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.

---

DAYS #128: Kate shocks Billie, Anjelica meets with Stefano and Nick (08/13/14)

EPISODE 128
Written by A. Washington-Beeby
Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson

Kate and Billie sit at a booth at Club TBD together. Kate stirs her martini as she chews solemnly over what Billie's told her about Nick's plan to take over Titan.

KATE: Billie...are you absolutely sure that what Justin told you is the truth?

Billie looks at her mother, unflinchingly. She nods her head before responding.

BILLIE: Yeah. I'm almost certain of it. Justin seemed...(sigh) he seemed...more than flustered, he...he seemed petrified, really. That's why it's so important that we vote Nick down.

Kate looks down at her martini, before looking back up at Billie. Kate's expression remains solemn.

KATE: We may not be able to do that, Billie.

Billie frowns, a clear, pressing worry on her face.

BILLIE: Why not? I mean, the ball's in our court, Mom. You know he's just bluffing...
KATE: No....Billie, he's not. We'll have to go after him some other way. But....for now...you're going to have to let him have what he wants.

Billie looks on at Kate, stunned.

---


Anjelica steps into the DiMera living room, and is greeted by a warm embrace by Stefano. Nick stands back, looking on as the other two greet each other.

STEFANO: Ahhh Anjelica, it's so good to see you again, my dear.
ANJELICA: Thank you, Stefano. It's been far too long.

Stefano breaks their embrace, but guides Anjelica toward Nick by his hand on the small of her back as she steps toward Nick, extending a hand in greeting.

STEFANO: I would like you to meet our very loyal liaison in our mission. Nick Fallon, meet Anjelica Deveraux.

Nick extends a hand in return, smirking as Anjelica returns a wry smile his way.

NICK: Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Deveraux.
ANJELICA: Likewise. And please, call me Anjelica. We're about to get very familiar, you and I.

---


Anita steps into her living room, as Brady sits at the desk in the corner, typing away.

ANITA: Brady.
BRADY: Yeah! Anita! What's happening?

Brady stops typing and turns to face Anita, who leans against the frame of the doorway into the room.

ANITA: I had a favour to ask you.
BRADY: Okay.
ANITA: Well...you know that old blue truck you were using to head over to the general store for groceries.

Brady nods, knowing which one she meant.

BRADY: Yeah, the one I nearly crashed into that guy with.

Anita walks further into the room, and sits down on the couch as she talks with Brady.

ANITA: That's the one. Well...I was thinking...you're relatively handy. If you can do a bit of work on the brakes...I was thinking of selling it, and using the money we get to buy a replacement for you to use.

Brady shrugs, feeling reasonably confident about the idea.

BRADY: Seems reasonable to me. You want me to set up an ad online?

Anita laughs heartily.

ANITA: You know, crazy old me was thinking of asking you to call the Salem Spectator and place an ad that way. I completely forgot about the internet.

BRADY: You're living in a new age, Anita.
ANITA: Ain't that the truth!

Anita gets up from the sofa, and walks over toward Brady.

ANITA: Well, listen. You set the ad up, we'll put it up for, say...$1500 or best offer, and we'll see if we can get anyone to come in and look at it later. Who knows? Maybe we can get rid of the damn thing by tonight!

Anita pats Brady on the shoulders as she passes by. Brady turns around and looks back at his computer, ready to take on the task.

---

---


Marlena and Sami walk over to Kim and Roman, who are sitting at a booth at the Brady Pub. Roman and Kim are stunned by the news that Eric has married Nicole.

ROMAN: Now wait just a minute! Eric is marrying Nicole? I thought he was a priest! He can't...

Sami looks on at her ailing father, worried by his mental lapses. Kim takes Roman's hands into hers, settling Roman back down into his seat.

KIM: Roman...Eric was defrocked. It wasn't his fault, but...Nicole helped him through it.

Sami snorts, folding her arms as she looks down, embittered.

SAMI: You could say that.
ROMAN: Well...so...Nicole married Eric...I mean...their relationship didn't cause Eric to be defrocked, did it?

Kim shakes her head, still looking at a confused Roman.

KIM: No, Roman. No, she just helped Eric deal with some problems that happened. The important thing is that Eric is happy. We should all remember that.
JOHN: I'll go along with that.

Everyone turns as John walks toward the group. Marlena looks on, a deep pain on her face as she looks at her now-ex-husband.

---

Nick and Anjelica sit in the DiMera living room, chatting with each other, as Stefano puts away papers at his desk. As he struggles to get up from his seat, Nick and Anjelica's focus shifts to him.

