Days of our Lives Recaps: The week of January 29, 2024 on DAYS

Stephanie and Everett slept together. Leo promised not to tell anyone about Everett's overnight guest. Steve told John that Konstantin knew about the Pawn. Harris smuggled Lucas into the pub. Sarah helped Paulina. Ava interrogated Wendy. Chad reluctantly agreed to be Johnny's best man. Xander told Stefan about a mysterious phone call. Alex asked Brady for advice. Sloan was frustrated. Brady helped Theresa. Chad and Everett interviewed Lucas. Alex joined a support group. Maggie asked Brady for help with Titan. Stefan and Ava had drunken sex. Konstantin angered Maggie at dinner.

Steve and John discuss the Pawn

Monday, January 29, 2024

by Steve Holley

At John and Marlena's penthouse, Marlena phoned John after she arrived home late at night and noticed that he wasn't home. John told Marlena that he'd be home soon.

In Horton Town Square, Steve found John by himself. Steve admitted that Marlena had told him to look for John, and he said that both he and Marlena were worried about John. As Steve and John spoke, John was adamant that his memories from his days as an assassin had been wiped. Steve said that he wished he could forget the work he'd done for Victor many years earlier. "Especially lately when I'm anywhere in the vicinity of one Konstantin Meleounis," Steve added.

John agreed when Steve added that Konstantin reminded them of Victor at times. Steve said that he was growing more convinced that Konstantin knew about the Pawn. John expressed reservations, and he wondered how it was possible. "My God, partner, I haven't even heard anybody speak those words for years here. How could he even know? John asked.

Steve recalled that Konstantin had had a knowing look on his face when Konstantin had asked Steve about the Pawn. Steve added that it had felt like Konstantin had been taunting Steve. Steve told a visibly distraught John to go home to Marlena and to rest before Steve and John regrouped. John agreed, and he and Steve told one another to take care.

Back at John and Marlena's penthouse, Marlena was waiting up for John when he returned home. John told Marlena that he and Steve had had a good talk. John added that Marlena always seemed to know what he needed. Marlena said that she loved John, and they kissed before heading to bed.

At Alex and Theresa's apartment, Alex and Theresa played a game of truth or dare. Alex asked what the biggest lie Theresa had ever told was. Theresa was cagy, and she managed to avoid the question. Alex dared Theresa to sing her favorite childhood song. She sang "Row Row Row Your Boat" at the top of her lungs. Afterwards, they agreed to go to sleep in separate beds.

In Everett's room at the Salem Inn, Everett said that he could no longer be "just friends" with Stephanie. Everett added that he couldn't live without Stephanie and that he would give anything to get back what they'd had in Seattle years earlier. Stephanie was caught off guard, and she said that she didn't know how to respond. Stephanie recalled feeling "shattered" when Everett had disappeared from her life, and she said that she had been determined to get over him.

Everett asked if Stephanie's feelings had changed, given that she had learned that he hadn't left on purpose. Everett said that they had been given a second chance, and he pleaded with Stephanie not to throw it away. Stephanie admitted her feelings of vulnerability to Everett, including her self-doubts. Stephanie added that she didn't understand why Everett's family hadn't gone looking for him when he'd been missing. Everett recalled that he'd lost his mother as a child and that his father had been a heavy drinker.

Stephanie believed Everett's explanations. Everett said that his memories had gradually returned after waking up from the accident and that the first thing he'd remembered with any clarity had been his love for Stephanie. Everett added that his only goal had been to find Stephanie and to tell her that she meant everything to him. Touched by his words, Stephanie hugged Everett, and they began to make out on the bed.

Everett asked Stephanie to spend the night with him, but Stephanie said that she wasn't ready. "I just want to hold you in my arms. I just want to sleep with you in my arms tonight, that's all," Everett whispered. "That would be nice," Stephanie whispered back. Stephanie and Everett held hands before Everett stood up to turn off the lights. Stephanie and Everett crawled into bed together, and he gently held her close to him. Stephanie and Everett seemed happy to be in each other's arms.

At the Brady Pub, Kate was awash in relief when Harris opened the door to his room above the pub to reveal that Lucas was staying with him. Harris told Roman and Kate that he had managed to use the night laundry service at Statesville to break Lucas out of prison. Roman assured Lucas that he was welcome to stay.

Harris said that he had used every favor he'd had to arrange for Lucas' release to a temporary "safe house." Harris added that Lucas would have to return to Statesville to serve the rest of his sentence once the threat to Lucas' life was eliminated. Harris left to give Kate and Roman some time alone with Lucas.

Afterwards, Kate worked to get Lucas settled into bed for the night. Roman praised Lucas for his help in trying to end the drug epidemic in Salem, and he added that Lucas had put his life on the line. Kate kissed Lucas on the forehead, and she bade him goodnight. On her way out, Kate thanked Roman for his help with Lucas.

Leo learns some juicy gossip about Stephanie

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

by Spalding

Wendy wandered into the kitchen to wish Tripp a good morning, but Ava poked her head out from behind the refrigerator door. "I'm sorry. I thought I heard Tripp come back home," Wendy said. "Sorry to disappoint," Ava said. Ava asked to talk.

After Ava fixed coffee, she sat on the couch with Wendy. "Women tend to take advantage of Tripp," Ava said. Ava asked Wendy if she was genuinely interested in Tripp or planned to move on if something better came along. "I do resent you implying I'm a fickle, insubstantial person. So, I'm reluctant to even dignify that with a response," Wendy said. Ava explained that her concern was that Wendy was using Tripp as a security blanket to get past a rough patch.

"That is not all this is. And with all due respect, you are really crossing the line," Wendy growled. "I may be. But you'll understand one day when you're a mother. I'm just looking out for my son's best interests," Ava countered. When Wendy noted that she was insulted, Ava argued that she needed to ensure that her son was treated with respect.

