Days of our Lives Recaps: The week of February 19, 2024 on DAYS

Paulina had a heart attack. Tom's chair and the Christmas ornaments survived the fire. Jada and Steve confirmed that Everett was Bobby Stein. Everett had no memory of his life as Bobby. Theresa moved out. Marlena told Alex he had done the right thing. Goldman held Tripp and Wendy captive. Tate told his parents he hated them. Ava told Rafe half the truth about her deal with Harris. Ava asked Steve to find Tripp. Konstantin vowed revenge for his daughter. Clyde ordered Stefan to finish off Harris. Stefan framed Xander, but Sarah believed Xander was innocent. Harris woke up.

Jada accuses Everett of being her ex-husband Bobby

Monday, February 19, 2024

by Tiffany

Maggie complimented Konstantin on the Greek lasagna he had prepared. She talked about inviting Julie, Doug, Chad, and the kids to stay at the mansion and commended Konstantin for the way he lifted the children's spirits. Konstantin gave Maggie an envelope with a valentine letter inside, and she was touched by the kind words. Konstantin expressed that he wanted to let Maggie know how much she meant to him. They discussed Greek traditions similar to Valentine's Day, and Maggie mentioned Victor and his love of Greek stories.

Maggie reminisced about how Victor would compare her to the great beauty Psyche, and Eros to himself, an unsightly beast. Konstantin mentioned that psyche also meant soul in Greek, and he was grateful for getting to know Maggie and her incredible soul. Maggie said that Konstantin also had a generous, gentle heart, and she asked if he had any children.

Konstantin confirmed that he had a child named Catharina, whom he called his heart. He wistfully told Maggie that Catharina meant everything to him and that she was beautiful inside and out. He sadly recalled how Catharina had died in a tragic accident and how he comforted himself with memories of her. Maggie said she knew how the pain of losing a child lessened but always remained.

When Maggie asked about Catharina's mother, Konstantin explained that his wife was a wonderful mother whom he adored, but Catharina's death had left an emptiness that the marriage had not been able to survive. Maggie reminded Konstantin that she would listen if he ever needed to talk. Konstantin gave his thanks and wanted to ask her something: "May I kiss you?" Maggie laughed but allowed Konstantin a brief kiss. He gently said his goodnights and retired. As a tearful Maggie looked at Victor's portrait, Konstantin cried over a picture of Catharina in his room.

Abe, Chanel, and Johnny gathered in Paulina's hospital room and celebrated the success of her surgery. Kayla explained that the procedure had successfully removed the tumor and preserved Paulina's thyroid, but she stressed that Paulina still could experience difficulties with speaking or other side effects. While Paulina grudgingly adjusted to the erasing board given to her for communication, Kayla said she had heard there was another cause for celebration. She congratulated Johnny and Chanel on their recent nuptials, and Chanel mentioned that they shared the same Valentine's Day anniversary as Kayla and Steve. Paulina wrote that she was hungry, but a departing Kayla reminded her that she would need to wait a day to eat and that a menu of soft foods would be prepared for her.

Chanel asked Paulina if she needed anything, to which Paulina wrote, "Everything I need is right here." Johnny and Chanel sliced a cake that Chanel's employees at the bakery had made for her. Johnny then pulled out his guitar and asked for requests. Chanel said to surprise them.

Johnny serenaded Chanel with "On Top of the World" and received applause all around after his performance. Paulina wrote, "Bravo, son-in law. You're a star." Chanel agreed and gave Johnny a kiss, but the moment was interrupted when Paulina suddenly showed signs of distress.

Jada gasped when she returned to Rafe and Stephanie's table at the Brady Pub and saw Everett. She called him Bobby, and a confused Everett replied, "Who's Bobby, and who are you?" An incredulous Jada asked if he was serious and declared he was her ex-husband, Bobby Stein.

Everett said he had never seen her before, and Jada angrily replied that he had broken her heart and her spirit and had left her without looking back. Jada called him a liar, but Rafe interrupted and told her Everett's name and that he worked at the Spectator. After Jada showed Everett a picture of them as a couple on her phone, Everett speculated that everyone had a doppelgnger and that Bobby just looked like him.

An unfazed Jada said, "That is you, and you know damn well who you are." She threatened to haul Everett down to the police station and run his prints. Everett suggested to Rafe and Stephanie that Jada was losing it, which enraged Jada further. She continued to lash out at Everett and said she was not the one who was pretending and that he was trying to gaslight her. Jada confronted Everett about how he had lied to her, cheated on her, and ghosted her, prompting their divorce.

Everett insisted he would have remembered if he had been married. Stephanie flashed back to Everett telling her about his accident and wondered aloud if his amnesia could have been the reason why he did not remember Jada. Everett and Stephanie explained the details of the accident and its aftermath to Jada and Rafe, and Rafe stated that they would look into it. Everett again denied being Bobby and said he had nothing to hide.

Jada said she could tell by looking into Everett's eyes that he knew the truth, and she pleaded with Stephanie to believe her and to protect herself from Everett. Rafe told Jada they should leave and revisit the issue later. Before she left, Jada warned Everett that he would get what he deserved.

Everett balked at the encounter and asked Stephanie how well she knew Jada. Stephanie defended Jada as her friend and as a good person. Everett restated that Jada was wrong and that he would take "every lie detector" and show his driver's license to prove his identity. He scoffed at the idea that the accident could have made him forget an entire relationship.

Stephanie flashed back to Jada telling her about Jada's ex and mused that if Jada was telling the truth, then Stephanie was the other woman. Everett was hurt that Stephanie might have believed this "legit insanity." Stephanie explained that Jada had claimed Bobby had bought another woman a ring. Remembering her discovery of Everett's engagement ring, Stephanie asked Everett if he had been cheating on Jada with her.

Everett reiterated that he was not a cheater and asked if they could talk somewhere privately. Stephanie said that was not a good idea and left as Everett called after her.

Rafe chased an upset Jada into Horton Town Square. He asked her what had happened and expressed that he had never seen her like that before. Jada ranted about the duplicitous con man and liar that she had been stupid enough to marry. When Jada implied that Everett had changed his identity, Rafe told her that while he understood she was freaked out, Everett had always struck him as a decent guy. An angry Jada asked Rafe if he thought she was the one lying.

Rafe reassured Jada that he did not believe that, but he reminded her that she had to be 100 percent sure of her claims before she accused a man of falsifying his identity. Jada opened up about how seeing Everett had brought back old wounds and resentments. She did not want Stephanie to experience what her ex-husband had put her through. She announced that she would go the police station and leave no stone unturned in her investigation.

Rafe realized getting the truth was important to Jada but asked her to hold off until the next day. He wanted to go home and salvage the rest of Valentine's Day with her. Jada agreed after Rafe promised her that they would get to the bottom of the mystery. They hugged.

