounds like Paulina made a great decision as Belle would be an improvement over that oaf EJ, right as Johnny walks in to the Pub. Johnny comes over and questions calling EJ an oaf. Jada apologizes and says they didn’t see him. Johnny asks if it would’ve mattered if they did. Arnold says he won’t insult EJ in front of his son. Johnny says it’s okay and brings up Rafe doing private investigator work for EJ. Jada questions him working for EJ and says he didn’t mention that. Arnold claims he didn’t have the chance since it just happened but it probably won’t work out anyway. Johnny suggests maybe if they break bread together tonight, it might help smooth things over a bit. Johnny explains that he and Chanel are throwing a New Year’s Eve party tonight, so they’d love it if they would join them. Jada starts to decline but Arnold says they would love to. Jada questions that but Arnold says he loves parties. Johnny says he has to grab some food from the kitchen and will see them soon as he walks away. Jada asks if he’s out of his mind. Arnold points out it’s free food and booze. Jada reminds him that she can’t go to EJ’s house after she just got him fired.

Belle tells EJ that they’ve had their court room clashes, but she’s not here to gloat over his misfortune. Chanel interrupts and tells EJ that she needs to talk to him, revealing that she and Johnny decided to throw an impromptu New Year’s Eve party tonight. EJ says he would have liked to have been consulted first. Chanel asks if it will be a problem. EJ says it’s been a taxing day and he’s already sent the staff home. Chanel says they won’t need staff as it will just be a few people from work watching the ball drop and it will be no big deal. EJ asks about food. Chanel says Johnny already got Roman to cater from the Pub. Chanel offers to go down to the wine cellar but EJ stops her and says she can’t do that.

JJ goes to pick up Gabi and tells her it’s her last chance to bail on the DiMera Mansion since there’s plenty of places to go downtown. Gabi thanks him but says the more she thinks about it, the more she wants to do it as she can’t wait to walk in and see EJ squirm.

Chanel asks EJ why she can’t go in to the tunnels. EJ claims that because of the construction, it’s not safe. Belle points out that he was just down there. EJ says he got a stern talking to from the construction workers. Chanel asks how else to get the champagne. EJ says he’ll take care of it and will call the contractor. EJ tells Chanel to go get ready and he will have the champagne waiting. Chanel then invites Belle to stay and hang out for the party but Belle declines. Chanel asks if she has other plans. Belle says it’s late and she’s not dressed for a party. Chanel says she can borrow something from her and pleads with her to stay as they really want her to which EJ agrees with. Chanel tells Belle that she will pick out somethin from her closet and she can come up when she’s ready. Belle asks EJ why Chanel makes it so hard to say no to her. EJ says she has a talent for that. Belle tries again to tell EJ about her job but EJ stops her and says he would first like to clear the air between them. Belle says that’s not necessary but EJ feels it is. EJ says he’s not a fan of her as a work rival but that’s now over and he’s still fond of her as a person. EJ tells Belle that after her divorce from Shawn, she deserves to start anew on the new year. Belle says that’s very nice of him to say and she knows he went through a very painful divorce this past year too. EJ suggests since they are both recently single, they should go as each others’ dates for New Year’s Eve and jokes about not telling Sami.

Jada questions what “Rafe” was thinking as he had to know it would be a nightmare for her to go to the DiMera’s party. Arnold says he was just thinking it’d be a good way to extend an olive branch or rub it in EJ’s face a little bit. Jada worries about it being tense and awkward to start the new year. Arnold says he wants to go to the party to show her off and he knows they will have a good time. Arnold promises if she’s miserable, they will leave before midnight. Jada guesses they already told Johnny they would go. Arnold promises it will be fun. Jada highly doubts that but decides they should get going and get ready, so they exit the Pub.

Stephanie gets dressed at home until Philip shows up to pick her up. Philip tells her that she looks great but Stephanie complains that she can’t find her shoes. Philip asks if he’s early. Stephanie says she just texted him soon, thinking she could get ready quicker. She then finds her shoes and they exit together. They run in to Alex entering his apartment. Alex wishes them a happy new year and congratulates Philip on it all working out. Alex brings up that Philip just told him the other day that he hoped things would progress between them and it looks like they have. Stephanie tells Alex that they are going to Johnny and Chanel’s party. Alex says he is too, so Philip offers a ride but Alex says he still has to pick up Joy which Stephanie questions. Alex says he and Joy are going together and says he’ll see them there as he walks away.

Johnny joins Chanel in their room and tells her the food is all ready. Johnny tells her that he invited Gabi, JJ, Jada, and Rafe while Chanel informs him that she also invited Belle, Alex, and Joy. Johnny is surprised and says he assumed Joy would have had other plans tonight. Chanel says she didn’t mention any. Johnny thought it was weird between Joy and Alex but Chanel says it was a one time thing and they are fine now. Johnny says he’s happy to hear that. Chanel tells Johnny to take a shower because people will be there soon. Johnny removes his shirt and points out that they have a few minutes. Chanel points out that she already showered but Johnny says she can take another with him as they begin kissing.

Arnold and Jada go to the DiMera Mansion. Jada stops outside and asks him to remind her why they are there. Arnold assures that everything will be fine and says he’ll go in, check it out, and bring her some champagne. Arnold then heads inside. Stephanie and Philip arrive and greet Jada. Jada asks about them coming together which Stephanie confirms. Stephanie asks where Rafe is. Jada says he just went inside to grab them some champagne.

