Jada told Stefan and Ava that Harris wasn’t out of the woods yet. Stefan wondered what she wanted from them. He let her know they didn’t know anything. Ava wondered if Jada had any leads. Jada told her what she knew. She let Ava know that she was the one who sent him a message to meet at the docks. Ava assured Jada that she wasn’t the one who reached out to Harris. Chad told Everett that someone tried to kill them at the Horton house. He told him what happened at the house. Brady let Kristen know that he’s been seeing Theresa lately. She tried to badmouth Theresa, but he didn’t want to hear it. Kristen wasn’t happy about Theresa has been getting his attention. She thought there was a chance they could get back together. He thought she was certifiable. Ava prayed that Harris would survive getting shot. Sarah was with Xander and she assured him that she believed that he didn’t shoot Harris. Justin arrived at the station to help Xander. Xander was lost so Sarah and Justin told him about the fire at the Horton house. He realized he heard sirens. Stefan followed Ava to the chapel. He didn’t see Ava as the praying type. Stephanie showed up at the police station and talked to Jada about spending Valentine’s Day with their guys. Jada agreed to hang out with Stephanie and her guy.
Brady reminded Kristen about what happened when they were together. Kristen explained why things went wrong with them. Brady wanted to talk about the people she hurt. He reminded her that she raped his brother. Kristen said that Eric forgave her for that. She reminded him that he tried to kill her. He listed the things she did to him. Rachel heard the things Brady said and wanted him to stop talking to her like that. She wanted them to stop fighting. Rachel yelled at Brady and Kristen. Kristen told Brady to leave. Everett realized the article he wrote played a factor in what happened. Chad told him that he had to go after Clyde because of what he did to his wife. Everett wanted to help him stop Clyde. Ava told Stefan how hard it was to stay away from Harris. She wondered if Clyde would go after Gabi and Tripp. He wasn’t sure. Ava didn’t think they would be free of him. Justin questioned Xander about what he did when he went out. Xander explained what he did. Justin said the police would want to see his phone records. He admitted that he received a call about killing someone. Jada went in the interrogation room and Justin wanted Xander out. She showed him the gun. Rachel wondered why Kristen and Brady always had to fight. Kristen tried to make her feel better, bur it didn’t work. Stefan and Ava didn’t want to feel vulnerable. Ava felt like she was supposed to strong and no one is supposed to intimidate her. She blamed herself for Harris being on the dock. Stefan let her know that she wasn’t alone. He would be there for her. Stefan assured her they would get through it together. Jada told Justin that the gun was recovered in Xander’s apartment and it’s the same gun that was used to shoot Harris.
Stephanie sits in the town square, participating in the geocaching event. Tripp and Wendy join her as they talk about how everyone is having a blast with it. Stephanie adds that they’ve already raised thousands for the hospital. Tripp and Wendy decide to continue geocaching before Tripp has to go to work.
At the Spectator office, Leo is with Everett. Everett talks about writing an article about the fire at the Horton house. Leo asks if anyone was hurt. Everett confirms that they got out okay. Leo talks about not usually liking kids but he does like Thomas and Charlotte. Leo thanks God that everyone got out alive even if they lost their belongings.
Theresa comes out of her room and sees Alex on the couch. She thinks back to finding the engagement ring in his pocket. Alex is surprised she got ready so quick and goes to finish getting ready. Theresa comments to herself that she is so ready.
Eric and Sloan watch over baby Jude. Eric surprises Sloan with a necklace with Jude’s name for Valentine’s Day which she calls cute. Eric makes sure that she likes it and puts it on her. Sloan then tells Eric that she got him something too and presents him with lingerie which she says she intends to wear for him tonight. Eric says he can’t wait. Eric then points out that Jude is going to fall asleep fast so they should get going. Eric then exits with Jude, leaving Sloan disappointed.
Nicole is home with Holly still in a coma in bed as EJ stands next to them. EJ calls it a relief to have them both home. Nicole says she can’t thank him enough. EJ tells her to thank Sarah as she was managing Holly’s case with the Italian doctors from here. EJ adds that Sarah guided him on everything Holly would need and set them up with the best staff. EJ says he did whatever it took to get them back home. Nicole says they know he went above and beyond. EJ hugs her and says it feels so good to have her in his arms again. Nicole admits she missed him so much. EJ declares no more missing each other since she is back home where she belongs as they kiss.
Officer Goldman meets with Rafe in his office. She talks about knowing she had no choice but to pull the trigger, but still feeling the shock of it. She prays she’s never put in that situation again. Rafe hopes she won’t be as Jada enters and returns Goldman’s gun to her. Rafe informs her that she is cleared to return to active duty. She responds that she’s never been more ready and thanks them as she exits the office. Rafe calls it a good Valentine’s Day for her. Jada talks about not knowing about her personal life. Rafe comments that Goldman had a rough couple of days, so hopefully she has someone to be with. Rafe says he’s glad that he does. Jada feels the same and presents Rafe with a Valentine’s Day gift.
Leo asks Everett if there are any leads on how the fire started. Everett says it sounds like arson. Leo bets that whoever set the Horton house ablaze was a very unattractive person who couldn’t stand that everyone in the house were all so lovey with each other. Leo wonders if jealousy could have been the motive. Leo brings up his boyfriend being in prison, so he doesn’t have plans tonight on Valentine’s Day. Everett says as lovely as that sounds, he does have plans. Leo says he should’ve known and guesses his plans are with Stephanie which Everett confirms. Leo remarks that Stephanie does seem to like him and has laughed at his jokes, so maybe he can tag along. Everett informs Leo that they are going on a double date if Leo doesn’t mind being a fifth wheel. Leo says third wheel is one thing but being fifth wheel would be too pathetic. Leo suggests he’ll check out the geocaching event and maybe he’ll find his valentine hidden in the town square. Everett wishes him luck with that. Leo tells Everett to enjoy his Valentine’s Day while he will likely be back in his hotel room for the night. Leo then exits the office.
Jada’s gift to Rafe is an antique Sherriff badge from the 1800s which Rafe calls great and acknowledges it took a lot of thought. Jada says she knows he’s been buried in work so he shouldn’t feel obligated but Rafe reveals he already got her a gift. Rafe presents her with a heart shaped box which Jada assumes is chocolates but turns out to be a bracelet. Rafe calls her the strongest, bravest, and most persistent woman he knows as Jada says she loves it. They kiss until pointing out they are still at work.
Tripp and Wendy say they love hanging with each other and that they needed this fun after everything that’s been going on lately.
Nicole tells EJ that she learned some Italian while in Italy to impress him. Nicole tells EJ that she’s so happy to be home in Italian. EJ says he’s very impressed and that she speaks Italian very well as they kiss. Nicole thanks EJ again for bringing her and Holly back home. EJ says it was selfish on his part because he missed them both terribly. Nicole says she missed him too and they kiss. EJ informs her that he had chef make them a very special meal for Valentine’s Day but he understands if she doesn’t want to celebrate. Nicole assures that she does, pointing out that Holly is breathing on her own and back home which she credits EJ for making happen.
Jada and Rafe talk about their dinner plans with Stephanie. Rafe points out that Jada will finally meet Stephanie’s boyfriend too which Jada says she’s really looking forward to. Rafe mentions that he’s met him a few times while he was covering police stuff for the Spectator and that he seems like a cool guy. Jada calls that interesting because her ex was also a reporter but he was not a cool guy at all. Jada says she doesn’t want to think about him tonight at all, especially when she’s with Rafe on Valentine’s Day. Rafe says he adores her as they kiss.
Eric and Sloan walk through the town square with Jude. Stephanie takes a picture of them for the website. Officer Goldman then arrives and looks at the Caching Cupid geocaching poster.
Alex apologizes for taking so long and tells Theresa that she looks amazing. Theresa compliments him in his suit. Theresa then gives him a gift of a scarf and they kiss. Alex says they should get to the Bistro. Theresa mutters to herself that the Bistro is a perfect place to propose. Theresa then tells Alex that she can’t wait to spend the evening with him as it’s going to be such a momentous night. They then exit together.
Everett continues working at the Spectator. His phone rings but he ignores it and then the work phone rings which he answers and it’s Stephanie, who asks if they are still meeting in the town square before dinner. Everett lost track of time and tells her that some more intel came in so he’ll need about 20 minutes to finish and then he will meet her at the Pub. Everett promises to be there as they hang up.
Alex and Theresa go to the Bistro for dinner. Theresa calls it a perfect table as they can see everyone and everyone can see them. Theresa uses their waters to toast to a night to remember.
Eric and Sloan sit together in the town square with Jude until they hear Leo participating in the geocaching event, so Eric calls him over. Leo talks about his progress in geocaching and encourages them to join in. Leo ends up arguing with Sloan before wishing them a Happy Valentine’s Day and walks away. Eric laughs off Leo and calls him harmless.
Theresa looks through the flowers on the table which Alex questions. Theresa says she was just rearranging them. Alex brings up how Theresa is going with Brady to visit Tate tomorrow. Theresa says she’s so excited and she knows Tate will be relieved to hear Holly is breathing on her own even though she’s still in a coma. Theresa guesses she shouldn’t tell Tate about the fire at the Horton house, lamenting that there is so much bad news lately. Alex takes her hand and says he’s sure she’ll have some good news to share too. Theresa excitedly responds that she sure hopes so.
EJ and Nicole return to the living room after eating dinner. Nicole talks about still being in shock about the fire at Doug and Julie’s and Harris being shot. Nicole calls it a tragedy and is thankful no one was hurt in the fire. Nicole asks what happened since she read it was arson. EJ says they think the person responsible for it was the same person behind the drugs that Holly got and they are inches away from nailing him.
Rafe and Jade go to the Brady Pub where Stephanie joins them for dinner. Jada and Stephanie wish each other a Happy Valentine’s Day. Rafe goes to get them drinks. Jada asks Stephanie how it’s going out there. Stephanie responds that the fundraiser is a huge success and she’s relieved. Jada asks where her mystery boyfriend is. Stephanie tells her that he promised to be there. Jada responds that she can’t wait to meet him.
Wendy and Tripp continue geocaching and find a heart box with Tom and Alice trivia behind their plaque. They play a game of trivia and then walk off together. After they walk away, Officer Goldman comes around the corner and follows them.
Nicole thanks EJ again for the perfect homecoming. EJ points out that she has not yet opened her Valentine’s Day gift. EJ presents her with a Japanese healing bowl to put in Holly’s room and use it to meditate, pray, or sing. Nicole calls it perfect and kisses him. Nicole points out that she didn’t get him anything in between traveling. EJ responds that he doesn’t need or want anything that she hasn’t already given him. EJ declares that having her home is the best Valentine’s Day gift he could have hoped for as they kiss.
Eric and Sloan return home with Jude. Eric holds Jude and says he should probably get him to sleep. Sloan responds that she will slip in to something more comfortable and goes to change in to the lingerie she got.
Wendy and Tripp walk to the park where Tripp plants a box for Wendy to find. Wendy at first worries that it’s a ring but Tripp promises that it’s not as they are not rushing things. Wendy opens it and it’s earrings that she pointed out in a window last week. Wendy calls it perfect and thanks him. Tripp wishes her a Happy Valentine’s Day. Wendy then reveals that she got him something too and it’s cuff links. Tripp and Wendy kiss as Officer Goldman walks in to the park and watches them.
Alex tells Theresa that dinner was great and he guesses there’s only one thing left to do, so he calls the waiter over for the check. Theresa is left confused as Alex guesses they are all done here. Theresa then complains that she’s impatient and this is driving her crazy, so she tells Alex to just do it. Alex questions what. Theresa shouts that he knows what and her answer is yes.
Jada shows Stephanie the bracelet that Rafe got her. Rafe then shows Stephanie the badge that Jada got him. Rafe and Jada kiss until Jada then gets up to go to the restroom. Everett then arrives. Stephanie gets up and greets him, bringing him over to the table. Rafe greets Everett and says it’s good to see him. They wish each other a Happy Valentine’s Day. Everett calls Stephanie his love as they kiss.
Wendy puts on her new earrings which Tripp praises. Officer Goldman approaches and introduces herself, revealing that Rafe had her keeping an eye on them as she had some intel to confirm. She informs Tripp that he may be in danger and they need to get them to a safe location. Tripp questions if this has something to do with Ava or Harris. She tells him that Rafe will give him the details later but she has to get them to safety now.
Nicole goes to Holly’s room with her Japanese healing bowl. EJ comes in and informs Nicole that the medical staff will be there in the morning. Nicole says goodnight to Holly. Nicole tells EJ that Holly has to come back to them. EJ encourages that she will.
Sloan returns in her lingerie to find that Eric has fallen asleep with Jude. Sloan then grabs her phone and makes a call, saying she’s very much alone tonight. Sloan asks them to meet at the bar.
Theresa tells Alex not to sit there like he doesn’t know what she’s talking about. Alex says he doesn’t. Theresa then reveals that she saw the ring as it fell out of his jacket when she went to put it away. Theresa apologizes if she ruined the surprise. Alex tells her not to be sorry because he thinks she got this wrong. Theresa then questions if he’s not going to ask her to marry him. Alex thinks maybe they should talk about it a little bit first. Theresa gets upset and declares she has nothing to say to him. Alex tries to stop her but Theresa storms out of the Bistro.
Rafe shows his badge to Everett as Stephanie jokes with them. Everett mentions that he and Stephanie are exchanging gifts later. Jada then returns and is shocked when she sees Everett, identifying him as “Bobby”, leaving them all confused.
Interview with Jon Lindstrom of “General Hospital” on ABC by Suzanne 2/15/24
It was great to interview veteran actor Jon Lindstrom, who has his first novel, “Hollywood Hustle” out for only 10 days, and it’s already a best seller on USA Today’s Booklist! He’s most known for playing Kevin Collins, and his evil twin Ryan Chamberlain, on “General Hospital” since 1992 (off and on). He was on the soap “Santa Barbara” before that, and of course he also played Craig on “As The World Turns” (where he met his wife, Cady, who played Rosanna) and reprised his roles of Kevin and Ryan on “Port Charles,” the GH spinoff. He’s also been in quite a few films, and many primetime series, most notably “Bosch” on Prime Video and “True Detective” on HBO.
There are many more questions I could have asked him, but we were already on Zoom for a half an hour – I didn’t want to keep him longer. I felt that he was generous enough to speak to me as long as he did. I would have liked to have heard more about his working with Genie Francis (Laura); about playing Ryan; about working with Alley Mills (Heather); about those pitches he mentioned; about Cady; and more. Buy his book here! If you love detective novels, you should enjoy this one. Of course, you can also watch him on “General Hospital” on ABC and HULU.
THIS TRANSCRIPT STILL NEEDS EDITING!
Suzanne: So, thanks for being here today.
Jon: It’s my pleasure to be here. Thanks for asking.
Suzanne: Are you feeling okay? I saw you had a cold….
Jon: Well, you can kind of hear it in my voice. I’m a little froggy, but I’m feeling better today than I did yesterday.
Suzanne: So, when did you, start writing your book and how long did it take you to finish it?
Jon: Oh boy, that’s kind of a loaded question. all in all, it took about four years, but I, I have to qualify that because I had written for about a year and was making good progress. And then all of a sudden the show I’m on being general hospital decided to bring back a dead twin. And suddenly I was working so hard I didn’t have time to write.
I was up every day at 530 to go to the studio and pull off double duty as Kevin and Ryan on GH. So I had to put it down for about a year. And then COVID hit and I was able to pick it up again for about six months. And then of course, the first shows to go back into production during COVID were soap operas.
Suzanne: Right.
Jon: I guess means we’re just a little bit expendable.
Suzanne: You did have strict COVID protocols and vaccine requirements, so..
Jon: We had very strict COVID protocols. Yeah, we, we were a lot of masks. Daily testing, a lot of swabs in the nose. but. We picked up right where we left off. So I had to put the book down again, and that was probably another six months.
And then it took me another year or so through several drafts, working with editors and getting it into shape to actually submit. So all in all, the writing process took about two years, but the entire span was about four.
Suzanne: Okay. And did you have any difficulties getting it published?
Jon: Amazingly, no. I mean, I look at my experience, and my experience really was much easier than I think most people.
Now, of course, I do have a little bit of a platform, in terms of followers and, at Insta and Twitter, and I, I just can’t seem to call it but, excuse me, I, I, I did go to at the behest of an author who I had narrated because I have this little side hustle narrating audio books, which is great for me because I just, I love books.
But one of those authors was the great Alex Finlay he’s one of the best thriller writers, I’ve ever read. I wrote to him to thank him for. The inspiration to get me over that hump and start actually writing a book. And he wrote me right back within five minutes and we’ve since become good friends. but he told me flat out, John, if you’re serious about this, you have to go to the book conferences.
And being that you’re a crime writer, which falls under Thriller Mysteries, you need to go to Thriller Fest. Which is in New York every June. And it’s, it’s huge. Takes over the entire hotel, the Sheraton Hotel in New York City. And, so I went. And that’s where I actually pitched agents. About 12 of them.
Cause there’s a thing they’re called pitch fest. And I recommend anybody do this because there’s just something about sitting down in front of someone. And not only do they get a sense of you, you get a sense of who they are. And I met my agent there. I sat down with a woman named Liza Fleissig from the Liza Royce Agency.
And as soon as I sat down, I liked her. And I think she liked me because we sat and we talked for a few minutes before we even got to my pitch. And that’s who I eventually went with. And she was able to get a deal within a few months. And we had a few offers. Settled with Crooked Lane Books because they just Kind of totally got the book.
Suzanne: So it sounds more like what you do to pitch a series or a movie nowadays than the old time where you just sent in your manuscript.
Jon: Yeah, I, that’s where I had a bit of an advantage because I have pitched movies and TV show ideas and things. So I knew, I knew the basics of how to pitch. When they say five minutes, that means get it down to three because you need a couple of minutes for them to ask questions if they’re interested.
Suzanne: Sure.
Jon: I got my pitch down to one minute, 45 , . I, pardon me, I really wanted to be succinct and straightforward and really nail it. And, and fortunately that worked for me. I had, I pitched 12 agents. I had 12 or requests for the manuscript. So what made you wanna write a detective novel? Is that your favorite genre?
Yeah. Yeah. It’s just, one of my favorite writers was, was Elmore Leonard. I used to read his stuff all the time. and I, and I love the, the OGs of the genre, the Raymond Chandler’s, Dashiell Hammett’s, James Cain, those guys just invented something that’s very specific to Los Angeles.
About that darkness that that lurks underneath the sun and the palm trees and it’s a it’s a really to me. It’s just a really layered fascinating kind of. Setting for stories. So I’ve always loved it. So I just kind of, and right. But, I’ve been living most of my adult life here, except for a few years in New York.
I’ve been here in Los Angeles since I was 20.
Suzanne: Yeah.
Jon: And so I, I know it pretty well.
Suzanne: Oh, by the way, congratulations on getting on the USA Today bestseller list.
Jon: Thank you.
Suzanne: And also congratulations for being on General Hospital over 30 years. That’s amazing.
Jon: Going on 32…
Suzanne: Off and on, but still.
Jon: Yeah, Yeah. I, I go and I come back, but you know what, as long as they keep asking Right. , why not?
Suzanne: That’s right. Well, I, I been watching off and on since 84, mostly on, and so I remember when you started on the show, .
Jon: Wow. 84.
Suzanne: Yeah. I was in college.
Jon: So that’s when people get home.
Yeah. Yeah. If you don’t have grandma or mom watching, it’s college that doesn’t, it’s either college or I watched you with my grandma.
Suzanne: So, what are some other, favorite authors or influences on your writing that you haven’t mentioned yet?
Jon: Well, film noir, definitely. my, my favorite Saturday night now is to stay home and watch TCM. because it, You know, Eddie Muller and Noir Alley comes on every Saturday night. and he digs into a very deep library of, of film noir in that canon that, that was really unlike anything else that was ever made before or since.
You know, it was post war malaise. They were lower budget, so they often had to shoot at night when the rest of the studio was asleep. Wow. There was a lot of night shooting and a lot of use of light and shadow and, beautiful, uh Cinematography. So I, I just, I don’t know. There’s something about that genre where your main character is, is faced with a choice of Do it or don’t do it.
If I do it, whether it’s for love or lust or greed or whatever, even altruism. If I do this as a very good chance, it will end me.
Suzanne: Yeah.
Jon: And he does it anyway. So I, there’s something about having to make a choice like that, that I find very interesting.
Suzanne: And, you were in Bosch, one of my favorite shows. what about Michael Connolly? Did you read a lot of him?
Jon: Oh yeah, I was a big fan. I got turned on to Harry Bosch back in the 1980s, when he started writing them. And, so yeah, to get a season of Bosch as one of his bad guys, was, was, was a bit of a dream come true. And he’s a lovely man. He, he was on set all the time.
So sorry for this cold, but, he, he’s a, he’s a big guy, now I’m 6’1 and he’s, I gotta look up at him, he, but he was the crime writer for the L. A. Times for many years, and he, he’s another one who really gets this city, and really understands how to accurately portray crime here.
And how it gets just kind of somebody asked me the other night. We have our launch event at Book Soup up on Sunset Boulevard, and there was a woman there who I didn’t know, but she asked a really good question. She said, what’s the difference between L. A crime and New York crime? And I thought, wow, that’s, I never thought of that.