In the hospital corridor, a nurse approached Kayla and informed her that Tripp had not reported for work. A concerned Kayla called Tripp and left a message asking him if he had lost track of time because of Valentine's Day and the geocaching event. She reassured herself everything was likely fine and ended the call by telling Tripp to check in with her.

Kayla called Tripp again a few minutes later and said she was starting to get worried. The nurse rushed back to her and declared a Code MI on Paulina. Kayla hurried into the room, saw Paulina gasping and groaning, and called for aspirin, nitroglycerin, and a cardiologist. She tried to assure the worried group that help was on the way.

Theresa moves out

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

by Spalding

Outside the pub, Roman assured Kate that Lucas was safe in a new place. Roman steered Kate into the pub, and she gasped when she saw the romantic dinner that Roman had set up for Valentine's Day. "I am so grateful that you're my Valentine," Kate said. "Back at you," Roman said. When Roman lifted the lids on their plates, Kate's eyes bugged out when she saw two bowls of clam chowder. Roman started to laugh, and he explained that it was a joke.

"I will deny it if you tell anybody I did this, but I have takeout from the Bistro in the warming drawer," Roman said. Kate thanked Roman for dinner and the laugh. "But more importantly, my love, thank you for always making me feel loved. Always making me feel safe," Kate said. "You have my heart. Always will. You are everything to me," Roman told her.

After dinner, Kate apologized for not having gotten a gift for Roman. "Every single day I spend with you is a gift," Roman countered. Kate and Roman agreed that they would always find their way back to one another. With a grin, Roman turned on music, and he asked Kate to dance. After a dance, Kate suggested that they go upstairs so that Kate could give Roman a gift.

Sloan met up with Melinda at Little Bar. Confused, Melinda asked Sloan why she was not at home with her "hunky husband." Sloan complained that she had been sidelined by the baby. "And I am damn sick of it," Sloan said. Melinda advised Sloan to cut Eric some slack.

"[Eric] is very nurturing. He's just doing his best," Melinda said. Sloan gulped down her wine. "Not with me, he's not," Sloan muttered. Sloan confessed that she was scared. When Melinda asked Sloan what she was scared of, a woman named Connie yelled at Melinda, "You! Li and I were lovers, and if you hadn't lured him into your trap, he'd still be with me and very much alive!"

"I am struggling to figure out who you are and how you escaped the psych ward," Melinda said. Sloan said the woman had been a client of hers. "I know the both of you," Connie confirmed. Melinda's eyes brightened with recognition. "Connie. Didn't Li go on approximately one date with you?" Melinda said. Connie argued that the one date could have turned into a wonderful relationship if not for Melinda.

"And I would have kept him safe," Connie said. Sloan asked Connie if she was a character from a book, and Connie called Sloan a "heartless floozy." Connie turned and marched away. When Melinda remained quiet, Sloan asked what was wrong. Melinda admitted that she was sad that Li was gone and that she thought about him a lot.

"You guys actually had something?" Sloan asked. "We did. And I messed it up. Totally. I was just at a point in my life when my career was up here, and everything else was way the hell down here, including my love life. I just took Li for granted," Melinda said. Melinda warned Sloan not to make the same mistake with Eric. "It's not perfect. But maybe it's good enough. Embrace it," Melinda said. Melinda reminded Sloan that Sloan had a family.

"You need to stop focusing on what you're not getting and focus on being supportive of Eric's devotion to Jude. And maybe being a tad more supportive of the little guy yourself. I mean, you are his mother, for heaven's sake," Melinda said. "Not really, though," Sloan said. When Melinda advised Sloan not to "go there," Sloan was taken aback.

"Where? Don't go to the truth? That my husband's ex-wife, a.k.a. Nicole DiMera, is actually that little baby's mother that we stole from her?" Sloan said. Melinda shushed Sloan. "You better damn well remember what all that we did to get you that baby. And more importantly, you better remember that if anyone finds out what we did, our lives are ruined," Melinda said. Sloan said she understood.

A tipsy Sloan slurred, "No one will ever find out about Jude and where he came from." Melinda covered Sloan's glass and advised her not to drink any more. "Go home. You have a husband and a baby waiting for you there," Melinda said. Sloan promised to pay the bill. Melinda thanked Sloan. "Call me anytime if you need to vent. Just don't vent to anyone else," Melinda said. "Got it," Sloan said. After Melinda walked out, Sloan ordered another drink. Across the room, Connie stared at Sloan.

When Alex returned to his apartment, Theresa was hurriedly packing her things. Alex told Theresa that she did not need to leave. "Why would I stay here with somebody that doesn't want me," Theresa said. Alex asked Theresa to be reasonable, and she laughed.

"I am being reasonable," Theresa argued. Alex argued that he believed he could have a beautiful future with Theresa. "But I went to a meeting for people whose loved ones are addicts, and I'm listening to all their feelings, and I'm thinking maybe we're just moving a little too fast," Alex explained. Theresa took a deep breath, and she asked Alex if he was saying that she was too much for him.

"That's not what I meant!" Alex yelled. Alex said he wanted to slow down. "It doesn't mean [our relationship] is harmful. Listen, you have a child. You have a son. It's not even just us," Alex argued. "A child? Come on, Alex. Tate is nearly an adult," Theresa countered. Theresa advised Alex to lie and say he had commitment problems, or else admit the truth and tell her that he did not want to be with her.

"Which one is it going to be?" Theresa asked. After a moment, Theresa scooped up her things and wheeled her suitcase to the front door. "Wait! Marry me," Alex said. Theresa stopped, and she turned to face Alex. "You want to get married, fine. Let's do it," Alex said. Theresa asked Alex if that had been a real proposal. Alex said nothing.

"Yeah, I didn't think so. You know what, maybe next time you can try actually dropping down to one knee, or I don't know, maybe don't say things you don't mean, Alex!" Theresa said. Theresa opened the front door, and Alex begged Theresa to wait. Theresa yelled that the only thing worse than having seen a ring and not gotten a proposal was being proposed to out of guilt or pity. "That's not what I'm doing!" Alex said. Alex asked Theresa where she planned to go.

"Why is that any of your concern?" Theresa asked. "It's my concern, Theresa, because you're in recovery," Alex yelled. Theresa mockingly asked Alex if he was worried that she would do drugs. "That's not gonna happen from this tiny little debacle, okay?" Theresa said. Theresa threw her apartment keys to Alex, and she told him to have a nice life. As Theresa walked down the hall, Alex called after her, but she did not respond.

In the penthouse, Marlena told Brady about John's insomnia and nightmares. "It doesn't feel like he's been himself lately. He's been irritable and a little on edge," Brady said. Marlena noted that Brady was like his father. "I don't want to intrude, but I should tell you that I'm concerned about you, as well. Should I be?" Marlena asked. Brady nodded yes.