Arnold enters the living room where EJ is waiting. EJ questions where the hell he’s been. Arnold reminds him that he told him to go see Jada and then he went home to change. EJ questions him going home with Jada. Arnold says nothing happened yet but she did tell him that she got the mayor to fire EJ’s ass. EJ reminds Arnold that he’s the one person between him and a prison cell. Arnold warns that if he goes away, EJ does too. EJ says he can’t have him here. Arnold asks what he’s supposed to do since Jada is right outside the door. EJ calls this a nightmare. Jada then comes in with Stephanie and Philip. Jada greets EJ. EJ excitedly welcomes Stephanie and Philip. EJ then asks Arnold to help him with the champagne so they step aside. Jada comments on EJ’s look when he saw her. Jada still doesn’t know why Rafe told Johnny they would come. EJ questions what Arnold is doing. Arnold responds that he’s enjoying the New Year’s Eve party with Jada. EJ wants him to stay the hell away from her. Arnold points out that Rafe and Jada have a wedding to plan. EJ wants Arnold to plan his return to Argentina. Arnold question what EJ did with Rafe. EJ says he’s downstairs on ice so to speak. Arnold guesses EJ will have to deal with them after, but for now he’s going to enjoy the party. Gabi arrives and greets “Rafe”, noting that she didn’t know he would be there. Arnold tells her that he was invited by Johnny. Gabi guesses she just missed them at home as EJ comes over and questions who invited Gabi. Gabi responds that she was invited by Johnny, who has much better manners than him which Arnold laughs at. EJ sends Arnold to bring Jada her champagne. EJ tells Gabi that he’s surprised that she would want to attend a party here as he’s sure it would bring back awful memories of Stefan abandoning her. Gabi responds that she and her date are determined to enjoy the party and make new memories. JJ then joins Gabi and greets EJ. EJ asks if he needs to worry about JJ assaulting him again. JJ calls it water under the bridge and promises to keep his hands to himself tonight. Gabi jokes about not being hasty with that promise as they go to get a drink. Belle returns in a pink dress which impresses EJ, who says she looks radiant.

Johnny and Chanel come downstairs together. Johnny jokes that they could go back upstairs and spend the night under the covers. Chanel says EJ would kill them, especially since he didn’t seem too happy about the party in the first place. Johnny feels EJ needs to get used to interacting with people who make him uncomfortable. The doorbell then rings so Johnny answers the door to see Alex and Joy. Chanel invites them in and says the party is just getting started.

Belle tells Jada that she’s surprised to see her here. Belle notes that EJ doesn’t know that Paulina gave her his job and she tried to tell him but they kept getting interrupted. Belle assures that she is going to tell him, but she’s just waiting for the right time.

Alex steps out of the living room and asks if Joy is hiding out. Joy says she just needed some air. Alex offers to get her a drink. Joy gets a phone call from her mom and accepts Alex’s offer, so he goes to get her some champagne. Joy answers the call and wishes her mom a happy New Year, mentioning that she’s at a party at the DiMera Mansion so she will call her tomorrow. Joy hangs up and then Johnny comes over to ask if he can talk to her in private. Joy notes that Alex will be back soon but Johnny says it will just take a second, so they go upstairs together. Alex returns with champagne and wonders where Joy went. Chanel comes out and asks if he saw Johnny but Alex says he hasn’t. Chanel thought she saw him come this way and wonders where he could be since it’s almost midnight. Chanel decides to go check outside while Alex hopes that Johnny is not with Joy.

Stephanie and Jada talk about being done with new year’s resolutions. Jada sees that it’s almost midnight and goes to check on “Rafe”. Stephanie then bumps in to Alex, who accidentally spills champagne on her dress. JJ and Gabi talk about having fun. JJ notes that Gabi has been keeping her distance from EJ. Gabi says she plans to let EJ know what a colossal loser he is at midnight. Gabi and JJ talk about having a crappy year. JJ says he’s grateful for everything Gabi did to try to help them find Abigail. Gabi says he doesn’t have to keep saying that. JJ tells Gabi that he’s really glad he gets to start the new year with her. Philip and Belle have champagne. Philip asks Belle how she’s doing. Belle says she’s alright but it’s hard not to be thinking about Shawn since it’s the first New Year’s she has spent as a single woman in a long time. Philip encourages her and they toast to the good old days and even better new ones. Alex asks Stephanie where her date is since it’s almost midnight. Stephanie points out Philip and asks where Alex is. Alex responds that Joy seems to have disappeared. Stephanie mentions not seeing Johnny or Chanel either. Gabi calls everyone’s attention for the countdown to the ball dropping. Arnold kisses Jada and JJ kisses Gabi at midnight. Alex wishes Stephanie a happy new year and walks away as Philip comes over and apologizes for missing the big moment. Philip asks for a do over as he and Stephanie kiss while Alex watches uncomfortably. EJ angrily shakes his head at Arnold kissing Jada and drinks his champagne.

Johnny brings Joy to his room. Joy asks what he wants when it’s going to be midnight soon. Johnny questions why Joy came tonight. Joy argues that his wife invited them and she’s not easy to say no to. Johnny complains that they have to figure something out because it’s very stressful having her there. Joy argues that it’s stressful for her to have to pretend to be having fun and worries about if Chanel knew what happened between them, right as Chanel appears in the doorway and backs out after hearing her.

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