"You are completely off base. So, let me try to make this clear for you. I love Tripp. Tripp loves me, and we want to be together. And I'm not going to suffer the third degree from you or anyone else about our relationship," Wendy said. Ava's phone rang with a call from Harris, and she ignored it. With a nod at the phone, Wendy asked Ava if she was in love with Harris or Stefan.

"It turns out I'm not a fan of being interrogated, either. So, I'm not going to dignify that with a response," Ava said. Wendy smirked. "We good?" Ava asked. "Sure. I've got to go meditate now," Wendy said. Wendy held Ava's gaze for a moment, then she returned to her bedroom. "Talking to me can do that to a person," Ava muttered.

In the DiMera living room, Stefan stared at a wedding photo of Gabi. "One year ago today, you made me remember my love for you. And boy, did I remember. We made up for lost time. My God. How did we end up here?" Stefan whispered. Johnny entered the room, and he asked if Stefan knew where to find E.J. Annoyed, Stefan sarcastically noted that he had his brother's minute-by-minute schedule on his phone.

"Somebody woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning," Johnny said. Overly cheerful, Johnny remarked that it was a beautiful day. "And I've got some big news. Chanel and I are getting married on Valentine's Day," Johnny added. With a smirk, Stefan said, "Good for you, Johnny." Johnny asked if Stefan was going to congratulate him. Stefan reminded Johnny that he had married Gabi six months before and that his bride was in prison.

"I know. And that sucks, but don't you have a thing with Ava Vitali?" Johnny asked. Defensive, Stefan yelled, "That is none of your damn business!" Johnny apologized. Stefan argued that Johnny had no right to ask about Stefan's personal life. "I love my wife," Stefan stressed. Johnny raised an eyebrow.

"You planted a kiss on Ava right here in this living room in front of Chad," Johnny argued. Stefan took a moment to collect his thoughts. "Things in this life aren't always black and white. You'll understand a little better when you grow up a little bit," Stefan said. With a rueful chuckle, Johnny asked Stefan how old he would need to be to understand how to justify cheating on his wife. Stefan was furious.

"You have no right to judge me," Stefan said. Johnny stressed that he was not judging Stefan. "You're madly in love with your wife, but you're sneaking around," Johnny said. Stefan sighed. "I have screwed up a lot of relationships in my life, and Gabi is the one woman that I vowed to be faithful to, and I meant it. And I think about her every minute of every day, and it makes me sick not knowing when or how she's gonna get out of Statesville," Stefan said. Confused, Johnny asked Stefan why he had cheated.

"Ava is a beautiful and fascinating woman, and I am alone," Stefan said. With a shrug, Johnny noted that Stefan did not need to explain himself to Johnny, but he hoped that Stefan could live with the consequences of the affair. Stefan agreed.

At Wendy and Tripp's apartment, Harris called Ava again, and she rejected the call. When Ava's phone rang again, Ava answered it and yelled, "Harris, give it a rest, will ya?" Stefan was on the line. "It's not Harris, Ava. It's me," Stefan grumbled. Stefan demanded to know if Ava was still talking to Harris after what had happened at the station.

"It is not safe. That hotshot is hellbent on blowing Clyde's operation sky-high," Stefan said. Ava warned Stefan not to talk about their business out loud. Stefan asked why Harris had been calling Ava. "I don't have any freaking idea," Ava yelled. "Then why did you even answer?" Stefan asked. Ava admitted she did not know, and she promised not to do it again. Suspicious, Stefan asked Ava if she was with Harris.

"I got one day off and what, you miss me already?" Ava joked. "Oh, please!" Stefan countered. Ava explained that she had spent the morning interrogating Wendy, and she had confirmed that Wendy and Tripp were genuinely happy together. "At least somebody is, right?" Ava said. "Well, we're happy and in love, too, right?" Stefan said. Ava scoffed and noted that they were "happy and in lust." Ava said she was relieved to have the day off from pretending to like Stefan.

"Is playing hot for me such a chore for you?" Stefan asked. "It actually is. You know you're not as attractive as you think you are, right? I mean, you're actually kind of creepy," Ava countered. Stefan stammered that he had never met anyone with less sex appeal than Ava. "I can't even look at you sometimes!" Stefan yelled. Stefan complained that he would rather make out with a toilet than Ava. "I can relate, because you smell like a toilet seat," Ava countered. Ava noted that since she was so vile, she intended to take a bath.

As Ava talked about lying naked in her room as she rubbed hot oil on her body, Stefan adjusted his shirt collar. "You still there?" Ava asked. "Still here," Stefan said. Ava told Stefan to sleep well. As Stefan ended his call, he fidgeted with discomfort.

At the hospital, Sarah met with Paulina in an exam room. Paulina explained that she had woken up and had trouble breathing. Sarah recommended an ultrasound. "Would you like me to call Chanel?" Sarah asked. "Absolutely not!" Paulina snapped. Sarah talked to radiology, and she was able to schedule an ultrasound thanks to a cancellation by another patient. "How are you feeling now?" Sarah asked. Paulina said that she felt calmer thanks to Sarah's patience.

As Paulina removed her jewelry in preparation for the test, Sarah noted, "I know if it were my mom that was being admitted to the hospital, I would want to be here to support her." Sarah asked Paulina if she was sure that she did not want Sarah to call Chanel.

In the square, Chanel was setting up in front of the bakery when she said hello to Kayla. Kayla asked if she might be able to pick up her online order early. Chanel noted that the muffins were almost done and needed to cool.