"The truth is, I'm feeling a little lost, a little lonely," Brady admitted. Marlena asked about Brady's visit with Rachel. Brady told Marlena how he and Kristen had fought in front of Rachel. "This is my Valentine's Day. This is my life. I lost Chloe. I have a little girl that's traumatized that I don't have custody of. And I have a Machiavellian, insane ex-wife," Brady said.

"I'm sorry this is happening to you, but Rachel is your daughter, and she loves you. And she would love you no matter what happens," Marlena said. Marlena told Brady that no matter what, he could not fight with Kristen in front of Rachel. Brady shook his head with dismay. "Every time I am resolved to take the high road with Kristen for the sake of my daughter and not expose her to the toxic relationship that is her mother and father, every single time I get around that lunatic bitch, I lose it," Brady said bitterly. Brady lamented that he could not control his resolve around Kristen.

"I can help you strengthen your resolve," Marlena offered. Brady thanked Marlena, and he said that he wanted to focus on his visit with Tate the next day. When Brady worried aloud that he was a burden on Marlena, she reminded Brady that neither he nor his children were a burden to her. Brady sighed in resignation, and he told Marlena about the letters that Tate had written.

"I know it's because my son resents that I haven't been in his life," Brady said. "We all know what happened. Tate knows it, too. The fact is, he's feeling distressed right now. He's feeling that he's been treated unfairly. And he's making you the scapegoat," Marlena said. Brady agreed. "I know that, because that's what happened to Sami. You remember. Sami blamed me for everything," Marlena said. Marlena explained that she had let Sami lash out, because she had wanted to show Sami that she could be patient and understanding.

"The same as you want with Tate," Marlena added. Brady thanked Marlena for her counsel. "I really don't want to screw it up with Tate. I mean more than I already have," Brady said. Marlena encouraged Brady to show respect to Tate and his feelings. "And be kind and be loving. That's all," Marlena advised. There was a rapid knock on the door. It was Theresa.

"I know I should have called or texted before I just came over here. But I just left Alex, and I have nowhere to go," Theresa said. Theresa asked if she could sleep in Tate's room for the night. "Of course, you may!" Marlena called out from the couch. Theresa's phone rang, and she rejected the call. Brady escorted Theresa back to Tate's room.

At Alex's apartment, he left a voicemail on Theresa's phone. "I really hate how things just went down. If you could just call me and tell me where you're staying, and let me know you're okay," Alex said.

When Theresa and Brady returned to the living room of the penthouse, Marlena was gone. "I guess Marlena's called it for the night," Brady said. Brady asked about Theresa's fight with Alex. Theresa told Brady about the engagement ring and how she had learned that Alex had no plans to propose to her. "I had no idea that the two of you were even considering marriage," Brady said. Theresa's phone rang again, and she rejected the call. "I was, obviously," Theresa admitted. "So, you really do love Alex?" Brady asked. Theresa hesitated, and she noted, "Why else would I want to marry him?" Brady reminded Theresa that Alex stood to inherit a lot of money.

"I don't mean to sound crass. I don't. I just thought that might have a little bit to do with your motivation," Brady said. Theresa made a sour face, and she thought about when she had learned that Xander was Victor's son. "Well, that is crass, Brady. And that's surprising, considering I thought that we were getting along lately," Theresa said. Theresa noted that she was offended that Brady was calling her a gold digger. Brady apologized. Brady added that he was happy that he and Theresa had been getting closer.

"And I really don't like that [Alex] hurt you. I'm sorry," Brady said. Brady hugged Theresa. After a moment, Theresa pulled away, and she noted that she no longer wanted to talk about her love life. "I just want to talk about seeing our son Tate tomorrow," Theresa said. Brady admitted that he was nervous to see Tate. Theresa said she was also nervous that they would learn that Tate was not doing as well as Tate had said in his letters.

"And I'm nervous I am gonna cry me a river when I first see him," Theresa said. Brady noted that Tate would understand. "He's got such a good heart," Theresa said. Brady agreed. "And while we're being honest with each other. While we're sitting here sober, I'll always be there for you," Brady said. "Like tonight?" Theresa countered. Brady nodded yes. Theresa kissed Brady's cheek, and they said goodnight to one another.

At Alex's apartment, he paced the living room and left another voicemail. "Damn it, Theresa," Alex whispered as he ended the call. There was a knock at the door. "I'm glad you came back," Alex said as he opened the door. Marlena was standing in the hallway. "I was trying to call you, but I kept getting your voicemail," Marlena said. Alex explained that he had been repeatedly calling Theresa. Marlena told Alex that Theresa was at the penthouse.

"I thought you might need someone to talk to," Marlena said. "I'm really grateful you're here," Alex said. Alex invited Marlena inside. With a shake of his head, Alex called himself an idiot for having left the ring in his coat pocket. "Of course, she would expect a proposal," Alex said. Alex told Marlena what had happened. "She's hurt and embarrassed," Marlena said. "I do care about Theresa," Alex said. Alex told Marlena that he had gone to a meeting and talked about his relationship with Theresa.

"And I admitted that I wasn't sure that I was able to get into a long commitment to somebody who is dealing with problems like that. Just like I admitted to you, too," Alex said. Marlena nodded yes. Alex said he had also admitted that he was not sure he was ready to be a stepfather. "I think you got to be true to yourself. That's what is important," Marlena said. Marlena told Alex that he had done the right thing. Alex thanked Marlena for her visit and advice.

"Honestly, this whole Theresa situation, to use therapy speak, it destabilized me," Alex admitted. "I understand. And I'm also impressed with your self-awareness," Marlena said. Alex told Marlena that he had been thinking about what she had said to him in her office. "If it was real love, true love, it'll last. I think I love Theresa," Alex said. "I think you're right. I think that you do. But I think your love is not unconditional. I think you have a hard time accepting that she had a drug addiction. And you also have a hard time thinking about yourself as a stepparent. Those two things are never, ever going to change," Marlena said.

Stefan escorted Ava home. Worried, Stefan advised Ava to get some sleep for her own sake. Ava was adamant that she only needed a shower and a shot of espresso before she returned to the hospital. Stefan told Ava that she needed to stay away from Harris. Ava asked why.

"You and I were supposed to be a thing, remember? So how do you think Clyde is gonna react if he finds out you've been camping out at the hospital? It's not gonna be good for you or me or Harris," Stefan argued. Ava groaned in frustration, but she agreed to text Tripp and ask him to watch over Harris for her. When Tripp did not respond to Ava's text, she worried aloud about Harris and her son.

"It's going to be fine," Stefan said softly. When Stefan noted that Harris would not know Ava was there, Ava frowned. "You have any idea what it feels like, knowing that Harris went to the loading dock because he thought I asked him to?" Ava said. Ava blamed herself for Harris' shooting, but Stefan stressed that she was wrong.

