DAYS #133: Nick hands more evidence to Abby, Sami vents to EJ about Nicole & Eric's wedding (08/20/14)

EPISODE 133

Written by A. Washington-Beeby
Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco

To learn more about current ongoing storylines, click here!

Noelle paces nervously inside the Kiriakis Mansion by the glass doors to the garden. She holds her cell phone up to her ear, hoping her call will be answered, checking to see if anyone's coming from either the kitchen or the living room.

NOELLE: Come on, Nick. Pick up your damn phone.

After a second, the call goes to voice mail. Noelle hangs up in frustration and walks back into the living room, upon which point she hears the doorbell ring. Further exasperated, she walks out into the foyer and opens the door.


It's Anjelica.

ANJELICA: Ahh! Dear daughter-in-law. 

Noelle looks stunned by Anjelica's arrival.

NOELLE: A...Anjelica.

Anjelica responds with a chipper tone, dripping with a phony pleasantness.

ANJELICA: Well, aren't you gonna let me in?

As Anjelica says this, she walks right through the opened door, as a surprised Noelle stands back in shock.

Once inside, Anjelica makes a beeline for the Kiriakis living room, as Noelle turns and closes the door.

NOELLE: What are you doing here? And why haven't you been answering my phone calls?

Anjelica walks over to the bar in the corner of the room and pours herself a scotch, as though in her own home. As she does, she pours a second glass for Noelle.

ANJELICA: Oh come now, Noelle. I'm surprised at you! You know that the signals emitted from cellular devices have been known to interfere with the mechanical equipment on airplanes. 

Noelle looks annoyed at Anjelica, while folding her arms, as Anjelica turns around and holds a drink out to Noelle.

NOELLE: Of course, how could I forget?

Anjelica smiles at Noelle's sarcastic reply, as Noelle takes the drink from Anjelica's hand.

ANJELICA: I did get your messages, though. Have you been able to get ahold of Nick?
NOELLE: Not yet. But I honestly don't think it'll make a difference. Once he lets the board know what we have on them, they're gonna be eating out of the palm of his hand.

Anjelica raises an eyebrow to Noelle, a wry smile on her face as she casually leans her glass over to toast Noelle's. They share a quick laugh as they take a sip from their respective drinks.

---


Brady stands in front of the truck outside the rural general store, as a heavily disguised Sheryl stands before him, scarf covering most of her dyed-red hair, and large sunglasses. 

Brady pulls himself upright off the front of the truck fender, and extends a hand to shake Sheryl's.

BRADY: And you must be...
SHERYL: Crystal. Crystal Clarke.

Brady smiles, intrigued by "Crystal's" myserious appearance.

BRADY: Nice to meet you. Although, I gotta say...you look awfully familiar. Have we...have we met?

Sheryl looks on at Brady, mouth agape, as she tries not to show her internal panic on her face.

---


Abby and Jerome sit in the Brady Pub at a booth, laughing awkwardly as they smile at each other. Abby takes a sip of her soda, as Jerome looks her in the eyes with a warmth that Abby finds irresistable.

JEROME: You know...I think I'm starting to get to like Salem.
ABBY: Well, good. Cos I could get used to having you around. So tell me, where were you before here, anyway?

Jerome takes a sip of his beer before answering Abby, answering almost too quickly.

JEROME: Toronto. I was finishing my Masters' at University of Toronto.

Abby looks on, impressed.

ABBY: Oh NICE! What in?
JEROME: Computer science.
ABBY: Oooh a tech guy.


Abby laughs, giving Jerome a flirtatious look, as Nick opens the door to the pub, immediately spotting Abby and Jerome on their date. He smiles, observing them from afar.

---

---


Sami slams the door to EJ's office at DiMera Enterprises, startling EJ who is sitting at his desk.

SAMI: UGGGGH! That...woman!

Sami paces the room, tense and enraged. EJ looks up at Sami, still uncomfortable, as he looks at her through his reading glasses.

EJ: Jeez...what woman, Samantha?
SAMI: I'll give you three guesses.

EJ sighs and takes off his glasses, placing them down on the desk in front of him.

EJ: Nicole?
SAMI: We have a winner!
EJ: What did she do this time? Is that why you went running out of the house this morning?

Sami laughs maniacally, as she walks over to EJ's desk and leans over it, staring intensely at EJ.

SAMI: That's right! That manipulative bitch married my brother.

EJ looks at Sami, genuine surprise on his face.

---

Anjelica walks over from the bar in the Kiriakis living room, planting herself on the sofa kitty corner from Noelle, who sits in the armchair. She hands Noelle another scotch on the rocks, and holds another in her own hands. Anjelica sounds self-satisfied as they speak of their impending victory over the Titan board.

ANJELICA: You know, I was a bit skeptical at the beginning, but I think this relationship is going to work out just fine between us.
NOELLE: Well, it can. It all depends on you.

Anjelica takes a sip of her drink, then feigns shock, holding a hand to her chest.

ANJELICA: Me?

Noelle looks at Anjelica, speaking in a no-nonsense tone.

NOELLE: Yes, you. I thought we agreed that we would be in close contact whenever either of us made any moves.
ANJELICA: Well, we have, haven't we?

Noelle picks up the newspaper from the coffee table, showing Anjelica's picture prominently on the front page. She holds it up, looking unimpressed.

NOELLE: You call this communication?
ANJELICA: I call that publicizing what we've already discussed for months. 

Anjelica sets down her drink, her tone changing from one of light-hearted repartee to a more serious business voice.

ANJELICA: Listen, I have not only this campaign to run, but I also have business deals to take care of, and family matters to ensure are being attended to. That's why I asked you to be involved in this arrangement. 

Noelle leans back, looking away and rolling her eyes as Anjelica becomes increasingly empthatic.

ANJELICA: You are the only woman that my son is ever going to love, and if I want my bid for the state legislature to be a successful one, that requires any and all scandals be headed off at the pass. 

Noelle continues to look away, and Anjelica leans in closer to Noelle, hardly blinking as she softly, but cuttingly delivers her next remarks.

ANJELICA: Harper Deveraux ran his political life on being a man of family values, and I intend to run my house the same way. Now, you know Alex has been involved in certain relationships that a lot of my base would be incredibly upset about. But he loves you enough to put those affairs behind him.
NOELLE: I know he does, Anjelica. And I love him just as much.
ANJELICA: Good. Then we have no problem here. 

Anjelica gets up from her seat, walking toward the doorway of the Kiriakis living room. She grabs her clutch from the side table. Stopping momentarily before stepping out, she looks down, and turns back to face Noelle.

ANJELICA: Don't question my methods again, Noelle. I need you to trust that I know what I'm doing at all times. Even a second of doubt on either of our parts could ruin everything.