STEFANO: Alright. Now, I am going to depart for my trip. Nicholas. I want you to keep Anjelica abreast of any problems you encounter. Make sure that your plan goes right today at that meeting.

NICK: Absolutely, Mr. DiMera.
STEFANO: And Anjelica, I would offer you to make yourself at home, but...

Anjelica raises her hand, stopping Stefano midsentence.

ANJELICA: Not to worry, Stefano. I have a wonderful suite at the Salem Inn, and of course, for my campaign, obviously it's best that we keep our little connection private.
STEFANO: I'll leave you to it.

Stefano heads out of the room, leaving Anjelica and Nick in the living room. Nick looks over at Anejlica, intrigued.

NICK: Campaign? You running for office or something?
ANJELICA: You better believe it. You're hopefully looking at your new state governor.

Nick's face lights up at the news.

NICK: Ahhh, so I see. So I guess it's important to keep our rather...unethical connection private, hm?

Nick walks toward Anjelica, almost flirtatiously. Anjelica responds with a similarly playful demeanour.

ANJELICA: Absolutely. In fact, the best thing we can do is make sure that no one can connect me to DiMera Enterprises, or Stefano, at all costs.

---

Brady walks into the cabin, a digital camera in hand. He walks over to the desktop computer in the corner of the room, all the while opening the flap of the camera holding the memory card. He carefully places the card into a slot on the computer, and prepares to upload the pictures onto the computer, as Anita walks in from the kitchen.

ANITA: Any luck?
BRADY: Yeah! Just uploading the pictures now, and it'll be up in just a second.
ANITA: Wow. Technology these days, hm?
BRADY: Tell me about it.

As Brady types up the last of the ad, Anita walks over and puts a hand on Brady's shoulder.

ANITA: You know, it's been a real help having you here, Brady. It's hard being an old woman separated from her family like this, and my family doesn't come around like they used to. I can't do all the things I've been wanting to do. So, I really appreciate the help.

Brady hits send, then turns around the look up at Anita, a warm, caring expression on his face.

BRADY: You know...Anita...you're the one who's helped ME. I needed a refuge from...everything that went wrong in my life up to now. I...I truly haven't had it easy in a lot of ways, but...I almost feel guilty for feeling that way. So many people have it so much worse than me.

Anita smiles, looking back at Brady lovingly. She sits herself down in the chair by Brady, taking his hands in hers.

ANITA: Never compare your struggle with someone else's, Brady. You've come a long way in a short amount of time. And, no, I don't know a lot about you, but I feel such a...familiarity about you. I feel connected to you somehow. And I can tell that you're a kind, gentle man. A man who's been hurt a lot..and needs to do a lot of healing. I know you'll tell me about what's happened to you in your own time. Don't feel you need to rush.

Brady looks at Anita, smiling sheepishly.

BRADY: You know...I have been feeling so...so down about everything...I just don't wanna burden you with my stupid....stories of my self-inflicted wounds. But it comes so easily with you. I feel like...like I've known you all my life. I want to thank you, Anita. You've been a big help to me.
ANITA: Anytime, Brady.

After a moment of pointing and clicking, and a bit of typing, Brady turns to look back at the computer, and points to it, looking back at Anita.

BRADY: The ad's gone live!
ANITA: Fantastic. Thank you, Brady.

Brady looks back at Anita, smiling genuinely for the first time in a long time.

---


In her dimly lit motel suite, Sheryl sits at her laptop, blinds drawn. She sits alone, going through ads on an online classified site, when she spots an ad for an older blue SUV, $1500 or best offer. Intrigued, she opens the ad.

SHERYL: 1995...in good shape but brakes will need replacing soon. $1500, or $2000 with brake replacement included. Lakeview Drive. Sounds perfect.

Sheryl clicks to send off an e-mail about the truck. She smiles her devious smile as she starts her e-mail to come view the truck at Anita's home.

---

Billie looks on, stunned by her mother's sudden cowtowing to Nick's blackmail.

BILLIE: Mother...I have known you a lot of years, and you've never been one to back down against the likes of Nick Fallon.
KATE: Well, there's a first for everything, isn't there?

Billie looks at Kate, puzzled. Her voice taking on an incredulous tone as Kate takes a sip of her martini.

BILLIE: I'm sorry, am I talking to Kate Roberts right now? What is it about Nick that's scaring you so badly?

Kate puts down her drink, noticeably agitated by Billie's pressing of the topic.

KATE: Look, Billie, you know my history. And you know yours. There's all kinds of skeletons Nick could dredge up at that meeting. None of which you would want exposed. So I think it's best that we play along, do what he says so that we don't alarm him, and build our case against him quietly until we're able to put him away.