"Well, it sure as hell feels like it is. And I swear on all that is holy, if I ever find out who did this to him, I will personally pump several live rounds into that son of a bitch's heart," Ava said. Ava vowed to discover the identity of the shooter. "Not only because I love him, but because Harris is one of the best people that I have ever known," Ava said. Worried, Ava asked Stefan why he had nothing to say.

"I love a good revenge fantasy as much as anybody. Especially the gory ones. But Ava, the truth is we may never know who shot Harris. Especially if he --" Stefan said. Ava warned Stefan not to finish his sentence. Ava shook her head at the thought, and Stefan apologized for having upset Ava. Ava argued that Stefan was an expert at making things worse. "I'm gonna suggest that unless you have something slightly helpful to say, that you just shut the hell up," Ava said. Stefan nodded in agreement.

"And Tripp still hasn't answered! It is unlike him," Ava said as she looked at her phone. Ava threw her phone onto the table. "Since I obviously seem to suck at cheering you up, how about I feed you?" Stefan asked. Ava said she was not hungry, but Stefan insisted that Ava should eat an omelet. Suspicious, Ava asked Stefan what he wanted from her.

"Why does there have to be something in it for me to be nice? You're having a hard time, and I'm here for you. That's it," Stefan said. The hospital called Ava and informed her that Tripp had never shown up for his shift at the hospital. The blood drained from Ava's face.

Salem residents fondly recall memories of the Horton house

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

by Steve Holley

In Salem in 1930, a young Tom and Alice Horton were shown preparing for a picnic in the park. Alice mentioned a new housing development that was being built across the street. Alice added that she had been experimenting with a new recipe for doughnuts. Tom and Alice shared how much they loved one another, and they stared into each other's eyes. "Here's to our first year of marriage," Tom said. "And all the years to come," Alice said as she and Tom shared a toast before kissing.

At the Spectator office, Leo was startled when Chad entered with Thomas in search of a toy that belonged to Thomas. Leo whispered to Chad that Thomas had suffered too much loss for someone Thomas' age. Leo asked how Chad was holding up, and he added that Thomas and Charlotte were lucky to have Chad for a father. Leo was taken aback when Chad blamed himself for the fire.

Chad believed that his decision to publish the story on Clyde's involvement in Salem's drug cartel had led to the fire. Leo tried to reassure Chad that Chad had only been doing his job as a newspaper publisher. Chad worried that he had let his family down. Leo said that Chad would walk through fire for Thomas and Charlotte, and he told Chad to stop blaming himself. Chad thanked Leo when Thomas returned.

Leo remarked that Thomas appeared to have a loose tooth, and he reached for his wallet to offer Thomas a $5 bill. Leo and Thomas shared a warm moment when Thomas teased that Leo should pay him $50. When Chad said that it was time to drop Thomas off at school, Thomas asked if he could accompany Chad to the Horton house. Leo asked if Chad thought that Leo would be welcome at the house. Leo added that he wanted to learn more about the history of the house. Thomas assured Leo that Leo would be welcomed. Chad, Thomas, and Leo all left together.

At the Brady Pub, John and Marlena met Roman and Kate, and the four of them prepared to head to the Horton house. Marlena said that she and John had decided to bring a box of Alice's doughnuts as a gesture of hope. When John said that the fire had been an act of arson, Roman noted that the home had nearly burned down in 1986. "Orpheus had planted a bomb at our place right next door. We caught it just when the embers and the sparks were flying over the Horton roof," John recalled.

John added that Abe had been at the Horton house in 1986 with John, Marlena, Tom, and Alice. Marlena and John shared that they had invited Abe to join them, but Abe had declined because Paulina had suffered a heart attack the previous night. Roman recalled that he and Abe had been friends for many years. Roman shared a story of breaking a lamp when he had been a boy at the Horton house. Roman recalled that Alice had said that material things could always be replaced.

In the spring of 1931 in Salem, Tom stared at a pocket watch as he waited for a noticeably pregnant Alice to join him in the park. As Tom and Alice shared another picnic, Tom wished that he could move the couple out of their one-bedroom apartment before their newborn child entered the world.

Tom vowed that he would one day find a bigger home for him and Alice. "It's a shame they had to stop all that new development. But with so much suffering in our country, I remind myself how grateful we are for all that we have," Alice said. "Very lucky," Tom agreed. Alice worried that she looked "unattractive" after gaining weight as a result of her pregnancy. Tom told Alice that she was more beautiful than ever.

At the charred remains of the Horton house, Doug, Julie, and Maggie stood in the center of what had once been the living room of the home. "Oh, God, no," Julie said with pained resignation as she stared around. "I have no words," Maggie said as her voice filled with emotion. "No words. But we still have each other. Thank God," Doug said as he squeezed Julie and Maggie's hands.

A man in a firefighter's suit appeared, and he told Doug, Julie, and Maggie that it was safe to remain at the home. Julie and Maggie marveled when they discovered a chair that had survived the fire. They noted that the chair didn't appear to have a mark on it. "It was originally Tom Horton's chair, but he left it to Alice," the firefighter said through a mask and helmet that shielded his face.

Julie asked how the man in the firefighter's suit had known about the chair. The man removed his mask, and he was revealed to be Lucas. Lucas said that he had gone to help because he missed his family. Lucas recalled that he had been warmly welcomed into the family when he had first learned he was a Horton.

Lucas told Doug, Julie, and Maggie that being a Horton still meant everything to him. Julie said that the house was a symbol of the love that bonded the family. Lucas shared that he had been released from Statesville under special circumstances, and he added that his life would be in danger if certain people learned of his whereabouts.

Julie swore that she and Maggie would stay quiet about Lucas' whereabouts. Lucas stepped out of the room to change. Maggie asked Julie how the chair had escaped the fire. Julie wondered if Tom and Alice had been watching over the chair. Julie flashed back to a conversation she'd had years earlier with Alice.

In the flashback, Julie quipped that she knew she had given Tom and Alice a lot of trouble when Julie had been growing up. Alice had said that Julie had had a rebellious side. Julie had replied that people mellowed with age. When the flashback ended, Julie smiled. Just then, Roman and Kate entered with a box of Alice's doughnuts. Roman and Kate marveled that the chair had survived the fire.

Lucas returned, and he said that he had been careful to not be seen entering the home. After Roman, Kate, and Lucas stepped away, John and Marlena entered. Marlena recalled that Tom had warmly welcomed her to the hospital when she'd first moved to Salem from Colorado many years earlier. Maggie noted that Marlena had been treating Mickey Horton at Bayview at the time. Marlena said that she still remembered the first time she had stepped inside the Horton house.

A flashback began, and Marlena was shown giving Tom and Alice an update on Mickey's condition. When the flashback ended, Maggie said that the Hortons had been grateful that Marlena had saved Mickey. Marlena stared at the chair, and she warmly referred to it as "the most iconic chair in all of Salem."