"But if you want to wait, then it gives you just enough time to admire my engagement ring," Chanel said. Kayla congratulated Chanel. "That Johnny DiMera is a lucky man," Kayla said. Chanel explained that she and Johnny planned to wed on Valentine's Day. "That's what Steve and I did," Kayla said. With a grin, Chanel noted that it had worked well for Kayla and Steve. "We're pretty crazy about each other still," Kayla admitted. Kayla noted that Paulina had to have been thrilled by the news. "She is. And it's giving her something else to be focused on other than her illness," Chanel said.

Stephanie crept out of Everett's room after she had spent the night curled up next to him. "My, my. Girl, you do get around," Leo said as he walked down the hallway. Stephanie asked Leo why he was there, and he reminded Stephanie that he lived in the hotel. "This is not what you think," Stephanie said. Stephanie added that it was her business where she spent the night. "And maybe Lady Whistleblower's," Leo countered. Stephanie stressed that she and Everett were colleagues.

"Colleagues with benefits?" Leo asked. "Just friends," Stephanie said. Suspicious, Leo reminded Stephanie that the movie When Harry Met Sally had explained that men and women could not be just friends. Stephanie dismissed the movie, and Leo took offense. "[Last night] was none of your business. And speaking of business, you do want to keep your job, don't you, Lady Blowhard?" Stephanie said. Stephanie threatened Leo's column, so he walked away.

After Stephanie walked away, Leo returned and knocked on Everett's door. "Room service!" Leo shouted. "I didn't order any," Everett muttered as he opened the door and rubbed his eyes. Leo asked if Everett was okay. "It was a long night," Everett said. "I know. I just saw [Stephanie] leave," Leo admitted. Everett said that Leo was out of line. "We need to talk," Everett said. Everett grabbed his coat, and he escorted Leo down the hallway.

Outside the Salem Inn, Chanel spotted Stephanie leaving the hotel, and they smiled at one another. Chanel handed Stephanie a cup of coffee. "I haven't started it yet, and you look like you could use it more than me," Chanel said. Stephanie thanked Chanel. "You just missed your mom," Chanel said. "You're probably wondering why I'm leaving the Salem Inn at this hour," Stephanie said. With a shake of her head, Chanel noted that Stephanie was a grown woman.

"Whatever you do is your business and no one else's," Chanel said. Stephanie thanked Chanel, and she wished aloud that more Salemites had the same philosophy. "For some reason, people are so fixated on my love life, which is not that interesting," Stephanie grumbled. As Chanel nodded, Stephanie gasped when she saw Chanel's ring. Chanel confirmed that she was engaged to Johnny.

"This is wonderful. It lifts my spirits to know there are people out there who are happy and in love," Stephanie said. "You know what? I am both of those things," Chanel confirmed. Chanel's phone rang with a call from the hospital. Stephanie congratulated Chanel before she walked away to take her phone call.

As Stephanie exited the square, Everett walked out of the Salem Inn with Leo. "Breakfast is on you," Leo said as he sat in the caf. As Leo snacked on a variety of pastries, Everett sipped his coffee and glared at Leo. "I better not see a story in Lady Whistleblower's column about me and Stephanie," Everett said. With a raised eyebrow, Leo asked Everett if he expected Leo to believe that Everett and Stephanie had stayed up all night, talking about a PR plan for the paper.

"We were just talking," Everett confirmed. Everett explained that he and Stephanie were just friends, and they had fallen asleep. "There was no hanky-panky," Everett said. "Well, that's too bad, Because I would certainly hanky your panky. But only if you wanted to hanky mine," Leo said. Everett shook his head, and he asked why Leo flirted with every man he met.

"Not every guy. Only the hot ones that make my heart go pitter-patter. Besides, a fisherman needs to cast a wide net, you know?" Leo said. "It sort of feels like you're compensating. Like you're using humor to hide deep-rooted pain," Everett countered. Leo furrowed his brow. "Isn't that how everybody uses humor?" Leo asked. Everett suggested that Leo talk to a therapist. When Leo yawned and mentioned going to bed, Everett noted that Leo should work for a living like everyone else.

"I am working! I troll the streets at night, looking for gossip. With an occasional stop at the all-night dance club, strictly for exercise," Leo said. Everett chuckled. "As long as you keep delivering brilliant columns on time, who am I to complain about the hours you keep," Everett said. Leo thanked Everett. "And if you say nothing happened between you and Stephanie, who am I to doubt you?" Leo countered. With a nod, Everett noted that he knew Leo had a grown-up inside him. Leo promised to keep mum about the sleepover.

Kayla attempted to slide into bed without waking Steve, but he stirred awake. "I had a pretty rough night, baby. I was out late with John," Steve said. Steve told Kayla that Marlena had asked him to talk to John. "Is this work related?" Kayla asked. Steve told Kayla that the matter was not a big deal, but Kayla pushed for more information, since Marlena had called him late at night.

"It's about Konstantin. John and I don't trust him, and we don't think Maggie should, either," Steve said. "I've heard this before. Do you have something new?" Kayla said. Kayla asked if Steve had proof that Maggie was in danger. "Nothing tangible," Steve admitted. Steve stressed that he believed that Konstantin was dangerous. "Maggie is a strong woman. She clearly trusts that he has changed," Kayla said. Steve worried aloud that Maggie would regret her trust in Konstantin.

Steve grabbed one of the muffins that Kayla had picked up, and he nibbled it in bed as Kayla curled up next to him. "I just really need to go to sleep. I am beat," Kayla murmured. Steve asked if he could have another muffin, but Kayla noted the other muffins were for Stephanie. The front door opened, and Kayla noted, "That might be her now." Steve called out to his daughter, and she poked her head in the room.

"Did I wake you guys?" Stephanie asked. "No, I worked all night," Kayla said. Kayla said that she had left muffins for Stephanie in the kitchen. Stephanie thanked her mom, and she retreated and closed the door. "Is she just getting home?" Steve asked. Kayla shrugged.

