Chapter 26: We Could Be Two – Friday, November 11th, 2016
Happy. Arianna was over the moon and completely happy. In bed, Arianna grabbed a piece of bacon from the plate next to her and fed it to Marco. "How does that taste?"
Marco blissfully scratched his scruffy chest and chewed his food before carefully saying, "It's delicious." After he swallowed, his smile grew bigger. He was loving every minute of this.
This felt nice. Arianna almost couldn't believe she had Marco to herself for this long. She suddenly felt suspicious on how this was possible. "If you need to check in with your mother, you have my permission," she joked.
Marco pulled himself up so that he could lean on the headboard more. Crossing his arms, he commented, "Trust me. Distance is something I need from her."
Placing the plate of food on the end table next to her, Arianna questioned, "Is everything okay between you and Renée?"
Not in the mood for this discussion, Marco replied, "Yes. I just want some time for myself, where I can focus on what I want in life and not so much what she wants."
Arianna understood that. "Well, I won't complain about you being here."
"Good," Marco released before teasing, "For a second there, I thought you were trying to hint that I needed to leave."
Arianna wrapped her arms around Marco. "No way. I'm not letting you go." She climbed on top of him and began to kiss him.
In the kitchen, Manny had his phone to his ear. He was talking to Gabi. "I hate that something always seems to happen to Dario and Sonny. I wish I never got in between them all those years ago."
Gabi let out a disappointed sigh. "Don't go there. You guys have moved past that, but I agree that they do have the worst luck. I just can't imagine what it must have been like for Sonny to find Mathieu like that. He has to be struggling." She remembered how Mathieu ran towards her outside of her brother's garage after he was assaulted. That was terrifying enough.
Gabi's thoughts then went to how Mathieu tried to blackmail Nicholas. It was weird thinking about her ex and how she never heard from him or saw him again. It had been a while since she talked to Melanie about her brother, but apparently, she was in the same boat. What happened to Nicholas?
"Do you think we should check in with Dario?" Manny interrupted Gabi's thoughts. "We do need to figure out Thanksgiving plans. I know he and Sonny mentioned doing something big at their place, but with what Sonny's been through, I don't think Sonny will be in the mood to cook."
Gabi knew Dario didn't enjoy anyone checking in on him, but they had to do something. "I'll call him, and I'll let you know what he says."
"Sounds good," Manny stated. He hoped Sonny and Dario could get through this.
"So, what are we going to do about Gustavo?"
Manny thought for a moment. He then decided, "I'll check in with Ari when she gets up. He's not going to ruin our family. Our home is Salem."
(*)*(*)*(*)
Stefano, who appeared to everyone as Alessandro, arrived outside of Renée's home in a Midnight Blue Fiat 500X. He waited in the car for a moment and reflected on how he managed to take control of Alessandro's body.
Friday, September 16th, 2016
"Hello, Alessandro," Stefano greeted him with a hefty smile. They stood inside of what remained of Maison Blanche. "I heard you were looking for me. Congratulations! You succeeded."
Alessandro couldn't believe this, but he realized he should have expected it. "What's going on? Why am I here?"
Pointing at Alessandro, Stefano began to praise his great-nephew. "You are very smart and capable. You found a secret lab of André's that I have searched for… for decades. Brava." After clapping his hands for a moment, he continued, "Alessandro, I want you for a very important task."
Looking at Stefano as if he were crazy, Alessandro replied, "I will never do anything for you."
Stefano laughed in Alessandro's face. His laughter filled the room even after he stopped. "You don't really have a choice."
"What do you want from me?" Alessandro demanded to know.
With great power in his voice, Stefano disclosed, "I planned on using Marco, but Marco is not within reach, and we're running out of time. I guess this means I will have to settle for you to be my new body man to help in my return to Salem and my family."
Alessandro looked on wondering what Stefano meant. He knew he needed to get out of this situation and began to feel for his knife. The timing had to be right if he hoped to be free from his great-uncle.
Motioning his hand to the men who dragged Alessandro to him, Stefano informed his great-nephew, "There is no need for the Phoenix knife. Not now anyway."