Marlena told John that it was hard to believe it had been almost 30 years since they had lived next door to Tom and Alice. John recalled that he and Marlena had shared plenty of good times together on their porch. John and Marlena kissed before Chad entered with Thomas. Thomas was delighted when he spotted Lucas.

Chad whispered to Lucas that Leo had accompanied them to the house, and he cautioned Lucas to stay out of sight until Leo had left. Lucas accompanied Thomas upstairs. When Leo entered, Chad told Julie that Leo wanted to learn more about the Horton family. Leo complimented the Hortons when he called them "the first family of Salem," and he politely asked Julie to tell him about the family.

In the spring of 1932 in Salem, Tom joined Alice in the park for another picnic. When Tom noted that he and Alice had a family of four, Alice revealed that she was pregnant again. Tom grew excited, and he rushed to hug Alice, who quipped that she had better not be pregnant with twins again. Tom noted that, with the couple set to expand to a family of five, he and Alice would have to find a new home soon.

Tom referenced the housing development project nearby. Alice said that the homes were too expensive, and she added that she and Tom could continue managing a family at their apartment. Tom agreed with Alice, but he seemed worried and uncertain as he stared off into the distance.

Back at the Horton house, Julie and Doug told Leo that the Horton family's history in Salem began with Tom and Alice. As Leo took notes, Doug said that Tom and Alice had been teenage sweethearts that had been married on March 7, 1930. Julie told Leo about Tom being a medical student during the Great Depression. Julie reeled off a list of names from the Horton family, including Bill Horton.

Doug noted that he and Bill had met in prison when Doug had been imprisoned for being a con artist. Leo was intrigued by Doug's admission, and he shook his head when he learned that Julie's mother, Addie, had been married to Doug. Maggie said that the Hortons had had their share of drama. "They had mental illness, addiction, infidelity," she said. "Stranglers, stalkers, even demon possession," Doug added.

Julie said that the family had risen above it all because of the legacy of love that Tom and Alice had passed on. Doug and Julie soon joined voices in a duet of Irving Berlin's "Always." Leo promised to do his story on the Hortons justice, and he thanked Julie, Doug, and Maggie for sharing the family's history with him.

As Maggie walked Leo out, Doug and Julie continued singing to one another. "I'll be loving you... always," they sang cheerfully. A flashback began, and Doug was shown singing the same song with Tom and Alice many years earlier. When the flashback ended, Julie lovingly rested her head on Doug's shoulder.

Moments later, Chad stood beside Julie and Maggie, and Roman and Kate returned. Everyone smiled and cheered in relief when John and Marlena appeared with boxes of Christmas ornaments they had found in the cellar.

At Christmastime in Salem in 1933, Tom and Alice walked hand in hand after dark. Alice told Tom that, after noting that there was a lot of suffering around them, she wanted to one day open a center to help people. Tom said that it was a good idea. Alice shared that she had something to show Tom, and she presented him with a box that contained a pair of Christmas ornaments with the couple's names inscribed.

Alice added that she had had ornaments made for Tommy, Addie, and Mickey, as well. "So, we can make it a tradition. Every Christmas, we'll put these ornaments on our tree. And maybe someday, we'll add ornaments for our grandchildren, and even our great-grandchildren," Alice enthused. Tom quipped that he and Alice would need a bigger tree and a big house. Tom and Alice smiled as they stood arm in arm.

Back at the Horton house, Julie was thrilled to discover that the ornaments inscribed with her and Doug's names had survived the fire and were still in good condition. Maggie presented Julie with a different set of ornaments. "God is good," Julie said when she laid her eyes on the ornaments.

A flashback began, and Alice was shown hanging ornaments with various names of Horton family members on the Horton Christmas tree. When the flashback ended, Julie said that the family's Christmas tradition could live on. Just then, Tom and Alice's ornaments were revealed to be in perfect condition after the fire.

Moments later, an object in the shape of a box fell from the chimney and landed in the fireplace. Lucas picked up the object, and he noted that it was a time capsule. "Placed by Alice Horton, 1956. With all my love, to be opened on or after 2016," Lucas said as he read an inscription out loud.

At Christmastime in Salem in 1934, Tom and Alice walked arm in arm in the park again. Alice remarked that a nearby house had just been sold, and she confessed that she was disappointed. "I admit that, secretly, I wished we would live there one day," Alice said. "Yes, well... sometimes wishes do come true," Tom said as he revealed a key that had been in his hand. "The house... it's ours," Tom said cheerfully. Alice leaped into Tom's arms to celebrate the announcement.

Back at the Horton house, everyone wondered what Alice had placed inside the time capsule. Maggie stood alone by a darkened window. Julie approached, and she asked if Maggie was all right. "I was just thinking. I was sitting in this very room when Tom passed away. Alice was in her chair, and Mickey and I were still together," Maggie said wistfully. Julie said that Alice still inspired her.

At the Spectator, Leo's voice narrated the story he had finished writing about the Hortons. "In every small town, there is a place, a centerpiece where townspeople gather to laugh, to cry, and to celebrate. In Salem, that place is 545 Sycamore Street -- the home of Tom and Alice Horton. Most Salemites are familiar with Tom and Alice. After all, our town square is named after them," Leo's voice said.

A montage of photos of various members of the Horton family appeared on-screen as Leo continued narrating. "As lifelong residents, the Hortons taught their five children the value of community, compassion, resilience, and most of all, love of family and friends. These principles were passed down to Tom and Alice's ten grandchildren, their 15 great-grandchildren, and now, great-great grandchildren -- with the legacy ever expanding," Leo narrated.

Another montage of photos appeared on-screen, including one of Abe and Lexie and another of Sami and Lucas. "So many more of our townsfolk have been blessed to be welcomed into the Horton fold as extended family. Many of them still visit the Horton house today to bask in the aura that lingers from the days of Tom and Alice," Leo said before pausing for effect.

"That is, until some malicious malfeasant tried to incinerate their legacy by setting fire to this historic structure. But today, as I sat with the family in their charred living room, it was clear the arsonist failed in his mission. For it is clear theirs is a legacy that can never be destroyed. It lives on in every kind word, every good deed, every heartfelt embrace extended by this family. Indeed, Tom and Alice's legacy has only grown stronger as the family unites with a commitment to rebuild... and the hope for new beginnings. Tom and Alice Horton, thank you. 545 Sycamore Street, Salem loves you," Leo affectionately concluded.

In Salem in February 1935, Tom carried Alice over the threshold as the couple stood outside their new home. "Dr. Thomas Horton, M.D. 545 Sycamore Street," the sign read. Tom entered the home with Alice, who said that the house was more beautiful than she had imagined. "Welcome to our new house, Alice," Tom said. "Oh, no. It is so much more than that. A house is made of brick and stone. But only love can make a home," Alice posited before she and Tom leaned in close to one another.