When Stephanie returned in her pajamas with the last of the muffins, Kayla asked about Stephanie's night. "It was fine," Stephanie said. "If you're going to stay out all night again, please let us know. Your mom and I worry about you," Steve said. Stephanie agreed. "You think there'll be a next time soon?" Kayla asked. When Stephanie averted her eyes, Kayla apologized for being nosy.

"Don't worry, I will be out of your hair soon," Stephanie said. "You are not in our hair at all," Steve stressed. Steve told Stephanie that she was welcome to live with them as long as she wanted to stay. "Just out of curiosity, where were you last night?" Steve asked. "I spent the night at a friend's," Stephanie said.

After Kayla fell asleep, Stephanie told Steve about how she had curled up in bed with her mother when Stephanie had been a kid. "She'd wrap her arms around me, and we'd fall asleep. Just the two of us," Stephanie said. Steve nodded. "I wish I hadn't missed so many years with you, baby girl. I would do anything to get those years back again. To be your papa. To watch you grow up. But I want you to know, as soon as I was able, I made it right back here to you and your mom," Steve said.

"It was hard not having you here. But having you here now makes me appreciate you so much more," Stephanie said. "I hope you know how much I've always loved you," Steve whispered. Steve told Stephanie that he worried about her. "I think I know where this is going, so I'm just going to cut right to it. Yes, I was with Everett last night. No, nothing happened. Maybe I still have feelings for him, but no, I'm not going to rush back into a relationship with him. Does that answer all your questions?" Stephanie said. Steve said yes.

Steve told Stephanie that although he was glad that she was taking things slow with Everett, he encouraged her to do what felt right to her. Stephanie's phone rang, and she smiled. Everett called, and she thanked him for their evening together. Stephanie smiled at her father. "It was like old times," Stephanie said as she closed the door on her way out.

When Chanel arrived at the hospital, she chastised her mother for having been reluctant to call her. "I didn't want to drag you away from something important, but Sarah insisted," Paulina explained. "And I'm glad she did," Chanel said. Paulina noted that she did not want to be a bother to anyone. Johnny knocked on the door, and Paulina groaned. "You called him, too?" Paulina said. Chanel chuckled as Johnny put his arm around her.

"You're going to be my mama, too, in a couple of weeks," Johnny said. Paulina noted that she would soon have two sweet and handsome sons-in-law. Johnny asked Paulina how she felt, and she admitted that her blood pressure and breathing had improved from that morning. "And we will have the results of that ultrasound in the next few days," Sarah added. Paulina thanked Sarah for her help.

While Johnny stepped outside so Paulina could dress, Paulina chuckled. "You are one lucky lady," Paulina said to Chanel. "And don't I know it, Mama," Chanel said.

Chad has a warning for Johnny

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

by Steve Holley

At Doug and Julie's house, Johnny told Chad about his plans to marry Chanel on Valentine's Day. Chad was hesitant when Johnny asked Chad to be his best man. Chad recalled the recent hardships of the DiMera family, including E.J. and Nicole's grief over losing their baby, as well as Gabi being sent to Statesville. Johnny was confused by Chad's words. "You don't get it, Johnny. When people marry into this family, you at best end up hurt -- and, at worst, dead. Look what happened to Abby," Chad said.

Chad grew furious when Johnny said that Chad was overreacting. "Overreacting? You want to be like me, Johnny? Huh? You want to be putting flowers on your wife's grave, 'cause she was murdered in her own bed? Listen, becoming a DiMera is a dangerous thing. We are a spiteful, vindictive, mean group of people," Chad said.

Chad continued. "And we were raised by an unscrupulous man -- or not raised. I wasn't even brought up as a DiMera, but somehow, I still got sucked into the web. You? You were born into it. And I think you're a hell of lot more of a DiMera than you let on. So, if you really love Chanel, then you will keep her as far away from you as possible," Chad said adamantly.

Johnny disagreed, and as he started to leave, Chad admitted that he was having a rough morning with his grief over Abigail. Chad added that he still believed in true love, but he continued to warn Johnny. "And if you have (true love) with Chanel, then you hold on to it. You keep it safe, 'cause it's a very hard thing to do as a DiMera," Chad offered.

Johnny surmised that Chad truly believed their family was cursed, but he insisted that he and Chanel wouldn't run from Salem. Chad quipped that Johnny had truly grown up, and he said that he'd be honored to be Johnny's best man, if the offer still stood. Johnny accepted, and he and Chad hugged.

Johnny said that he had a question for Chad. "If you knew everything that you know now, would you still have married Abigail?" Johnny asked. Chad pondered the question before he spoke. "Yeah, I would have taken her by the hand and went running for the hills. I'd have done anything in my power to save her, to have her with me right now. Yeah," Chad said with thoughtful assurance.

At a table in Horton Town Square, Chanel and Paulina were sharing ideas for Johnny and Chanel's wedding when Johnny approached. Paulina doted on Johnny before leaving to tend to mayoral duties. After Paulina left, Chanel surmised that something was bothering Johnny. Johnny surprised Chanel when he said that he thought they should postpone the wedding.

After learning of Johnny's talk with Chad, Chanel dismissed the notion that she was risking her life by marrying into the DiMera family as "a bunch of hooey. "And even if it wasn't, I would risk my life a thousand times over to be with you," Chanel said as she placed her hands on Johnny's face and gazed into his eyes. "I feel the same way," Johnny said before he and Chanel kissed.

Chanel sought to reassure Johnny that he was nothing like the rest of his family, and she added that he was his own man. Johnny smiled as he thanked Chanel for being a voice of reason. Johnny and Chanel leaned in close, and they kissed. The couple said that they loved one another before they pulled one another into a warm embrace.