Alessandro struggled as the men took the knife away from him. "How did you know?"
Shaking his head while making a ticking sound with his tongue and teeth, Stefano revealed, "You may have brains, but you can't see everything. I put that knife in that cell knowing you would use it. I wanted you to feel like you had a choice even though that's furthest from the truth."
Agitated, Alessandro demanded, "What do you want from me?!"
Taking the knife from one of the men, Stefano looked it over and focused on the phoenix symbol. "I guess I have to answer in a clearer way." He pointed the knife directly to Alessandro. "I need your body because I can no longer live in my own. Besides the fact that this body has aged, I have also damaged this one more every time I rose from the ashes. The solution your father, André, created faked deaths and cured illnesses, but it doesn't cure aging. Your father knew this and began to work on something else. Something I am will attempt today."
Alessandro recalled the things he found in André's secret lab and it hit him. "Possession. You plan to possess my body!" He began to attempt pulling away from the men who had their hands on him. He couldn't let this happen.
Stefano smiled widely in amusement. "There is that brain of yours again. There's no use in fighting it, Alessandro. Don't worry, I'll take care of your body and your name will play an important role in the future of the family's legacy." Turning to Rolf, he gave him a nod. "Let's start the procedure, shall we?"
"Right away, Mr. DiMera."
Returning his eyes to Alessandro's, Stefano took a deep breath. "This knife will lay in your hand once more, but it will be when you are no longer in control…"
Terror covered Alessandro's face. "What will happen to me?"
Present: Friday, November 11th, 2016
The procedure was quick. Before he knew it, Stefano opened his eyes to find himself looking at his original body. The body in which he experienced so much – life, death, wealth, loss, and power. Stefano grinned and took in this moment to appreciate the life he lived. It was time for a new era. His name would be Alessandro now.
Getting out of his car, Alessandro approached Renée's house eager to return to Kate's side tonight. He sent the will to Renée purposely hoping it would give him easier access to Marco. Since she flew out of the states, he had to improvise and change his plans to using Alessandro's body instead of his grandson's. Now the will he sent had simply brought her back to Salem. He hoped he could bring the family together, but he needed to check in with his eldest to see if she could play nice with the family. Encouragement in their goals was the new legacy he wanted to focus on, and if necessary, he had a way to bring down Renée if she decided to go against the family's future.
When Renée opened the door, she was surprised to see Alessandro there. She had just met him the other day. Disturbed by his presence, she remembered how he watched her at DiMera Enterprises. "What are you doing here?"
"It is important I get to know every DiMera I cross paths with," Alessandro released noting some fear from his daughter.
Renée decided not to invite Alessandro inside. Instead, she walked outside to join him. The weather was at least cool enough. "So, we're family. Where do you fall on the DiMera spectrum? We can proceed so long as you're nothing like my cousin, your father, André DiMera." The last thing she needed was to let her guard down with another serial killer. She shuddered thinking about the fact that there was one currently roaming the streets of Salem.
Alessandro smiled because he forgot how much fun Renée could be. "I know André was crazy, but I have to say I would not be here if it wasn't for his brand of crazy. I'm curious about you, too. Why reveal yourself now after all these years? What are your plans?"
Renée wondered if Alessandro believed her to be a fool. There was no way she planned to give him an honest answer. "Your youth is showing," she commented. "I am your elder, and I am due a lot of respect in this family, so if there's anything I want from you, it is that. Respect."
"I did not come here to offend, Renée," Alessandro stated. Renée was just as entitled and difficult as ever. It was now clear more than ever that his change in age, at least through physical form, would be a struggle, especially with his oldest daughter. To change the subject, he asked, "Don't you have a son? Where is he?"
Renée thought about how Marco was spending more time with Arianna. She knew he needed some space, but she thought it was ridiculous he hadn't checked in with her. "He's out running errands," she answered.
A car suddenly parked in front of Renée's front yard. Alessandro turned around and mentally cringed when he saw it was Peter. Even though his adopted son had played his part in the past, he wished Peter had remained where he was and Maddalena hadn't rescued him. He was definitely getting in the way.