Anjelica turns back toward the door, leaving Noelle alone in the living room, deep in thought as the front door of the house closes behind a departing Anjelica.

---

Sheryl stands opposite Brady at the General Store parking lot, looking uneasy. She swallows hard, hoping to stay in character despite Brady's vague recognition.

SHERYL: Ah...no. I just...you must be mistaking me for someone else, I...I just moved up here from down south the other night.

Brady looks on, unsure for a second, before laughing to himself.

BRADY: Yeah, I guess I'd remember meeting someone with a southern accent in Salem. Well, look, if you wanna test drive her before you take her...

Sheryl shakes her head. She smiles as she looks the car over.

SHERYL: Nah, I...I think we're good. It's just a temporary thing until I get myself settled in and I get myself a new car. You know?
BRADY: Makes sense. 

Sheryl walks around to the other side of the car and reaches over to her purse to look for her cash.

SHERYL: Uh...how much do I owe ya?
BRADY: Ah, what was it, we agreed on $1000?
SHERYL: Well, how 'bout we do $800 cash, and you don't have to worry about them brakes?

Brady looks "Crystal" up and down for a second, before furrowing his brow. Sheryl holds up the $800 and smiles at Brady.

SHERYL: Do we have a deal?
BRADY: We do.

Brady takes the money, and hands "Crystal" the keys to the truck. Sheryl smiles and unlocks the door.

SHERYL: Good doing business with ya, Mister. You wanna ride back to your house?
BRADY: Ah, sure!

Brady loops around to the passenger side, as Sheryl puts on her best phony cowgirl voice and enthusiastically invites him in.

SHERYL: Hop in!

Brady opens the door to the passenger side of the truck, as Sheryl looks in the rear view mirror, smiling cockily as she realizes her disguise has worked.

---

Abby and Jerome sit at their booth at the Brady Pub, their eyes barely straying from each other, as Nick approaches the table. Spotting her cousin from across the room, Abby waves Nick over, to Jerome's chagrin.

ABBY: Nick! Hey! How are you doing?
NICK: I'm doing better. Was just at the hospital to make sure everything was okay.
ABBY: I'm glad, I've been worried.

Jerome stays silent, staring Nick down, menacingly, monitoring his interaction with Abby to ensure he doesn't fly off the handle again at her.

NICK: Not to worry. Listen, I...I don't mean to interrupt your date, guys, but...

Jerome tries to interject to try to get Nick to back off, but Abby cuts in before he can.

ABBY: You're not...interrupting, Nick. Don't worry.
NICK: Well...I had something I had to give you. It's ah...it's work-related.

Abby looks at Nick, confused.

ABBY: Oh...ah...for me?
NICK: Well, strictly speaking, it's...it's for Nicole but...well, she's not taking my phone calls right now.
ABBY: Oh, she's...well, she had to take the day off today. She's not even answering MY calls, so...

Nick nods, trying to feign innocence when he knows the real reason Nicole stopped responding.

NICK: Right. Well, this is part of the big story you're working on for Nicole's special this week. I think you'll find it very interesting. 

Nick pulls a flash drive from his bag and hands it to Abby.

NICK: Make sure Nicole gets it as soon as possible. Let her know that if there's any doubt about where it comes from or if it's real, that I have the originals.

Abby holds the flash drive tightly in her hand, before looking up at Nick and nodding.

ABBY: Alright. I'll let her know.
NICK: Thanks. Enjoy yourselves.
JEROME: Bye.
ABBY: Glad you're feeling better, Nick.

Nick waves back at Abby, as Jerome scowls at him, watching him leave the pub.


Once outside, Nick looks ahead, his trademark smirk on his face.

NICK: And another domino falls. Sorry, Will.

Nick walks off, as inside, Abby holds the flash drive in her hands, curious about its contents, before she carefully places it in her bag.

---

DAYS #132: Brady meets "Crystal Clarke", JJ deposits Liam's cheque (08/19/14)

EPISODE 132

Written by A. Washington-Beeby
Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco

For complete story arcs: check our Stories section.

 Brady walks into the main room of Anita's cabin, as she sits on her sofa reading the paper. Hearing Brady come into the room, she looks over her shoulder to see him putting his jacket on.

ANITA: Going somehwere?
BRADY: Not far. Just gotta meet with that woman I was telling you about.

Anita sets down the paper and turns her body toward Brady. She looks on, pleasantly surprised.

ANITA: Already?

Anita pulls her reading glasses from her face, and shakes her head in amazement.

ANITA: I'm telling you, today's technology is a miracle.
BRADY: Tell me about it. From when you told me about it until now, we're looking at about...ohh...about a four hour turnaround time. Crazy, huh?
ANITA: You better believe it. If I'd have known how much I could get done this fast, I'dve gotten on this internet years ago.

Brady and Anita laugh, as Brady opens the door to the cabin to head out.

BRADY: Right? Okay, I've gotta meet this woman at the general store in about 10 minutes, so I'll be back in about an hour. Hopefully minus one blue SUV.
ANITA: ...and plus a thousand dollars or two.

Brady points at Anita, agreeing to her point.

BRADY: Exactly. (laughs)
ANITA: Alright, I'll see you in a bit.
BRADY: Yep!

Brady shuts the door to the cabin behind him, leaving Anita behind, as she looks over at the PC sitting in the corner. She contemplates sitting down to use it.

ANITA: Well...you've seen enough people use it, Anita. About time to try it for yourself, no?

Anita hesitates as she steps towards the computer, sitting down in the office chair. She rests her fingers on the keyboard. She looks up at the screen, a determined look on her face.

ANITA: Besides...you've got some work to do.

---


Laura sits with JJ on the bench at Horton Town Square. JJ hugs a despondent Laura.

JJ: No one is going to hurt mom, or Abigail, or me. You got that? I'm gonna make sure of it.

Releasing Laura from his hug, Laura looks down, suddenly no longer hungry. She gets up to throw her partly-melted ice cream sundae in the nearby garbage can, and turns back toward JJ.

JJ looks at Laura with a hint of determination in his eyes.

JJ: Grandma, we have no choice. If I refuse this money, it'll just force mom even further toward Liam. This way, Liam thinks I'm pacified, and I'm far enough removed that I can do some digging in safety. This way, mom, and Abigail, and you are safe.

Laura takes a moment, before slumping down beside JJ on the bench. She nods, fully understanding JJ's position.

LAURA: You're right, JJ. There's no other way.

Laura turns, looking intensely at JJ as she emphatically instructs JJ.

LAURA: Cash the cheque.