In the park, Alex pouted that Brady hadn't apologized to him for kissing Theresa. Brady said he hadn't felt the need to apologize, and he assured Alex that the kiss had meant nothing. Brady said that Alex would have to get used to Brady being a part of Theresa and Tate's life, if Alex continued seeing Theresa.

Alex asked Brady what it had been like to be married to Theresa. Brady was caught off guard by the question, and he asked if Alex was thinking of marrying Theresa. Alex said he wasn't, but he admitted that he wanted to know more about Theresa. Brady opined that Theresa could be a wonderful person, but he added that she had another side to her that he referred to as "very wicked and wild that can be unleashed at any moment."

Brady said that he was living proof that it was hard not to follow a destructive path with Theresa, and he cautioned that Alex had only scratched the surface of who Theresa was as a person. Brady said he hoped that things worked out between Alex and Theresa.

At the Salem Police Station, Harris and Jada celebrated a drug bust that had netted almost 2,000 opioid pills, as well as cocaine and crystal meth. Jada instructed two officers, a man named Goldman and a woman named Phillips, to store the evidence. When the officers left, Jada admitted that she was worried Harris couldn't get Ava off his mind. Harris tried to downplay Jada's concerns. When Goldman and Phillips returned, Harris asked the pair to join him and Jada for breakfast.

Later, at the Brady Pub, Roman was delighted to announce that breakfast was free for the four members of the Salem PD who had participated in the drug bust. After serving food for everyone, Roman recalled funny stories from his time on the Salem police force. Roman added that no one would forget their time on the force. Harris called for a toast to Roman and Roman's decades of service on the force. "To Roman," everyone toasted.

Near the counter, Harris asked Roman about Lucas. Roman shared that Lucas was resting and healing from the injuries he had sustained in Statesville. Roman asked how long Harris planned to keep Lucas in the room above the pub. "As long as it takes... or until we know for sure that nobody's watching," Harris said. Just then, Harris observed Goldman and Phillips both laughing with Jada at their table.

At the DiMera mansion, Stefan opened the door to Xander, who shared that he'd received a mysterious call from someone using a blocked number to ask Xander to murder someone. Stefan asked who the man had wanted Xander to kill. Xander said that he wasn't sure, but he noted that whoever had called him had known of his criminal past. Xander deduced that the person had been E.J.

Xander recalled that E.J. had hired a contract killer to try to murder Ava months earlier, and he reasoned that E.J. was behind the call he had received. Stefan scoffed at the notion that E.J. would be the only person who would order a hit on someone, and he added that he didn't appreciate Xander "coming after" Stefan's family.

Stefan proceeded to insult Xander's skills as a member of the underworld, and he wondered why E.J. would have hired Xander "of all people." Xander defended himself from Stefan's insults, and he recalled having worked in underworld dealings with the DiMeras in the past.

Xander vowed that he had turned his life around since learning that he was Victoria's father, as well as becoming half-owner of the Spectator. "So, you tell your brother that he's gonna have to find somebody else to be Salem's neighborhood hitman, 'cause I'm not interested!" Xander swore.

Stefan accused Xander of making up the mysterious call, and he asked Xander to leave. Xander reiterated that he was a changed man because of Victoria then he told Stefan to tell E.J. to go to hell. "Oh, and you can go there, too. Although I guess it's kind of redundant, telling DiMeras to go to hell, since that's where you're all headed, anyway... in due time," Xander huffed before leaving.

Sloan has doubts that she can continue being a mother

Thursday, February 1, 2024

by Steve Holley

In Harris' room above the Brady Pub, Harris sought to reassure Lucas that Lucas was safe. After Harris left, Lucas rummaged through a chest of drawers to find a cell phone that he used to call Chad, who agreed to meet with Lucas. A short while later, Chad and Everett met Lucas in the room. Lucas shared that he was a confidential informant for the Salem PD and that Clyde was targeting him.

At the hospital, Harris encountered Marlena after he'd checked on an injured perp that had been arrested in a drug bust. When Harris shared his frustrations with getting to the bottom of Salem's drug ring, Marlena offered him a chance to vent in her office. Harris agreed, and he said that it would be good to talk to Marlena again.

In Marlena's office, Harris shared that he still had feelings for Ava. Harris reiterated that he needed to stay focused on his work to end drug trafficking in Salem. When Harris stood up to leave, Marlena said that she would always be there for Harris to talk to. Marlena seemed puzzled after Harris left.

Later, Harris grew angry when he walked in on Lucas meeting with Chad and Everett. Harris was adamant that Chad and Everett had to wait to run any story about the drug cartel, and he stated that the police were preparing for a major drug bust. Harris offered to provide Chad and Everett with an exclusive account of the drug bust if they agreed to hold the story. Chad agreed, and he and Harris shook hands.

Moments later, Chad and Everett stood in Horton Town Square. Chad said that if he and Everett wanted to do justice to their story on the drug cartel, they had one more person to interview. "Yeah. Clyde Weston," Everett said as Chad nodded.

At Sloan and Eric's apartment, Eric and Sloan made out on the bed as steamy music played. The couple kissed and was prepared to make love before they heard the sound of Jude crying in the next room. Sloan wanted to let the baby cry, but Eric stood up to tend to his child as Jude's cries turned into piercing wails. Sloan placed a pillow over her head and fell backwards onto the bed.

Eric managed to get Jude to stop crying. He and Sloan had started to make out again before hearing a loud knock at the door. When Leo called out, Sloan pleaded with Eric not to open the door. Eric opened the door. Leo rambled with praise for the glamour photos Eric had taken of Leo days earlier. Leo began to taunt Sloan when he said that Jude had the same eyes and nose as Eric.