But when I, once I did, I remember being down in Soho and I lived in New York and I came out of a restaurant or something right across the street was an armored car that was waiting for the guys to come out and deliver the money. And I see him come out and this crowded street and the guy, has his hand on the handle of his sidearm.
And he looks both ways and looks all around and then signals the guy to come out and they quickly got into that car, that armored car and took off. and I thought that’s the difference. It’s like New York, it’s going to be in your face. If you’re going to hit that place, you’re going to hit it right in the middle of Soho on a Tuesday afternoon.
And it’s, it’s like crime in your face. Whereas here. It’s all it’s easier to kind of hide it under so it’s all spread out. It’s so spread out here that it can happen. And it’s like, if, if a crime falls in the forest, it’s anyone here,
Suzanne: I imagine it’s harder for them to find the culprit too, because if they’re staying in the area, because they have so much more land to cover. Whereas in New York, if they’re going to be in that area, it’s a lot easier.
Jon: And everybody knows you in New York.
Suzanne: Yeah, that’s true.
Jon: Here, again, there’s another layer of this kind of hidden world. You know, I mean, fortunately, I know my neighbors. We all look after each other. But, that’s not always been the case in most places I’ve lived in LA.
Suzanne: No, in California, the whole thing is like that. I grew up there. I’m from San Diego. So we almost never knew my neighbors. Yeah, now that we’ve lived strange phenomenon and it’s, it’s, it was funny because to me that’s normal because that’s how I grew up. But we’ve lived in the South. I’m in Arkansas right now.
We, I know, and my husband just thinks it’s weird because California, but it is nice to know, especially during the pandemic when we were out walking the dog and. Everyone was like, oh, hi, because they were so happy to see, to see anybody, anybody, anybody, but their kids and their family. But, yeah, so that’s awesome.
I understand that completely. and we’re actually moving to New York in June. we, we lived there a long time ago, when I got into GH actually, when I was in college.
Jon: So, are you moving to the city?
Suzanne: No, but we’re going to be about half an hour from there.
Jon: I understand.
Suzanne: We don’t actually know what town we’re moving to yet. We have to find a place, but he’s going to work at SUNY Old Westbury. Oh, great. Congratulations. Thank you. Yeah, I’m really looking forward to it. I want to be in a city again, in a small town here. I won’t know my neighbors.
I read some of the book. I haven’t had time to finish it, but, to me, the description of when sounds a lot like Steve Burton, at least physically.
Jon: Steve was– no, no, no. Steve was not an inspiration at all. There was a Steve, but it was Steve McQueen.
Suzanne: Oh, okay. Well, then they have a lot in common [physically].
Jon: It’s not Steve Burton. Steve, Steve’s way too muscled for Win, Winston green. Now, my inspirations for Wynn were, were Steve McQueen, Kevin Costner, in terms of physicality. and I, I do describe him in there that a director that Winston had worked with described Winston Green as a landmine that’s been stepped on and you’re just waiting for you to step off before he blows, he’s wired tight.
There’s a, there’s an edge to him. but sadly, the other inspiration was, was really Tom Sizemore and some of the other people in my business who have, who came to town with just brilliant talent. I mean, just, you would take Tom Sizemore, just look at his work and Saving Private Ryan and Heat and, he was working with the very best of the best because they wanted him and, and his demons got him.
And, and it really sidelined his career and, yeah, it was very sad, but it’s, that’s, I’ve known a lot of guys like that, just their lives and careers have taken a hard left due to. Due to substance abuse and some made it and some didn’t. Yeah, well, I’d like to see Winston as somebody who made it and got himself together.
but he’s just hanging on. All he’s doing, he’s just hanging on to just trying to keep some stability. So now I hit, I’ll, I’ll let Steve. No, sorry, Steve.
Suzanne: Well, I think if I recall, it was the blue eyes and the buzz cut and I don’t remember what else, but it just sounded like him.
Jon: So I thought more of Steve McQueen in “Bullit.”
Suzanne: No, I can see that. Now that you say that. Just to touch on, you’re talking about sad things, the GH family set, whatever you want to call it, has had a lot of loss in the last year. has that really changed, how things run there or?
Jon: Well, no, it hasn’t changed how we run anything. It’s just, I think we’re all just really aware of how fragile and, and, How quickly something can end.
it’s too bad that people have to pass away before you’re reminded of these things. But yeah, we’ve taken some real hits this year behind the camera and in front of the camera and. You know, we miss them all. So, we just try to appreciate each other when we’re there, I noticed nobody, nobody raises their voice, nobody’s, popping off out of anger.
I noticed a lot, right?
Suzanne: Yeah. There’s a, the fans are very sad too.
Jon: Yeah. Yeah. There was a, there was a huge outpouring from, from people and, and we really, we all heard it and saw it and felt it, very of that. Yeah, I, I know .
Suzanne: All right. so that wasn’t on my list, but I just had to mention that.
So as a first time author, would you say that you’re still learning?
Jon: Oh, definitely, definitely. Yeah. I’m, I’m struggling with book two.
Suzanne: I just, yeah, if you’re gonna, that was my next question. Are you planning to write more?
Jon: Yeah, I, I, book two and book three, I mean, I pitched this really as. a series, maybe all of which would have the word Hollywood in the title.
They’re all crime novels. But, and I tried to keep everything grounded the way Elmore Leonard did, that’s like, this is a real world, that you find these people walking through. but yeah, I, I’m, I’m hoping to, I, suddenly being a bestseller and seeing four stars from everywhere from Amazon to Barnes and Noble, gives you a nice kick of confidence.
So I’m looking back to, I’m getting ready to get back into it.
Suzanne: I bought two of them. I bought the–
Jon: Oh thank you
Suzanne: Kindle version and the, audio version.
Jon: Oh, alright. Which I recorded in my basement.
Suzanne: I know… Oh, in your basement?
Jon: In my basement. Yeah. I have a little collapsible frame with these acoustic blankets.
Suzanne: Wow.
Jon: It’s not a whisper room, which is like silent, but it is fine. But I still have to, I have to suffer helicopters and dogs and leaf blowers. Yeah. , things like that.
Suzanne: I’m torn between… I’m not a big books on tape, what they call, I don’t know what they call them now, audios, fan, because I read really fast, but I wanted to hear your voice and, and hear it that way while, while I was, doing other things.
Jon: So I, I keep going back and forth, but I really liked the accents that you do and the voices.
Oh, great. Thank you. Thanks.
Suzanne: You have a lot of practice from all the voiceovers.
Jon: Yeah, I had a little bit of a, an easy runway to get on that airfield.
Suzanne: I have a tough question. So you can feel free not to answer it. If you don’t like it. I’ve read many good reviews and a few bad ones. Some criticize you for being overly descriptive. Is that writing style or do you plan to cut back on some of the description in your future novels?
Jon: You know, I would say what’s the matter? You never read Stephen King because, if there’s anybody who knows how to, how to, describe a place and place is very important, listen, you got to take, you got to take the bad with the good and you’re not going to make everybody happy.
There was one guy who, who took issue with my, my description of. Of firearms.
Suzanne: Oh, I saw that one.
Jon: Yeah. Yeah. and you know what? He’s fair enough. He can have his opinion, but I grew up around guns and his point was technically correct. Right? There are automatic weapons. But those are divided into semi automatic and fully automatic.
But when you discern between an automatic weapon or a revolver as in a single or double action revolver, you don’t need those descriptions. Everybody knows what you’re talking about. So, it’s funny. He knocked me off half a star for that, but you know what, Hey, listen, the guy’s got his opinion and that’s what he’d like to read.<br />
and that’s fine. That’s totally fine. the point is he, he still liked the book and the story, so, I say thank you , are you, you can’t, you can’t get bogged down in this, you know?
Suzanne: Yeah.
Jon: This thing of, I mean, that’s one guy, and, and he’s entitled to that opinion as is anybody who says, he overwrites the description.
Well, it is about la it’s also about Hollywood, so you don’t, you can gloss over.
Suzanne: You’re right.
Jon: Don’t have. You don’t have to get mired in it, it says you have to do that too. Yeah, that’s, it, they’re different writing styles and you can’t say one different styles and different tastes and that’s, that’s fine.
I mean, somebody who really knows LA, I can see why they would go, Oh man, this is really overwritten. You know, but somebody who doesn’t, and I hear this more than I hear the opposite there, they really appreciate the, the description of characters and backstory and setting and, and all that stuff. <br />
So, like I said, you can’t, you can’t please everybody.
Suzanne: And as an actor, as an actor, you’re used to people criticizing you and rejecting you and. Giving you bad reviews, all that stuff. So yeah, it’s over the average writer.
It just, yeah, it just comes with the, it just comes with the territory.
Suzanne: Now, talking about GH for a minute, do you, still enjoy playing Kevin even without Ryan?
Suzanne: NNow, talking about GH for a minute, do you, still enjoy playing Kevin even without Ryan? Jon: Yeah, well, I like Kevin very much. I think Kevin’s a really good guy. I think that there’s, there’s been kind of a, we, we’ve kind of lost a little bit of Kevin along the way, remember when Kevin was, was first around and we had first gotten rid of. Of Ryan. Kevin was an artist. He was a psychiatrist, but he was an artist who lived in a, in a lighthouse and painted all the time to paint out a demon and, and we’ve kind of, we’ve kind of veered away from that. And, we have some new writers coming in now. So I think that I, I think we’re going to have some, um. I think there’s going to be some changes, in how Kevin, but I mean, that’s a long answer, but to answer your question, I love playing Kevin. I love, I love playing Kevin. I love playing Ryan. I love, I love working with Genie. I love working with Lynn Herring and, and Ken Shriner and everybody that, that goes along in Kevin’s world. You know, he’s, to me, it’s just fun.
Suzanne: There’s so many great, stories that Kevin has had over the years. Although my favorite, I have to say, is on Port Charles. I believe it was the Miracles Happen, book, they called it, when he and Lucy got remarried and the little girl came, showed up. Yeah, but even though later, I think they took the little girl away and he got divorced and all that stuff, but that was my favorite because it was so Christmassy and so happy and, and like, we rarely get enough of those moments.
Jon: Yeah, that’s true. You know, I, I love doing, I love doing Port Charles. It was like, it was like the little half hour that could, and I’m, I know that there was somebody at the network paying attention, but it never felt like that. It always felt like we could. It was like our secret corner of daytime TV where we could do whatever we wanted.
I saw the, the executive producer the other day, Julie Hayden Carruthers, and she, she said the same thing. It goes, I, I know there was somebody at the network, but every time we said we’d like to do this, they just said, okay. You know, that’s great, and we got the vampires and we got the six week books that tell a novella style and really fun things. <br /> Suzanne: Oh, yeah. I’m such a huge fan of that show. but I just, I just occurred to me, didn’t Kevin write a novel, “General Homicide?” And it foretold your future.
Jon: There you go.
Suzanne: Let’s hope nobody gets killed in a way.
Jon: I, I, I wanted to, and it’s, they would never go for it. But, but I had this idea that Kevin could walk into the room and, and Laura is, is reading Hollywood hustle.
I said, Oh, what’s your reading? Oh, it’s Hollywood hustle. I said, Oh, how is it? Oh, it’s good. Oh yeah. Is it better than general homicide? And have her say, better.
Suzanne: That’s funny.
Jon: Kevin will take a double take.
Suzanne: Yeah, I guess the thing that most annoys me about it is that Kevin has a daughter out there that they never mention, Livvie. I mean, she might be dead. Vampire or something.
Jon: She looks just like Kelly Monaco.
Suzanne: II know. She could do a twin role, you know. You’re good.
Jon: Yeah. But it’s just. Yeah, there’s a lot of things that we left on the, on the floor. You know, with the. Yeah. With, General, General Homicide slash Port Charles.
Suzanne: So, how different is it now on GH as opposed to when you started over 30 years ago?
Jon: Well, the main thing that’s changed is the structure of production because, the, budgets everywhere have just been constricted to the point of not being choked. But, and this is true, I mean, virtually on every show that I work on because I do a lot of work outside of General Hospital.
Suzanne: Mm hmm.
Jon: You know, everything is just so damn expensive now that sometimes it can feel like if you cut 10 off the budget, you wouldn’t be able to make the week, but somehow they managed to do it. I think Frank Valentini is a terrific producer. You know, the, the shows themselves, the airtime has been cut down from, I think, 49 minutes and change the rest of being advertising during the hour down to about 36 minutes and change.
So, And yet, ABC keeps pumping money into it. You know, it was right before the pandemic. I think I went up to the editing bay and they were putting in a brand new Abbott system. So the, the network is still investing money into that show. They feel it’s, it’s viable for the future. So. You know, the main thing is, you have to show up with your track shoes on. You don’t get to kind of feel your way through scenes and rehearsals anymore. You need to, you need to show up and do your job quickly and efficiently.
Suzanne: And, so now that you’re a writer, is it, is it harder for you to say other writers lines?
Jon: No.
Suzanne: Oh, you don’t say, Oh, I wish they would have written it this way, or…?
Jon: No, but I mean, we have a lot of permission to just transpose or paraphrase things as long as you get the thought across because the writers in daytime are very good and they know the rule. If it doesn’t move the story forward or expose character, get rid of it.
And they’re pretty good at trimming things down to those two rules. So. There’s really not much you have to change. And if you were to change it, you might be messing up something that’s gonna happen tomorrow, so.
Suzanne: Right, right. And so you posted that you’re playing the president in a new movie. Can you tell us about the new movie?
Jon: Oh, it was a, what is, it’s called a Proof of concept Short.
Suzanne: Oh, okay. So it’s not yet a movie.
Jon: Yeah, I was asked to come down to, to Dallas and play the president for a day while they put together, um. A, essentially a proof of concept real that would show that this movie could work. On a as a film. So I spent the day. It was something. That’s why I have a cold right now because I pushed myself a little too hard over the last week or two. yeah, so I spent the day working with Jesse Metcalf. Who’s a lovely guy. I had worked with him on something before, 8 or 9 years ago. And, and, and then I had to deliver a page and a half monologue as the president and I did it in one take.
Suzanne: Wow, that’s great.
Jon: Well, that’s that. So daytime comes in handy.
Suzanne: Oh, yeah. I was going to mention when we were talking about Bosch…. They have a lot of former daytime stars on there.
Jon: Oh, sure. Yeah, they, that’s what was beautiful about Bosch. They, they didn’t there’s other places that will say, oh, they were on daytime. We don’t want to Bosch doesn’t care. Yeah, you’re either right for the part or you weren’t. And if you were right for it, they didn’t mind what your background was. As long as, as long as you could walk and talk and not trip over the furniture, they were happy. They wanted people who knew what they were doing.
Suzanne: II mean, it’s such a silly, prejudice to have because you guys usually are better actors and better prepared and know everything and can do so much than.
Jon: Yeah. I, listen, I liken it to, to people who knock country music usually don’t even listen to country music. And the same people would go, Oh, well they’re on soap opera.
They don’t, what do they know? They don’t know anything.
Suzanne: Or the people who say, Oh, rap.
Jon: Yeah, I think. Yeah, exactly. You know, the fact is you can dance to rap, may not be able to dance to a death metal, but you can dance to rap.
Suzanne: There’s a lot of people my age who are prejudiced against it because we didn’t grow up with it. And this new thing came along and took over the radio.
Jon: That’s it. Our parents hated the Beatles too.
Suzanne: Exactly. I think my mom loved the Beatles, but that was, I think she’s an outlier. So, is there anything else that you’d like to tell us about your book or GH or any other upcoming work that you have?
Jon: You know, I’m a, I’m a busy guy. I, I try to put everything up online. If you’re curious about what I’m doing, what book signings I’ll be doing, I’ll be doing one, actually. I don’t know when this goes up, but I’ve got one on the 17th of February in Glendale with Michael Easton. who is a terrific, in his own right. Yeah, and Michael’s just such a talented guy, but we’re going to sit down and talk at the Barnes and Noble over there.
Suzanne: Right.
Jon: Two o’clock, Saturday, February 17th. The Americana at Brand. Then I’m going to be flying to New York for the 27th, at the Mysterious Bookshop. I’ll be in Portland. Actually, technically, Beaverton at Powell’s bookstore, because it’s the Beaverton place they do their mystery and thriller events. And, and then we’re looking at, Petaluma, St. Louis, Raleigh, North Carolina, Phoenix.
Suzanne: Wow. You’re not home much.
Jon: I’m not home much. I, I’m a busy guy.
Suzanne: But I know your wife is not home much, either. She’s always flying somewhere.
Jon: she’s always flying somewhere. And I, I have to show the new cover. And the publisher sent that to me there where it says USA Today bestseller.
Suzanne: Oh, great. That’s great.
Jon: Was that backwards to you? Does it look?
Suzanne: No, it looks fine to me.
Jon: Oh, okay. It looks backward on my side, but that’s.
Suzanne: Technical stuff.
Jon: Oh, I’m very excited. I meant to mention that. yeah, I just happened.
Suzanne: I’m behind on about a little less than a month, but I happen to see that Kevin and Laura are going to, adopt ace.
Jon: Yes, yes.
Suzanne: Kevin got put in the hospital by aces by aces mother.
Jon: Yeah. You know, I do wish we had a little more Kevin as may time work out their stuff. But, cause I, and I love working with Avery Pohl. I think she’s just a. but yeah, I, I like that they decided to do that and based on what I’ve seen online, boy, there’s a lot of grandparents out there who are taking on their grandchildren to raise.
Suzanne: Yeah.
Jon: So if we’re going to do it, I hope we do it in a, in a real way. Where it’s, it’s a, it’s a huge undertaking for anybody to be a parent and, I’d like to see it. So, but, like I say, we’ve got new writers coming in. They’ve already started. So we’ll see what, yeah, see what they decide to do. You know, we’re all pretty excited.
Suzanne: II just don’t want the, Laura and Kevin to be stuck in the grandparent mode and not doing anything else.
Jon: No, we’ll try and avoid that.
Suzanne: Yeah, I hope so. All right. Well, thank you so much for talking to me. I really enjoyed it.
Jon: My pleasure. Thanks. Thanks so much for having me today.
Suzanne: I’ll send you a
Jon: again, sorry about this froggy voice.
Suzanne: Oh, it doesn’t sound that bad, honestly.
Jon: okay.
Suzanne: II have to send you a picture. I have, that I took, years ago, like 99. I went to GH convention that they have the, fan club events and I have a picture with you, so…
Jon: Oh, great. Send that to me.
Suzanne: I’ll love to. Alright. I’m gonna try to get this out as soon as possible. I’ll let you know.
Jon: Okay. All thanks. Thank you so much.
MORE INFO:
Hollywood Hustle: A Thriller Hardcover – February 6, 2024
From 4-time Emmy-nominated actor Jon Lindstrom of General Hospital, Bosch, and True Detective fame, comes a gripping debut thriller.
Set in the dark underbelly of the LA film industry, Hollywood Hustle is the perfect read for fans of Alex Finlay and Jeffery Deaver.
Winston Greene, a has-been film star, wakes one morning to find his six-year-old granddaughter at his bedside—traumatized, unattended, and gripping onto a thumb drive. She comes bearing video proof that her mother, Win’s troubled adult daughter, has been kidnapped by a murderous gang demanding all his “movie money” for her safe return. But what they don’t know is…his movie money is long gone.
Unable to go to the police for fear the kidnappers will make good on their promise to kill his daughter, Winston turns to two close friends—a legendary Hollywood stuntman and a disgraced former LAPD detective.
There’s no easy way out for Winston or his daughter—the gang is violent and willing to do anything to get the money they’re after, and Winston begins to realize that to get his daughter back, he’ll have to beat the kidnappers at their own game.
This propulsive and tense thriller will transport readers to the seedier side of LA, depicted in bold prose by a Hollywood insider.
Jon Robert Lindstrom is an American actor, writer, director, producer, and musician. He is well known for his roles of Kevin Collins and Ryan Chamberlain on the ABC Daytime soap opera General Hospital and its spin-off Port Charles.
Please visit Jon’s site or social to see his next book signing or other events!
Celebrating its 60th anniversary, “General Hospital” continues its tradition of passion, intrigue and adventure that has depicted the ongoing lives of the diverse and evolving citizens of the fictional town of Port Charles set in upstate New York. The glamour and excitement of those who have come to find their destinies in this familiar seaport town intertwine with the lives, loves and fortunes of beloved, well-known faces. As always, love, danger and mind-blowing plot twists abound on “GH” with contemporary storylines and unforgettable characters.
Billy talks about adding Abbott to the Chancellor-Winters company name and Devon tells him that he will talk to Lily about it. Devon later tells Nate that he thinks the name change is a power play by Billy not by Jill and he won’t let him get away with it.
Ashley starts hearing voices while she is alone in the Abbot house. Jack arrives and Ashley tells him that she is scared because she doesn’t know what is happening to her.
Jordan encourages Seth to renew his friendship with Nikki so they can help each other with their alcoholism battle.
Chelsea continued to worry about Connor because the doctors at his school couldn’t figure out what is wrong with him.
Nikki tells Victor and Victoria she wants to use herself as bait to catch Jordan.
Brady goes to the DiMera Mansion with balloons, flowers, and a teddy bear. Kristen answers the door and acknowledges that he went all out. Brady says it’s all for Rachel because she is his valentine.