---



Nick sits in the exam room, on the exam table, as Daniel taps away at his tablet, editing Nick's chart. Nick looks on, still hazy from his fall.

Maggie stands by Nick, a hand on his back, being concerned for her relative.

NICK: Dr. Jonas, I don't mean to rush you but...I have somewhere to be.

Daniel doesn't look up, still fixated on his work on the tablet. Despite this, he answers Nick immediately.

DANIEL: Yeah, well, I'm not quite done yet. One more question...did you...prior to this fall you took today...did you suffer any other head injuries recently?

Nick looks up at Daniel, before having a flashback to the night he was dumped in the river. Nick remembers being on top of Gabi, and being hit in the head with a rock.



As the rock makes impact with Nick's head, Nick snaps out of his flashback, immediately locking eyes with Daniel.

NICK: Yeah. Yeah, I did. But uh...it wasn't anything major.
DANIEL: Well, sometimes these injuries sort of...lie dormant for awhile before symptoms appear. I might want to schedule some more tests for you.

Nick looks at Daniel, sighing as he worries about missing the Titan board meeting.

NICK: Ah...Dr. Jonas. I'd love to do that but...can we schedule these for another time? I...I'm really running behind.

Maggie steps in before Daniel can respond, voicing her concern to Nick.

MAGGIE: Nick...I know you're eager to get back to work, but...Honey... head injuries are so unpredictable. If you don't stop and think about your health for a moment...it could kill you.

Nick looks up at Maggie, affected by her grave warning, but unsure whether or not to proceed.

---

---


Jordan sits in her office, consumed by the realization that her safety is in jeopardy thanks to Nick. She plays with her engagement ring nervously, as she stares straight ahead, oblivious to everything around her.

JORDAN: As long as Nick's alive...you'll never be safe...you'll never be free...

Jordan looks on, unblinking, unmoving. She fixates on the point as she continues to fidget with her engagement ring.

JORDAN: As long as he's alive.

As she receives a notification on her phone of a voicemail, she snaps out of her trance, and looks at it. Knowing it's from Sheryl, Jordan ignores it, and quickly gets up from behind her desk.

JORDAN: Dammit...

Scooping up her phone, and realizing the time, she grabsher tablet and heads quickly out into the hall.

JORDAN: Gotta get down for my 5pm.

Closing and locking the door to her office, she quickly walks down the hallway, and into the main lobby. As she steps into the lobby, Maggie steps out of the exam room Nick is in with Daniel. Out of the corner of her eye, she spots Nick inside. Quickly turning to Maggie, she nervously smiles.

JORDAN: Maggie!

Maggie smiles, a bit nervous herself from all the health crisies in her family.

MAGGIE: Jordan. How are you doing?
JORDAN: Oh, I'm....I'm good. Just...on my way to my next patient. Uh...I saw Nick in there...everything okay?

Maggie furrows her brow slightly, still smiling, but with a curious expression on her face.

MAGGIE: Ah....I think so...

Maggie hesitates a moment before continuing.

MAGGIE: I didn't realize you knew Nick.
JORDAN: Oh, we...we only met once or twice but...well...you know me, always concerned.
MAGGIE: Oh, I know. And I appreciate it...

Maggie looks down, spotting Jordan's engagement ring. Her face lights up with excitement.

MAGGIE: ...Oh MY! What is THIS???

Jordan takes a moment to realize what Maggie's referring to, before Maggie takes her hand and Jordan happily extends her hand out to show off her ring.

JORDAN: Oh! Yes! Rafe and I are engaged. I'm...I'm so overwhelmed I didn't even...(laughs)

Maggie looks at the ring, holding Jordan's hand in hers. She looks up at Jordan, a seriousness in her voice, but with an earnest joy.

MAGGIE: Jordan, it's beautiful. You're a very lucky woman. And Rafe is an extremely lucky man.

Jordan begins to tear up at Maggie's kindness. They exchange a warm, congratulatory hug.

---

Inside the exam room, Nick hops off the exam table, and readjusts himself, preparing to leave. Daniel looks up at Nick, putting his tablet down on the counter.

NICK: Look, Dr. Jonas. I appreciate that you wanna help and all, but...I need to schedule these tests for another day. I'm already way behind for this meeting I've got to get to today.
DANIEL: You know, I wish you would go in for the tests right away but...I can't force your hand. Look, I'll see if I can schedule you for first thing tomorrow morning, and if I can, I'll give you a call on your cell. Okay?
NICK: Appreciate that.

Nick extends his hand to Daniel, and they share a firm handshake, as Nick grabs his laptop case from beside the exam table.

DANIEL: It's what I do. Oh, and Nick.

Nick stops as his hand is on the doorknob, ready to step out of the room.

NICK: Yeah?
DANIEL: You're not on any medications, right?

Nick looks at Daniel, shrugging off his recent pill popping.

NICK: Ah...no. Just...since I've been having these headaches I've been taking Aspirins whenever one flares up, but...nothing more than that.
DANIEL: Hmm, ok. If anything that should help your blood pressure. (sigh) Okay. Yeah, I'll see you tomorrow morning.
NICK: You got it. Thanks, Dr. Jonas.

Nick walks out of the exam room, and closes the door behind him. Taking a second, he texts Gabi.

hey. U avail 2nite? meet me @ TBD 4 dinner. 8pm xx

He smiles as he hits send. He then puts his phone in his pocket and walks away.

---


Jennifer and Liam sit out at a table outside the café at Horton Town Square, laughing and holding hands.

JENNIFER: It was a great idea to bring me to lunch. Thank you, Liam.
LIAM: Anything for you, Jenn. You don't know how much it means to me to have you in my life. I want to take every moment I can.
JENNIFER: Me too. And I wanna thank you as well. Your gift to JJ was...beyond what I ever expected. I mean...where did you even FIND that kind of money to give away like that?

Liam stumbles momentarily, trying to find an answer, as JJ and Laura approach them. Jennifer spots them and waves, beaming as they approach, a more solemn expression on both their faces. Liam turns as well to see who's approaching.

JENNIFER: Hey JJ! Mom! What are you two up to?
LAURA: Oh, JJ and I had some free time before I had to head back to the hospital, so I took him out for lunch and we grabbed a frozen yogurt. And you?
LIAM: Well, Jenn and I were just having a quick lunch break together.
JENNIFER: We've already ordered but would you like to join us?

JJ nods while looking over at Laura, who looks equally stoic. Laura then turns her attention back to Jennifer, feigning a smile through her nervousness.

LAURA: Ah, sure!

Liam gets up to pull up a chair for Laura, who sits down, looking over graciously at Liam. JJ grabs a chair for himself and sits down as well.