Peter quickly got out of his car. He was surprised to see Alessandro there as well. "Am I interrupting something?" He needed to question Alessandro about Delphi's attack.
Eyeing Peter, Renée thought about everything Marco told her about the honorary DiMera. "Family meeting," she answered. "You're family-ish."
Figuring Alessandro was trying to work up Renée, Peter questioned his angle. Since he wasn't sure if he could trust Alessandro, he decided to be careful. "I'm here to offer my hand to you." When Renée shook his hand, he continued, "I would like to form an alliance with you. If you're interested. I've worked with EJ before and it's hard to grow when everything is about him and his family."
Renée recognized Peter and his sister could be allies in the future in case EJ didn't give her what was rightfully hers, but she pretended she wasn't interested. "I'm sorry, but you've wasted a trip. Loyalty to family is very important to me." She looked to Alessandro and wondered if he was connected to EJ because the last time she saw him was at DiMera Enterprises. The last thing she wanted was Alessandro to report to EJ that she was being friendly with Peter, though she did wonder why Peter seemed comfortable offering his hand in front of André's son.
Alessandro was annoyed Peter put him in this position. He was livid, but he couldn't say anything now. "I should go."
Peter noticed Alessandro's body language seemed to imply he did not want to be around him. Since he was alone with Renée now, he hoped he could persuade her to reconsider a potential partnership. "You mention family loyalty, but are you sure you can trust EJ, his wife, and your other siblings? I may not be blood, but we are still family. Stefano adopted me."
Even though Alessandro was gone, Renée still didn't feel comfortable agreeing to anything, but she was curious why Peter would question EJ's loyalty. "Do you know a reason why I shouldn't trust my family?"
Jade was the one who told him what he knew, but Peter couldn't tell Renée that. "I have concrete information that EJ and the family are pretending to welcome you with open arms, so they can get a read on you. They question your motives… why you've returned."
This was information Renée could have guessed, but it was interesting to get confirmation from an unlikely source. She wondered how Peter knew. "I don't have time for false rumors. I must return to my daily routine. If you'll excuse me."
Making one final plea, Peter stated, "Keep me in mind." On his way to his car, his phone began to ring. It was a call he had to take. "Peter Blake," he answered.
"The emergency meeting is occurring this weekend," the Moroni family head announced. "Check the server for details."
As soon as Peter ended the call, another one came in. This time it was EJ's teenage sister. "Jade, I don't have time to talk," he answered as he got into his car.
"Do you have any tasks for me?" Jade said swiftly. "I am extremely drained by my brother's attempts to contain my life."
Starting his car, Peter swiftly shared, "I'm heading out of town, so I will probably be unavailable. You should check in with Kristen. I'll call you when I return."
As Peter drove away, Anna sat in Roman's car down the street. She turned to her ex-husband and asked, "What do you think those three were doing together?"
Roman was curious as well. "I don't know, but I say we find out."
(*)*(*)*(*)
Brought into one of the questioning rooms at the Salem Police Station, Mayor White wasn't impressed with how the detectives were treating her. "Why couldn't you question me in my office? Why did you bring me here?"
Hope took a seat across from Rachel. With a calm tone, she stated, "This has been a trying time for you, I'm sure, since the public now knows you are really Rachel Blake, Peter and Kristen's biological mother. I know your history with Stefano, so I can understand wanting to protect yourself from him, but a lot of people are wondering why keep this charade going and why put yourself in a public position such as mayor."
The mayor hated that she was now tainted. She took a few breaths to calm herself, but she remained quiet.
Hope continued, "As you are aware, Charles Woods was found dead last night. We know he was the one who outed your identity."
Rachel shook her head because she did not like where this was going. She tried to deflect to avoid the inevitable. "Am I under arrest because I changed my last name to keep myself hidden from Stefano DiMera?"
Hope swiftly denied it, "No, as I stated before, we completely understand why you would want to keep your identity a secret."
"Well, then are you questioning Lexie? …because Charles has released some ads on her as well," Rachel wondered next hoping to draw the attention away from her once more.
John stepped in and countered, "We brought you in because we have eyewitnesses who claim they saw you confront Woods for what he did. These witnesses say you were upset and seemed to threaten him."