Xander is handcuffed to the chair in the interrogation room as Sarah enters the room.
Everett goes to the Spectator office where Stephanie asks if he’s seen him. Everett says no as Chad comes out from the back from having stayed in the office and asks who they are looking for. Stephanie says they were looking for him as she hugs Chad and thanks God that he’s okay.
Ava and Stefan go to the police station. Jada thanks them for getting there so quickly. Stefan says they are happy to help in any way they can. Ava asks if she knows how Harris is doing. Jada informs her that Harris made it through the night but he did suffer serious internal damage so he’s not out of the woods yet. Stefan asks what she needs from them. Jada responds that she has some questions. Stefan says the answer is no, they did not notice any unusual activity at the Bistro last night. Ava asks if Jada knows why Harris was shot. Jada says not yet, but they have a person of interest in custody and they reviewed Harris’ phone messages which revealed someone sent him a text message, luring him to the docks. Ava asks if they know who sent the message. Jada responds that Ava did, shocking Ava and Stefan.
Stephanie tells Chad that they were so worried. Chad thanks them for the messages and apologizes for not responding as it’s just been a little insane with the horror of what happened and getting everyone settled at the Kiriakis Mansion. Stephanie points out that he’s still at work. Chad says he luckily had a change of clothes in the back. Everett asks what they can do to help. Stephanie urges Chad to lean on them.
Xander asks how Sarah is doing. Sarah responds that she’s exhausted and confused as she doesn’t know what’s happened. Xander says he doesn’t either and asks about Victoria. Sarah says she took her to Maggie at the Kiriakis Mansion. Xander swears on their daughter’s life that he did not do this as he has nothing against Harris Michaels, so he did not shoot him and she has to believe him.
Kristen brings Rachel in to the living room to see Brady. Rachel runs up and hugs him, wishing him a Happy Valentine’s Day. Brady presents her with the teddy bear and asks how her school party was. Rachel says it was really good as she got 22 valentines. Kristen asks Rachel about Brady’s Valentine’s card. Rachel says it’s almost ready but she has to add one more thing to make it perfect, so she runs back to get it. Brady tells Kristen that he’s grateful that she let him come for this. Kristen calls him Rachel’s special valentine and acknowledges that he has been ever since she was born. Kristen comments on being envious since today is a day to celebrate romance and she’s been feeling the absence of that in her life more than usual. Brady says there’s a lot of reasons for that and hopes she doesn’t have any delusions of them getting back together. Brady assures Kristen that she will never be getting Valentine’s gifts from him.
Ava swears to Jada that she did not send that text message. Ava shows her phone. Jada says that texts can be deleted, so there will be a warrant issued to check her phone records. Ava says that’s fine as she has a strong alibi that she was at work all night and she can check their security footage. Jada says her phone number could have been ghosted and they will investigate all possibilities. Jada adds that she’ll be in touch if any more questions arise. Jada thanks them for coming in and exits. Ava can’t believe that Harris thought that she texted him and declares that he got shot because of her. Stefan encourages that it’s not her fault. Stefan offers to take Ava to lunch since she hasn’t eaten but Ava says she’s not hungry and walks out of the station.
Brady asks Kristen what is taking Rachel so long. Kristen says Rachel is working on his card as she wants it to be perfect. Kristen asks about Tate. Brady says he’s better at a juvenile rehab center so he and Theresa hope to see him tomorrow. Kristen questions Theresa going with him. Brady points out that she is Tate’s mother. Kristen asks how she could forget.
Xander assures Sarah that having her and Victoria in his life has changed him and he knows he’s capable of being the man he wants to be. Sarah doesn’t doubt that. Xander says he’s grateful for that but he also knows she’s given him more chances than he deserves, so if she’s here to say goodbye, he doesn’t blame her. Xander admits that Sarah and Victoria are probably better off without him.
Chad thanks Stephanie and Everett for their support. Stephanie asks how Doug and Julie are doing. Chad says they were in shock, but they were both very brave and just grateful that no one got hurt, especially the kids. Chad mentions that Doug and Julie are out picking up clothes for the kids for the week. Stephanie asks how Thomas and Charlotte are. Chad says they are good and still went to school to not miss out on the Valentine’s festivities. Chad adds that Marlena is coming by later to talk to them. Stephanie informs him that she picked up some slippers, pajamas, and teddy bears which Chad says they will love. Stephanie gets a text about the geocaching event and she has to get a permit before the event can start. Chad forgot that was today and asks if they have coverage on it. Everett assures they are all good. Chad thanks him for being on top of that. Stephanie says she will go deal with the permit issue and hugs Chad, repeating that she’s so relieved that he is okay. Stephanie then exits the office. Everett then asks Chad to tell him what’s really going on. Chad admits that he thinks it was arson and someone was trying to kill them. Chad says it was a normal night and the kids had just gone upstairs where Doug was going to read them a story before bed. Chad adds that he and Julie went upstairs to go to bed and then they heard some noise, came back down and saw the fire with smoke everywhere. Chad says that Julie luckily got Doug and the kids out while he tried to extinguish the flames but couldn’t, so Julie dragged him out and they watched the house burn down from across the street. Chad says the fire department came and put it out. Everett tells Chad that he’s so sorry for what he’s gone through and asks if he fears for his safety. Chad confirms that he does.
Kristen questions Brady seeing a lot of Theresa lately. Brady admits he has more than usual because of the situation with Tate. Kristen points out that they are also working closely too. Brady tells her not to take this chance to badmouth Theresa as he’s not interested in hearing her take, especially when it could be influenced by jealousy. Kristen admits that maybe it is as she’s been bereft of romance for quite a long time, so knowing that Theresa is getting a lot of Brady’s attention and she also has Alex wrapped around her finger, so she’s a bit envious. Kristen doesn’t like going to bed alone night after night and assumes Brady is too. Kristen asks if he’s okay with that. Brady assures that he is. Kristen knows things have been a little rough between them for the last few months, but says times are changing and it seems they are changing. Kristen feels they have grown up in the past few months and are starting to understand each other a bit more, so she was thinking they could explore the possibility of a relationship again. Brady says it’s times like this when he just knows that she is certifiable.
Stephanie goes to the police station and tells Jada that she’s amazing for reminding her to get the sign off from the parks department. Jada says she knows how important the event is and that they could all use some light hearted fun after the last 24 hours. Stephanie asks how Harris is doing. Jada admits he had a rough night, but she heard he’s stable. Stephanie says she’s praying for him. Jada says that’s all they can do right now.
Ava goes to the chapel and lights a candle as she begins to pray. Ava knows she might not deserve God’s grace, but says Harris sure does. Ava prays for God to give Harris the strength to survive. Stefan enters and sits next to Ava, holding her hand.
Sarah tells Xander that she realizes she has every reason to walk away right now, but she won’t and she can’t because she knows the man that made love to her last night, who adores his daughter, is incapable of killing another human being in cold blood. Sarah states that if Xander tells her that he didn’t do it then she believes him. Xander thanks her and declares that her and Victoria are his life. Justin then arrives, announcing he is Xander’s attorney and wants to speak to his client. Sarah thanks him for coming and tells Xander that she told Justin what happened. Xander complains that the cops just showed up at his door and arrested him for no reason as far as he could tell. Justin is sure it was a shock, but says he is here now and the family is here for both of them. Justin says when he left the house, Maggie and Julie were taking turns with Victoria while Doug was reading to Thomas and Charlotte. Sarah asks how they are doing. Justin says as well as expected. Xander questions what he’s missing. Sarah informs him about the fire at the Horton house which shocks Xander. Justin says they are all staying at the Kiriakis Mansion now. Xander guesses that explains all the sirens he heard and wonders what the hell happened in Salem last night. Xander says that Doug and Julie must be devastated. Sarah comments that it wasn’t just their home, but part of the history of the town and the spirit of Salem.
Stefan tells Ava that it’s kind of surprising to find her in the chapel as he never took her as the praying type. Ava responds that maybe he doesn’t know her as well as he thinks. Stefan asks if there’s any news on Harris. Ava says she stopped by the nurse’s desk but they wouldn’t let her in as they said family only, so she figured the only way she could help Harris now is to pray.
Stephanie asks Jada what she and Rafe are doing for Valentine’s Day. Jada says they haven’t really talked about anything but work with Harris being shot and all the craziness. Stephanie responds that she would love it if Jada and Rafe joined her and her guy for a Valentine’s Day dinner. Jada calls that really sweet. Stephanie says her guy and Rafe are both very funny. Jada agrees that they are in. Stephanie declares that she can’t wait for Valentine’s Day with two of her favorite people.
Everett asks Chad if he still feels threatened. Chad confirms he does and reveals that he got a call while watching the house burn down from an unknown number and a distorted voice that said “maybe next time, you’ll listen”.
Brady questions Kristen wanting to explore the possibility of a relationship, reminding her that when they were together it was a train wreck and since they’ve been apart, it’s been a nightmare for him since he hasn’t been able to see his daughter. Kristen asks if he doesn’t think people can change and that something wonderful can still be there, waiting to be ignited. Brady says not in this case and talks about her being malicious, vindictive, evil, and inflicting pain. Kristen admits she’s behaved badly at times but she did it because she loves him and she was desperate not to lose him. Brady questions that excusing her doing rotten things. Kristen says it’s not okay, but understandable. Brady brings up everyone else that Kristen has screwed over and lives that she tried to ruin. Brady talks about Kristen drugging Eric, forcing him to have sex with her, and recording it to make sure he was ousted from the priesthood. Kristen stops him and says they don’t want Rachel to hear him. Brady shouts that she raped his brother. Kristen calls that harsh words and says it doesn’t fit with what happened between them. Kristen adds that Eric has forgiven her. Brady argues that Eric may have said that to her, but no human being can forgive something that cruel and destructive. Kristen brings up Brady threatening her with a gun in front of their daughter and asks if that’s not cruel and destructive. Brady blames her provoking him but says he was never going to hurt her. Brady states that stealing a fetus and implanting it in herself was probably her most diabolical thing. Kristen argues that she did it out of love. Brady asks if that exonerates her. Brady declares that Kristen’s idea of love has nothing to do with love, but with possessiveness, revenge, and selfishness. Brady adds that Kristen keeps claiming to have changed but she keeps making the same mistakes. Rachel then runs back in, yelling for Brady to stop and not speak to Kristen like that. Brady apologizes but Rachel argues that they always say sorry and they always fight. Kristen tries to say that they don’t but Rachel says that’s lying. Brady says they have a complicated relationship but they both love her. Rachel shouts at them both to shut up. Rachel then rips up her Valentine’s card for Brady and says she hopes he’s happy now. Kristen tells Brady to just go. Brady tells Rachel that he loves her and he’s sorry as he then exits. Kristen hugs Rachel and tells her that it will be alright.
Everett tells Chad that it looks like their article struck a nerve with Clyde after all but proving it won’t be easy. Everett worries that Clyde has the means to continue his campaign of terror for quite some time. Chad says he cannot let that happen as Clyde murdered his wife and tried to kill him and his kids, so he has to finish this. Everett tells Chad to let him help him finish it as they have more of a chance of success if he helps. Chad says it won’t be pretty. Everett responds that he’s all in for down and dirty if it means getting Clyde out of their lives for good.
Ava tells Stefan that it’s so hard not to be close to Harris right now. Ava asks if Stefan thinks Clyde will go after Gabi or Tripp now. Stefan says no, since they had nothing to do with the raid or the article, so the best thing they can do is stay put and lie low until they hear from Clyde. Ava worries that they will never be free of Clyde. Stefan declares that they made their choices and as long as that son of a bitch is breathing, they are at his mercy.
Justin tells Xander to walk him through last night as he understands he went for a run. Xander confirms that he did and it was late as he usually runs earlier, but he needed to clear his head. Justin asks where he ran. Xander says he went through the town square and passed by the Bistro on his way home. Justin asks if he heard anything. Xander says he heard nothing until he got home and then it seemed like sirens were coming from all directions. Justin questions Xander about the “is it done?” text on his phone. Xander says he has no idea. Justin assumes the police will get a warrant for his cell phone records. Xander admits that a few days ago, he got a call, asking him to eliminate someone. Sarah is shocked while Justin questions him just mentioning this now instead of going to the police. Xander knows he should have. Jada comes back in to the room, so Justin tells her that he wants his client arraigned now, so they can set bail and get him out. Jada responds that she wouldn’t be getting his hopes up. Jada then opens a box and presents a gun.
Stephanie joins Everett in the town square, where people are participating in the geocaching event. Stephanie comments on the turnout. Everett says she did good. Stephanie informs him that she invited her friends to dinner tonight as they’ve been going through a lot and she knows that they could use a care free night. Stephanie adds that she’s been wanting to introduce them to him as he’s responsible for the smile on her face as they kiss.
Brady sits outside the DiMera Mansion, questioning how he could let this happen again.
Kristen encourages Rachel to drink water and calm down. Rachel complains that she doesn’t want to calm down and asks why Kristen and Brady always have to fight.
Ava asks Stefan how she let this happen to her. Stefan responds that he let it happen to him too as they both felt they had no choice since Clyde got to them when they were vulnerable. Ava doesn’t like vulnerable as she’s supposed to be strong and fierce with no one intimidating her. Ava admits she was weak and now the last thought in Harris’s head is that she needed him. Ava states that Harris was on the dock because of her as she starts to cry. Stefan encourages that they are not alone in this and that they will get through it together.
Sarah questions the gun. Jada responds that it was recovered in Xander’s apartment last night and ballistics just confirmed that it’s the same gun that shot Harris Michaels.
Theresa wakes up at home and calls out for Alex but there’s no answer, so she knocks on his door and finds out he is not home and wonders where the heck he is.
Paulina is in the hospital, on the phone with Rafe. Paulina thanks him for checking in and says she’s doing alright but she’s frustrated that she can’t be available to him 24/7. Paulina says getting the drugs off the street is a start and says to thank the police department for the flowers as she hangs up. Abe arrives with white roses and wishes Paulina a Happy Valentine’s Day.
Johnny and Chanel arrive at the hospital, dressed for their wedding and talking about how they can’t wait to see Paulina’s reaction. Chanel tells Johnny that it was very kind of him to do this. Johnny says he loved the idea just as much as she did and he would do anything to make her happy. Chanel adds that Paulina will be over the moon.
Steve wakes Kayla up in bed with a yellow rose and wishes her a Happy Anniversary. Steve tells her that she’s even more beautiful than when he first laid eyes on her. Steve talks about having so many years together and adventures. Steve states that as crazy as some of those adventures have been, they brought them to where they are now and he’s so grateful for each one. Kayla says she is too as they kiss until Stephanie opens the door to surprise them with breakfast in bed, but apologizes for interrupting.
John and Marlena kiss in the park. Marlena is glad John insisted on this. John calls it a beautiful day. Marlena says it really does help to get out in nature and the fresh air. Marlena hopes that Harris will be alright and worries about what the Hortons are going through. John assures that Doug and Julie know they will help them any way they can. John then surprises Marlena with a Valentine’s Day picnic setup in the park.
Kayla and Steve come out from the bedroom as Stephanie continues to apologize for interrupting. Steve says it’s their fault for not locking the door while Stephanie blames herself for not knocking. Stephanie wishes them a happy anniversary anyway and calls them the sweetest, most romantic couple she knows. Stephanie says the food can wait but Kayla insists that they want to enjoy it.
Theresa wonders if Alex at least left a note but finds that he did not. Theresa then remembers finding the engagement ring in Alex’s jacket pocket, so she checks his jacket and finds the ring is no longer there. Theresa then guesses that means Alex is going to propose today because it’s Valentine’s Day so maybe he’s going to put the ring in a dessert for her. Theresa decides that Alex is going to surprise her by popping the question. Theresa then excitedly goes to get dressed.
Marlena comments on John going above and beyond. Marlena calls it a perfect Valentine’s Day. John hopes it makes up a little for them being apart on last year’s Valentine’s Day but says that gave him a greater appreciation of every day with her. John tells Marlena that their Valentine’s Day celebration is just beginning, explaining that he downloaded the montage of pictures that Johnny put together that he showed her on the rooftop. John suggests tonight, they lie in bed and look at those pictures again under different circumstances which Marlena says she would love. John says it doesn’t seem like a year since they were up on the rooftop. Marlena responds that time goes by so quickly. John says they are too busy making memories like today as they toast their champagne.
Alex comes home where Theresa says she was starting to get worried as he doesn’t usually leave without a note or a text. Alex apologizes and kisses her. Theresa says he’s forgiven this once and asks where he was. Alex responds that there was just something he needed to take care of. Theresa tells him that he’s just in time for a very special breakfast and wishes him a Happy Valentine’s Day as they kiss. Alex tells Theresa that he’s not really that hungry and asks if she’d be up to go for a walk instead, so Theresa goes to get changed.
Paulina talks to Abe about the white roses as Chanel and Johnny arrive. Paulina says they didn’t have to come but they insist there is no where else they would rather be. Paulina sees they also have white roses and starts to feel this isn’t a coincidence, so she asks what’s going on. Johnny informs Paulina that her surgery is not the only reason they are all here today. Chanel announces it’s finally time to let her in on a surprise as she reveals that it’s her bridal bouquet and they are getting married today. Paulina is shocked as she thought they postponed the wedding. Johnny tells Paulina that she’s going to be there as Chanel declares that they are getting married right here.
Stephanie, Steve, and Kayla eat breakfast as Stephanie asks them which of their weddings was their favorite. They agree that it was the first one on the yacht. Steve calls it a beautiful day and recalls how the day before, Kayla had her hearing restored but hadn’t spoken in two months until then as they flash back to that moment. Kayla states that Steve gave her the courage to finally talk again, calling it a glorious moment with everyone they love there to witness it as they flash back to their wedding vows. Kayla declares that celebrating their anniversary with the love of her life and their daughter, reminds her of how lucky she is and how her life is better than she ever could’ve imagined.
Paulina questions Chanel and Johnny getting married in this hospital room. Johnny confirms that Abe will be officiating. Paulina questions them planning all of this as Abe explains that he had all the flowers sent for the ceremony. Paulina realizes that’s why Rafe didn’t know what she was thanking him for. Paulina asks if they are sure. Chanel assures her and asks Paulina to be her matron of honor while Johnny asks her to be his best person as well. Chanel says Paulina can also give her away. Paulina calls it a lot of jobs but says she’s up for it. Paulina calls for them to get the show on the road.
Stephanie, Steve, and Kayla talk about Steve and Kayla being married 5 times. Steve and Kayla talk about exchanging vows in the mountains. Stephanie reveals that she gathered photos from their previous weddings as an anniversary Valentine’s gift. They flash back to their Valentine’s Day wedding from 3 years ago. They talk about meaning every word of their vows.
Alex and Theresa walk to the park and come across John and Marlena, so they greet them and wish a Happy Valentine’s Day. Alex says they know how to celebrate. Marlena invites them to join them. Alex says they don’t want to intrude but John insists. Theresa decides it’s up to Alex. Alex repeats that he didn’t want to impose but Marlena says they would enjoy the company. Alex calls it great since they had no plans, so Theresa goes along with it and they sit down with John and Marlena.
Abe begins the wedding of Chanel and Johnny. Johnny and Chanel then exchange their vows. Abe calls for the rings but Paulina asks if they want to say something personal first. Johnny confirms that he definitely does.
John tells Alex and Theresa about the first time he set up a romantic picnic for Marlena on their first honeymoon which they then flash back to. They comment on still making wonderful memories. Theresa asks what their secret is to staying madly in love for 40 years. Marlena points out that there were a few years they weren’t together while John notes that they always found their way back to each other. John says there is the love, trust, and always staying romantic. Marlena reminds John of the Valentine’s Day dance at the hospital, so Theresa asks for the details. They recall it being 1993. John reveals he won a dance with Marlena for $100,000. Marlena adds that everyone thought they were just friends at that point, but after the dance, they realized they were a lot more as they flash back to that moment. John declares that it was worth every penny. Theresa asks Marlena to show her where the ladies room is so she can freshen up. As they step aside, Theresa informs Marlena that she doesn’t really have to go, but she’s dying to tell somebody that Alex is going to ask her to marry her today. Marlena asks if she’s sure. Theresa explains that she found a gorgeous ring in his jacket pocket and then this morning, it was no longer there which tells her that Alex has the ring with him or he dropped it off somewhere for a surprise proposal. Marlena responds that she’s not sure about this which Theresa questions. Marlena wonders if Theresa doesn’t want to get things with her son in order before making a huge life change. Theresa says she understands that, but she’ll just tell Alex that they can have a really long engagement and they don’t have to get married right away. Theresa adds that she doesn’t want to upset Alex by saying no when he proposes, especially since he bought such a beautiful ring. John asks Alex if he’s okay. Alex responds that he’s good, just feeling a little pressured. John isn’t sure what he means. Alex says it’s Valentine’s Day, so when you are with someone, they expect you to be intensely romantic like John and Marlena. John states that Alex and Theresa’s relationship is relatively new so they don’t have to be intensely romantic as long as he’s honest about it. Alex agrees that he has to be honest with himself and with Theresa.