When the episode ended, a photo of actor Bill Hayes (Doug Williams) appeared on-screen with the following message: "In loving memory of Bill Hayes, 1925-2024. 'Good Night, Sweet Prince; and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest'..."

Steve presents Stephanie with proof

Thursday, February 22, 2024

by Steve Holley

At a rehab facility, Brady and Theresa were delighted to visit Tate. Tate was standoffish, and he soon began to argue with Brady and Theresa. Tate was relieved when Brady said that Holly was making progress, and he hoped that Holly would confirm that Tate hadn't supplied her with drugs on New Year's Eve. Brady and Theresa cautioned that Tate needed to prepare for the possibility that Holly might not want to admit the truth for various reasons.

An agitated Tate raised his voice when he insisted that he hadn't supplied Holly with drugs. Brady and Theresa tried to comfort Tate. When Theresa mentioned that Tate had an opportunity to learn about addiction, Tate said sternly that he didn't use drugs. "And just because you two ruined your life with them does not mean that you get to pass that guilt trip on to me," Tate said as he scowled.

Tate ordered Brady and Theresa to leave, and he noted that he wasn't required to allow visitors. Brady pleaded with Tate not to end their visit on an angry note. Theresa said that she and Brady loved Tate. "That's your problem. I hate you both," Tate said coldly as he walked away. Afterwards, Brady and Theresa stood in disbelief.

At the Brady Pub, Steve greeted Stephanie, who said that she had spent the previous night attempting to digest the news about Everett/Bobby Stein. Steve said that he'd done some research, and he presented Stephanie with a printed copy of Bobby's driver's license and photo ID from Washington state. Steve stated that Everett and Bobby were the same person.

Stephanie asked what Steve thought had happened. Steve speculated that Everett/Bobby could have suffered neurological trauma from the accident, but he noted that he didn't have access to medical records. Stephanie was dismayed to learn that records confirmed that Everett/Bobby had been married to Jada in King County, Washington, at the same time as the accident. Stephanie said that she needed time to process things, and she left after thanking Steve for his help.

In Everett/Bobby's room at the Salem Inn, Everett/Bobby pleaded with Stephanie in a voice message to call him, and he said that the notion that he was "Bobby what's-his-face" was impossible. An angry Jada appeared at the door. Jada burst into the room without permission, and she demanded that Everett/Bobby consent to fingerprint identification to prove his identity.

Everett/Bobby agreed. When the results yielded a match, Jada declared that Everett was Bobby. Jada called Everett/Bobby "a slimy, two-faced bastard." He continued to insist that he had no memory of Jada. She yelled at him to "be a man" and to own up to what he'd done.

When Stephanie appeared, she apologized to Jada for not knowing that Everett/Bobby had been married when Stephanie had met him. Jada yelled that Everett/Bobby was a liar and a cheater. On her way out, Jada threatened that everyone would soon know about Everett/Bobby's lie.

Stephanie said that none of her past with Everett/Bobby had been real. Everett/Bobby continued to proclaim that he had no memory of being married. Stephanie said that the accident had happened only after Everett/Bobby had been involved with both her and Jada. "So, the question is, are you a dirtbag or some kind of sociopath? Who the hell are you?" Stephanie yelled.

Everett/Bobby said that he was neither a sociopath nor a liar. He added that he felt he was in a nightmare he couldn't wake up from. "And I feel -- I feel -- I just feel a little -- I just..." Everett stammered before he collapsed onto the floor. When Everett/Bobby awoke moments later, Stephanie asked if he had been faking. She then said that she would take him to the hospital.

At the Salem Police Station, a frantic Ava told Rafe that Tripp and Wendy were missing and that Clyde was responsible. Rafe made a call, and he confirmed that Wendy hadn't shown up for work. Ava pleaded with Rafe to find Tripp. "Tell me what this has to do with Clyde Weston," Rafe said.

Ava admitted that her slapping Harris at the police station weeks earlier had been a staged incident. She recalled that Harris had convinced her to work with him to bring down Clyde. "But it backfired. Look, Harris got shot, my son is missing, and I know that Clyde has him. I know it," Ava said.

Ava phoned Steve to share the news about Tripp. When the call ended, Rafe summoned Officer Goldman into the room. Rafe told Goldman that Ava wanted to file a missing persons report on Tripp and Wendy. Moments later, Steve met Ava in the interrogation room. Steve demanded that Ava tell him everything she knew. Ava confided that Clyde had been using the Bistro as a front for drug trafficking, and she added that she'd only gone along with it because Clyde had threatened to have Tripp killed.

Steve said that he would bring Tripp and Wendy home. Steve added that Ava would turn herself in to the police and make a full confession about her involvement with Clyde once Tripp and Wendy were safe.

Nearby, in the lobby of the police station, Jada told Rafe that Everett and Bobby were the same person. Rafe tried to calm Jada. As Jada trembled with anger, Rafe shared the news about Tripp and Wendy's abduction. Rafe told Jada that he needed her help to locate Tripp and Wendy.

At an unknown location, Tripp and Wendy found themselves in a dank and poorly lit room. In a flashback, it was shown that Goldman had pulled a gun on Tripp and Wendy the previous night when the couple had protested about being ordered to stay at a "safe house." Goldman had forced Tripp and Wendy into the room, and she had taunted them by grinning as she slammed the door in their faces.

After the flashback ended, Goldman entered with her gun drawn on Tripp and Wendy. Goldman aimed the gun at Tripp's head before and after tossing a knapsack of food supplies onto the floor. After Goldman had left, Wendy blamed herself for not having seen that Goldman was a "dirty" cop.

Tripp asked what Wendy remembered about the drive to the location. Wendy recalled a few details, and she surmised that she and Tripp were near the airport. Tripp stared upward, and he noted that there were vents above. Wendy said she and Tripp would be dead if the vents were to close. Tripp said that his and Wendy's captors needed them to stay alive. "Let's find a way to get the hell out of here," Wendy said.

Clyde orders the shooter to finish the job

Friday, February 23, 2024

by Spalding

Xander met with Sarah and Justin in the interrogation room at the precinct. "How are you holding up?" Justin asked. "About how you'd expect. At least they let me out of my cell to talk to you both," Xander said. Xander asked about the Horton family. Sarah confirmed that the family was fine. "Thank God no one was hurt, or worse," Xander said.

"Xander, I wish that we could get you out of here, but after they found the gun at your apartment," Justin said with a shrug. Sarah apologized for not having stayed in the apartment during the police search. "Victoria was crying because she woke up from all the commotion, so I took her to Mom's," Sarah explained. Xander assured Sarah that she could not have changed things.