Leo, Sloan, and Eric heard another knock at the door, and Melinda entered. Leo continued taunting Sloan. When Melinda said that she was Jude's godmother, Leo took everyone by surprise when he announced that he was the child's godfather. Sloan said that Leo had only been joking. Leo soon left the room with Eric to look at the photos Eric had taken of Leo.

Alone in the main room, Sloan told Melinda that she didn't think she was cut out to be a mother because the baby was interfering with her sex life. She rambled about having to change diapers and other things all new parents had to do. Melinda grew incredulous, and she snapped that Sloan would receive no sympathy from her.

Sloan whined that Eric wouldn't let them hire a nanny, and she said that she didn't know if she could make it. "You better make it, Sloan. Because if you give in to your princess-y need to not be woken up or be spat upon, and you give Jude back to Nicole, you will be trading 18 years of raising a child with prison -- for you and me and Leo, ruining your life and ours. Is that what you want?" Melinda asked.

Eric returned a short while later, but he and Sloan were soon interrupted by another knock at the door. Eric opened the door to Marlena. Sloan flung herself onto the bed in exasperation when Marlena said that she had stopped by to visit Jude.

At the Titan office, Alex brooded while Brady helped Theresa solve a work issue. Theresa thanked Brady for his help. Alex left. Brady and Theresa fondly recalled having received a letter from Tate earlier in the day, and they complimented one another on Tate being a good kid.

In Horton Town Square, after spotting Alex grabbing coffee, Maggie asked if she and Alex could talk. Maggie said that Alex wasn't equipped to handle being in a relationship with Theresa, given Theresa's situation as a relapsed addict and a concerned mom. Maggie added that she felt Alex should break up with Theresa. Alex claimed that he had changed and that he was no longer a "player."

Alex said that it had broken his heart to watch Theresa go through a relapse. Maggie relented, and she recommended that Alex join an addiction support group. The conversation shifted to Titan. Alex pompously shut down Maggie when he gloated that she would never be allowed back at Titan for as long as he was in charge. Alex arrogantly smirked as he walked away.

A short while later, Maggie phoned someone on the board of trustees at Titan. She thanked the person for listening to her and promised to be in touch soon. Brady approached, and he and Maggie shared a warm embrace. Maggie shared that Nicole had written her to say that Holly was making progress in Italy.

When asked how he was doing, Brady admitted that he was struggling over everything that had happened between Tate and Theresa. Brady soon learned that Maggie wanted to rejoin Titan, and he said that Titan was a better company when Maggie was involved. Maggie was happy when Brady said that he would talk to the board about her returning to Titan. Brady and Maggie hugged.

Back at Titan, Alex told Theresa about the support group Maggie had mentioned. Theresa was touched when Alex said that he wanted to be more supportive of her. Things started to heat up, and they kissed and prepared to have sex in the office.

Stephanie tells Everett that she doesn't want to be friends

Friday, February 2, 2024

by Spalding

At the penthouse, John and Marlena retired to the couch after a take-out dinner. With a serene smile, John and Marlena commented on the quiet of their home. As Marlena and John sighed with contentment, Brady returned home.

"You would not believe the day I've had!" Brady said. John went to the kitchen to get Brady a non-alcoholic beer, and Brady told Marlena that he could not believe that John was so good to him. "Your father is a very kind man," Marlena said. "I kind of wish I had his generosity of spirit. And I also wish I was as good a dad as he is," Brady said. Marlena asked Brady not to be so hard on himself.

"You are a wonderful father," Marlena said. "Is that why my daughter is indifferent to me now and my son is in juvie rehab?" Brady countered. John returned with the beer as the doorbell rang. It was Theresa with consent forms she and Brady needed to sign for Tate. "Brady tells us that [Tate] is doing well," Marlena said. "So we hear," Theresa said. Brady added that they expected to see Tate in person soon.

"I'm sure you've missed him so much. We've missed him, as well," Marlena said. With a sigh, Theresa said she had been thinking about all the times she had been irritated with Tate. "My God, what I would give to be able to have him annoy me now and be able to embrace him and just tell him I love him," Theresa said.

Brady signed the papers. When Brady asked Theresa if she was okay, she said yes and opened her eyes wide as if to tell Brady not to say anything about her relapse. Marlena offered to give Brady and Theresa privacy. After Marlena and John headed to their bedroom, Theresa asked Brady if he had told them about her relapse.

"Please don't be upset with me. I did tell Marlena," Brady confessed. Theresa groaned, and she asked Brady why. Brady explained that he had been upset and desperate to talk to someone. Brady reminded Theresa that Marlena was a psychiatrist and understood addiction, and he apologized.

"It's okay that you told her. And I'm sure now she's told John, too," Theresa said. Brady assured Theresa that John and Marlena would not tell anyone else, and Theresa agreed. "The way they look at each other? It's heart-melting," Theresa said. "It really is," Brady agreed. Theresa noted that she and Brady had looked at one another that way, too. Reluctantly, Brady admitted that was true. "Once upon a time," Brady said. Brady told Theresa that he hoped things were going well with Alex.

"I don't think you do. I think you wish what I wish. That you and I could have somehow made it work. That maybe you and I could have been the next John and Marlena," Theresa said. With a shake of his head, Brady said he did not think any couple could rival John and Marlena. "I also think you're idealizing what we had a little bit too much. Theresa, we were a hot mess," Brady said. "We had our good times," Theresa countered. Brady argued that they had been addicted to one another. When Theresa looked away, Brady apologized. "I remember some really nice times, too," Brady whispered. Brady noted that they'd become different people.

John and Marlena returned to the living room to say goodnight. "Theresa, it was nice to see you," Marlena said. With a nod, John and Marlena started to leave. "I know that Brady told you about my slip, Marlena. And John, I assume that you know, too. And I just want to say, thank God for Brady. The way he helped me get through it. I am back on track. I am going to meetings every day, and I am determined to never let this happen ever again," Theresa said. John assured Theresa that they were glad she was getting the support she needed. "And we're here for you," Marlena added.