LAURA: Thank you. Ah, so...how's your day been, everyone?
JENNIFER: Oh, fantastic. Liam and I were talking before about the family cabin on Smith Island. It's really beautiful going out there this time of year.

Jennifer looks over at Liam, excitement in her eyes as she reaches her hand out to tap Liam's thigh.

JENNIFER: You know, I've got the long weekend free, why don't we go up together for a quiet weekend, just the two of us?

JJ and Laura try unsuccessfully to hide their discomfort at the idea, while Liam looks back at Jenn uncomfortably as well.

LIAM: I ah...Jenn, I'm sorry. I have contractors coming up to my house this weekend, I've gotta...supervise them. Need to...put on a new roof.

Jenn smiles, shrugging off Liam's disappointing news.

JENNIFER: That's fine. I'll just come up there with you. I haven't seen the house yet, and all.

Laura nervously observes the exchange, as Liam squirms yet again.

LIAM: Yeah, that's...I'm sorry, Jenn. The house is a mess, and...look, I just think it's better we don't do it this weekend. I'm sorry.

Jenn looks on, disappointed.

JENNIFER: That's...that's alright. Yeah, we'll do another weekend.

JJ eyes Liam studiously. Observing something is strange in his behaviour, he interjects.

JJ: Hey! I ah...I forgot to mention, Liam. (sigh) I ah...I decided to take you up on your offer. I'm accepting the cheque. I put in my acceptance at Stanford for the winter semester.

JJ looks Liam dead in the eyes as Jennifer looks at JJ, once again excited for her son.

JENNIFER: Oh, Honey, that's fantastic! And thank you, Liam.

Liam looks back at JJ, a smile on his face, but both men barely blinking, as they look each other dead in the eyes.

LIAM: It's my pleasure, Jenn. Anything to help you and your family.

JJ remains locked in with Liam, as Laura looks on, eyes darting back and forth between the two men, and reading the tense body language between them.

---

Outside the country general store, Brady leans against Anita's old blue SUV. He checks his watch as from around the corner, a taxi pulls up. A woman steps out of the car wearing a navy blue trenchcoat, sunglasses, and a sheer white kerchief over her head, disguising her flame red hair.


It's Sheryl.

She hands the taxi driver money, and he takes off. She strides confidently over to Brady, who looks at her with interest.

SHERYL: Brady?
BRADY: Yes! Hi.

Brady pulls himself upright off the front of the truck fender, and extends a hand to shake Sheryl's.

BRADY: And you must be...
SHERYL: Crystal. Crystal Clarke.

Brady smiles, intrigued by "Crystal's" myserious appearance.

---

DAYS #131: Sheryl's transformation, Laura & JJ contemplate Liam's $50,000 offer (08/18/14)

EPISODE 131

Written by A. Washington-Beeby
Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco

Sheryl, standing in her motel room at the edge of town,  hears the beeping sound of Jordan refusing her call, and hangs up the motel room's landline phone, frustrated.

SHERYL: Dammit. Jordan, none of us are safe as long as you're in Salem.

Sheryl turns toward the bathroom door, where she's placed the supplies Jerome's given her. Sheryl looks on at the box of bleach, and of hair dye, makeup, among other supplies. She looks on, steely-eyed.

SHERYL: But I'm gonna make damn sure you do. And make Billie Reed pay for what she's done to us.

---


Jordan sits at her desk at University Hospital, contemplating accepting the call from an unknown number that's currently coming in on her cell phone. As the phone buzzes on her desk, she stares it down, frozen still.

Jordan remembers back to her conversation moments before with Nick:

***

FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 130


Jordan tries hard to ignore Nick, turning back to her computer work, but Nick leans in and stares almost without blinking at her. His intense gaze makes Jordan extremely nervous.

NICK: Alright, I'll get right to the point. You know your little virus? I was the one who stopped it from going through last night. And the folks at Titan know that Sheryl's the one that was trying to put it there.

Jordan turns to look at Nick, contempt in her eyes as she tries to hold her emotions in.

JORDAN: And just how do they know that?

Nick smiles evilly, never moving his gaze, making Jordan even less comfortable.

NICK: I told them. See, I've been monitoring every little thing that's been going on in that building for months now. And I have the evidence to back up everything I claim. So Sheryl's probably on her way out of town as we speak. 

Nick lets out a little chuckle to himself before continuing, standing up to sit down on Jordan's desk, leaning in even closer to her, never once breaking their gaze.

NICK: At least she better be. 

Jordan sighs, worrying about her own fate now that Nick knows their connection. Nick puts his hand up to Jordan's chin, and casually caresses it, causing Jordan to flinch.

NICK: But don't worry. If you keep your nose out of where it doesn't belong...I'll let you keep your life here with your little boyfriend, the cop. Just remember...I know who you are. So stay out of my way. 

***

Jordan snaps back to reality, realizing the gravity of the situation and how it could so easily impact her. She down at her phone, still ringing, and quickly dismisses the call, sending it to voicemail.

JORDAN: Sorry, Sheryl. From now on, you're on your own.

---

Outside Jordan's office at the hospital, Nick struggles to steady himself as he rifles through his bag to grab his bottle of pills, hoping to stop his throbbing headache.


Turning the corner after exiting Victor's hospital room, Maggie spies Nick, in visible distress. She walks quickly over to him to see if he's okay.

MAGGIE: Nick? Nick?? Are you okay?

Nick doesn't respond to Maggie's worried call, instead popping a pill and stumbling quickly over to the water fountain. After taking a sip, Nick quickly lifts his head up, before stumbling again, causing Maggie to panic, and grab Nick to catch his fall.

MAGGIE: Nick!! Somebody help!

---

---


Nick wakes up to see Maggie and Daniel standing over him as he lies in a hospital bed. Stunned, Nick looks around, barely moving.

DANIEL: Nick, it's me. Dr. Jonas. You just passed out for a minute, but you're fine.

Nick struggles to respond to Daniel, still groggy, and with a dull, lingering head pain.

NICK: I....huh?
MAGGIE: You passed out, Honey. You were holding your head in your hands. You looked like you were in a lot of pain, and you were stumbling down the hallway. I called out and got Daniel to help.
NICK: (sigh) You didn't have to do that.

Daniel keeps busy, grabbing his tablet from the counter, and focuses in on Nick's chart as he responds to Nick's statement casually.

DANIEL: Yeaaah well it's a good thing she did. You took a pretty nasty spill. And from what Maggie tells me...you had a pretty major migraine there. You under some stress lately? Work?

Nick looks away from Maggie and Daniel, almost zoning out. He sighs before answering.

NICK: It's nothing. I've got it under control now.
DANIEL: Well...I hope so, because you need to watch it, Nick. Your blood pressure was high enough to cause a heart attack. Take these headaches as a warning sign.