Kayla thanks Stephanie and hugs her. Stephanie knows Valentine’s Day is very special to Steve and Kayla, so she wanted to honor that. Steve thanks her and asks what Stephanie’s Valentine’s Day plans are. Stephanie responds that she’s going to check in on the Caching Cupid event that kicks off later. Stephanie jokes that she’s going to be gone for hours and mentions that Abe is gone too. Steve and Kayla talk about Abe telling them about his plans to officiate another surprise wedding. Kayla mentions being so happy for Johnny and Chanel.
Johnny begins his own vows by telling Chanel that she’s made him the happiest man in the world today and talks about their journey. Johnny says he doesn’t know where life will take them from here but it doesn’t matter because they will be together. Johnny promises to take care of her and protect her forever. Chanel responds that she loves him with a passion that she can’t express in words, so all she can do is show him and she looks forward to all the years to come. Abe then calls for them to exchange the rings. Abe then pronounces them husband and wife as Johnny and Chanel kiss. Paulina exclaims that it’s such a happy day. Abe congratulates them as they hug. The nurse enters and says it looks like a special occasion. Paulina confirms that her beautiful daughter just got married to her handsome new son in law and for the second time. Johnny assures it’s the last time as well. The nurse is sorry to break it up but announces it’s time for Paulina’s surgery. Johnny says they’ll be right here when she gets back. Abe says he will walk Paulina down the hall. Chanel hugs Paulina and says she loves her. Abe and the nurse then escort Paulina out of the room. Chanel and Johnny talk about how Paulina will be okay and they just have to wait, joking that they are the best dressed couple in the hospital. Johnny tells Chanel how much he loves her as they kiss.
Steve and Kayla talk about Stephanie being sweet and how she won’t be home for awhile. Steve and Kayla then head back to the bedroom.
Alex and Theresa go back home. Theresa talks about it being a treat to run in to John and Marlena and hearing all those romantic stories. Alex says they obviously have a great marriage. Theresa calls that something to strive for. Theresa asks Alex if he wants to go to the geocaching scavenger hunt. Alex says maybe. Theresa asks what Alex had planned for the day. Alex says he was going to go by the office but it’s not necessary for her to come in today. Theresa says she’ll just be here relaxing then and waiting for him. Alex says that sounds good. Theresa adds that she made a reservation at the Bistro because it’s Valentine’s Day and asks if he’s interested. Alex says sure and that he’s going to change for the office. Theresa tells him it’s at 8:00 so Alex says he’ll be there and exits. Theresa wonders if Alex is just trying to throw her off and guesses that Alex definitely took the ring to the Bistro to put it in her dessert or something. Theresa declares that tonight will be the night that she becomes the future Mrs. Alex Kiriakis.
Marlena thanks John for a wonderful Valentine’s Day. John says the pleasure is all his as they kiss. Marlena hopes he didn’t mind her inviting Alex and Theresa to join them. John calls it very nice of her, especially since they obviously didn’t have any other plans. Marlena then informs John that Theresa was expecting Alex to propose and after having spent so much time with Alex, she knows that’s not on his mind. John thinks Alex is doing a little soul searching because he told him that he feels like he’s under pressure to be intensely romantic because it’s Valentine’s Day. John mentions that he advised Alex to be honest with Theresa. Marlena reveals John that she got him something and it’s a keychain engraved “Going Home to Doc”. John calls it perfect because every time they are apart, he’s always going home to her as they kiss. Marlena calls it a combination Valentine’s and birthday gift as she wishes him a happy birthday. John tells Marlena that he loves her now and forever. John jokes that he may not have $100,000 on him but asks her to dance with him which they do.
Stephanie helped Steve and Kayla celebrate their anniversary. John set up a Valentine’s Day surprise for Marlena. He wanted to show her that he appreciated her. John said he downloaded the pictures Johnny had. He wanted to look at the pictures under different circumstances. Theresa was excited about Alex proposing to her. He wanted to take her for a walk. While Abe and Paulina were talking, Johnny and Chanel showed up. Paulina wanted to know what was going on. Johnny and Chanel told her they were getting married. Steve talked to Kayla and Stephanie about the first time they got married. There was a flashback of their wedding. Paulina asked if Johnny and Chanel were getting married in her room. Johnny said they were. Paulina was excited about them getting married. Stephanie asked Steve and Kayla if they were married four times. Steve and Kayla told her they were. Stephanie said she gathered pictures from their weddings. While they were looking at the pictures, they flashed back to another wedding. While Alex and Theresa went on their walk, they ran into John and Marlena. Marlena asked if they wanted to join them. Alex said they didn’t want to intrude. He agreed to join them because they didn’t have any plans.
Abe officiated Johnny and Chanel’s wedding. John and Marlena talked to Alex and Theresa about their romance. Theresa asked what the secret of staying madly in love. John said it was trust, respect and staying romantic. Marlena and John told them about the hospital Valentine’s Day dance. There was a flashback of the dance. Theresa pulled Marlena away from the table. She told Marlena that Alex was going to propose to her. Theresa told her about finding the ring and why she thought he was going to propose to her. Marlena told her she didn’t know if Alex was proposing to her. She asked if Theresa wanted to get things with her son in order before making a life change. Theresa said she would tell Alex they would have a long engagement. She said she didn’t want to upset him by saying no to his proposal. Alex told John that he felt pressured to be romantic the way John was with Marlena. John told him to be honest with himself and Theresa. Alex agreed that he had to be honest with himself and Theresa. Johnny told Chanel how he felt about her. Chanel told Johnny how she felt about him. When they got married, a nurse came to take Paulina to have her surgery.
Chad, Julie, Doug, and the kids went to the Kiriakis mansion. Maggie tried to calm Julie down. Julie questioned why the house burned down. Chad said it was his fault. Goldman, Rafe, and Jada talked about Harris and how he was doing. Jada told Rafe what was going on with Lucas. Wendy showed up at the police station. Jada wanted her to scrub traffic cam footage. Wendy wanted to talk to Jada and Rafe for a minute. Maggie asked Chad how the fire could be his fault. Chad said he got a call from an unknown number. He told them what the caller said. Chad said it was a payback for writing a story about the drug ring. He said Clyde threatened him. Julie was upset that he didn’t pull the story. Wendy told Rafe and Jada that Ava admitted she was in danger and didn’t want her and Tripp involved. She said Ava said she couldn’t trust the cops. Wendy said she thought Stefan was involved. Rafe appreciated Wendy talking to them. He asked her to be their ears. Wendy said she felt weird spying on her boyfriend’s brother. Jada tried to convince her to do it. Wendy agreed to do it. Rafe said no one else would know what information she gave them. Stefan tried to comfort Ava about Harris. He wanted to know why she slept with him if she loved Harris. Ava couldn’t believe he asked her that. Julie told Chad he should have said something about Clyde’s threat. Maggie told Chad that it wasn’t his fault. Julie told him it wasn’t his fault. Chad said he wanted to make Clyde pay for what he did to Abby and the kids. Julie asked if he was sure Clyde was the one who called. Chad said he wasn’t sure but wondered who else it could be. He said the number was blocked but it could be unblocked. Chad wanted to give the police his phone to see what they could do. Goldman said she found a cell phone. Rafe told Wendy to check the phone. When Wendy left, Jada wanted to know what happened at the pub. Kayla told Ava and Stefan about Harris’ condition. She said they had to remove the bullet. Ava asked if Harris was going to be okay. Kayla said he lost of lot of blood. She said they would know when they performed surgery.
Julie was upset that the fire ruined her family’s legacy. Maggie said the fire didn’t take away the memories. Kayla said Harris would do better than most because he was in excellent shape. She said Ava’s quick thinking was why Harris stood a fighting chance. Rafe couldn’t believe Harris was keeping Lucas safe at the pub. He said they had to do whatever they could to find Harris’ killer. Rafe believed Clyde was behind it. Jada hoped the phone could tell them something. She said Lucas was safe for now, but they had to get him out of the pub. While they were talking, Chad showed up. Jada asked if everyone was okay. Chad said everyone got out. Rafe asked if he knew how the fire started. Chad said it was Clyde. He told them about the phone call. Chad said Clyde threatened him because of the story. He said he thought Clyde was getting revenge because of the story. Rafe said if Clyde was responsible that made three incidents. Chad wanted to know what the was talking about. Rafe said it was confidential, but he promised to take him down. Chad wanted the police to nail Clyde. Ava told Stefan they had to end what they were doing after tonight. Stefan said they didn’t have a choice. He said they saw what happened to Harris. Ava threatened to make Clyde pay if anything happened to Harris. Stefan said she couldn’t show up at the prison and kill him. He said to let it go. She asked if he expected them to let Clyde hurt the people they loved. Rafe and Jada talked about Clyde and wondered how the mole knew what was going on. Wendy came in and told them about the numbers she found on the burner phone. Goldman showed up with the search warrant. Jada asked her if she was okay. Goldman said she overdid it at the gym. Ava asked Kayla about Harris. Kayla said they removed the bullet, but he had a collapsed gun. While they were talking, Ava asked to see him. Kayla said she could see him for a few minutes. Ava went to see Harris. She wanted to tell him she loved him.
Someone broke into the Brady pub and tried to shoot at Lucas. Kate had her gun ready to fire it. A mysterious person lit the Horton house on fire. Julie and Chad ran down stairs and saw the flames in the living room. They yelled for help. Stefan saw Tripp, Ava and Wendy. Stefan and Tripp had an awkward exchange. Ava wanted to get some air. She saw Harris shot on the ground. Rafe and Jada talked about the drug dealer that got shot. Jada wondered if their conversation counted as a date. He said there was a lot of paperwork so it did. She agreed to take what she could get. He wondered what happened to Harris’ file. Ava tried to help Harris when she found him. She called Tripp to tell him about Harris. Kate and Lucas made sure they weren’t hit. Roman arrived and wanted to make sure they were okay. Kate told Roman that she wasn’t sure if she shot the person who broke in. Chad called the fire department and Julie went upstairs to wake Doug and the kids. Ava begged Harris not to die. The ambulance was on its way to them.
Lucas and Roman realized that the shooter was after him. Roman thought they should go to Harris. Kate thought Harris was the reason they went through the break in. The EMTs, Rafe and Jada arrived at the scene. They saw Harris on the ground. Rafe got a call about another shooting at the pub and wanted Jada to check it out. Chad tried to put the fire out, and Julie went back inside to help him. Jada arrived at the pub and saw Lucas there. Rafe asked Ava questions about Harris. She didn’t have answers for him. Jada asked Kate and Lucas questions about what happened. She wanted to question Lucas at the station, but he couldn’t do it. She was going to have a strong police presence at the house. Tripp gave Harris CPR, but he wasn’t responsive. He wanted to know what happened. Lucas told Jada that Clyde was responsible for what happened at the pub. Julie and Doug were devastated by the fire. She said she spent her lifetime there. Chad’s kids talked about losing their mother’s picture. Someone called Chad and warned him about interfering in the drug trafficking.
Ashley is riding in a limo when the limo bumps into another car and Ashley remembers a similar accident happening in Paris.
Adam and Nick ask Victor to create a design division within Newman Enterprises, but Victor tells them he will never work with Sally Spectra. Adam tells Nick he won’t give up until he persuades their father to create a design division for Sally.
Jordan calls Nikki and tells her that she won’t see her coming when she comes after her.
Victor tells Adam and Nick he intends to make himself the bait to draw Jordan into a trap. Jordan sends text messages to Seth and later him at a bar, but she is wearing a shoulder length dark wig.
Xander returns home from his run to find Sarah waiting on the couch. Xander is surprised she’s still up. Sarah responds that she was starting to get worried as he was gone for such a long time. Sarah adds that she was hearing all the sirens and guesses he did too. Xander states that he had no idea what that was all about.
Chad and Julie go to the Kiriakis Mansion. Chad thanks Maggie for giving them clothes. Maggie says Victor would be glad they went to use as she’s never gotten around to donating them. Maggie asks where Doug is. Chad responds that he’s upstairs with the kids as they finally fell asleep and he didn’t want to leave their side. Chad says the kids were so scared as they all were. Maggie can’t imagine and calls it terrifying. Chad isn’t sure he’s been able to process it yet but calls Julie so brave. Maggie knows they both always are. Maggie tries to comfort Julie and says they are all okay which is all that matters. Julie agrees and acknowledges that the house is just a material thing while family is home. Julie just doesn’t understand why it happened. Chad responds that he knows why and declares that it was his fault.
At the police station, Jada talks with Officer Goldman about it being all hands on deck and not having any updates on Harris yet. Rafe joins them and asks for any updates on the shooting. Jada says they are interviewing witnesses and trying to locate Harris’ phone. Jada asks how Harris is doing. Rafe responds that he’s alive but it’s touch and go. Rafe asks about the Pub. Jada says she just got back from there and everyone’s fine, but she’ll fill him in on that later. Rafe says he figured he could be more useful here. Officer Goldman comments on cops being at the hospital donating blood. Rafe talks about how they always come together in times of need. Wendy arrives and asks how she can help. Jada says they will need her to bring up traffic camera footage. Wendy agrees to but asks if she can talk to them in private first.
Stefan joins Ava in a hospital waiting room and asks if she’s hanging in. Ava says she is just barely. Ava remarks that she doesn’t always have the greatest memory, but she remembers every single word that Harris ever said to her and she keeps hearing those words in her head over and over again. Stefan asks if Ava really loves him. Ava responds that she never told him and worries that she’ll never get the chance to.
Kayla works on Harris in the emergency room and says they need at least five units of blood for surgery as she urges him to stay with them.
Xander tells Sarah that he was really in the zone and ran about two miles more than he usually does, but there’s sirens all over town. Xander guesses he’ll be filled in on it in the morning. Sarah suggests they could stay up late, watch the news, and have a drink.. Xander says it sounds tempting but he’s beat and needs a shower. Xander says she can tell him when Victoria is up and tells Sarah to have a goodnight as he heads to the bathroom.
Maggie asks how this could have been Chad’s fault as she doesn’t understand. Chad reveals that he got a phone call after they got outside and were across the street, from an unknown number with a distorted voice that said “maybe next time, you’ll listen”. Chad thinks it was payback for a story they ran in the Spectator about the drug ring because Clyde said he would be sorry. Julie is shocked and questions Chad ignoring that and not taking it seriously. Julie asks why Chad printed the story.
Wendy goes in to the interrogation room with Rafe and Jada. They ask if she saw something tonight. Wendy says not tonight and she doesn’t like being a snitch but she probably should’ve told them this earlier. Wendy informs them that the other night, Ava pretty much admitted to her and Tripp that something was going on at the Bistro that could get her in trouble and she didn’t want her and Tripp involved because of the danger. Rafe asks if Ava said what kind of danger. Wendy admits that she didn’t but it sounded pretty serious. Wendy adds that Ava made a big point of saying she can’t trust the cops. Jada asks if she said why. Wendy responds that Ava said something about how the cops can be more corrupt than the mob in her experience. Jada asks if Wendy noticed any odd behavior from Ava lately. Wendy notes that Ava has been obsessed with wanting her and Tripp to get out of town as if it’s so they won’t be around for whatever danger is out there. Wendy adds that she doesn’t know the details, but she thinks Stefan is involved somehow. Rafe thanks Wendy for the tip and says he’d appreciate her being the ears and eyes around Ava. Wendy calls the idea of spying on her boyfriend’s mother weird. Jada says she gets it but it could really help their investigation and something really serious is going down right now, so Wendy agrees to do it. Rafe assures this stays between them and no one else will know that she’s giving them intel. Jada adds that he can’t tell anyone, especially not Tripp. Officer Goldman enters and announces she has something they are going to want to see right away.
Stefan encourages Ava that Harris will be okay and she has to think positive. Stefan brings up Harris being a Navy SEAL and being through worse than this, so he’s going to make it. Stefan then asks Ava why she got down and dirty with him, if she loves Harris so much. Ava asks what the hell is wrong with him, reminding him that they both agreed that it was a huge mistake. Ava then asks why Stefan got down and dirty with her when he apparently loves Gabi so much. Ava then tells him not to answer because it never happened. Stefan agrees and apologizes for bringing it up. Kayla comes in, so Ava asks what’s wrong and if Harris is going to be okay.
Julie knows Chad couldn’t imagine someone would set the house on fire, but questions why he didn’t tell them about the call or warn them about the threat from Clyde. Chad wishes he would have and blames himself. Maggie insists it’s not his fault but Chad says he should’ve taken Clyde’s threat seriously because he knows what he’s capable of. Chad apologizes. Julie says she’s overwhelmed but she shouldn’t lash out at him, assuring that Chad is not to blame in any way. Julie apologizes and says the person to blame is Clyde. Chad says he published the story because he needed to bring Clyde down and he wanted to make him pay so badly for what he did to Abigail and leaving his kids without a mother. Julie asks if Chad is sure the voice on the phone was Clyde’s. Chad admits he can’t be sure, but asks who else it could be. Chad says the voice was distorted and the number was blocked, but there might be a way to unblock it. Chad adds that he hasn’t told the police about the call yet, but he’ll go to the station now to give them his phone and see if there’s anything they can do.
Officer Goldman presents a phone found near the dumpster at the scene. Rafe gives it to Wendy and says the phone is now her priority. Wendy agrees to run the numbers and see what she can find. Rafe tells her to let him know, even if it’s a dead end. Wendy then exits and Officer Goldman follows out. Rafe tells Jada that he doesn’t know what’s up with Ava, but they need to have a chat with her. Jada agrees that Ava knows more than what she’s saying. Rafe then asks Jada to get him up to speed on the Pub. Jada responds that he’s not going to believe this.
Kayla informs Ava and Stefan that they’ve been giving Harris blood transfusions and he is now stable enough for surgery which relieves Ava. Kayla adds that their biggest concern right now is internal bleeding, but he could also have bullet fragments that could cause damage to other areas. Kayla says they plan to remove the bullet and check multiple organs. Kayla asks if Harris has any family to notify. Ava says not that she knows of. Kayla says they will check with the police department for his emergency contacts. Ava asks if Harris is going to be okay. Kayla repeats that he lost a lot of blood and they’ll know more after surgery but assures that they will do everything they can.
Xander takes a shower until Sarah comes in to join him. Xander thought they were taking things slow as they start kissing.
Julie complains to Maggie that somebody set fire to the house with them in it. Maggie says there will be a reckoning for the evil that is Clyde. Julie cries that they’ve lost the family history, the scrapbooks, and the Horton family Christmas ornaments. Maggie thanks God that they got out safe and reminds her that home is not material possessions but family and the people you love. Julie agrees that’s what Tom and Alice would say as Maggie hugs her.
Kayla tells Ava and Stefan that Harris has experienced trauma but he is strong and in great shape so he has a better chance than most. Kayla adds that Ava found him and got him help before it was too late, so because of her, he actually has a better chance. Kayla says they are taking Harris to the operating room now, so she’ll be in touch. Kayla then exits the room. Ava thinks back to Harris telling her that he loves her. Ava says to herself that Harris has to make it.
Rafe and Jada discuss Harris keeping Lucas safe in his room. Jada says that’s her partner, always going above and beyond. Rafe says the best they can do for him, is to go above on this investigation and nail every bastard involved but Clyde is pulling strings from the inside. Jada questions how they prove that. Rafe says they have to find out who his new puppet master is and his soldiers on the outside and then flip them. Jada and Rafe hope the phone gives them something or forensics finds something at the Pub. Jada adds that she has police at the Pub all night on the scene, so Lucas is safe for now, but they have to find him a new safehouse. Rafe says the question is how the hell they found Lucas and declares that it’s like Clyde was waging a war on Salem tonight. Officer Goldman returns and informs them that Chad is there and insists on speaking to Rafe, so Rafe brings him in. Chad comments on it being busy out there. Rafe asks him what’s up. Chad informs them of the fire at the Horton house tonight. Jada asks if everyone is okay. Chad says they are good. Rafe asks if everyone got out. Chad confirms they did but the house is gone and destroyed. Rafe tells Chad that he’s so sorry and that they’ve been so busy that he didn’t even hear about it. Rafe asks if he knows what the cause was. Chad responds that it was arson and he thinks it was Clyde Weston. Chad tells them about the phone call saying “maybe next time, you’ll listen.” Jada asks why he thinks it was Clyde. Chad says it was either Clyde or someone who works for him, explaining that Clyde threatened he and Everett when they saw him at the prison earlier and told him they were going to write the article on the drug crisis, naming him as the suspected drug lord. Chad says Clyde didn’t want it to see the light of day and it did, so he thinks this was revenge for outing him and killing his profits. Rafe guesses that Clyde is on the warpath and if he is responsible for this fire, that makes three incidents tonight. Chad asks what else happened. Rafe says he can’t discuss other incidents but he’s glad Chad and his family are safe. Rafe adds that he’s interested in seeing the arson report and will have it sent over as soon as possible. Chad states that he needs Rafe to tell him he’s going to get this guy. Chad brings up that Clyde killed Abigail and then burned down their family house while in prison for her murder. Rafe assures that they are going to get Clyde as everyone in the department wants to bring him down. Jada asks Chad to leave his phone so they can have tech look it over which Chad agrees to.
Ava complains that things are taking forever. Stefan offers to get her something to eat but Ava says she can’t keep this up after tonight. Ava argues that they have to end this and they can’t keep this going. Stefan argues that they have no choice as they cannot betray Clyde since they’ve seen what happens. Ava swears that if Harris dies, she will go after Clyde herself no matter what happens. Stefan asks if she’s just going to walk in to prison and stab him with a spork. Ava tells him not to insult her. Stefan urges her to let it go. Ava asks if they are supposed to just let Clyde hurt the people they love. Stefan says there is nothing they can do about it unless she wants him to kill the people they love the most.