Billie shakes her head, in total disbelief about what she's hearing her mother say.

---

DAYS #127: Stefano's partner appears at the mansion, Billie and Kate go over their options (08/12/14)

EPISODE 127
Written by A. Washington-Beeby
Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson

John and Anjelica sit next to each other in First Class on the flight from Paris to Salem. John sits, looking at the Salem Spectator headline displayed on Anjelica's tablet:

DEVERAUX KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN: DISGRACED SENATOR'S EX-WIFE ENTERS GOVERNOR'S RACE

He looks up at Anjelica, as she looks back, a wry smile on her face.

JOHN: Governor Anjelica Deveraux, hm?

John hands Anjelica back her tablet, as she moves to put it away in her bag.

ANJELICA: That's the plan. I mean, I could've done with a slightly less antagonistic headline, but I'll take the free publicity.
JOHN: Well, these days, is there really any such thing as bad publicity?

Anjelica points John's way playfully.

ANJELICA: Touché, Mr. Black.

John laughs at Anjelica, as the flight crew make an announcement through the loudspeaker.

FLIGHT ATTENDANT: (via speaker) Attention, passengers. We are commencing our descent into Salem International Airport. Would all passengers please take their seats, and fasten their seatbelts as we prepare for landing in Salem.

Anjelica looks John's way, a broad smile on her face as she buckles her seatbelt.

ANJELICA: Well. Look out, Salem. Anjelica's comin' home!

---


Billie walks into Club TBD, finding Kate sitting at a booth alone, sipping a gin martini. Billie sighs as she looks at her mother, heading over to sit with her. Kate looks up, a half-hearted smile on her face as she sets her drink down.

BILLIE: Isn't it a bit early to be drinking, Mom?

Kate sets her drink down on the table, choosing to ignore Billie's comment.

KATE: You were looking for me, I presume.

Billie crosses her arms as she stops in front of Kate's table.

BILLIE: You're damned right, I was. Mom, I was worried the way you just...ran off like that after talking with Rafe.
KATE: Well, it took you awhile to find me.

Kate looks up and gestures to Billie to come sit with her.

KATE: Well, don't just stand there glaring, come sit.

Billie sits down across from Kate in the booth. She leans in toward her mother and speaks to her sternly.

BILLIE: I figured you went to the office, so I went there.
KATE: I couldn't focus. I just needed some time alone. You know, just to...process everything that's happened.

Billie looks down, then nods her head in understanding.

BILLIE: I get it. But you need to understand, you played a part in creating this situation, Mom.

Kate rolls her eyes, immediately retorting to Billie.

KATE: I know, I know, you can blame it all on me. I should've vetted this woman better before inflicting her and her psychotic best friend on all of Salem, I get it. Alright?

Billie sighs, looking down again with regret.

BILLIE: I'm sorry, Mom. I shouldn't have said that.
KATE: It's okay. I know you're just trying to help. But I need to understand there's no way to fix this.

Billie nods, before looking up at her mother, who finishes her martini.

KATE: Now...let's focus on things we CAN control. You were just at the office. Any new developments?

Billie sighs heavily as she gives a worried look Kate's way. Kate catches this and her face echoes Billie's.

KATE: What happened?
BILLIE: We may not have as much control over what's happening next as you think.

---


Kim and Roman sit in the Brady Pub at a booth. Kim leans in toward Roman, her hand cupping his across the table. Roman looks at Kim, a grave sadness in his eyes. Kim looks back at him, a deep concern in hers.

KIM: Roman, I don't want you to think that I'm trying to push you to retire...or to do anything you don't want to do. But...
ROMAN: But you think that these...memory lapses I'm having are starting to affect my ability to do my job.

Kim looks away from Roman for a second before slowly nodding.

KIM: Yeah. I do.

Kim's eyes looks back into Roman's, an earnest concern still plain in her eyes, as Roman looks back, disappointed by his sister's assessment.

---

---

Roman looks on, as he contemplates what his sister has told him. He sighs before responding.

ROMAN: Look....Kimmy, I know....I've been having some...lapses in my memory. But you need to understand...I need this job. It's the only thing keeping me going every day. I...

Kim squeezes her brother's hand. She looks deep into his eyes, and nods before answering her brother.

KIM: I know. I know, you're...you haven't had an easy few years, but...Roman, your line of work, it's...(sigh) people's lives are on the line here. I don't know how responsible it is for you to carry on working on the police force on the front lines making decisions like that.
ROMAN: Kimmy, I...

Kim interrupts Roman, trying to clarify her position.

KIM: I know. But...I had an idea. And...jJust....tell me you'll think about it.

Roman sips his coffee, unsure about what his sister's about to suggest.