There. It went there, and Rachel hoped no one went to the cops about the stupidest thing she could have done after Charles's interview. "So, you consider me a suspect?"
John looked to Hope knowing they needed to talk to Rachel about Delphi wondering if she knew any reason why her daughter-in-law was attacked. He turned his attention back to the mayor and said, "We only have some questions, and we hope you will help us find out who is hanging all these people."
Rachel leaned forward as she began to follow where this was going. "You think Charles was hung to make me look guilty or to keep me and the people of Salem too busy to look for the real killer…"
While John and Hope continued their questions, Kristen waited in the common area of the police station to show her support since everyone knew the mayor was actually her mother. Looking around, she questioned where her brother was because he should've been there as well.
After grabbing a bag of skittles from the vending machine, Martin spotted Kristen pulling her phone out of her purse. He saw an opportunity and decided to take it. "Kristen Blake. So, I guess it's true."
Kristen turned toward the commissioner and looked him up and down. Standing close to him again, she forgot how easy it was to get lost in his dark black eyes. They matched the color of his hair. "Is what true?"
Martin waited to open his bag of candy, so he could talk clearly with Kristen. "Is the mayor your mother? I can't see another reason you'd be here unless you need to report a crime."
The commissioner was definitely trying to lead her into a specific conversation. Kristen proudly answered. "Yes, my mother is the mayor, and I am here to make sure you and your honorable men and women don't do anything to abuse your power just because she is a Blake."
Taking Kristen's accusation seriously, Martin argued, "The days someone was judged by their family name are long gone. I've made sure of that. We only brought your mother in to clear her name – if she did nothing wrong – and see if she can help us in this investigation."
"She did nothing wrong," Kristen emphatically stated first. Curious, she questioned, "What do you think she knows that could help you?"
Martin was glad Kristen was curious. "With her connection to both Charles and your sister-in-law Delphi, we're curious to know if she can think of anyone who would attack both. Delphi is heavily guarded and in a coma for now, so your mother could possibly be one to help us stop this killer if Delphi doesn't wake up soon."
Kristen shook her head because she doubted her mother had what they needed. Rachel hadn't interacted with Delphi since their connection with Maddalena ended. "I'm sorry, but the only thing you'll be able to accomplish today is realizing you wasted time because my mother is innocent." Her phone began to ring in her hand. It was her brother. "I need to take this. Excuse me."
Heading out into the hall, Kristen answered. "Peter, where are you? I know I told you I would take care of business, so you could focus on your wife, but we need to be united in this! You got what you wanted with mom and now you're missing in action."
Peter heard the disappointment in his sister's voice. "I got tied up," he claimed. "I have to deal with Delphi's family. I'm heading out of town after running some errands. How are things going with mom?"
Unsure what to think of Peter's response, Kristen answered, "She'll be fine. What's going on with Delphi's family? Is it the money? Are they asking something from us and Blake, Inc.?" The last thing she needed was Delphi's family claiming they owed them anything.
Peter ignored his sister's questions. "I don't have time to talk, but you should expect a call from Jade. She's eager to hurt EJ for some reason. I'll talk to you when I return. We need to talk about Brady."
"Bye," Kristen released before ending the call. She wasn't ready to talk to Peter about Brady because she didn't want to say anything about Victor's health yet. Brady trusted her with that information, and though it could help Blake, Inc., she couldn't escape the suspicion she felt concerning her brother. "What are you really doing leaving town while your wife is in a coma, Peter? What aren't you telling me?"
(*)*(*)*(*)
Sharing a meal with Melissa at JoJo's Southern Steakhouse, Jack studied the restaurant hoping to see his sister. Instead, he spotted his son. "Oh."
When Jack quickly ducked his head, Melissa took note of Jack's discomfort. "What… what just happened?"
Keeping his head low, Jack softly replied, "I forgot JJ works tonight. I hope JJ doesn't think I'm checking up on him."
Melissa lowered her head to match Jack's posture. "I'm sure he won't think anything of it." To get his mind off his fear, she changed the subject. "I watched your interview with Harold Wentworth. I think Harold's story needs to be told and I hope what he said will stop this murderer on the loose."