Xander and Sarah continue kissing into the bedroom. Sarah tells Xander that she loves him and she never stopped. Xander responds that he loves her and never stopped as they kiss onto the bed.
Jada comments to Rafe on there being three targets in one night and guesses Clyde has this whole thing planned and executed. Rafe points out that Clyde is in his cell while his goons are out there knocking off his enemies. Jada worries that there were kids along with Doug and Julie, so Clyde doesn’t care who gets caught in it. Rafe questions how Clyde can know so much, noting that it’s one thing to know where Chad lives or where Harris was going to be, but not to know where Lucas was hiding out. Rafe worries that the mole runs deep. Wendy rushes in and says they won’t believe it but she got a hit off the phone and shows them the papers, shocking Rafe and Jada. Rafe and Jada exit the interrogation room, declaring they’ve got him now. Officer Goldman comes in and announces she’s got the warrant. She shows signs of arm pain so Jada asks if she’s alright but she says she just overdid it at the gym. Rafe announces that everyone knows the drill so it’s time to do this as they exit the station.
Chad returns to the Kiriakis Mansion and tells Maggie and Julie that the kids are still asleep and Doug is with them. Maggie asks how it went at the police station. Chad says he told them everything and they took his phone, so he hopes he helped. Julie asks if there is any chance that they are all still in danger. Chad doesn’t think so as Clyde made his point but Rafe said he would put a car outside just to be safe. Julie guesses all they have to think about is where they are going to live now.
Kayla returns to Ava and Stefan to inform them that Harris made it through surgery and they removed the bullet, but Harris had a collapsed lung and significant internal bleeding. Ava asks what happens now. Kayla says they will monitor him closely and wait. Stefan asks how long before they know if he will make it. Kayla says there are no guarantees but gives it 24 hours.
Xander and Sarah lay in bed together after having sex. Xander says not long ago, he thought they would never be together again and now she’s back in his arms as they kiss. Sarah tells Xander that she missed him so much. Xander says while they were apart, there wasn’t a day where he didn’t think about her and if she was thinking about him. Sarah confirms that she was, even when she was so angry and wanted to move on, her longing for him never went away. Sarah says she would fantasize about moments like this. Sarah says when Xander went out, she couldn’t wait for him to get back as she was hoping something like this might happen. Xander says he was just sorry he was gone so long. Sarah notes that Xander did leave his phone and she wasn’t snooping, but it was impossible to not notice a text that came through that just said “is it done?” Sarah asks if he knows what that means. Xander claims to have no idea but then they hear the police burst in, announcing they have a search warrant.
Maggie tells Julie that there is nothing to figure out as they will all live here in the Kiriakis Mansion. Julie says they can’t possibly impose when she already has a house full of people. Maggie points out that it’s a mansion with empty bedrooms. Chad says she doesn’t have to do that but Maggie says she won’t take no for an answer. Maggie instructs Julie and Chad to go upstairs and get some rest as there is nothing more they can do tonight and tomorrow is another day. Julie agrees as Maggie encourages that she will rebuild and she’ll have everyone around her who loves her, every step of the way.
Ava asks Kayla if she can see Harris. Kayla repeats that he’s in recovery. Stefan points out that Ava has been waiting for hours and he’s pretty sure Harris would want her in the room beside him. Kayla says that brings her to something that she wanted to mention to Ava, so she asks Stefan to give them a minute. Stefan steps out. Kayla then informs Ava that one of the nurses got in contact with the police department and asks if Ava was aware that Harris listed her as his emergency contact. Ava confirms she did not know that. Kayla says she clearly means a lot to him. Ava thanks her and adds that she really wants to see Harris as she needs to tell him something. Kayla allows her to for just a few minutes so Ava heads to Harris’s hospital room.
Ava enters the room and begins talking to Harris as he lays unconscious. Ava states that she’s so sorry this happened to him and that she never should’ve gotten involved with Clyde Weston. Ava says she should’ve found a way out. Ava adds that Harris was just trying to protect her, so she should be the one in the bed instead of him. Ava says there’s something really important that she wants to tell him. Ava then tells Harris that she loves him and she really wishes she told him and said it back to him at the police station. Ava cries that she needs him to fight really hard. Stefan walks by and listens from the doorway as the cop nearby watches on. Ava pleads with Harris to come back to her.
Rafe, Jada and the cops burst in to the bedroom as Sarah shouts that there’s a baby in the other room. They order Xander to put his hands behind his back as they arrest him.
Someone in a black mask sneaks in to the Horton house.
Paulina is watching TV at home until Chanel shows up at the door with three large bags. Chanel tells Paulina that she brought all her favorites because they are about to have a mother-daughter night that she will never forget. Paulina reminds Chanel that her surgery is in the morning and she’s not really in the mood. Chanel responds that they will just have to get her in the mood as she shows that she got her favorite nail polish, a puzzle, a deck of card, and her favorite junk foods. Chanel presents her with a pair of slippers and calls it girls night.
Jada brings Rafe food and coffee in his office, noting that he’s been busy. Rafe talks about the endless paperwork of an officer-involved shooting. Jada asks how Officer Goldman is doing. Rafe says she’s okay and that he sent her home after her meeting. Rafe says on a positive note, they got a lot of product off the street and were a major thorn in Clyde’s side, so all in all it’s a good day.
Someone enters the door to Harris’s room above the Pub and fires shots with a gun. Kate fires back, wounding the person as they run away. Kate then calls back inside to Lucas, asking if he’s alright.
The masked invader pours gasoline all over the living room of the Horton house, then lights a match and sets the house on fire! The fire alarms go off as Chad and Julie come downstairs to find the house on fire.
At the Bistro, Stefan comes over to Tripp, Wendy, and Ava’s table. Tripp jokes that it’s nice to see Stefan fully clothed. Stefan tells him to forget what he saw. Tripp calls it hard to forget. Ava reminds him that they are respecting boundaries and they are never to talk about that moment again. Ava then goes to step outside to get some fresh air.
Ava goes out to the docks and finds Harris on the ground, bleeding from being shot. Ava rushes to him and checks on him as she begins to panic.
Paulina tells Chanel that she really appreciates this, but questions her being up for a night of fun and games when she’s supposed to be getting married today. They talk about what movie to watch and decide on Bad Boys. Paulina then gets a call from prison and it’s Lani.
Rafe and Jada go over paperwork. Rafe notes that they should have the results of the drug dealer’s autopsy tomorrow morning which will confirm if he fired his weapon and if he had any opioids in his system. Rafe asks about Harris, noting he still doesn’t have his report yet and asks if he’s around.
Ava tries to keep Harris awake, as he flashes back to being shot and Ava pulls out her phone.
Stefan tells Tripp that it’s nobody’s business, so he asks him not to say a word to anyone about what he saw at his place. Tripp assures that he promised Ava that they would respect her boundaries. Tripp then gets a call from Ava, who tells him to get to the loading dock right now as Harris has been shot.
Kate and Lucas check on each other but neither of them were shot as they hug. Roman runs in and asks if they are okay as heard shots from outside. Kate assures they are fine and that she shot whoever it was. Roman orders them to stay there and on the floor as he heads back out.
Chad orders Julie to get Doug and the kids to get out safe while he calls 911. Chad goes to find the fire extinguisher.
Chanel talks to Lani on the phone and promises to text Eli updates as soon as she gets them. Chanel gives the phone back to Paulina to say goodbye before her time is up. Paulina thanks her for calling and says it means so much to her as they hang up. Paulina says it was so good to hear Lani’s voice as that was just what she needed. They wish Lani could be with them for girls’ night. Paulina talks about hoping Lani will be back in Salem soon as they prepare to start the movie.
Doug, Julie, Thomas, and Charlotte escape the Horton house as Doug assures the kids that it’s okay and they are safe now but they worry for Chad still being in the house. Julie then decides to run back in despite Doug’s pleas for her not to.
Roman goes back to Harris’ room and tells Kate and Lucas that he cleared the scene and the shooter is gone. Roman asks if they saw anything. Lucas says it was too dark. Kate says she only saw the gun. Roman is glad she acted fast and scared him off. Lucas acknowledges that Kate saved his life as they hug.
Tripp and Wendy go to the docks. Tripp asks what happened. Ava responds that she doesn’t know as she just found Harris lying there bleeding. Tripp asks if she called 911 but Ava says no, she called him. Tripp instructs Wendy to call 911 and tell them that they have an officer down and need paramedics. Stefan comes out and sees what is happening. Tripp says he need something to stop the bleeding so Ava sends Stefan back in for napkins. Tripp notes that it feels like a single bullet wound to the chest and one to the arm which Wendy repeats on her 911 call. Wendy goes to get the first aid kit from the kitchen as Stefan comes back out. Ava remarks that this wasn’t supposed to happen. Tripp asks what she means by that. Ava says nothing as she flashes back to making a plan with Harris in the interrogation room. Ava says it doesn’t matter now and pleads with Harris not to die.
Paulina and Chanel finish their food. Chanel then gets a call from Johnny. Chanel tells him that he can’t come over because it’s girls night and thanks him for getting the DVDs. Chanel says she loves him and will see him tomorrow as she hangs up. Chanel tells Paulina that Johnny sends his love and wishes her the best for tomorrow’s surgery. Chanel mentions that Johnny is out shopping. Paulina bets he’s getting her a Valentine’s Day surprise. Chanel admits that Johnny is pretty good at surprises.
Roman compliments Kate on her shooting at the gun range while Lucas points out that the shooter was definitely after him. Roman feels they have to tell Harris. Kate complains that Harris said Lucas would be fine and worries about what could’ve happened. Roman points out that Lucas is fine. They then hear police sirens outside.
Rafe and Jada arrive on the docks to find Harris bleeding. Rafe asks for his condition as the paramedics arrive. Tripp informs the paramedics of the situation. Jada orders the other cops to get the area courted off and check with witnesses. Rafe asks what the hell happened. Ava responds that she just came out and found Harris lying in blood. Rafe gets a call and informs Jada that there’s been another shooting at the Brady Pub so he needs her to get there now.
Julie goes back in to the Horton House as Chad is trying to extinguish the fire. Julie yells for him to stop as he can’t put it out and the fire is too big.
Chanel and Paulina play Go Fish with a deck of cards. Paulina tells her how her and Johnny together makes her very happy. Chanel admits she’s a very lucky girl. Paulina calls it wonderful that Chanel found her true love. Paulina asks what it is about Johnny that makes him the one. Chanel tells her that Johnny makes her feel safe, empowered and accepts and respects her for who she is. Chanel adds that he’s fun, makes her laugh, is creative and curious. Chanel loves how honest he is and how he’s strong but also vulnerable. Chanel calls Johnny the whole package, saying they have great chemistry but it’s really so much for that. Paulina then gets a call and is shocked by what she hears. Paulina asks when this happened and if he’s alive. Paulina tells them to keep her posted and hangs up. Paulina then informs Chanel that Harris was shot tonight by an unknown assailant and they are treating him on the scene at the loading docks of the Bistro. Paulina wants to get to the hospital but Chanel reminds her that she has to get ready for her surgery tomorrow and she needs to let the deputy mayor fill in for her on this. Paulina insists on needing to get there but Chanel says the only thing they can do right now for Harris is pray.
Doug worries about Julie and Chad. Thomas wants to go find them but Doug says it’s too dangerous. Chad and Julie then come back out from the house. Doug is relieved as Chad embraces the kids and tells them it’s okay.
Kate tries calling Harris but it goes to voicemail. Jada arrives, so Roman informs her about what happened with the shooter. Jada asks what he looked like but Kate says she couldn’t see much other than he was dressed in black. Jada asks where it happened. Kate says it was right here in Harris’ room so Jada says she needs to get in there but Kate says she can’t which Jada questions. Roman calls it a matter of privacy that he can’t let her in his tenant’s room. Jada states that a crime went down here tonight and Roman knows that she needs to investigate in order to do her job. Roman then reluctantly allows Jada in, where she is shocked to find Lucas. Jada questions this being Lucas’s safehouse. Lucas confirms he’s been there the whole time. Jada points out that she lives right down the hall and had no idea. Roman states that they need to get in touch with Harris to let him know what happened. Jada then reveals that won’t be possible as Harris was shot tonight and they don’t know yet if he’s going to make it.
Tripp and the paramedics work on Harris on the loading docks. Ava repeats that they don’t know what happened as they were all inside. Tripp tries to get Harris to wake up. Rafe questions not hearing any gunshots. Stefan confirms they heard nothing. Ava says she just came out for a break and saw Harris lying there bleeding. Ava says he looked at her for a minute and then he closed his eyes. Tripp announces that Harris doesn’t have a pulse so they prepare the defibrillator.
Paulina complains about Harris clinging to life. Chanel asks if he was shot in the line of duty. Paulina says they don’t know yet but it goes to show that you never know when your moment might be up. Paulina tells Chanel that they need to talk. Paulina starts talking about if anything happens to her during her surgery and reminds her where her key to her safety deposit box is. Chanel gets upset and tells Paulina not to talk about leaving the planet anytime soon because she will not put up with it. Paulina decides that Chanel has gotten through to her and apologizes. Paulina promises not to leave this planet for a very long time. Paulina declares that she’s going to go in and kick cancer’s ass. Chanel says that’s more like it. Paulina tells Chanel that she loves her.
Roman is shocked to hear that Harris was shot while Kate asks what happened. Jada responds that last she knew, Tripp was working on him on the docks. Kate asks who shot him and Lucas asks if he’s in custody. Jada responds that they don’t know that yet. Jada asks what happened here tonight. Kate explains that she had said goodnight to Lucas, then she saw the door open and they had a gun so she fired her gun and they took off. Jada says they will get forensics in to see what they can find. Lucas reminds her that no one can know he’s there. Jada offers her room but Roman says they will take him to their apartment which Kate calls a good idea. Jada proposes to gather the unit downstairs and make sure Lucas is alone, then they will make the move. Jada says they will have a strong police presence here until they figure out what to do next.
One of the firefighters checks in with Doug, Julie, Chad, and the kids. Julie asks if they can save the house. He responds that they are doing the best they can and will transport them to the hospital to get checked out soon. Julie shouts that it’s their family home for generations with all of their history.
Tripp and the paramedics work to revive Harris but he has no pulse. They use the defibrillator and Tripp continues his compressions as Ava, Rafe, and Stefan watch on.
Chanel tells Paulina that she should get to bed and get some rest. Paulina feels she has to clean up first but Chanel says she will do it while she sleeps. Paulina doesn’t think she’ll be able to sleep but she’s feeling much more positive thanks to her. Chanel offers to lay in bed with her like when she was little which Paulina accepts. Chanel tells her that she’s really proud that she’s her mom. Paulina calls her loving and perfect. Paulina declares that she plans on sticking around this planet for a long time as they hug.
Ava thanks God that Harris is breathing as he’s loaded onto the stretcher. Stefan questions how the hell this happened. Rafe remarks that they are sure as hell going to find out. Tripp calls in to Kayla that Harris has lost a lot of blood and it’s bad as they load him onto the ambulance.
Lucas blames Clyde Weston for all of this. Jada says it sure looks like it. Kate question how he found him since nobody knew Lucas was there. Roman guesses somebody knew. Jada says they will find him a new safehouse. Lucas argues that it won’t make a difference and declares that as long as Clyde Weston is alive, he’s never going to be safe from him.
Doug tells Julie that he’s so sorry but the important thing is they are all safe. Julie cries that she’s watching half of her life go up in flames. Thomas asks Chad about he and Charlotte’s toys. Chad promises to get them new stuff but says right now, they have to count their blessings and thank God they are all okay. Thomas then asks about all their old pictures of Abigail. Chad gets a call and a distorted voice on the other end warns that maybe next time, he’ll listen.
Adam asks Nick to help him persuade Victor to set up a design division inside Newman for Sally to run inside Newman Enterprises because Sally’s design business isn’t doing well. Sally tells Chloe she doesn’t want to ask Nick for more money or take on a new partner to save her business.
Victor tells his family that the prison fire was arson and that Jordan has escaped but he has a plan to catch her again.
Nikki tells Lauren about the phone calls Jordan has made to her. Lauren tells Nikki that in order to take away Jordan’s power over her she needs to stand up to her. Nikki calls the unknown number on her phone and tells Jordan that she won’t be able to beat the Newman family, so she should come get them because they will be ready for her.
Victor asks Claire to give Jordan a message from him if Jordan should call her again. Victor wants Claire to tell Jordan that he is ready to make amends for what he did to her sister Eve.
Nikki gets another call from the unknown number and Lauren tells her not to answer the phone because she has already said everything she needs to say to Jordan.
Chance and Summer go out on a date at Society and continue to get to know each other. Nick and Phyllis are also at Society and Phyllis tells Nick that Chance and Summer make a cute couple. Nick thinks it is too soon for Summer to be dating again since her divorce from Kyle became final not to long ago.
Ashley tells Tucker that it doesn’t matter what she found out in Paris she knows he is gaslighting her. Tucker swears on the soul of their grandchild that he didn’t pay the staff of the bistro in Paris to lie to her about their argument. Ashley tells Tucker that she is going to make sure that Devon and Dominic will never be a part of his life. Ashley arrives home and tells Traci she doesn’t know what is happening to her.
Alex and Theresa talked about their plans for Valentine’s Day. He didn’t want to do anything, but she said it was her favorite holiday. Tripp and Wendy met with Ava to talk about walking in on her and Stefan. He apologized to Ava for the way he acted. Tripp said Stefan wouldn’t be his first choice for her, but he was going to accept it. Ava was happy that they respected her choice. Kate questioned Lucas for walking around in the dark. He told her she worried too much about him. Julie told Thomas and Charlotte a story about the Horton family. Ava told Wendy and Tripp that Stephanie did a good job helping the Bistro do better. Tripp brought up the drug problem in Salem. Ava said she had a feeling things were going to get better soon. Harris showed up at the pub and asked why Lucas was in there. He made Lucas go upstairs. Alex asked Theresa about her meeting. She said it was good. When she told him Brady was there, he wanted to know why. Harris told Lucas he could have been seen in the pub. Lucas asked if he was getting anywhere. Harris asked if he could hang on for a little while longer.
Alex asked Theresa about Brady being at the meeting. She said he showed up out of the blue. He asked if Brady followed her. She said Brady didn’t know she was going to be there. Theresa said Brady needed the meeting the way she did. Alex asked if she got the support she needed. Theresa said she did. He asked if she was going to another meeting. She said she did and thought he should have read about needed meetings. The meetings helped her feel better. He asked if she was going to meetings for the rest of her life. She said most likely because she had to be vigilant every day. Theresa asked if he would except that about her. Wendy and Tripp told Ava about the treasure hunt they’re doing on Valentine’s Day. Harris told Lucas that the police was doing the best they could. He said the article in the Spectator helped. Lucas said he was the unknown source. Kate was upset that he talked to the press. Lucas said Chad and Everett weren’t going to tell who their source was. Theresa told Alex her recovery was important to her. She said she had to be strong for her son because she felt like she let her son down. Alex said she was a good mother. Theresa said she was a lucky mother because Tate was a good kid. Kate told Lucas she didn’t want him risking his life when she just got him back. Lucas said it was worth it if she saved one life. When Chad and Julie left the living room, a masked person broke in the house. A person with a gun was in the pub. When Harris left the pub, someone shot him. The person with the gun in the pub shot at Kate and Lucas. The person in the Horton house poured gasoline in it and lit it on fire.
John met with Steve and told him about his conversation with Konstantin. Harris went to see Clyde and told him that he lost five kilos of drugs and lost a dealer. Steve wanted to know why John didn’t tell him about the meeting with Konstantin. He wanted to go with him. Steve reminded him that they are supposed to meet people together. John got frustrated with Steve’s questions. Theresa saw Brady at her AA meeting. He felt like he needed to be there too. John admitted that he made a mistake meeting with Konstantin. Steve agreed with him. He wondered what he told Marlena. John admitted that he lied to her about meeting him. He didn’t understand what was happening to him. Clyde told Harris that he’s been in prison so he didn’t have anything to do with the drug bust. He blamed Harris for the bust going wrong. Harris showed him a phone, but Clyde never saw it before. John told Steve that he demanded that Konstantin tell him about his background. He said he taunted him. Konstantin told him that he had the eyes of a killer so he put his gun on him. He said he was the only who could put a bullet through a man’s eyes and Konstantin told him about a woman’s eyes. Konstantin told him about Katarina. John wanted to know if Steve knew about Katarina.
Theresa was surprised that Brady needed to go to a meeting. Brady told him about the letter he got from Tate. Theresa told him that Tate thanked her for what she did. Brady told her that his letter was different from hers. He admitted that he wasn’t a great father to his kids. Brady needed a fix because he thought about the way he treated his kids. He decided to go to a meeting instead. Sloan let Eric know that she felt like Jude was coming between them. Steve said that he didn’t know anything about Katarina. John suddenly had a panic attack. He calmed down, but he wanted to know what Steve remembered about the pawn. Steve wished he remembered. The only thin he knew is that John wasn’t that person anymore. He had to believe it and wanted John to believe it too. Harris wondered what they would find on the phone he showed Clyde. Clyde told him that the phone would incriminate someone he didn’t want to know about. Theresa wondered if Brady felt anything when she kissed him. She knew she felt something when she did it. Eric wondered why Sloan was upset with him lately. Sloan felt like she was worried about Jude being in the bed with them. She wanted to have sex and didn’t want to wait for him to be grown before they could have it. Eric and Sloan began to make love. Clyde and Harris put each other on notice. He warned Harris that he made a mistake, but he wanted to take his chances.