John's phone beeped, and he scowled. "I've got to head out. New Black Patch client," John announced. John kissed Marlena goodbye, and he walked Theresa out. As Brady sat on the couch, Marlena said that she had noticed that Brady and Theresa had been getting along. "I'm glad to see that," Marlena said. "We'll always be linked by Tate," Brady said.

At the Kiriakis mansion, Konstantin studied his red card. "What does this mean to Steve and to John?" Konstantin said. When Maggie asked Konstantin if he was ready to leave, he asked Maggie if it was a good idea for him to go with her to dinner. "Xander is not exactly my biggest fan, and for very good reason," Konstantin said. Konstantin said he did not think Xander would ever trust him.

"You're going to have to change his mind," Maggie said. When Maggie noted that Xander would be a part of her granddaughter's life for a long time, Konstantin asked if that meant that he would be a part of Maggie's life for a long time. Flustered, Maggie noted that they were late for dinner, and she walked out.

At Xander and Sarah's apartment, Sarah told Xander that they needed an extra plate for Konstantin. "Then we don't need an extra space, love. Because Konstantin is one man that I will not share a dinner table with," Xander said.

When Maggie arrived with Konstantin, she was surprised to see Xander in his overcoat. "This night is about me, my daughter, and my granddaughter, and not about whatever bad blood is being stirred up between you and Konstantin," Maggie argued. Defeated, Xander welcomed Maggie and Konstantin to his home, and he removed his coat.

While Maggie went into the bedroom to see Sarah and Victoria, Konstantin told Xander that he had a lovely home. "Let's cut the chitchat, shall we?" Xander said. Xander warned Konstantin not to hurt Maggie because Xander cared deeply about her.

"Though I am weary of defending myself to you and other cynical people who are skeptical of my feelings towards Maggie, let me state once again -- unequivocally and I hope for the last time -- I also care very deeply about Maggie. And I would never hurt her. I am not the man you think I am," Konstantin said.

After Xander, Sarah, Maggie, and Konstantin finished the meal, Konstantin noted that Xander was lucky to have Sarah. "You mean as a cook? No, that was all Xander. He spent the entire afternoon in the kitchen," Sarah said. Konstantin told Xander that he had enjoyed the meal. "Where did you learn to cook?" Maggie asked. "My mom. Not only did she teach me a bunch of great recipes, but the most important ingredient in any meal is patience," Xander said. Maggie asked Xander how old he'd been when he had left Edinburgh.

"You're Scottish? Oh, that explains a lot," Konstantin said with a chuckle. "What's that supposed to mean?" Xander asked. With a shrug, Konstantin noted that from his experience, he had found the Scottish people to be "cold and harsh, not to mention miserly." Sarah squeezed Xander's hand to warn him not to respond.

"You see, I was born and raised in Athena, the seat of the Greco-Roman empire," Konstantin said. Konstantin talked about his childhood near the Acropolis and how he had learned about art, dance, and debate. "I learned the value and importance of being a man's man," Konstantin said. "Like a strong, proud man who would never take advantage of a recently widowed and vulnerable woman?" Xander said. Maggie spoke Xander's name as a warning to him to stop, but Xander continued.

"A man's man as in someone who would never deceive and manipulate in order to live off said woman?" Xander said. "I resent those comments. Deeply," Konstantin countered. With a smirk, Konstantin said that Xander underestimated him. "No one could underestimate you," Xander muttered. Konstantin demanded to leave, but Maggie said no.

"I will not stay anywhere where I am so greatly disrespected," Konstantin stressed. Furious, Maggie told Konstantin to order a car. "I will see you at home," Maggie said tersely. Konstantin thanked Sarah for the memorable evening, and he stomped out of the apartment. In the hallway, Konstantin pulled the red card out of his pocket and stared at it. "These people, this town," Konstantin muttered.

In the apartment, Xander apologized to Maggie. "No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought him here. What was I thinking?" Maggie said. Sarah hugged her mother. "And after such a delicious meal, I'm sorry it went so badly," Maggie said. Xander apologized. "I should have kept my mouth shut. It's just my stubborn Scottish side and my proud Greek side just ran smack into each other," Xander said. Sarah shrugged and noted that it was over.

"Not for your mum. She's going to see him when she gets back to the house," Xander said. Maggie said that she could handle Konstantin. "Are you sure, Mom? Because he was angry when he left," Sarah said. "And so was I. I can handle Konstantin," Maggie said. With a nod, Maggie announced that she wanted to say goodbye to Victoria and be on her way.

After Maggie left the room, Sarah shot Xander a look. "I know," Xander said. "I mean, why did you have to provoke him in the first place? What was the point?" Sarah asked. With a sigh, Xander said he had been unable to keep quiet while Konstantin had insulted the Scottish people.

"I don't know what Maggie's thinking now. But she was clearly upset by all that. Maybe she's starting to see the light, that she's beginning to realize that this man that's basically living with her now is very bad news," Xander said. "I wish you wouldn't characterize him that way. I feel like the jury is still out on that guy. But whatever his flaws are, I think that she does need him right now. So, I wish you would accept that," Sarah countered.

At Tripp's apartment, Ava read aloud from a romance novel as she sat on the couch. Stefan knocked on the door. A drunken Stefan explained that he had intercepted the delivery guy on the way up. "I came here to drink with you," Stefan said. "It seems like you already started without me," Ava noted. With a shrug, Stefan said he did not want to drink alone. Ava was hesitant.