Nick looks back at Daniel, concerned by Daniel's diagnosis.

---


Laura and JJ walks through Horton Town Square, JJ with an ice cream cone, and Laura with a cup holding a small sundae. They laugh as they eat their treats, and talk about their days.

LAURA: (laughs) Well, it's good that Rory's keeping his job with the pizza place. I know things haven't been easy for him.
JJ: Yeah, you can say that again. I just hope this job gives him enough money that he can afford to head down to Stanford next year without student loans.

Laura nods, before looking up at JJ, a glint of concern in her eye.

LAURA: Yeah...speaking of which...have you...decided what you're going to do about Liam's offer?

JJ sighs, as they both sit down on the bench by Tom & Alice's tree. Looking off into the distance, JJ takes a moment to finish his ice cream cone, then shakes his head.

JJ: I'm not sure. I mean...I know taking it will throw Liam off my trail, and it would certainly help us get the money we need to find out what we need to know about this guy, but...
LAURA: But it's risky. I don't want you beholden to this man. Especially not if he's tied to Stefano. That man has done too many horrible things to this family. And I am not about to let him harm us anymore.

Laura looks at JJ, clearly upset, verging on tears, as JJ pulls his grandmother in for a hug as they sit on the bench.

---

Jordan sits quietly at her computer desk. She types quickly at her desk, working on patient files, before the shine from her engagement ring catches her eye, causing her took down at it.

Jordan takes a moment, soaking up the extreme highs and lows of the past 24 hours. From Rafe's marriage proposal to finding out her pregnancy test gave a false positive, to walking away from a lifelong friendship with Sheryl. She begins to play with the ring as she thinks over her situation.

JORDAN: (voiceover) Sheryl was right. If you stay in town, you're bound to be found out for as long as Nick Fallon is around. He's got your number, Jordan. You're never going to be safe, as long as Nick's alive...

Jordan stops herself momentarily, looking up, realizing the gravity of the situation. She very softly verbalizes the realization she's come to.

A song begins over the scene:

[0:06] JORDAN: As long as Nick's alive...you'll never be safe. You'll never be free.

Jordan looks on, unblinking, unmoving. She fixates on the point as she continues to fidget with her engagement ring.

JORDAN: As long as he's alive.

---

The song carries on into this scene

[0:22] Sheryl steps out of the shower, causing a burst of steam to emerge out into the rest of the motel bathroom and into the main room.

Sheryl emerges, wrapping a towel around herself and her hair before stepping out into the main room, where her toiletries are laid out carefully in front of the vanity.

[0:49] Sitting herself before the vanity, she pulls a picture of Nurse Crystal Clarke from a file in her top dresser drawer. She slides it in between the mirror and the frame of the vanity, allowing her to study Crystal's look.

[0:59] Sheryl then applies her foundation, a shade somewhat lighter than her own, in order to mask her lightly bronzed skin. Sheryl slowly blends in a contour, careful to match the hues from the picture.

[1:27] Sheryl slowly puts on her eyeliner, purposely too heavy, along with a heavy black eyeliner, punctuating the look with a strong cateye. She puts in contact lenses, changing her eye colour from green to a hazel colour.

[1:48] Sheryl moves to her lips, applying a bold, bright, almost orange-tinted red lipstick. She moves the stick across her lips, almost seductively. As she puts the stick down, she smacks her lips, giving a confident look into the mirror as her look is complete.

[2:09] The final step in her transformation: Sheryl rips the towel from her head, exposing a long, lush head of fire red hair. She smiles before looking into mirror, and holding up a large pair of scissors.

[2:21] With a deep inhale, she hacks off the last third of her hair, leaving her with a shoulder-length cut.

[2:39] Once the hair has fallen to the floor, Sheryl looks into the mirror, a transformed woman. She laughs quiety to herself before greeting the new woman in the mirror playfully.

SHERYL: Helloooo, Nurse!

Sheryl's laugh grows into a possessed cackle as she admires her work.

---

DAYS #130: Billie and John figure out their next move, Nick gives Jordan a warning (08/15/14)

EPISODE 130

Written by A. Washington-Beeby
Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco

Billie pulls John aside into the alley behing Club TBD. Looking behind her left and right to ensure no one is around to hear, she speaks to him softly so as not to draw attention to herself, but with a great intensity.

BILLIE: We need a new plan to stop Jordan and Sheryl. Like...yesterday.

John holds his hand up in a stopping motion, trying to get Billie to cool off.

JOHN: Woah, woah, woah, calm down. Okay, Shane told me the virus was halted, so what's gone down since then?

Billie sighs, trying to retain a cool exterior as she relays the news onto John.

BILLIE: Well, you know about the board meeting today, obviously.
JOHN: Yeah. That's why I'm back in town.
BILLIE: Well, Justin told me that Nick Fallon is using it as an opportunity to blackmail the board into giving him control over Titan.

John looks at Billie, incredulous, and, quite franky, amused. He responds, trying to hold back his laughter.

JOHN: Wait, what? He's a lab tech for MadWorld.
BILLIE: The lead one. I mean, he HAS come up with some real moneymaking formulas for us. Particularly in the new skin care line, no question, but...(sigh) John, he's got something on each member of the board. And he's prepared to use it.

John suddenly looks concerned. He sighs, contemplating what that could mean for him, and the rest of the board.

---


Inside Jordan's office at University Hospital, Jordan is signing some paperwork, and hears the knock. She responds without raising her head.

JORDAN: Come in.


Nick opens the door to Jordan's office, and smiles like the Cheshire Cat. Jordan looks up, trying to hide the fear in her eyes.

NICK: Hey Jordan! It's been awhile.

Nick steps inside Jordan's office, and closes the door brusquely behind him.

NICK: Let's talk.

Jordan looks on, the fear plain in her face despite her best efforts.

---


Will sits across from Kate at Club TBD, as Kate sips her martini. Will grasps his scotch on the rocks tightly, worry about what his grandmother is about to tell him.

WILL: Okay...lay it on me. What's happening at Titan that I need hard liquor at 1pm?

Kate breathes in, taking a moment to find the right wording before laying the truth on Will.

KATE: Nick Fallon is going to use every bit of dirt he's been able to scrounge up about the Titan board to gain control of Titan today at the board meeting. And that includes what happened at the river.

Will's face drops as he takes in the news.

---

---


Sheryl sits at her computer, with headphones on. She hits "rewind" on the program playing the video of Valerie's interview with Nurse Crystal Clarke. Listening closely, she studies the cadence of Crystal's words. She mouths the sounds of Crystal's words, letting some slip out loud, not hearing the sound of the door opening behind her.