"I hope so, too," Jack gladly agreed. He raised his head feeling relaxed again. "I know Jen isn't happy because I may have put a target on my back. Harold's as well."
Feeling nervous now, Melissa questioned, "Do you really believe you and Harold could be targeted by the serial killer?"
Jack grabbed his glass of ice water and reflected over his interview with Harold. He figured the serial killer was trying to create complete chaos with his latest victims, so he wouldn't be caught. Deciding not to share his concerns, he said instead, "I doubt it, but I am taking precautions, so I can continue to watch over my son and daughter."
"Didn't you just say you didn't come here to spy on JJ?" Melissa called Jack out in a teasing way.
Jack smiled. "I'm not here to spy on JJ. I'm here to have dinner with you and enjoy your company."
Melissa smiled in return. "I hope my company is enjoyable."
Alex approached their table and greeted them. "I'm ready to take your order if you're ready."
Jack didn't care about ordering right off the bat. "Hey Alex, is your mom around?"
Answering his uncle, Alex shared, "My parents are at the hospital because something happened to Sonny."
"Is Sonny alright?"
With distress in his eyes, Alex answered Melissa. "I'm not sure, but I have to work the restaurant, so my mom can focus on his well-being."
(*)*(*)*(*)
At the hospital, Cameron found his mother waiting near the nurses' station alone. Since he had a long shift ahead of him, he figured he should check in with her now. "Hey mom."
Happy to see her son, Maxine gave him a hug and asked, "Are you on break?"
With a slight nod, Cameron confirmed it. "I won't be able to make it to dinner tonight, but I need to ask you something."
"Go ahead," Maxine stated without thinking. Noting the look on Cameron's face, she suddenly felt nervous. "What is it?"
Cameron continued to show some discomfort. "It's about dad… not Stefano dad, but your husband dad," he began. "Can you tell me anything else about the man I once believed to be my father? Do you still have pictures of him around?"
Wondering what brought on Cameron's curiosity, Maxine tried to hide her nerves as she said, "I believe I have some packed away. I'll find them if you want to see them. Is there anything specifically you want to know about him?"
Remembering how Lexie told him she believed Celeste went to find Maxine's husband before disappearing, Cameron asked, "Where is he from? Did he always live in Salem? Does he have other family?"
Cameron's questions were a bit overwhelming for Maxine. She thought back to the last time she saw her husband alive.
Years ago…
Rushing down the stairs to the back door, Maxine stopped her husband from leaving their home outside of Salem. "Where do you think you're going? You can't just have a packed bag ready and then tell me you have to leave like we're never going to see each other again."
Iago caressed Maxine's face. "Maxie, this last job was too much. I need you to protect Cam… I know you, so I know it won't be hard because you love him so much."
"You love him, too," Maxine interjected hoping she could convince her husband to stay. She was used to him leaving for jobs, but with the way he was talking, she wasn't sure if she would see him again. "We can fix whatever went wrong together."
Pulling Maxine into a hug, Iago shared in defeat, "For you and Cam to be safe, I have to go, and you can't know where I am." After separating from his wife, he said, "I need you to take every picture of me and get rid of them all. Cam doesn't need to remember my face."
When Iago opened the door to leave, Maxine wasn't ready for this. "Tell me we will see each other again. Tell me!"
Iago looked directly into Maxine's eyes. "I love you, Maxie, and I hope I will return to you one day." He gave her one last kiss before saying, "Keep our secret. Stay away from Salem. Keep our son away from Salem."
Maxine watched as her husband rushed out. She wanted to chase after him, but Cameron was asleep upstairs. She would have to raise him alone.
Present: Friday, November 11th, 2016
Before Maxine could answer any of Cameron's questions, Nathan joined them. "Where are we on those results?" He felt extremely anxious about them.
Maxine checked her computer and answered, "They just arrived, Dr. Horton." She appreciated Nathan for interrupting her conversation with Cameron.
"I want to look them over," Nathan decided before eyeing Cameron. "I need to borrow your mother for a bit, Dr. Davis."
Maxine rested her hand on Cameron's arm. "I'll call you later."