"Someone would have found a way to plant that gun, whether you'd been there or not. I am being set up, Justin. You do believe that, right?" Xander asked. "I not only believe it, but I'm going to prove it," Justin countered. Justin said he was hopeful that Harris could explain what had happened. Sarah cautioned that if Harris woke up, it might not be anytime soon.

"Time is not on our side, obviously. Planting that gun, that's just the beginning. Whoever is out there setting me up, they're planning their next move as we speak," Xander said. Rafe walked into the room. "I'm being framed. You have to believe me," Xander said. Xander pointed out that he had no connection to Harris. Rafe nodded in agreement.

"But I am sure that you do have a connection to the $50,000 that was placed in your bank account this morning from an untraceable offshore account," Rafe said. Surprised, Xander stressed that he did not know how or why the money had been sent to him. "The why is obvious and further proof that Xander is being framed," Justin argued. Xander argued that if he had been involved in a crime, he would not want to be paid directly to his personal bank account.

"What about the texts sent to your phone? 'Is it done?' Or the very incriminating fact the gun used to shoot Harris was found in your apartment?" Rafe asked. Xander reiterated that he did not know how the gun had ended up in his apartment. "If you have no other evidence --" Justin started. "Actually, I do! An eyewitness to the crime," Rafe said. Rafe explained that someone had witnessed Xander run by the Bistro the night of the shooting.

"[I exercised] to clear my head. You believe me, don't you, Sarah?" Xander asked. "Of course, I do," Sarah said. Rafe pulled a photo out of an envelope and put it on the table. "That's not me. I mean, sure, that man is dressed in similar running clothes, but I bet thousands of people have that running gear," Xander said. Justin pointed out that the photo did not show the shooter's face.

"There's no way you can identify Xander as the shooter based on that photo," Justin argued. Xander said that someone had dressed like him and then planted the gun in Xander's apartment. "Rafe, you know damn well when this much evidence falls into place so easily, there has to be other forces at play," Justin said. Rafe asked Xander why someone would want to frame him.

"I wish I knew," Xander said. After a moment, Xander noted that a DiMera could have been behind the plot. "Rafe, you should know that I recently received a mysterious phone call. An altered voice instructed me to eliminate someone. Now, I thought it was E.J. or one of the DiMeras messing with me, so I went over to the mansion to confront E.J. about it," Xander said. Xander said he had talked to Stefan instead.

"Let me get this straight. You received a phone call soliciting you for a murder for hire. And instead of going to the police, you went to the DiMeras. The hell were you thinking?" Rafe asked. "I wasn't," Xander admitted. After Rafe left, Xander asked if Justin could get him out on bail, since Rafe agreed that Xander had been set up. "Rafe agreed to consider that you might have been set up," Justin clarified. Justin told Xander that in light of the evidence, it would be tough to prove that Xander was not guilty.

After Justin left, Sarah told Xander that she believed all the evidence pointed to a setup. "And Rafe sees that now, too," Sarah said. Xander wondered aloud whether Rafe had pretended to be an ally in order to get Xander to say something incriminating. Sarah shook her head no. "I finally turned my life around with you and our precious Victoria. And I was so proud of the work I was doing at the Spectator and even more proud that I'd gained your trust," Xander said. Sarah promised that Xander had not lost her trust.

"Being implicated in this terrible crime, it's just making me doubt myself all over again," Xander whispered. "Why doubt yourself if you know that you're innocent?" Sarah asked. Xander reminded Sarah that he was a trouble magnet, and he always managed to make a bad choice or hurt someone he loved.

"I wouldn't blame you, Sarah, if you just wanted to get away from all of this," Xander said. Xander told Sarah that he loved her. "You and Victoria, you're everything to me. But I want you to be happy. I don't want you to be burdened from all the bad choices I've made. So, if you decide that you just want to take Victoria and start a new life without me, I will understand," Xander said.

"There was a time when I would have believed that you were guilty. But the Xander that I know and love today wouldn't risk throwing away his life with his daughter," Sarah said. "Nor with you," Xander countered. Sarah told Xander that she would not run away. "Despite everything that we have been through, or maybe because of everything we have been through, I do believe you now, and I trust you. And I am with you through this entire thing. No matter what," Sarah said. Xander hugged Sarah and apologized for having gone on a run.

"Well, you did come back, and we did make up for some lost time," Sarah said. "It was one of the best nights of my life. Until it turned into one of the worst," Xander said. Sarah kissed Xander's hand, and she vowed to find a way through the situation together.

At the prison, Clyde called Stefan and demanded that Stefan visit him in prison. "Last time I was there, I got in trouble with the cops," Stefan said. "It's not a request, my friend," Clyde said. When Stefan arrived at the prison, he met with Clyde in the yard rather than the visitors' room to keep the meetup private. "I wanted to see you face to face to tell you how disappointed I am in you. You had an order to shoot and kill. Yet somehow, Harris Michaels is still alive," Clyde said. Clyde told Stefan there would be consequences because Stefan had disobeyed an order.

"I did exactly what I was ordered to do," Stefan stressed. "What do you want, a gold star? For what? Dressing up as Xander Kiriakis? Sending Michaels that bogus text from Ava? That's child's play. Any third grader could have done that," Clyde yelled. Stefan thought about how he had ambushed Harris and shot him. Stefan argued that he had not known that Ava and Tripp would have found Harris and saved his life. Clyde argued that Stefan should have shot Harris in the head to be sure.

"There's no sign that Michaels is going to wake up or even pull through. I did exactly what you asked me to do," Stefan said. Stefan asked Clyde if Gabi was okay. "Your wife is still breathing. For now," Clyde confirmed. "[Gabi has] suffered enough," Stefan said. Clyde told Stefan that if he followed orders, Gabi would be fine. Stefan asked about Tripp. "He's missing. I assume you had something to do with that," Stefan said. "If I did, it was only for insurance purposes," Clyde said. Clyde said that Ava was weak.

"Does Ava know what you need from her?" Stefan asked. "Well, if she doesn't, she soon will," Clyde said. Stefan admitted that Ava cared about Harris. "She's human. She's also smart and savvy. That's why she has been loyal to you down the line," Stefan said. Clyde told Stefan to keep an eye on Ava and make sure she remained loyal. As Stefan turned to leave, Clyde warned Stefan to make sure that Harris did not wake up.

Officer Godfrey was standing guard in Harris' room at the hospital as Ava stared through the window from the hallway. Ava thought about when she had found a bleeding Harris on the Bistro loading dock. Godfrey exited Harris' room to warn Ava not to loiter. "I wouldn't have to loiter if you'd just let me in there," Ava said. "You know the rules. Family only," Godfrey said. Ava protested that she was the closest thing that Harris had to a family. Godfrey ordered Ava to leave.