SHERYL: ...thaaaynk yew, Dr. Graaaant.


As Jerome steps into the room, he overhears Sheryl's overpronounciation of the southern accent, and observes her as she leans back in her chair, eyes closed. He tries to hold in his laughter as he listens in.

SHERYL: Ya know you're a reeeeally niiice...

Sheryl opens her eyes to see Jerome standing over her, giggling to himself. Sheryl's expression changes immediately to a sour one as she rips her headphones off her head, turning angrily to face a still-hysterical Jerome.

SHERYL: Dammit, Jerome. Don't scare me like that!
JEROME: (in between laughs) You know, you...you are...you, heeeee (clears throat) you need to spend some time in Georgia 'cos you not gone convince people like that!

Jerome continues to laugh as he sets down the plastic bag containing the supplies Sheryl requested. Sheryl almost immediately snatches them from the table, as Jerome tries to contain himself.

SHERYL: Ughhh...did you find everything I asked for?

Cooling down, Jerome clears his throat again before responding.

JEROME: Yeah, I uh...(clears throat) I got the hair dye, the applicators, everything.
SHERYL: Excellent.
JEROME: I just hope you're not trying to trick anyone just yet. You need to take your time and practice before we do this.

Sheryl turns to look at Jerome, annoyed.

SHERYL: What do you think I've been doing. And quite honestly, I thought I was doing a damn good job, considering.

Jerome starts to laugh again at Sheryl but contains himself successfully before continuing.

JEROME: You uh...you know, for someone that lived in Birmingham so long, you really picked nothing up.

Sheryl rolls her eyes at her accomplice. She grabs her headphones, preparing to put them back on.

SHERYL: I think I've heard everything I need to.
JEROME: That's fine. Look, I gotta get going anyway, so...

Sheryl stops herself, turning back Jerome's way.

SHERYL: Why? What the hell do YOU have to do?

Jerome gives his best mockingly upper crust demeanour in response.

JEROME: I happen to have a previous engagement with a young lady.

Sheryl rolls her eyes, leaning back as she puts her headphones back on.

SHERYL: (sigh) Typical. I'd tell you not to get attached, but I know you're allergic to attachment, so have fun.

As she finishes her statement, she slaps the spacebar on her laptop, triggering the playback on the video. Jerome stops a moment, before shaking his head in amusement and walking out of the hotel room.

---

John looks at Billie as they walk through Town Square together, a contemplative look on his face.

JOHN: So, really...we have no recourse but to go along with this.
BILLIE: For now.

Billie and John stop as Billie turns to face John.

BILLIE: Mom thinks that going along with Nick will be an opportunity for her.
JOHN: I don't see how.
BILLIE: Okay, come on. It's my mom. If she sees an opening to take power, she'll take it.

John nods, understanding Billie's point.

JOHN: Fair enough.
BILLIE: But I think it's misguided, especially if it damages the company. I mean...how long is Nick going to run Titan into the ground before we get a chance to stop him.
JOHN: You're probably right. But, okay, back up a little, going along with Nick...how's this tie into Jordan and Sheryl?

Billie looks around nervously, trying to make sure no one is listening.

BILLIE: I'm fairly certain that Nick was in cahoots with Jordan and Sheryl, but that Nick double-crossed them to gain power for herself. I mean...think about it. Nick's friend is that kooky owl watcher that EnerNext is trying to buy the land from for the oil sands project. They're like two peas in a pod. And we KNOW that that was Jordan and Sheryl's motive for coming to Salem.

John nods, taking in what Billie's saying, before thinking of something of his own.

JOHN: So you're thinking Nick's playing all of them?
BILLIE: It makes sense. If Nick can use these people to get what he wants under the guise of helping them, they'll all be willing to do his bidding until he throws them under the bus.
JOHN: And God knows who else he's already thrown to the wolves that we don't yet know about.
BILLIE: Exactly. Which is why I think we need to make sure Nick gets taken out. The sooner we get him put in his place, the better.

---

Will sets down his drink on the table after taking a big swig of it. He looks up at Kate, while still taking in the news of Nick's plans to take over Titan.

WILL: So...what does that mean for you, Mom and Gabi?

Kate swirls her martini about, looking down upon it as she casually explains the situation to her grandson.

KATE: Well..I'm not entirely sure. But it's in his best interests not to expose us. If only because we know for a fact he still wants to have a chance with Gabi. And he's willing to do whatever it takes to have it.
WILL: (sigh) Yeah, I know that a little too well. Gabi told us this morning that she'd been...drugging Nick to try to get him hooked onto his pills so that he'd go back to jail, but...apparently that backfired.

Kate nods knowingly. Will looks on, a bit surprised, before realizing the truth.

WILL: Wait...you...you knew about the pills.
KATE: I found out about it the other day. I know she's very stressed out about it, because Hope won't arrest him, but...I don't know what she expected. I mean, Hope's his cousin, for God's sake!
WILL: I know. (sigh) And it's getting worse.

Kate looks up at Will, suddenly even more worried.

KATE: What do you mean?

Will hesitates momentarily, sighing before responding to Kate, dreading her reaction.

WILL: EJ is so worried about Nick and his...state of mind that he bought Gabi a gun today.

Kate's eyes widen, suddenly horrified at the prospects of what could come of it.

---

Nick steps into Jordan's office and shuts the door quietly behind him. Jordan draws herself up in her chair, clearly very tense.

JORDAN: Wh-what do you want, Nick?

Nick laughs at Jordan's fear, stepping casually toward her.

NICK: Oh my GOD! RELAX, Jordan! I mean, come on, we're partners in all this, aren't we?
JORDAN: I don't know what you're talking about, Nick. Look, as far as Sheryl and her plans go, I am no longer associated with her, okay? So...
NICK: That's fine. But I expect she's still going to be trying to contact you.

Jordan looks up at Nick, trying to put on a steely reserve. Her voice continues to tremble slightly.

JORDAN: I'm sure she will. But I want nothing to do with her. So whatever you want from her, talk to her about it.

Jordan turns toward her computer, but Nick walks over, and sits down in the chair opposite Jordan's at her desk.

NICK: I don't think that'll be very easy.

Jordan sighs, turning back toward Nick, exasperated.

JORDAN: Look, Nick, I've had a hard enough day today, so whatever you're trying to say, just spit it out, and go, okay?

Jordan tries hard to ignore Nick, turning back to her computer work, but Nick leans in and stares almost without blinking at her. His intense gaze makes Jordan extremely nervous.

NICK: Alright, I'll get right to the point. You know your little virus? I was the one who stopped it from going through last night. And the folks at Titan know that Sheryl's the one that was trying to put it there.