Alex and Theresa finish watching Pride and Prejudice at home. Theresa gets emotional, talking about how romantic the movie is. Theresa compares it to how she was a hot mess and Alex really took the time to get to know her.
Tripp and Wendy have dinner at the Bistro. Tripp comments on not having much of an appetite and asks if they really have to have this conversation with Ava. Wendy says they can’t keep walking around on eggshells and that it’s out of respect to his mother that they talk to her. Ava comes over and asks what they are going to talk about. Ava sits down at their table and says she is all ears.
Lucas goes downstairs at the Brady Pub and ends up spilling some water. Kate comes down and startles Lucas with her gun as she questions what he is doing.
Xander and Sarah talk about their daughter Victoria. Sarah is really glad they get to experience her growing up together.
Julie plays cards with Charlotte and Thomas at home. Chad comes in and questions the kids not going to sleep. Thomas says they aren’t tired. Julie says they should listen to their father. Thomas asks for a bedtime story. Julie says Doug is upstairs but they can make it a two story night. Julie tells the kids to make themselves comfortable.
Theresa asks if Alex really thought they would end up together when they first met. Alex says probably not but he was never against it either. Theresa states that now they are together and tomorrow is Valentine’s Day. Alex says he never really took her for the type to get worked up over that so he admits he didn’t plan anything crazy. Theresa says she loves Valentine’s Day when she’s with someone she really cares about. Theresa guesses it’s too late to make a reservation so she asks if they should just stay in. Alex is down to do whatever makes her happy. Theresa responds that being with him makes her happy as they kiss.
Ava asks Wendy what they want to discuss with her. Wendy tells Tripp that they need to get this out in the open. Tripp agrees. Ava says she’s waiting. Tripp tells Ava that last night, when they walked in on her and Stefan, it was really awkward. Ava knows they weren’t thrilled to see them together and she’s sorry. Tripp says there’s nothing to be sorry about as he realizes now that he was out of line and shouldn’t have given her a hard time. Ava says it’s okay but Tripp feels he acted like an immature jerk and she didn’t deserve that. Tripp adds that he and Wendy might not think Stefan is the best choice for her but they have to respect boundaries if they are living under the same roof. Tripp repeats that Stefan is not his first choice for her while Ava says the heart wants what the heart wants. Ava is glad they aren’t upset anymore and says it means the world to her.
Kate complains that Lucas scared the hell out of her and questions what he’s doing down here. Lucas says he was hungry. Kate argues that he’s supposed to stay in his room and asks what if someone caught him. Lucas insists he was careful but Kate points out that she caught him. Lucas argues that the Pub is closed, no one is there and she worries too much. Kate says clearly one of them has to do that.
Julie tells Thomas and Charlotte a story about the history of the Horton House, beginning with Tom and Alice. Julie goes over the family history from Bill and Laura having Jennifer, Jennifer falling in love with Jack, who is their grandpa. Julie tells the kids about Jack and Jennifer having Abigail, who Thomas identifies as their mom. Chad smiles as he watches on. Julie talks about when Abigail was their age and recalls memories of Tom and Alice. Chad mentions never getting to meet them. Julie assures that they would’ve loved him because he loved Abigail so much. Julie tells the kids about the house always being full of joy and built on love and the kids can always count on it. Chad states that the house really is a blessing for them.
Sarah tells Xander that they make a great team and offers to help him get out of his wet clothes. They get close but Xander pulls away and decides he’s going to go on a run, leaving Sarah confused.
Wendy tells Ava that it’s good to see the Bistro busy again since she knows it’s been tough for them since New Year’s Eve. Ava admits it’s been a struggle but credits Stephanie’s PR plan getting them back on track. Tripp talks about how it’s hard to believe what’s happening in their little town and how he sees the overdoses every day at the hospital. Ava calls it heartbreaking but feels it’s all going to turn around real soon.
Xander gets dressed for his run but Sarah comments that Xander has different outfits for going on a run vs when he goes weightlifting at the gym. Xander comments on having proper attires for all occasions. Xander talks about the difference between his work clothes and his workout clothes. Sarah calls it one of his many endearing qualities.
Harris comes in to the Brady Pub and questions if Lucas has a death wish. Kate tries to say it’s okay but Harris disagrees and talks about the risk as he orders Lucas back upstairs.
Alex tells Theresa that they will order dinner in and asks what she wants to do for the rest of the day. Theresa says it would be nice to take a morning stroll in to town, get some coffee and pastries at the Bakery. Alex suggests they work a few hours from home too which Theresa agrees with. Theresa adds that she would like to go to a meeting after work. Alex asks how her meeting went today. Theresa says it was good and adds that Brady was there too. Alex questions what the hell Brady was doing there.
Harris and Kate bring Lucas back to his room. Harris complains about Lucas taking a risk like that. Lucas complains that he’s been in the room day after day. Harris gets that he’s frustrated but insists it’s going to be over soon and asks Lucas to hang in a little while longer.
Julie tells Thomas and Charlotte that it is time for bed. Thomas asks for another story but Chad says they have school tomorrow and their Valentine’s party. Thomas complains that he’s not tired yet. Julie says Doug will read them another story upstairs as Chad sends the kids upstairs. Julie tells Chad that they have to cherish these moments before the kids grow up and don’t ask for bedtime stories. Chad agrees that time really does fly by. Chad admits that life has felt a bit more normal lately. Chad says the kids miss their mom but they don’t cry about it as much and they are doing better in school and in general. Chad thanks Julie and Doug for that. Julie says that’s what family is for.
Theresa asks if Xander doesn’t think it’s a little late for a run. Xander says sometimes night air is what he needs to push him to work out harder. Sarah has another suggestion for a work out that wouldn’t require him to leave.
Alex questions Brady just happening to be there at Theresa’s meeting and asks if he’s spying on her. Theresa insists that Brady didn’t even know she would be there and that Brady went there for the same reason that she did. Theresa talks about the coins they get to celebrate sobriety. Theresa states that Brady needed the meeting just as much as she did. Alex asks if she got the support she needed today. Theresa confirms that she did. Alex asks if she still wants to go to another meeting tomorrow. Theresa assures that she does. Theresa explains that addiction is a lifelong disease and thinks Alex would know that since she’s a recovering addict. Alex admits he’s read about it. Theresa talks about addicts having a constant voice in their head, telling them to get high and how the meetings quiet that voice. Alex asks if she thinks she will be going to meetings for the rest of her life. Theresa says it is most likely because she has to be vigilant every day and accept that she is an addict. Theresa asks if Alex will be able to accept that about her.
Ava asks if Tripp and Wendy have Valentine’s plans. Wendy mentions they are doing the geocaching event. Ava asks if they can explain what that is. Tripp calls it like a treasure hunt with a tech twist. Wendy explains that items are hidden around town and participants use an app to race to find them. Ava guesses the objective is to bring the community together which Wendy confirms, noting it’s something family, friends, or couples can join in on. Ava agrees that they can definitely use something uplifting like that in town right now.
Harris tells Lucas that they are all doing their best and with any luck, the whole thing will be over now especially now that the article in the Spectator dropped. Lucas comments on being the unnamed source. Kate questions Lucas talking to reporters. Harris says he had the same reaction at first because Lucas called Chad over for a chat. Lucas insists everything will be fine as he trusts Chad and Everett and they wouldn’t give up their source.
Julie pours wine for she and Chad so they can toast to family.
Sarah thinks she and Xander could do with some good old fashioned adult time. Xander says he’s having difficulty disagreeing as Sarah starts kissing him. Sarah asks Xander to stay.
Theresa tells Alex that he’s been so supportive and she doesn’t mean to put him on the spot, but she needs him to understand how important her recovery is to her, especially since she has to be strong for Tate. Theresa adds that Tate doesn’t know that she had a slip, but she still feels like she let him down and she cannot let that ever happen again. Alex encourages that she’s a good mom. Theresa responds that she’s a lucky mom because Tate is a great kid since he puts up with her and loves her even with all her dumb mistakes. Theresa says she cannot ever undermine her connection to Tate, calling him her one constant in her life that gives her hope for the future. Theresa asks what Alex is thinking. Alex says that connection between a parent and their kids cna literally change overnight.
Ava tells Tripp and Ava that she has a few things to wrap up before the big day tomorrow, so she will let them enjoy the rest of their evening. Tripp says he’s glad they got to talk as Ava goes back to work. Wendy asks if Tripp is okay. Tripp thanks her for encouraging him to sort things out with Ava. Wendy is glad he did and asks what he wants to do after the geocaching event, suggesting dinner and a movie. Tripp reveals that he already has something in mind as he took the day off work and thought he would start the day by making her breakfast in bed, then after the event, they go out for magic and dancing as he got tickets to a surprise magic show. Wendy acknowledges that he put some thought in to this. Tripp suggests ending the night by dancing under the stars. Wendy is sure this Valentine’s Day will be one to remember as they kiss.
Sarah encourages Xander to forget about going out in the cold night air and stay here with her. Xander responds that he’s sorry but he really does need that run right now. Victoria then wakes up crying but Sarah says she’s got it. Xander tells Sarah that he won’t be long and tells her not to wait up as he hurries out.
Kate worries about anything happening to Lucas. Lucas feels if what he said in the article helps save one person, then it was worth the risk. Harris gets a text from Ava, saying she needs to see him at the Bistro loading dock and to hurry. Harris tells Lucas and Kate that he has to go. Harris orders Lucas to stay in the room for the rest of the night. Lucas guesses he had enough drama for one night and decides he will try to get some sleep. Harris then exits.
Chad thanks Julie for sharing the story of the home with him and the kids tonight, calling it amazing and says it really lifted his spirits as she always does. Julie tells Chad that she sees the love he showered on Abigail in their kids. Chad says he feels her presence in the home. Julie says she does too. Chad states that when he’s in this home, he feels like he can breathe and that the kids are in the right place and safe. Julie tells Chad that he is home.
Xander goes for his run through the park.
Chad asks Julie if Doug has a hot date cooked up for them for Valentine’s Day. Julie says not that she knows of but he loves surprises, so she will keep hoping. Julie asks about Chad’s plans. Chad mentions the geocaching event as he and Julie exit the room and turn out the lights. Someone in a black mask then sneaks in to the house.
Ava brings champagne over to Wendy and Tripp to propose a toast to love.
Someone walks through the Brady Pub with a gun.
Sarah sits at home and notices that Xander left his phone. Xander’s phone then receives a message from a private number, asking if it’s done, leaving Sarah confused.
Alex tells Theresa that he’s going to send some e-mails before he goes to bed. Theresa says she’ll be there in a minute. Alex kisses her and then heads to his room. Theresa gets up and picks up Alex’s jacket, but an engagement ring falls out of the pocket.
Harris goes to the docks to meet Ava, but someone else appears and shoots Harris twice in the chest.
Someone opens the door to Harris’ room above the Pub and fires two shots with their gun.
The masked invader pours gasoline all over the living room of the Horton house, then lights a match and sets the house on fire!
Harris tries to crawl after being shot and passes out on the docks.
Billy tells Mamie that he and Jill both think she is a threat to Chancellor-Winters.
Nate tries to persuade Billy and Mamie to work together to make the company stronger just in case Tucker tries to come after Chancellor-Winters.
Danny has had enough of the drama Christine and Phyllis are causing in his life so he decides not to pursue a romantic relationship with either of them.
Audra gets upset when she finds out Tucker is keeping track of what Ashley is doing. Ashley arrives home from Paris and wonders why Jack, Diane, and Abby are so worried about her. Ashley asks Jack to tell her what Tracy told them about their trip to Paris.
Daniel and Devon have a long talk. Daniel promises to tell Lily that he is going to get back together with Heather but he wants to wait until Maggie’s crisis has passed. Devon tells Daniel that if Lily asks him about his and Heather’s relationship he won’t lie to her. Daniel and Danny talk about their similar romantic relationships and the pressure they are both feeling from the women in their lives. Danny wants to take a break from both Christine and Phyllis, but the ladies keep pressuring him to make a choice between them.
Jack and Victor arrive at the bar. Later, Nikki tells Victor Jack must be her sponsor. Nikki admits to Victor that she was the one who asked Jack not to tell him he was her sponsor. Nikki tells Victor Jack always wanted to tell him the truth. Nikki tells Victor, if he wants to help her regain her sobriety, he must accept Jack as her sponsor. Victor tells Nikki that he doesn’t agree with it, but he will accept it. Victor tells Jack if anything happens to Nikki while he is her sponsor there will be hell to pay.
Steve goes to meet John at their office. John thanks him for coming. Steve notes that his message sounded urgent and asks what’s going on. John reveals that he met with Konstantin in the park. Steve is shocked and questions why he would take that risk alone and why he’s just hearing about it now.
Stephanie and Everett walk through the town square, talking about Everett’s article. Stephanie praises how it was written to draw the reader in and that he deserves all the accolades. Everett hopes the follow up piece is even more explosive and they are able to take down Clyde Weston. They sit down at a table in the town square. Stephanie declares that she’s taking him out to dinner because she’s so incredibly proud of him and he should be proud of himself. Everett admits he’s immensely proud of the work that he and Chad did on the story, so celebrating sounds nice but he’s much more interested in celebrating them.
Sloan makes dinner for Eric at home. Eric thanks her and goes to kiss her but Jude wakes up crying, so Eric goes to check on him. Sloan complains of the timing and starts drinking wine.
Theresa speaks in an AA meeting about her anxiety and guilt growing after Tate was arrested. Theresa talks about blaming herself for everything that goes wrong and admits she succumbed to getting loaded which she was very ashamed about. Brady then enters the meeting. Theresa talks about how she had the help and understanding of those close to her, so she feels a lot stronger and is committed to the meetings and the 12 steps.
Harris meets Clyde in prison. Harris calls Clyde a celebrity and presents a copy of the online Spectator article about the massive drug bust in Salem. Harris shows Clyde that his mugshot is on the cover of the paper. Harris asks if the mugshot is from when he was convicted this time and jokes that he probably had a bunch of mugshots to pick from. Clyde asks if they are done here. Harris asks if he wants to read the article but Clyde says he’s not interested. Harris thinks he will be once he starts reading it. Harris reads that 15,000 opioid pills were seized during an ongoing investigation into a drug trafficking organization. Clyde questions it being unbiased journalism coming from Chad DiMera, putting him in a bad light. Harris asks if Clyde is not phased at all that he lost 7 kilos of drugs and a dealer was shot dead. Harris asks if Clyde is really cool with that.
Steve asks John for an answer as to why he didn’t tell him about meeting with Konstantin and why he would take a chance like that. John calls it a crazy day with the drug bust and praises the Salem PD on that. Steve complains that John isn’t answering his questions. Steve brings up their unwritten pact to never meet alone with someone that could be dangerous. John explains that he didn’t know it was Konstantin as he just got an urgent text message that could’ve been a new client. Steve argues that John had to know he could be getting scammed and questions what is going on with him.
After the AA meeting ends, Theresa asks Brady if he came to check on her. Brady informs her that he had no idea that she would be there and that he came because he needed to.
Sloan pours herself more wine as Eric comes back from changing Jude and getting him back to sleep. Eric notices Sloan drinking and questions how much she’s had. Sloan asks if that’s a problem. Eric brings up the other night. Sloan says they’ve been over this and asks if they have to bring it up every time she has a drink. Sloan adds that she was just stressed because of John and Marlena coming over, adding that Marlena doesn’t put people at ease. Eric questions if she’s blaming his mother for her getting wasted. Sloan says she isn’t and that she was just nervous that night. Sloan says tonight she isn’t nervous, but she’s overwhelmed with motherhood, work, and Jude crying every time they are about to make love. Sloan admits it’s getting to her and asks if it’s not getting to Eric. Eric says it is, but not really. Eric talks about how Jude will grow up fast and eventually sleep through the night, then they will have plenty of time to make love. Sloan says she hopes so because she cherishes their baby, but she misses being alone with Eric. Eric apologizes that they haven’t had more time lately. Sloan complains that they haven’t had any time lately and last time they tried to make love, they had all this unexpected company. Eric recalls Leo showing up and says he was just as frustrated as she was. Sloan questions if he was. Eric questions her doubting that. Sloan admits that she feels Jude has been Eric’s main concern and that making sure he’s okay has been more important to him than she is. Eric calls that not true and says his love for Jude doesn’t make him love her any less, but more. Eric adds that them being together is what brought Jude in to their lives and he’s so grateful for that. Eric tells Sloan that he loves her and kisses her.
John tells Steve that he has no clue what’s going on with him because he knows better than to ever take a meeting with a stranger at night alone, but off he went. John admits it was a big mistake. Steve agrees and asks what Marlena knows. John says he just told her it was a new client and she didn’t question it, so she wasn’t concerned. Steve asks what he told her when he got home. John says he told her the client never showed up and he hates himself for lying to her. Steve asks why he did it then. John complains that he doesn’t know but something is happening to him and he doesn’t have a clue what it is.
Clyde asks Harris how he can be the leader of a drug trafficking operation when he’s been in prison for over a year. Harris argues that he obviously found a way. Clyde says Harris just found a way to lay this all on him so he could be the hero. Clyde argues that Harris failed the investigation because he’s nowhere close to the truth. Harris presents the cell phone that the guards found but Clyde claims to have never seen it before.
John tells Steve that he told Konstantin what Steve told him, that he knows he knows about The Pawn. John adds that Konstantin claimed to not know who Stefano is and that he wanted to talk to him about Victor and his Pawn. John says he demanded Konstantin tell him everything he knows about his background, but he just taunted him and said he has the eyes of a killer so he pulled his gun on him. John reveals to Steve that Konstantin said he had come after him to kill him, but Catharina got in the way. John asks Steve if that name means anything to him and if he has any idea who Konstantin is talking about.
Theresa questions why Brady needed a meeting. Brady informs her that he got a letter from Tate today. Theresa says she got one too and it was really sweet. Brady thinks Tate just misses her because there letters were very different as his was cold. Brady states that Tate is still angry at him for not being around in his life. Brady guesses his therapy is going deep in to his past. Theresa insists that Tate knows how much he loves him. Brady talks about not being involved in most of Tate’s life and only occasionally getting to see his daughter under her mother’s supervision. Theresa blames Kristen being insane. Brady complains about being tricked into having a baby with Kristen. Theresa feels he’s being really hard on himself. Brady declares the truth is that he screwed up with both of his kids. Brady says that hit him hard today, so he needed a fix and he made a call but he didn’t go through with it as he came here instead. Theresa hugs him and says that’s good. Theresa encourages Brady that it’s okay and calls him a wonderful father, insisting his kids know how much he adores them. Theresa knows it’s been rough since their parents haven’t been together but eventually, they will understand and will be so proud that he’s their dad. Brady says he’ll settle for his kids not thinking he’s a total jerk. Theresa tells him to stop that because they are lucky to have him in their lives and she is too. Brady thanks her and says it means a lot coming from her.
Everett tells Stephanie that he honestly feels like this is a dream that he spent a perfect night with the woman he loves and she’s here with him now. Stephanie responds that she feels the same way. Everett thinks they can be fairly confident that it’s not a dream, so he wants to shout it from the mountain tops. Everett jokes about taking a full page color ad that says “I love Stephanie Johnson”. Stephanie says they’d probably have to tell the owner of the paper. Everett thinks Chad will be okay with it. Stephanie says she hopes so. Everett asks what exactly they are going to tell Chad. They joke with each other as Stephanie says there is hope for them and they end up kissing.
Eric tells Sloan about reading in an article that newborns should sleep in the same room as their parents for at least six months. Eric adds that some recommend newborns sleeping in bed with them and suggests Sloan read the article which says it helps kids have less anxiety. Sloan hates the idea and complains that she only wants her husband in bed with her. Sloan asks if they didn’t just talk about Eric being overprotective and caring more about Jude than her. Eric apologizes if he triggered her. Sloan declares that their son is coming in between them and she doesn’t like it.
Steve tells John that he has no clue who Catharina is and argues that Konstantin just knows how to get to him. John insists that won’t happen. John then doubles over in pain while Steve encourages him to breathe. John apologizes and says it’s just the second he looked into Konstantin’s eyes, he’s been haunting him. Steve repeats that he knows how to get to him, so he can’t let him. Steve then questions the way John is looking at him. John responds that he needs to know what Steve remembers about The Pawn. Steve wishes he had something to tell him but says the only thing he knows is that John is not that person anymore and they have to believe that.
Harris can’t imagine what they’re going to find when they start tracing phone calls. Harris guesses there will be a whole lot of trap numbers like this. Clyde says Harris and his FBI buddies might find at least one number that could incriminate someone that he won’t want to be incriminated. Harris tells him it was a nice try. Clyde responds that it’s not a game but warns that he is able to make sure all the evidence on that phone points to a particular business partner of a particular party.