ROMAN: I'm listening.
KIM: Okay, well...ma's...not doing so well...and you know...I've been struggling since Theresa's been in the hospital. I'd like to help ma out. You know...try to...handle the pub for her. I'd like you to help me.
ROMAN: Kim, that's a...that's a really important thing you're doing. And I think it's great that you want me to help you out, but...

Kim smiles, holding up her hand to stop him from continuing.

KIM: Roman...just...promise me you'll think about it? I just...I want you to try to take a step back  from the force before you hurt someone, especially yourself?


Roman smiles, still holding his sister's hand as he nods in understanding. As they complete their exchange, Sami and Marlena storm into the pub. Recognizing Roman and Kim, they make a beeline for their booth, which catches both Kim and Roman's attention.

ROMAN: Doc! Sami?
SAMI: Daddy, we have a huge problem.

Roman looks on, brow furrowed, as Marlena and Sami stop in front of their booth. Kim looks up at them, also worried.

KIM: Why? What happened? Is everyone okay?
MARLENA: Depends on what constitutes 'okay'. Eric just married Nicole Walker.

Roman and Kim both look on, stunned by the news, as Marlena and Sami look down at both of them, distinctly unimpressed, and aggravated.

---


Nicole and Eric burst through the door of his suite at the Salem Inn, Eric carrying Nicole into the room, deep in an intense liplock.

Breaking momentarily from their kiss, Nicole giggles gleefully, opening her eyes slightly to look at her new husband.

ERIC: Welcome, Mrs. Brady.
NICOLE: Mmm, you know how I love to be called that.

Eric and Nicole kiss again, laughing happily.

ERIC: Yeah, well...you'd better get used to it!
NICOLE: (laughs) I think I can manage that. In fact, I will. Gladly.

Nicole looks into Eric's eyes as they kiss again, deep in their newlywed bliss.

ERIC: Great. Let's start now. Where to, Mrs. Brady?
NICOLE: Ohhh I'm sure you know where, Mr. Brady.

Eric smiles as he and Nicole stop momentarily before walking over to the hotel room bed, where Eric lays Nicole gently down, as Nicole wraps her arms around Eric's neck, never allowing him back up. They continue to kiss deeply as Eric carefully leans forward into their kiss and lays down on the bed with Nicole.

---

Billie and Kate sit at their booth at Club TBD. Kate looks at Billie with concern.

KATE: What do you mean, we won't have as much control as we think? What aren't you telling me?

Billie sighs as she sips her drink. Billie puts her drink down before responding.

BILLIE: Justing came to see me this morning.

Kate raises an eyebrow as she raises her own cocktail.

KATE: Oh?

Billie looks at Kate, knowing what she's hinting at.

BILLIE: Don't.

Kate puts her drink down and raises her hands, feigning surrender.

KATE: I'm just saying, Justin is a great guy, and definitely a step up from our spray-tanned surgeon friend--

Billie rolls her eyes, cutting Kate off before she starts a full-on rant against Daniel.

BILLIE: ...Mom! Stop. I don't get to judge you on your partner choices, you don't get to judge mine. Okay?
KATE: I'm just looking out for you. Now, come on. Tell me what Justin said to you.

Billie sighs, taking a second to clearly tell Kate her story.

BILLIE: He told me that Nick Fallon is planning a coup. He has all kinds of...dirt on every member of the board, and he's planning to use it to take control of Titan at today's board meeting. And if we don't do something about it, Mom....he could very well succeed.

Kate looks away, stunned by the news, and trying to figure out how to deal with it.

---


Nick and Stefano stand in the DiMera living room, as Nick looks amused, enjoying the new tidbit of information Stefano has just given him.

NICK: John Black trying to save Roman Brady, hm? I don't exactly see Roman in any imminent danger.

Stefano snaps, holding a finger up to Nick's face, making his previous point extra-clear.

STEFANO: NO QUESTIONS! You do NOT get to find out anything more than what I give you. Do you understand?
NICK: Oh, I understand.

Stefano backs down slightly, but still glares unflinchingly at Nick.

STEFANO: Good. Because I will not be able to tell you anything. Don't try to squeeze even a DROP more from me. You will not get it, Nicholas. You just keep your head down, and do as I say.

As Stefano finishes his sentence, the doorbell rings. Stefano's demeanour changes slightly with the arrival of their guest.

STEFANO: Ah! Our partner has arrived.

Harold opens the doors to the living room, as Stefano and Nick turn to face their guest.

STEFANO: Ah! Welcome!

Anjelica Deveraux stands into the doorway, smiling widely as she slowly steps into the room.

---