"We can commiserate about how crappy our lives are," Stefan said. "All right, what else do I have to do tonight?" Ava said. Ava plated her dinner and poured wine. Stefan noticed the romance novel, and he teased Ava about it and their phone call earlier. "You know I was messing with you, right?" Ava asked. Stefan said yes. With a smirk, Ava argued that initially on the call, it had sounded like Stefan had believed that she had been flirting with him.

"I kind of enjoyed just making you a little crazy," Ava admitted. "That's okay. I'm already halfway to crazy these days," Stefan said. As Stefan glumly sipped his wine, Ava noted that Stefan appeared to really miss Gabi. "Every minute of every day," Stefan muttered. "I can relate. I mean, that is to missing someone," Ava said. Stefan asked Ava if she meant Harris, then he immediately apologized.

"To lost loves and new friendships. Can I call this a friendship?" Stefan asked. Ava thought about it a moment. "Considering you really annoy the hell out of me," Ava said with a shrug. Ava said she thought they were friends. "For the record, you annoy the hell out of me," Stefan said. Stefan told Ava that she was a downer, and she laughed.

"But in spite of all that, I do consider you a friend. Sort of. So, to new friendships," Stefan said. Ava clinked her glass against Stefan's glass in a toast. After a few drinks, Ava asked Stefan if he would rather go decades without seeing Gabi because she was in prison or never see Gabi again but she was free from prison. Stefan said he would set Gabi free, because then she would be safe.

When the second bottle of wine was almost empty, an emotional Ava told Stefan that when she had returned from London with Harris, they had been happy together. "I was probably the happiest that I have ever been in my entire life maybe. I felt hopeful. And then Clyde had to come along," Ava admitted. Ava gasped, and she suggested they do tequila shots. After some shots and dancing, Stefan spilled wine on himself.

While Ava grabbed Wendy's robe from the bedroom, Stefan stripped off his wet clothes. Ava coaxed Stefan to put on the pink robe, and they sat on the couch and finished the wine. "I should go to bed, and you should get out of here. Go call a cab," Ava said as she pushed her foot against Stefan's leg. "You know that phone call this morning? You really got me with all that sexy talk," Stefan said as he stared at Ava's leg. "I know," Ava whispered.

"I was thinking, maybe, I can help you finish the job," Stefan whispered. Stefan brushed his hand against Ava's neck, and he leaned closer to her. "Put you on your back. I rub the rest of that hot oil all over your naked body," Stefan whispered. Stefan leaned in and passionately kissed Ava. Stefan and Ava ripped off each other's robes and writhed against one another on the couch.

"What if Tripp comes home?" Stefan asked. "They're out late," Ava said breathlessly. Stefan grinned, and he said he would not take the chance. Stefan lifted Ava, and he carried her over to the front door. As Stefan pinned Ava against the wall and kissed her, he locked the door.

At the Salem Inn, Stephanie arrived at Everett's room as he was wrapping up his phone conversation with Chad. Stephanie said she had lost an earbud, and she had remembered having it in Everett's room. Everett looked around the room, and he found it on the floor.

"So, you're picking up Chad tomorrow at 6:00 a.m.?" Stephanie asked. When Stephanie asked where Everett and Chad were going, Everett admitted that they had a big lead on the drug crisis. "It's got potential to be a major breakthrough, something that could get the Spectator national recognition," Everett said. Stephanie was eager to know more, but Everett told her that she would have to wait for publication. With a nod, Stephanie started to leave. Everett asked her if she wanted to stay and hang out.

"Thanks for the offer, but I've got a big day tomorrow. And you've got an early one. We can't risk another all-nighter like last night," Stephanie said. "I'd risk an all-nighter with you any night. Just having you stay over here, falling asleep in my arms. And our discussion, you know, I thought that was like a really important one. And that maybe we understand each other a little bit better," Everett said. Stephanie agreed.

With a shake of his head, Everett said their night together had reminded him of all his memories with her in Seattle. "I was just remembering how in love we were with each other, how much fun we had," Everett said. With a laugh, Stephanie reminded Everett of the time they had gotten seafood poisoning. "Not my favorite memory," Stephanie said. "Honestly, I love every memory with you. Even that one," Everett said. Everett reminded Stephanie of the first time he had told her that he loved her.

"It took three long weeks of me saying it before you said it back to me. But when you did, that was the happiest moment of my life. I meant what I said last night, Steph. I'm still in love with you," Everett said. Everett immediately apologized. "I know it makes you uncomfortable. I should have read the room. Just so you know, I'm not waiting for you to say it back like I was last time," Everett said. Stephanie took off her coat, and she asked Everett if his offer to hang out was still open, and he said yes.

"Good. Because there's something we need to discuss," Stephanie said. "I know. I have trouble with boundaries, obviously. I did it last night. And I'm doing it again, but I promise that I'll stop," Everett said. Stephanie said that was not what she wanted to discuss. "This whole friends thing. It isn't working for me, either," Stephanie said. Worried, Everett asked Stephanie what she meant. Stephanie chugged a mini bottle of rum from the fridge, then sat on the bed.

"After our conversation last night, all I could think about all day today was how great it was when we were together in Seattle. Our late-night talks. How you made me laugh. Not to mention the sex was --" Stephanie said. "Incredible," Everett finished. With a chuckle, Everett mentioned when he and Stephanie had made love in a tulip garden.

"I'd like to have more of those moments. Starting now," Stephanie whispered. "Are you sure?" Everett asked. When Stephanie nodded yes, Everett kissed her, and they made love.

In the park, John was waiting to meet with someone when Konstantin showed up. "Take a hike, Konstantin. This place isn't safe for you right here," John grumbled. "How thoughtful. You must be meeting someone dangerous," Konstantin said. John warned Konstantin not to mess with him.

"What do you want?" John asked. "Thank you for coming. Sit down, Mr. Black. You and I are going to talk," Konstantin said as he pulled the red card out of his pocket.