Brady tells Theresa that her support means more than she knows. Theresa points out that he certainly supported her so much the past several weeks. Theresa thinks they know each other better than anyone else does because of how much they’ve been through. Theresa adds that they also loved each other once a hell of a lot. Theresa admits maybe it was more lust than love, but she recalls they were pretty hot for each other. Brady admits he recalls the same thing. Theresa thinks that’s why when she’s around him, she feels those memories pretty strongly and maybe that’s why she kissed him that one time. Brady says she was just coming down from being high. Theresa asks what about for him and if he felt something when she kissed him. Theresa reveals that she denied it at the time, but she knows she felt something. Brady question where this is coming from since she told him it was a mistake. Theresa says that doesn’t mean she didn’t feel something. Theresa suggests maybe her ego needs a boost and she needs to know that he still finds her attractive. Brady calls her beautiful, says she always has been and anyone would think so, but she’s with Alex. Brady thinks for Tate’s sake, they should keep them as uncomplicated as possible. Theresa supposes he’s right. Brady tells Theresa that he will always be there for her and Tate. Theresa says she knows that and that Tate will come around and be so happy to see him in a few weeks. Theresa assures that Tate knows he loves him and has always been there for him. They realize they are the last ones in the room after the meeting and decide to leave.
Sloan finishes another glass of wine. Eric thinks she’s had enough. Sloan tells him not to monitor or worry about her. Eric questions her being so upset with him lately and drinking more than he’s ever seen her before. Sloan complains that she doesn’t want to share a bed with their son as she doesn’t think that’s romantic or sexy and she doesn’t understand why Eric thinks it’s such a swell idea. Eric says they don’t have to do it and talks about Jude growing up fast and he’ll be off to college. Sloan jokes that maybe then they can have sex. Eric tells Sloan that they can have sex right now if she’s in the mood which makes her happy. Sloan asks if he means it which Eric assures. Sloan asks what if Jude wakes up crying again. Eric points out that Jude just fell asleep so they should have at least an hour or two as Eric and Sloan then start kissing.
Harris questions Clyde promising to wipe out all the incriminating numbers on the phone. Clyde suggests that he could if that is his phone. Harris states that there are a couple members of Clyde’s crew that he would love to take down. Clyde jokes that there’s some he’s not too crazy about either, but that’s if it’s his phone. Harris tells Clyde to go to Hell and shouts that he will never make a deal with him, adding that he’s going to send him somewhere so far that he will miss this place. Clyde asks even if that means taking his girlfriend with him. Harris says even that.
Stephanie tells Everett that she could wait until Valentine’s Day to tell him this but Everett wants to hear it now and feels that it’s important which she confirms. Stephanie then tells Everett that she is definitely falling in love with him again.
Eric and Sloan continue kissing on the couch until Sloan remembers dinner and goes to see that it’s burned. Sloan goes back to Eric and they decide they weren’t that hungry anyway as they continue kissing onto the bed.
Stephanie tells Everett that he doesn’t have to say anything as she wasn’t expecting a response. Everett tells Stephanie that he never fell out of love with her, but now they are both in love like they were back in Seattle which were the happiest days of his life as they kiss. Stephanie asks what they should do for Valentine’s Day. Everett doesn’t care as long as he’s with her. Stephanie suggests they could double date with Rafe and Jada. Stephanie calls Jada smart and funny, noting that she knows they would get along. Everett asks what if he doesn’t want to share her on Valentine’s Day and wants her all to himself as they resume kissing.
Steve tells John that they are not going to get any more answers today, so they can pick it up tomorrow. John is sure Marlena is concerned about him anyways since he’s not home when he told her he wasn’t going anywhere. John says the last thing he wants is her worrying about him. John knows it was another little white lie. John says Marlena isn’t pushing him but she knows him so well and she would want to help him like all those years ago. John complains that he doesn’t know how to explain what’s going on with him when he doesn’t even know himself. Steve argues that Konstantin just got to him. Steve declares that they have to get Konstantin away from John and out of all of their lives, no matter what it takes.
Clyde thought Harris was spineless but acknowledges that he’s tough as nails and diabolical. Clyde warns that when he goes for something, he never fails. Harris says they have something in common then because he never fails either. Clyde responds that he’s making a big mistake for all parties concerned. Harris decides he will take his chances and exits the prison. Clyde calls him a son of a bitch.
Ava approaches Harris in the park. Harris is pretending to be sweeping, which he says is a precaution in case she was being followed or watched.
Stefan enters the living room of the DiMera Mansion where EJ greets him. Stefan is surprised to see he’s back. EJ says he got back last night as Nicole and Holly got settled in Italy, so it was time for him to head back. EJ comments on Stefan getting home late and asks what he was up to. Stefan asks what it is to him. EJ says he just wants to know where he was. Stefan tells EJ that it’s none of his business and questions his inquisition. EJ remarks that if Stefan bothered to check the headlines, he’d know that Salem made a colossal drug bust last night. EJ says it’s all in this morning’s Spectator as the cops seized 7 kilos of drugs, one was killed and it also says the drug ring was being run out of prison. EJ comments on being glad that Stefan made it home instead of being caught up in that.
Chanel goes home from the Bakery to Paulina and Abe, who question her working on the day before her wedding. Chanel assures that she has the rest of the day off. Paulina asks about her night with Johnny which Chanel says was cozy. Chanel notes them being really quiet and asks what is wrong. Chanel asks if Paulina got her lab results back.
John sits at home, frustrated, as Marlena brings him a cup of coffee. Marlena wishes he would go back to bed but John says maybe later. Marlena talks about being concerned that John isn’t sleeping well. John says he’ll hook up with his doctor to get to the bottom of it. Marlena asks him to do that soon. Marlena knows he has a lot going on with his concerns about Tate and Brady. John responds that they are going through a lot more than he is. Marlena comments on waiting up for him but guesses that he got home pretty late. Marlena asks how it went with his new client.
Stephanie and Kayla eat together at the Brady Pub. Stephanie gets a text that the Spectator article about the drug bust is trending all over the internet. Kayla hopes Clyde goes straight to Hell after what he did to Abigail. Kayla says they are losing more people every week to the drug ring and that Holly is lucky to be hanging in. Stephanie comments on being grateful to Harris, Jada, and the task force, adding that Chad and Everett are doing their part too. Kayla asks if that’s Everett’s story. Stephanie confirms it is and says she’s really proud of him, so she can’t wait to take him out later to celebrate.
Harris tells Ava that last night’s drug bust was massive. Ava asks what this means for her and if Clyde has been neutralized. Ava doesn’t know how much longer she can hold on and reminds Harris that he promised her. They flashback to Harris telling Ava that he loved her in the interrogation room where he then kissed her and convinced Ava to trust him, revealing that Ava then confessed everything to Harris about Clyde blackmailing her and Stefan by using Gabi and Tripp. Ava agreed to tip him off about the drug shipments and they staged Ava slapping Harris to fool everyone else in to not knowing they are working together.
EJ comments to Stefan about the task force cleaning up their streets of drugs and declares it’s only a matter of time before they take down everyone involved in the filthy business. EJ reads to Stefan that police have identified Clyde Weston as a key suspect in the opioid crisis. EJ says there’s no surprise as Clyde has a history of dealing drugs in town. EJ adds that there will be many more drugs busts and questions if next time, it will be Stefan’s ugly mug underneath the headline.
John tells Marlena that last night’s meeting was a waste of time, claiming that the new client never showed up. John says these things happen and people flake out. John guesses hiring a private investigator wasn’t the right call for this person after all.
Paulina sits Chanel down and tells her that the test showed that the nodule has gotten bigger which means the cancer is more aggressive than they thought at first, so her surgery is being moved up. Chanel encourages that being a good thing to have it behind her that much sooner. Chanel asks when the surgery is. Johnny then enters and asks who is ready to talk about their wedding.
Stefan complains about EJ toying with him like this when he couldn’t be bothered to lift a finger when Clyde was blackmailing him. EJ argues that as district attorney, it’s his duty to uphold the law and questions if he was supposed to tell the police and have Stefan arrested. Stefan doesn’t buy it and argues that EJ would bend the law in a second to save his own ass. Stefan asks how it will make EJ look if he goes down for this, arguing that his reputation will go down the toilet. EJ is certain that the public will support him for upholding the law rather than helping Stefan just because they share DNA and they will respect what he had to sacrifice to go against his own blood. EJ declares that when all the dust settles, he’ll be on top while Stefan is on his way to prison to be on the bottom. Stefan calls him a traitorous son of a bitch. EJ tells Stefan that he won’t have to deal with him much longer as he wonders how long it will take Clyde to give him up after they take him down.
Ava asks Harris about the complication. Harris explains that Clyde’s dealer was unfortunately taken out after firing at a cop. Ava asks what now. Harris says Clyde will replace him and they will have to get the next guy. Harris insists that he’s going to get her out of this and asks Ava to hang in just a little while longer.
Marlena asks John what’s going on. John responds that he was just thinking about his career as a private investigator and all the other jobs he’s had, from ISA agent to priest. John wonders if the past ever really stays in the past. Marlena responds that the past is always with them but shouldn’t define them. Marlena asks what’s going on with all this introspection. John says Steve was talking about old times the other day and he got to thinking. John knows they are supposed to learn from the past to improve themselves in the future, but says that’s not always possible. Marlena asks why not. John questions what if there are things in the past that you may regret, but don’t remember. John asks how to learn from that.
Kayla asks Stephanie if her and Everett are going well. Stephanie admits that it is going very well and they are getting to know each other again. Kayla had a feeling they already were getting pretty close. Stephanie guesses that she wants to know how close, but she doesn’t want to tell her. Kayla says she respects her privacy but she wants her to be happy. Kayla says nothing would make her happier than to know her daughter is with somebody who makes her happy. Stephanie admits that she is and that she and Everett had a great connection in Seattle, while now two years later, they still do. Stephanie talks about their great conversations and says she just has a really great time with him.
Johnny asks Paulina about the surgery being as early as next week. Paulina says she’s not sure but they will let her know. Chanel and Johnny assure that they will be there for her every step of the way. Paulina is blessed to have the help of family including her soon to be son in law. Paulina suggests they get to talking about the wedding.
Stefan guesses he’s screwed even though he’s brother is the district attorney. EJ responds that he’d be more inclined to help him if he wasn’t district attorney but Stefan and Gabi stole the CEO of DiMera job for him. Stefan argues that he offered EJ the job back and he turned it down. EJ says that was too little, too late, so now as district attorney and Holly’s stepfather, he needs to let the police do their jobs and get the drugs off the streets while locking up anyone who has dirty hands. EJ says he needs to get to the police station to congratulate the force on a job well done. EJ tells Stefan to face it that he made a bloody mess of things and now, it’s very likely that he will end up behind bars. EJ laughs as he then exits the mansion.
Marlena asks John what he is searching for. John says it’s not that he’s searching, but fearing more unwelcome surprises popping up in his life because of his past. Marlena says if they have any, they will handle them as they always do, together.
Harris assures Ava that nobody is happy about how this went down and the officer who took out Clyde’s guy is taking it really hard. Harris says they can’t change what happened, so they just have to push forward. Ava thinks back to having sex with Stefan. Harris then asks her what’s wrong. Ava says everything because she makes one bad decision after the next. Harris feels she’s too hard on herself and says to give herself a break. Ava feels she doesn’t deserve one because she’s a broken mess and once Harris finds that out, he will bail. Harris assures that he’s not going anywhere, reminding her that they are a team and they are going to get through this. Harris gets a text to get back to the station and tells Ava to stay strong as they are almost at the finish line. Harris then exits the park. Ava gets a call from Stefan, who asks if she can talk. Ava mentions that she just ran in to Harris. Stefan reminds her that he told her not to talk to him. Ava claims it was a random encounter. Stefan asks if he mentioned the bust. Ava confirms that he said they scored big. Stefan tells Ava that he needs to speak to her now and asks her to meet him at his place. Ava says she’ll be right there and hangs up.
John thanks Marlena for the pep talk and asks how she always knows how to make him feel better. Marlena says it wasn’t a pep talk, just her reminding him of who he really is because he is an amazing father, spectacular grandfather, loyal, loving friend, and the best husband. Marlena says she wouldn’t have him any other way and she loves him just the way he is. John says he loves her and kisses her.
EJ goes to the police station and asks Harris if Rafe is in his office. Harris says he’s tied up with the press about the bust. EJ mentions reading the details about Clyde as the possible kingpin and says with Clyde locked up, logic suggests that someone on the outside was doing his bidding. Harris explains that someone was killed in the bust after firing at a cop and she fired back in self defense.
Ava goes to the DiMera Mansion to see Stefan, who asks what Harris told her. Ava says just that they seized a bunch of product and a dealer is dead which is all in the paper. Stefan reminds her that he doesn’t want her talking to Harris because he’s nothing but trouble for them. Stefan warns that Harris could’ve followed her here and could know exactly what happened between them last night.
Johnny mentions stopping by the church and everything is good to go while Chanel says she made the arrangements for the flowers and cake. Paulina adds that she contacted the caterers and their dresses are ready. Johnny adds that he found a photographer as well. Paulina says they’ll need plenty of pictures to send to Eli, Lani, and her mother. Abe questions her mother not coming. Paulina says she has an ear infection and can’t fly. Paulina then gets a call from the hospital. Paulina thanks them for letting her know and hangs up. Abe asks what they said and Chanel asks about rescheduling the surgery. Paulina announces it’s been rescheduled to tomorrow morning at the same time as Chanel and Johnny’s wedding.
Kayla asks if Stephanie is saying that Everett is moving faster than she is. Stephanie says he is which is sweet on one hand but also a little scary since he’s completely enamored and wants to pick up where they left off. Stephanie adds that he even brought up moving in together but she told him to slow down. Kayla says if it’s meant to be, it’s going to happen because true love always wins out.
Harris finishes updating EJ on everything. EJ thanks him for giving him the full report and says now that he has the full picture, Clyde’s involvement is undeniable. EJ asks how they prove that. Harris says the dealer is dead, so they’ll have to wait until Clyde replaces him but they are on top of it. EJ wants a rock solid case against Clyde so he doesn’t slip through their fingers. Harris assures they are going to nail Clyde and everybody else involved.
Ava assures Stefan that Harris doesn’t know anything about what happened last night and he thought he only cared about Gabi finding out. They agree that it never happened. Ava brings up that Wendy and Tripp saw that it did. Stefan urges her to tell them not to say anything. Ava agrees to talk to them soon and tells Stefan not to worry about it because right now, they have much bigger things to worry about. Ava reminds Stefan that Clyde’s henchman was shot at the bust. Stefan adds that they suspect Clyde as the drug lord. Ava worries that Clyde must be losing his mind as they know how dangerous he is when he feels cornered and with him on the warpath for payback. Stefan questions what the hell they are going to do when they are already in his crosshairs.
Chanel questions Paulina’s surgery being tomorrow morning while Abe asks if she can’t reschedule. Paulina explains that based on her test results, they want to get her in right away and they don’t have any other openings for the rest of the week, so it’s tomorrow morning. Johnny offers to postpone the wedding but Paulina says no. Chanel says no way but Paulina refuses. Chanel argues that it’s their wedding and they are not getting married without Paulina. Paulina continues to say no. Johnny repeats that they are not having the wedding without Paulina since she already missed their last one. Abe points out that it is their wedding, so it’s up to them to decide and he thinks their minds are made up. Paulina decides she’s been overruled and will cover the costs of postponing. Paulina says she’s sorry but Chanel says there is no reason to be. Paulina says she’s tired and is going to lay down. Abe says he will go get her settled in. Chanel says she loves her as Abe and Paulina go to the bedroom. Chanel asks Johnny if he’s sure he’s okay with postponing. Johnny says absolutely, but maybe there’s another way as he thinks he has an idea.
Stephanie can’t believe it’s almost Valentine’s Day and Kayla and Steve’s anniversary. Stephanie asks if she has anything special planned. Kayla says every anniversary is special whether they do anything or not. Stephanie jokes that she hopes she doesn’t have to marry the same guy four times to get it right. Kayla guesses they couldn’t live without each other. Stephanie hopes she’s half as lucky as they have been with love, hopefully without all the drama in between weddings. Kayla thinks it was all worth it, but hopes that Stephanie is as happy in her life as she and Steve are at this minute.
Ava tells Stefan that she might have a way to save their asses and end Clyde’s blackmail for good. Stefan tells her to spill it. Ava repeats that she might, but if what she’s thinking falls in to place, they might have their way out. Stefan doesn’t like being kept in the dark. Ava says to just let her get them out of this nightmare. Stefan questions what she’s going to do and warns her not to do anything without talking to him first. Ava swears that she won’t and that everything will be revealed in time. Ava tells him to just trust her.
EJ comments to Harris about nothing coming out of the raid at the Bistro. Harris confirms it seemed to be on the up and up but that questioning Stefan and Ava led to them lawyering up. EJ asks if that means Ava is involved. Harris responds that nothing has been confirmed on that front, but they are keeping an eye on her and Stefan. Harris asks if that will be a problem for him. EJ says not at all and tells Harris to go where the evidence leads him. EJ says if it turns out, his brother is mixed up in this then so be it and he’ll rot in prison next to Clyde.
John tells Marlena that he might sleep better after their talk tonight. Marlena says she has some errands to run and asks if he will be there when she gets back. John confirms he has no plans and tells her to be careful as Marlena then exits. John then pulls out his phone and calls Steve, asking him to meet him at the office as there is something he needs to tell him.
EJ told Stefan that the Salem PD made a drug bust last night. He thought Stefan was involved in the drug bust. Chanel wondered if Paulina got her test results when she and Abe were being quiet. Marlena wanted to know what was going on with John since he’s going through a lot with Brady and Tate. He said Brady and Tate were going through more than he was. Marlena said he got home late last night. She asked him about his client. Ava and Harris met to talk about the drug bust. While they were talking, she flashed back to telling him that Clyde was blackmailing her and Stefan. Harris told Ava he wasn’t going to stop until Clyde paid for what he did. EJ told Stefan that the police wasn’t going to stop until everyone was taken down. He said he wondered if Stefan was going to be the next one arrested for drugs. John told Marlena the meeting was a waste of time. She asked what happened. He said the person never showed up. She thought the client should have told him he wasn’t coming. While John was talking, he started staring into space. Paulina told Chanel that the test showed her nodules got bigger which meant the cancer was more aggressive than they thought. She said she had to get the surgery sooner. When Chanel asked when the surgery was, Johnny showed up. Stefan told EJ that he didn’t help him when he told him about the drugs. EJ said he couldn’t help him because he was going through things in his life. Stefan asked how his reputation would look like. EJ thought he would be the one on top by putting him in jail. Harris told Ava to give him time to get Clyde. Marlena asked if John was okay. He said he wondered if the past ever stayed in the past. She asked what was going on with him. He said Steve was talking about the old times which made him start thinking about the past.
Paulina told Chanel and Johnny when her surgery was. Chanel and Johnny agreed to be there for her. Stefan asked EJ if he was screwed without his help. EJ told him he might have been able to help him if he was CEO of DiMera. He reminded him that he and Gabi stole it from him. Stefan said he offered to give it back to him. EJ said it was too little too late. He was excited about what was happening with Stefan. Marlena told John everything would be okay. Harris told Ava about the drug dealer getting killed. He said they had to move forward. She thought about kissing Stefan. Harris wanted to know what was wrong. She said she made one bad decision after the next. He said to give herself a break. She said he would bail after he found out the mess she made. He said he wasn’t going anywhere. When he walked away, Stefan called Ava. He wanted to talk to her. She said she was with Harris. He said he needed to speak to her and wanted her to meet him at his place. She said she would be there. John asked Marlena how she knew to make him feel better. Marlena complimented him on being the best. She said she loved him the way he was. EJ went to the police station and asked Harris about the drug raid. Harris told him one of the cops killed the dealer in self-defense. Ava went to the DiMera mansion. Stefan asked what the police told her. She told him about the drug bust. Stefan said Harris may know what happened between them last night. While Paulina, Chanel, and Johnny were talking about the wedding, Paulina got a call from the hospital telling her the surgery was on Valentine’s Day. Harris told EJ continued to talk about making Clyde and everyone else involved with the drug bust pay. Ava said Harris didn’t know what happened between them even though people were supposed to think they did. She said Clyde’s henchman was shot at the bust. Stefan said he knew about it. Ava said Clyde was going to be on a warpath. Stefan wanted to know what they were going to do. Chanel and Johnny told Paulina they weren’t getting married without her. Ava told Stefan she had a plan to get them out of their situation with Clyde. Stefan said not to do anything without telling him. She told him to trust her. Harris and EJ continued to talk about Clyde and the drug bust. EJ told Harris to do what he had to do if Stefan was involved. He said Stefan could go in a cell next to Clyde.