"Please, I'm having a real hard day here," Ava said. Ava explained that her son, a doctor, had gone missing. "It was Tripp who was the one who helped Harris Michaels that night on the loading dock. So, if it wasn't for him and for me finding him in the first place, you know, he may not even be with us right now," Ava said. Ava argued that it would help Harris if he knew she was there. Ava appealed to the officer to bend the rules, but he refused. Ava pulled out her phone and threatened to call Rafe.

"I'll save you some time, Miss Vitali. The commissioner is the one who ordered me otherwise. Said I shouldn't let you in to see Michaels under any circumstances," Godfrey said. After Godfrey returned inside Harris' room, Ava paced outside the window. When nurse Michele exited Harris' room, Ava asked if there had been any improvement in his condition. The nurse noted that Ava was not family. "Harris doesn't have any family. I'm all he's got. And I know that if I was in there, I know it could help his recovery," Ava said. "Sorry, I really wish I could help," Michele said.

When Rafe arrived at the hospital, he went to check on Harris and relieve Godfrey. Rafe stood at Harris' bedside. "You're not giving up on me now," Rafe said. Rafe promised to find the shooter. As Rafe exited the room, he saw Ava. "Why are you so hellbent on keeping me from seeing Harris?" Ava asked. "It's for your good and for his," Rafe said. Ava apologized for having gotten involved with Clyde.

"It's not your fault. I know you and Harris were just trying to bring Clyde down," Rafe said. "Lot of good that did us," Ava muttered. Ava pleaded with Rafe to let her say goodbye to Harris in case he did not pull through. Rafe sighed. With a grin, Ava playfully threatened to complain on social media about Rafe. With a shrug, Rafe noted he wasn't on social media. "Despite what some people say, I actually do have a heart," Rafe said. "Yeah, you do," Ava agreed. Rafe told Ava she could visit Harris.

Elated, Ava rushed to Harris' bedside, and she held his hand. "I am here. And I hope you can hear me," Ava whispered. Ava smiled. "I've been thinking about when we first met and how you had my back," Ava said. Ava told Harris he had saved her from herself. "And how did I repay you? I pushed you away. God, I didn't want to," Ava said. Ava called herself her own worst enemy. "Harris, you have loved me like no one has ever loved me. And I love you for that. God, and so many other reasons. I can't lose you," Ava said. Ava kissed Harris. Harris' eyes fluttered open.

Steve was at the Black Patch office as he talked to John on the phone. John walked through the square, and he confirmed that he had not found any witnesses that had seen Tripp and Wendy at the geocache event. Steve said all his leads had hit a dead end, including surveillance footage from the area of the event.

"I have a list of all the people who signed up for the event," John said. John promised to return to the office after he spoke to everyone on that list. "We're going to find your boy. And Wendy, too. You can count on it," John said. As Steve ended his call, Konstantin marched into the Black Patch office. "Is this a bad time?" Konstantin asked. "What do you want?" Steve grumbled. Konstantin guessed that Steve's foul mood was because of Tripp's disappearance. "How do you know that?" Steve asked. Konstantin explained that he had overheard the staff at the hospital.

"What do you want?" Steve repeated. "I just wanted to give you my take on it," Konstantin said. Konstantin called it karmic justice if something had happened to Steve's son. "My daughter was killed by the Pawn. And you, well, you just stood there watching. Which makes you equally responsible for her death," Konstantin said. "I have no idea what you're talking about," Steve said. Konstantin argued that Steve had been the Pawn's handler, and Victor had sent them to Aria to send Konstantin a message.

"Only, the Pawn took that message one step too far and killed my Catharina in cold blood," Konstantin growled. "You've got it all wrong," Steve said. Steve argued that he had not known that Konstantin had had a daughter. "And even if I did and even if what you're saying wasn't complete nonsense, what proof do you have? Did you actually see this Pawn kill your daughter?" Steve asked. Konstantin admitted that he had been unconscious during the attack.

"But when I woke up, I saw my Catharina lying on the floor there dead," Konstantin said. Steve asked Konstantin why he was so sure that the Pawn had been the killer. Konstantin explained that the only other people in the room with him during the attack had been Steve and John Black. "And though I did not see [John's] face, I will never forget those eyes," Konstantin said. Konstantin added that he could see in Steve's eye that he knew that every word Konstantin had said was true.

"Whatever happened to your daughter all those years ago had nothing to do with me or John," Steve stressed. Konstantin disagreed. "The Pawn killed my daughter in cold blood. And you were an accessory to the crime," Konstantin yelled. Steve told Konstantin that he was confused. Konstantin said that he had sworn on his daughter's soul to avenge her, and he would not rest until he had completed his task.

John walked into the office. "What the hell is going on in here?" John asked. "[Konstantin] was just about to leave," Steve said. With a smirk, Konstantin asked if John was curious about Konstantin's conversation with Steve. John guessed that Konstantin was there to taunt him about how he had messed with John's head in the park. "Am I close?" John asked. Konstantin said he had been talking to Steve about his daughter, Catharina. "I certainly don't know anything about your daughter," John said. Konstanin told John that John would remember everything eventually.

"I hope your son turns up. I hate to think what a person like you would resort to if anyone were to harm, or dare I say, even kill your precious child," Konstantin said. Steve grabbed Konstantin by the lapels, and he warned Konstantin not to threaten Tripp. Steve shoved Konstantin out the door. With a shake of his head, John asked Steve, "What was [Konstantin's] motive for showing up here?" Steve argued that he did not care, because he needed to focus on Tripp.

"That brings me to what I found when I was walking around the square," John said. John explained that an employee at the bakery had talked to Wendy about the clues in the geocache event. "Anything else? Did anyone see Tripp?" Steve asked. John confirmed that Eric and Sloan had seen Tripp and Wendy, but they did not know where Tripp and Wendy had been headed.

In the square, Konstantin sipped a coffee and smiled. "I will get my revenge against you, Steve Johnson. But before I do, I must deal with you, John, my pawn," Konstantin said. Konstantin took the red card out of his pocket and chuckled. "I will take great pleasure in playing you like a fiddle until all your strings are broken. Then and only then, John Black, until all my tasks are finally completed, will you finally pay the ultimate price for what you have taken away from me," Konstantin said.

When Stefan arrived at the hospital, Ava was pacing outside Harris' room. "How are you holding up? Any word on Tripp?" Stefan asked. "No. But there's some good news. Harris opened his eyes. Rafe is in there right now," Ava said.

Inside Harris' room, Rafe talked to a seemingly unconscious Harris. "If you can hear me, squeeze my hand," Rafe said. After a moment, Harris squeezed Rafe's hand. "If you can hear me, open your eyes, man," Rafe said. Harris slowly opened his eyes.

Nurse Michele exited Harris' room, and Ava asked for an update. "Detective Michaels is responsive. He's definitely waking up," Michele said. Ava laughed with relief, and she hugged Stefan as he scowled.