Jordan turns to look at Nick, contempt in her eyes as she tries to hold her emotions in.

JORDAN: And just how do they know that?

Nick smiles evilly, never moving his gaze, making Jordan even less comfortable.

NICK: I told them. See, I've been monitoring every little thing that's been going on in that building for months now. And I have the evidence to back up everything I claim. So Sheryl's probably on her way out of town as we speak.

Nick lets out a little chuckle to himself before continuing, standing up to sit down on Jordan's desk, leaning in even closer to her, never once breaking their gaze.

NICK: At least she better be.

Jordan sighs, worrying about her own fate now that Nick knows their connection. Nick puts his hand up to Jordan's chin, and casually caresses it, causing Jordan to flinch.

NICK: But don't worry. If you keep your nose out of where it doesn't belong...I'll let you keep your life here with your little boyfriend, the cop. Just remember...I know who you really are. So stay out of my way.

Nick gets up from his perch on Jordan's desk and walks slowly out of Jordan's office.  Just before stepping out the door, Nick turns back toward Jordan with another ominous warning.

NICK: Oh, and if Sheryl does try to contact you...do me a favour and let her know about our little chat, yeah?

Jordan glares at Nick and he smirks, before turning around and leaving her office. As the door closes, Jordan sighs in relief.

She looks down at her phone as sees another call from an unknown number. Jordan doesn't answer, contemplating whether to refuse the call or not.

...

Outside Jordan's office, Nick is hit with a sharp head pain yet again. Holding his hand up to his temple, he quickly opens his bag, digging to find his pills.


Upon finding them, he stumbles down the hall toward the water fountain. As he approaches it, Maggie turns the corner and sees Nick struggling. She calls out to him.

MAGGIE: Nick?

Nick, in his haze, doesn't hear her. Maggie walks over, as Nick clasps both hands on his head, as the pain intensifies to an unbearable pressure.

MAGGIE: Nick! Are you okay?!

---

DAYS #129: John's unpleasant reunion with Marlena and the Brady's, Nick pays Jordan a visit (08/14/14)

EPISODE 129

Written by A. Washington-Beeby
Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco

Billie sits across the table from Kate at Club TBD. She's stunned by Kate's reticence to take on Nick Fallon at the upcoming Titan baord meeting.

BILLIE: Mom...I can't believe what I'm hearing right now.

Kate casually sips her martini, trying hard to hide her fears about Nick.

KATE: Believe it.
BILLIE: I mean, this is not you. The Kate I know would have the jump on a louse like Nick in a heartbeat. You'd be eager to knock his arrogant behind down a few pegs.
KATE: Billie, sometimes, it's best to play your cards close to your chest. As far as I'm concerned, we need to let Nick fall on his own sword.

Billie looks at Kate, still incredulous by her mother's seeming willingness to allow Nick to take over Titan.
BILLIE: Mom, isn't that exactly what we were trying to avoid? Nick destroying this company.

Kate casually places her empty martini on the table, before looking back at Billie calmly, a wry smile painted on her face.

KATE:  Billie, have you never heard of the Dunning-Kruger effect? Nick's arrogance and incompetence is going to destroy him long before he can destroy Titan. And I, for one, welcome the chance to have a front-row seat.

Billie glares at Kate, annoyed by Kate's nonchlanace and cynicism.

BILLIE: Okay. So we enjoy Nick fall apart in slow motion. Then what?

Kate leans in close to Billie, and responds softly, but firmly.

KATE: That's when I make my move to take over Titan for myself.

---


John saunters toward Kim and Roman, and Marlena and Sami, who are gathered around the booth where Kim and Roman are sitting. The group have turned around after hearing John's voice call out to them. They're surprised by his arrival, and Marlena, in particular, is unhappy to see him.

MARLENA: John.
JOHN: Hey Doc.

Sami steps in, immediately hostile towards her ex-stepfather.

SAMI: You have an awful lot of nerve showing your face in here right now.

Marlena immediately chastises Sami, stopping her from continuing.

MARLENA: Sami, stop it!

Marlena turns back to face John, still an icyness between them.

MARLENA: I wasn't expecting to see you.
JOHN: Well...there was an emergency board meeting called at Titan today, and...Justin made it seem urgent that I be here, so...I decided to pop in and grab something quick to eat before heading over.
MARLENA: I see. Well,it's nice to see you're still at least committed to your business affairs.

John, stung by her stuble dig, looks away in frustration.

JOHN: Doc--
MARLENA: No, I mean, really, John. I know you're hurting from Brady's death, but to divorce me, after reaffirming your love for me? I don't believe any of it. Something is going on and I want to know what it is.

John attempts to reach out to touch Marlena, but she steps back. John immediately backs off, but responds emotionally.

JOHN: Doc, I'm sorry. And I know this doesn't mean much to you right now. But I have my reasons. I think you'll come to understand them one day soon.
MARLENA: Like Hell. I will never believe for a second that your feelings for me have changed yet again.

John sighs, trying to avoid any further emotion. Marlena steps toward John, speaking softly, but emphatically.

MARLENA: I know you inside and out. If someone put you up to this, you need to tell me.

John looks over at Kim, Roman, and a glowering Sami, and nods cordially to them.

JOHN: Look, I made a mistake coming here. I'm sorry if I upset any of you. I'll head over to TBD instead.

John steps out, leaving Marlena visibly drained. She turns back toward the others, who look on sympathetically.

---


Sheryl sits at the desk in her darkened hotel room, curtains shut. In the room, the main source of light remains the glow of her laptop screen.

She pours over articles discussing how to successfully dye auburn hair a strawberry blonde colour.

She grabs her phone to quickly text Jerome the shopping list she'll need to successfully pull off Nurse Crystal Clarke's hair colour, and fool Valerie, and the University Hospital staff.

SHERYL: Okay...I'll have to get Jerome to buy...bleach, reddish blonde dye, ruby red dye...and a mixing bottle.

As she sends the text, and puts her phone down, her e-mail notification goes off. Hastily checking the message, it's from Brady, requesting she phone Anita's home to set up a meeting time to test drive and potentially purchase the blue SUV. Sheryl smiles as she reaches the end of the e-mail.

SHERYL: Okay, here goes nothing.

Sheryl picks up her phone, but stops herself, and heads over to the hotel landline. Hesitating momentarily, she breathes in deep, psyching herself up to take the call.

SHERYL: Alright, Sheryl. Your first big test as Nurse Crystal Clarke. Let's see if we can pull this off.

Sheryl picks up the receiver, and puts it to her ear, before beginning to dial Anita's number.