Alex ran into Kristen. Kristen mentioned Theresa slipped up. Alex was upset that Brady told her about Theresa. Kristen told him Brady was going to be a part of her life and Theresa’s. Alex said Brady was worried about Tate. Kristen said it wasn’t just about Tate. She asked if he was sure that nothing else was going on between them. Harris was upset that a cop shot the dealer connected to Clyde. When Rafe showed up, Harris told him they needed the dealer. Harris said it was there shot at Clyde. Chad and Everett showed up at the scene. Rafe wanted to know why they were there. Chad said they were getting information. Rafe said the bust wasn’t known and wondered how they got there so fast. Harris told him why he told them about the drug bust. Rafe was upset about him telling them about the deal. While they were talking about it, Chad said they still had to print the story. Rafe gave in and did the interview with Everett. Alex and Kristen continued to argue over Brady. Jada asked one of the cops about Goldman. He told Jada about what happened when she shot the dealer. Chad and Everett went to see Clyde. Clyde wanted to know who Everett was. Alex asked Kristen if she ever thought about getting back together with Brady. She said that ship sailed. He told her to try and get him back.
Rafe told Harris he didn’t like being surprised by the press being at the drug bust. Harris said he had to do it. While they were talking, Harris said Lucas was staying with him. Rafe said he didn’t think that was a smart idea. Chad told Clyde who Everett was and why they were there. Everett told Clyde that he was having a horrible day. Clyde wanted to know what he was talking about. Everett told him about the raid. Chad asked if Clyde had eyes and ears everywhere. Clyde didn’t answer him. Chad told him about the drug raid. He asked Clyde if he knew about it. Everett told Clyde the police got seven kilos of drugs. Clyde said he didn’t know what they were talking about. Chad and Everett told him the police got a couple of million dollars’ worth of drugs. While they were talking, Clyde’s phone started to ring. Chad and Everett said Clyde wasn’t supposed to have a phone. They wanted him to answer the phone. Kristen wanted Alex to admit that he wanted her to be back with Brady to get him out of the way. Alex said he wanted Brady to stay away from Theresa. Kristen warned him that his relationship with Theresa would be over if Brady wasn’t distracted from Theresa. She said she could help him. Jada talked to Goldman about shooting the perp. She told her about shooting someone in Seattle. Rafe came in and told Goldman she did the right thing. Jada told her she wasn’t alone. Clyde wanted to know what Chad and Everett wanted. They told him they wanted to give him a chance to tell his story. Clyde said he was an innocent man. He said he has been a model prisoner ever since he killed Abby. Chad tried to attack Clyde when he provoked him. Everett stopped Chad from going after Clyde. Clyde wanted to know why they were there. Chad said he wanted to see his face when he found out he lost his money. He said he was going to take great satisfaction of exposing Clyde’s drug reign. Kristen told Alex that she would agree to keep Brady away from Theresa. They realized they had to work together to stay on top of it. Alex offered Kristen a job at Titan. She said she would consider it. He told her to offer Brady more visitation rights so it would give her and Brady a chance to bond. Clyde told Chad and Everett to forget what they learned. Chad asked if he was threatening them. Clyde said it was a warning. Chad and Everett told him he was going to pay for what he did. Clyde left them alone. Harris wanted Goldman to go over what happened during the drug bust. He told Rafe they had to get Clyde in a different way. Harris said Clyde was going to want someone to pay when he found out what happened.
John demanded to know what Konstantin wanted from him. He wanted to know why Konstantin wanted to meet him. John demanded that he tell him everything he knew about the pawn. Konstantin told him about Victor and his pawn. Wendy told Tripp about her conversation with Ava. She told him that Ava basically threatened her. Stefan felt guilt about making love to Ava. He couldn’t believe he cheated on Gabi. Ava reminded him about his role in what happened. He tried to blame her, but she said they were both responsible. Ava told him that they needed to keep what happened a secret. Johnny talked to Chanel about his concerns about them getting married. He didn’t think it would be safe for them to get married. Wendy continued to talk to Tripp about Ava’s conversation. They thought she was trying to get them out of town. Tripp felt like Stefan got Ava mixed up in something. Stefan reminded Ava that he had more to lose than her if the truth came out. She said she had something to lose as well. He reminded her that he’s married. Ava didn’t want Harris to find out about what they did. Konstantin told John about him being a killer. John pulled a gun on Konstantin and told him that he could kill a man. Konstantin told him that a woman could get killed too. John wanted to know what that meant. Konstantin told him that Katarina got in the way when he tried to kill. He said he wanted to show him something and tell him what it meant. Konstantin showed him the card, and John backed up.
Konstantin called out to John, but he didn’t remember his name. He told him that his beautiful Katarina was taken from him. Johnny assured Chanel that he didn’t have second thoughts about the wedding. Chanel told him that she wasn’t afraid of his family. He asked her about Allie. She assured him that she didn’t love her anymore. He couldn’t get past it, and she wondered if he thought she was gay. Tripp and Wendy went home and saw Ava and Stefan together. Tripp demanded that Stefan leave the apartment. He warned Stefan to stay away from his mother. Johnny wondered if he would be enough for Chanel. She assured him that she’s ready to commit herself to him. Chanel didn’t need anyone else. She told him that he protected her even when they weren’t together. Konstantin was able to get John to put his gun to his head. He was ready to pull the trigger. After Stefan left the apartment, Tripp wanted answers from Ava. She refused to talk to him about what happened with him. Konstantin stopped John from shooting himself. He wanted John to do things first. Konstantin let him know that he would go back to his family for now.
Kristen walks through the town square on the phone. She says she can come by after picking Rachel up in a couple of hours. Kristen then hangs up as she sees Alex walking by and asks if he’s heading to Titan. Alex says that’s the plan after he showers and asks what she needs. Kristen claims they just talked in awhile so she was wondering how it’s going there. Alex tells her that things are going well. Kristen asks how Theresa fits in to their new image. Alex questions what she’s implying. Kristen tells him not to play dumb as she’s heard all about Theresa and that Brady told her all about it which Alex questions.
Paulina wakes up in bed with Abe. Abe brings up that she thought she wouldn’t sleep but she slept pretty well. Paulina says last night’s activities definitely relaxed her mind. Abe suggests he can relax her mind some more as they kiss.
Clyde wakes up in his bed in his prison cell to his phone vibrating underneath the mattress. Clyde gets the phone and answers the call. Clyde says he had not been informed of that and that it was not their decision to make. Clyde declares that it’s his business and he’ll run it his way. Clyde says he’ll deal with them later and hangs up. Clyde questions how they could let this happen and declares they will be sorry they did that as they have no idea what he’s capable of, but they’re about to find out.
Police are arresting two men while covering up a dead body. Harris and Jada arrive. Harris approaches the female officer, who tells him that this was the first time she ever shot somebody or even discharged her weapon. Harris encourages that it will be okay, then send her and her partner to wait at the car. Jada comments to Harris that she was pretty shaken up. Harris responds that this is really bad.
Alex asks what the hell Brady is thinking, arguing that he has no business talking about Theresa’s personal life to Kristen or anyone else. Kristen takes that as it’s true that Theresa is using again. Alex clarifies that she had a slip and that she’s made a vow to stay sober and it’s going to stay that way. Alex tells Kristen to be a half decent human for a split second and then maybe she would recognize that Theresa is facing struggles and she would leave her in peace. Kristen laughs and claims she does feel for Theresa since they are both Brady Black’s baby mamas. Alex tells her not to remind him. Kristen says that she and Theresa will always be connected to Brady and he will always be in their lives which is why it makes sense that he talked to her about Theresa’s situation, because he’s worried about her. Alex argues that Brady is worried about Tate. Kristen says it’s not just Tate and asks if Alex senses their strong connection. Alex says that has been made abundantly clear to him but it’s out of necessity. Kristen asks if Alex is sure there’s nothing else going on between Brady and Theresa.
Paulina tells Abe that he brings her so much joy and she’s grateful they can be together like this again. Abe tells her how much he appreciates her patience and understanding. Paulina says they don’t have to rush anything and she knows the memories will come back, but they can create new ones in the mean time. Abe agrees as they kiss.
Jada asks Harris if this was a good bust. Harris says it’s a great bust to get the drugs off the streets, but they needed the dealer alive. Jada goes to check on the other cops as Rafe arrives. Harris asks Rafe how this went so wrong as this was the one dealer with a direct connection to Clyde. Rafe encourages Harris to look at the bright side that they got 7 kilos of drugs off the streets. Harris argues that there’s always going to be more drugs so they need the source. Rafe understands it was a split second decision while Harris argues about wanting Clyde off the streets for good. Chad and Everett then arrive, so Rafe questions what the hell they are doing here. Chad responds that they are here to collect information. Rafe says that’s not okay as this is an active crime scene. Rafe questions how they got there so fast since this bust wasn’t on the radio. Harris then reveals that he called them which Rafe questions. Harris says he did that to buy some extra time before the Lucas story is published which Rafe also questions. Chad explains that Lucas was a confidential informant for the Salem PD and put his life on the line to bust Clyde Weston and that’s the story they are going to tell. Harris says when he was brought up to speed, the only thing he could do was negotiate delaying the story by offering them first word on the drug bust. Rafe asks what Harris was thinking, arguing that this is months of investigation that could all go up in smoke and questions what made him think this was the right call. Harris responds that he didn’t make the call. Rafe asks who did. Chad explains that Lucas reached out to them without Harris knowing. Everett argues that they are all on the same team in wanting drugs out of Salem and now they have an opportunity by working together. Chad asks what Rafe says as they have to print the story with or without his statement. Rafe agrees to get this over with then. Everett insists that he won’t regret this and begins recording as he asks Rafe about the drug bust today. Rafe declares that today, they were successful in removing 7 kilos of drugs from the streets in a warehouse bust, cutting off the pipeline of drugs. Everett asks if he can say specifically what drugs were confiscated. Rafe says the investigation is still ongoing but they were probably street drugs, laced with opioids. Rafe adds that it sends a clear message that they will not stop until they retake their city. Everett asks if there were any injuries or fatalities. Rafe confirms that unfortunately one of their officers was involved in shooting an alleged drug dealer. Rafe adds that the investigation is still ongoing and there will be a separate report released. Harris asks if they are good now. Chad says they will get out of their way now. Everett tells Chad that the police made a major dent in the drug bust today and now the real work begins.
Kristen tells Alex that she’s not trying to upset him as she knows he and Theresa are a thing, but she hates to see him deluding himself. Kristen argues that Theresa and Brady are recovering addicts, so it’s like they’ve been to war together and they share the battle wounds. Kristen compares it to her and Brady’s relationship. Alex argues that they practically despise each other. Kristen says they are forever connected, like Theresa and Brady, because of their child. Alex brings up Kristen depriving Brady of Rachel and thinking they are still connected. Kristen argues that she got sole custody because Brady threatened her with a gun. Alex asks if she had to go to such extreme measures. Kristen asks what he would’ve done. Alex says he wouldn’t have gotten the cops involved. Kristen realizes Brady didn’t tell him the whole story and informs him that Rachel called the cops, not her.
Jada talks to one of the cops about everything that went down in the drug bust. He recalls seeing something flash out of the corner of his eye and then he saw Officer Goldman chasing after the perp. He says he heard two shots and when he caught up, Goldman was obviously shaken up and the suspect was dead. He noted the location of the suspect’s gun and said he put it all in his report. He remarks that this won’t be something he’ll forget as they go to check on Officer Goldman.
Everett and Chad go to prison to meet with Clyde.
Alex tells Kristen that her family dynamic is certainly interesting. Kristen says she could say the same about his. Kristen calls life unpredictable and complicated just like relationships. Kristen advises Alex to be wary and not to give his heart away too quickly. Alex changes the subject to Kristen and asks if she’s seeing anybody which she laughs at. Kristen talks about dating apps being dehumanizing and says she’s too old school for that. Alex says he knows what she means but asks if she ever thinks about getting back with Brady. Kristen says that ship has sailed. Alex urges her to bring it back to sail since they are both single and they know each other. Alex remarks that it’s obvious Kristen still has feelings for Brady, so he question why not pursue it. Kristen guesses Alex just wants Brady out of the picture, so he can have Theresa all to himself.
Paulina tells Abe that with everything going on last night, she forgot to tell him the exciting news that Johnny and Chanel are getting married. Abe calls that wonderful and congratulates her as the mother of the bride. Paulina says she’s so happy for her and the more she sees them together, the more convinced she is that they have what it takes. Paulina says she has to write an announcement for the Spectator. Abe asks if they set a date. Paulina tells him that it’s Valentine’s Day. Abe says she has her work cut out for her then and asks what he can do to help. Paulina feels that he’s done so much already. Abe says they are partners and tells her to put him to work. Paulina asks him to just tell her that today is going to be a good day. Abe responds that every day with her is.
Rafe tells Harris that they’ll get suspects in for interrogation and guesses they’ll be speaking if they want to avoid prison. Harris comments that their boss won’t be happy about this bust. Rafe says speaking of unhappy bosses, he’s really unhappy that Harris kept him out of the loop on this press situation. Harris apologizes and says he had to make a quick decision. Rafe asks if Lucas is staying with Harris at the safehouse. Harris says it was the best plan he could come up with at the time to make sure the bust went off without a hitch. Rafe points out that there was a hitch and talks about Officer Goldman shooting the dealer, noting that he’s going to have her talk to a shrink before putting her back on duty. Harris states that they are going to need all hands on deck for sure. Rafe agrees and says once the article comes out in the press, God only knows what the fallout is going to be.
Clyde asks if Chad is going to introduce him to his buddy. Everett introduces himself as the editor-in-chief of the Spectator. Clyde guesses he must be a recent hire. Everett hoped he could spare some time to speak to them today. Clyde laughs at the idea of Chad pretending to be a journalist. Chad explains that he owns the Spectator now as it was Abigail’s family’s paper. Clyde calls Chad a jack of all trades but a master of none. Clyde praises Stefano but calls Chad a waste of time like this meeting. Everett tells Clyde that taking pot shots at a man who’s wife he brutally murdered is the behavior of someone in a very bad mood, which makes sense in his case, because he’s obviously having a horrible day. Clyde questions what the hell he’s talking about. Clyde asks Chad to enlighten him as to why he’s having a horrible day. Everett guesses Clyde hasn’t heard about the raid. Clyde claims it doesn’t ring a bell. Chad argues that Clyde has eyes and ears everywhere but agrees to play his game and tell him about a very big raid at a warehouse on the edge of town. Chad questions it not ringing any bells for Clyde. Everett calls it one of the biggest raids in Salem history as the police got over 7 kilos and were still counting the cash. Chad tells Clyde that has to hurt. Clyde claims not to know what he’s talking about. Chad and Everett talk about how 7 kilos could go for a couple million. Chad says that would make him very angry and he’d probably want to make someone pay. Chad asks what Clyde would do. They hear a phone vibrating. Chad and Everett talk about how they had to leave their phones when they got there, so they question Clyde having a contraband phone on him. Chad suggests Clyde check his messages. Everett bets it’s about that raid and all that lost product. Chad guesses someone is fairly nervous to pass that along. Chad tells Clyde to go ahead and check his messages as they won’t tell anybody.
Kristen tells Alex to admit that he wants Brady out of the way so that it’s smooth sailing for he and Theresa. Alex argues that he’s also looking out for what’s best for Kristen and Rachel. Alex asks how nice it would be for Rachel to have his parents back together. Kristen argues that Alex doesn’t give a damn about her and Rachel but he’s sweating bullets over Brady and Theresa. Alex says it’s only because Theresa has been leaning on Brady lately and he’s been hanging around a lot more since the slip. Kristen says they are also dealing with the fallout of Tate’s arrest. Alex complains that it’s like two magnets drawn together every time he turns around, so if he doesn’t redirect Brady’s attention, his relationship with Theresa is probably doomed. Kristen asks how she can help him.
Jada checks on Officer Goldman, who claims she’s okay. Jada says she wasn’t after her first shooting and explains it was a domestic violence case when she was in Seattle. Jada recalls thinking she had everything in control until the guy suddenly pulled a gun out and fired it, so she had no time to think and she couldn’t take the chance of someone getting hurt, so that was the first time she discharged her weapon on duty. Jada says she can still smell the gunpowder and see the blood. Officer Goldman responds that the blood is all she can see. Jada says it was a clean shooting. Rafe comes over and agrees that she did the right thing based on their initial reporting. She says she took a life so she’s having a hard time reconciling that she did the right thing. Jada says that’s only natural to feel that way but she did what she had to do and she’s not alone. Jada encourages that she will come out of this okay.
Chad asks what Everett thinks. Everett says not really what he expected or that tough really. Chad remarks that prison can break some men and asks if that’s what happened to Clyde. Clyde asks what they want from him. Chad says the truth is, he doesn’t even like to hear his name, let alone be in the same room as him but their job is to tell both sides of the story. Everett tells Clyde they want to hear his side of the story and they are giving him a forum to tell it. Clyde questions what the hell he’s talking about. Everett brings up that Clyde claims to be an innocent man. Clyde says that he is, so Everett asks him to expand on that. Clyde argues that if they had done their homework, they would know he’s been a model citizen in prison ever since he starting serving time for the brutal murder of Chad’s wife, Abigail. Clyde bets Chad misses her dearly and says he can still see her face, begging him to save her life. Everett holds Chad back from going after Clyde and reminds him to stay focused. Clyde still doesn’t know why they are really here. Chad responds that he wanted to see the look on his face when he learned that his empire was crumbling to the ground. Clyde wishes him luck with that. Chad says he doesn’t need luck, just facts and the fact is that his reign of terror is coming to an end. Chad declares that when Clyde loses everything, he will take great satisfaction in telling the world all about it in his newspaper while Clyde rots away in prison like the rat he is, never again to see the light of day.
Kristen tells Alex that he said himself that if she’s more present in Brady’s life and he’s less present in Theresa’s, then it’s a win-win for everyone. Alex still feels like there’s a catch. Kristen comments that they are just helping them both out since they both want to break the toxic chain between them. Alex asks if she’s sure she’s ready to get back with Brady again. Kristen says time will tell and admits it’s hard being hurt over and over again, but there will always be a place in her heart saved just for Brady. Kristen decides it’s time to change things and focus on herself. Alex says he’s liking this. Kristen says they are on the same page and if they want to achieve their goal, they’ll have to be in touch. Alex asks if she’s suggesting they spy and gossip about Brady and Theresa. Kristen jokes that it’s intel since the last thing they want is for them to end up together.
Paulina completes her engagement announcement. Abe asks what else is on the agenda for today. Paulina says she has a conference call in half an hour for the geocaching event, then after that, she needs to start thinking about her mother of the bride outfit. Abe says it would be his honor to go with her. Paulina then gets a call from the hospital and answers it. Paulina takes deep breaths and says she understands. Paulina thanks them for letting her know and hangs up. Abe asks what’s going on. Paulina informs him that they got the ultrasound results and the tumor has grown, so they don’t want to wait and they are moving their surgery up to the end of this week. Abe says they have a plan then. Paulina cries that she thought she would have more time to prepare mentally. Paulina tries to tell herself that she’s going to be fine and will deal with this. Paulina admits she’s scared but she won’t let the fear overcome her. Paulina declares that she has Abe. Abe says they will go through this together and they are a team.
Alex suggests Kristen spend a little more time at Titan, feeling she’s more than qualified to join his executive team. Kristen acknowledges her experience. Alex says they could use someone like her. Kristen thinks she could make this change. Alex adds that she’ll also be in closer proximity to Brady. Kristen calls it an interesting proposition and agrees to consider it. Alex says if they are going to make this project work, they both have to contribute in and out of the workplace so she’s going to have to increase Brady’s visitation with Rachel, building it up to family sleepovers. Alex insists that they have the best intentions and motives here with happiness for him, Theresa, Kristen, Brady and most importantly, Rachel. Kristen agrees and toasts to happiness.
Everett thinks they are done here. Clyde suggests he forget everything he learned her today as that would be best for all parties. Chad asks if that’s a threat. Clyde calls it more like a warning from a concerned citizen who would hate to see anything bad happen to those who are close to them back in Salem. Everett warns that empty threats won’t prevent the truth from coming out. Everett tells Clyde that he had the chance to make a statement, so now it’s their turn to do their job and they’ll make sure he gets a copy of the paper. Chad adds that when they do expose everything Clyde has done, the justice system will make sure he serves two life sentences. Clyde calls for the guard and exits the room. Chad declares to Everett that it’s time to end this.
Harris complains that they were so close to nailing Clyde and asks Officer Goldman to walk them through it one more time. She explains that the suspect fired, she returned fire to ensure no one else got hurt and because she didn’t want to die. Harris tells her it’s okay as she followed protocol. Harris tells Rafe that they are going to have to come at Clyde from another angle and soon, because once Clyde finds out about this, all hell is going to break loose and he’s going to want somebody to pay.
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Suzanne: NNow, talking about GH for a minute, do you, still enjoy playing Kevin even without Ryan? Jon: Yeah, well, I like Kevin very much. I think Kevin’s a really good guy. I think that there’s, there’s been kind of a, we, we’ve kind of lost a little bit of Kevin along the way, remember when Kevin was, was first around and we had first gotten rid of. Of Ryan. Kevin was an artist. He was a psychiatrist, but he was an artist who lived in a, in a lighthouse and painted all the time to paint out a demon and, and we’ve kind of, we’ve kind of veered away from that. And, we have some new writers coming in now. So I think that I, I think we’re going to have some, um. I think there’s going to be some changes, in how Kevin, but I mean, that’s a long answer, but to answer your question, I love playing Kevin. I love, I love playing Kevin. I love playing Ryan. I love, I love working with Genie. I love working with Lynn Herring and, and Ken Shriner and everybody that, that goes along in Kevin’s world. You know, he’s, to me, it’s just fun.