---

---


Nick walks off the elevator at University Hospital. Almost ready to take on the Titan board, he steps out into the lobby, and spies Maggie stepping into Victor's hospital room. He smirks as he steps toward the nurses' station. He catches Maxine's attention.

MAXINE: Yes, can I help you with something?
NICK: Uh, yes. I'm here to see Jordan Ridgeway? Do you know which is her office?
MAXINE: Her office is down the end of this hall, but I don't know if she's in her office. Did you want me to page her for you, Mr...?

Nick smiles in gratitude to Maxine before stepping away.

NICK: Oh, don't worry, I'll wait for her.

Nick walks over toward Jordan's office, as Maxine looks on, slightly uneasy.

Nick makes his way to the end of the hall, and knocks on Jordan's door.



Inside, Jordan is signing some paperwork, and hears the knock. She responds without raising her head.

JORDAN: Come in.

Nick opens the door to Jordan's office, and smiles like the Cheshire Cat. Jordan looks up, trying to hide the fear in her eyes.

---


Billie looks on, irritated by Kate's intentions, as Kate looks over her shoulder, attempting to get T's attention for another martini.

BILLIE: I cannot believe you're using this as an opportunity to seize control at Titan. Oh, wait! No, I totally can. Because you're my mother, and that's all you do is look for tiny openings you can use to make a power play.
KATE: Billie, you of all people should know that business is a dog-eat-dog world.

Billie rolls her eyes, thinking back to her own past dealing with Kate in business. She responds sarcastically.

BILLIE: Oh how could I forget? It's not like my own mother stole my company away from me or anything.
KATE: You of all people know that was nothing personal. That's just how it works, Billie. Those are the rules.

Catching T's attention, Kate smiles his way, and he winks back, knowingly. She then turns back to Billie, and finishes her thought.

KATE: And if I don't play by those rules, I'm going to get eaten. And I refuse to allow that to happen.


As Kate responds to Billie, Will walks into the room, dressed professionally for work at the Titan building. He spots Billie and Kate and walks over to greet them.

WILL: Grandma Kate, Aunt Billie, how are you doing?

Billie and Kate look up at a smiling Will, and Billie stands up to give Will a hug.

BILLIE: I'm great, Will. How are you, honey?
WILL: I'm good! I haven't seen you much since you've been back in town!

Will and Billie separate from their hug, and Billie takes Will's hands in hers, as they smile warmly at each other.

BILLIE: I KNOW! I feel terrible about it. There's been a LOT going on, but...I promise, we'll catch up soon, okay?
WILL: Alright.
BILLIE: Look, I gotta go, but...Mom...think about what I'm saying, okay? Don't let your need for power cloud your judgment, okay?

Kate looks non-plussed as she looks up at her daughter from her seat.

KATE: My judgment is fine, Billie. I think you're the one who's in a panic.

Billie sighs, frustrated by her mother's obstinance.

BILLIE: Mom...
KATE: Billie, I know what I'm doing.

Billie says nothing, but sighs again before grabbing her bag and marching out the door, leaving a confused Will behind. He looks down at Kate before sitting opposite her at the booth.

WILL: What was that about?
KATE: You don't wanna know.
WILL: Try me.

Kate thinks it over a moment, as T steps over with Kate's drink. Will looks up at T with a smile.

T: Here you go! Will, nice seeing you, man! How's the corporate life?

Will smiles awkwardly as he answers his friend.

WILL: Ahh well. You know...I haven't been fired yet so...it's a start. Uh...can I get a...uh...

Kate interrupts, using a very firm tone as she gives T the order.

KATE: Scotch on the rocks.

Kate looks over to Will, realizing she has to tell him what's going on.

KATE: You're gonna need it after I tell you what's happening at work.

Will looks back at Kate, puzzled and concerned.

...

Outside, John approaches the door to Club TBD, when Billie steps out. Noticing John, she grabs him by the arm and steps in close to him.

BILLIE: We need to talk, NOW.

---

Marlena and Sami stand before a seated Kim and Roman at the Brady Pub. Roman looks puzzled by the goings-on around him.

ROMAN: Doc, you wanna explain to me what da hell's going on with you and John?

Marlena sits down next to Kim, smiling wistfully.

MARLENA: Don't you worry about me. I am here for YOU, Roman.
ROMAN: Now, come on, Doc. Stop that. I know you're hurting from Eric marrying Nicole, and your divorce from John, but I'm here for you too.

Roman reaches across the table, and takes Marlena's hand in his. Squeezing it gently, he looks deeply into her eyes. Marlena looks back, still emotional from her confrontation with John, and appreciative for Roman's comforting words.

KIM: Roman's right. You're still family, Marlena. We'll always be here for you.
MARLENA: Thank you.

As Marlena tears up, Kim reaches over as well to put her hands on Marlena's shoulders, giving her a comforting embrace as well.

---


At Anita's cabin, the phone rings. From Brady's perch at the computer desk, he calls out to Anita.

BRADY: I got it!

Brady walks quickly over to the rather anachronistic wall-mounted corded phone. Picking it up, he adopts a phony, chipper expression for the caller.

BRADY: (into phone) Hello!

...

In Sheryl's hotel room, Sheryl stands by the nightstand, clutching the cord from her landline phone. She clears her throat before speaking in an overt, but authentic-sounding southern accent.

SHERYL: (into phone) Uh...hayyy it's uh...I'm callin' about the truck you had for sale?

...

BRADY: (into phone) Oh! Yes! Hi! Ah...well, it's all ready whenever you'd like to come down to see it...again, the brakes work but they're not the best, so I can't let you test drive it off the property or anything but, uh...

...

SHERYL: (into phone) Oh, that's fine. I can just fix it up at my local garage, you don't have to do nothin' for me. But, uh...I don't have a car, exactly, so...can you meet me out near the Floatin' K truck stop on Route 15 for say....five? I can catch a taxi out that far.

...

Brady checks his watch, then shrugs, as though Sheryl were in the room.

BRADY: (into phone) Uh...sure! Yeah, that works. I'll see you then?

...

SHERYL: (into phone) That's great. I'll be there. Thaaaanks.

Sheryl hangs up the phone, breathing a massive sigh of relief. Resting her hand, and most of her own weight on the receiver, she takes a second before pulling herself back up, a serious look on her face.

SHERYL: Well...I guess it's time to test out the new look.

Sheryl walks over to the mirror on the oppsite wall. She looks into it, intensely. She pulls her hair back, and looks up at herself, all the while maintaining an air of confidence.

SHERYL: Goodbye, Sheryl Connors. Hello, Crystal Clarke.

Letting go of her hair, Sheryl continues to look into the mirror, she begins to chuckle. At first, quietly, but soon growing into an almost hysterical, sinister laugh.

---