Though he was annoyed, Cameron gave his mother an understanding nod. "We'll talk later."
In a hospital room, Sonny finally woke up after he was discovered unconscious by Nathan and Melanie. He felt groggy, confused, but mostly betrayed because he believed Dario cheated on him with Qamar. How could he do that to him? Was it his fault that Dario felt the need to go to someone else? They were touching each other. Dario was touching someone else.
Sonny began to take in his surroundings. When he saw Dario standing with his parents, he pointed his finger at him. "How could you do this to me?"
Dario traded glances with Justin and Adrienne because he had no idea why Sonny was blaming him for passing out at the hospital the night before. "What do you mean? What did I do to you?"
When he dropped his hands on the bed to get up, Sonny realized he was in the hospital. "What am I doing here? Did I fall at The Chill or something?"
Worried for her son, Adrienne rushed to his side and said, "You weren't at The Chill last night. You were working here. Nathan and Melanie found you passed out in the hall."
Shaking his head, Sonny released, "That's impossible. The last thing I remember was going to The Chill and finding Dario with Qamar… they were touching each other… and…"
Even though he remembered hugging Qamar earlier that day, Dario gave Justin a look to tell him that did not happen at all. He then gave Sonny the same look, but he wasn't sure if telling him verbally would help the situation because he didn't want to confuse or upset Sonny more.
Adrienne took Sonny's hand to keep his attention on her. "You're mistaken, sweetheart. Dario didn't cheat on you with anyone. He would never do that to you." When Sonny showed great confusion on his face, she continued and spoke slowly, so he heard everything she had to say. "Nathan and Melanie found you passed out on the floor here… at the hospital. I don't know what you think you saw, but it must have been a nightmare while you were out. You're here now though, and Nathan is taking very good care of you."
Just then, Nathan entered with Maxine. Eager to find out what happened to his son, Justin questioned, "Did you find out what caused this?"
Nathan hated this because he uncovered the reason Sonny passed out, but it also meant big trouble for his dear friend. "After running numerous tests, we discovered prescription medication in Sonny's system… quite a bit actually." He remembered talking to Joselyn two days ago concerning some medication discrepancies at the hospital pharmacy.
Confused, Dario stated, "But Sonny's not taking any medication now." At least, Sonny hadn't told him anything about it.
"You're right," Nathan said before expounding, "Sonny wasn't prescribed any medication — especially any prescription for pain." It was the same medication the hospital pharmacy had alerted Nathan and Joselyn about.
Trying to process everything, Sonny sat up and questioned, "What… what are you saying? Are you saying you found opioids in my system?"
Nathan sighed heavily as he confirmed it. "Yes, I'm afraid so."
Sonny looked away from everyone else in the room. How could this be? This did not bode well for his future. "Can I be alone?"
Noting how Sonny was trying to internally process everything, Nathan turned to Dario, Justin, and Adrienne. "I need to talk to Sonny in private."
Justin stepped closer to Nathan and argued, "I don't think that's a good idea." He did not want Sonny to say something that could put him in a more difficult position.
"No," Sonny released feeling as though he could barely breathe. "I want to be completely alone."
Adrienne grabbed Sonny's hand and squeezed it. "We'll be outside." She needed her youngest to know they weren't leaving completely.
After following the others out, Dario's phone began to ring. He walked away from the others before he answered, "Hey Gabi. I don't think I can talk much."
After greeting her brother, Gabi released, "I know this is weird timing, but we're wondering what you and Sonny want to do about Thanksgiving."
Looking down and taking a deep breath, Dario revealed, "I can't think about that now. Go ahead and make plans, and I will do my best to be there. I've got to go." After Gabi told him she would check in later, Dario ended the call. He feared he pushed Sonny into abusing opioids. This was all his fault.
(*)*(*)*(*)
Unaware of Sonny's current situation since he was out of town, Will appeared on the screen of T's iPad; he had gifted his friend one before leaving. "Holding down the fort?"
It felt like forever since T had seen someone else's face. This was a welcome surprise even if it was via FaceTime. Dario and Sonny hadn't stopped by like they said they would. "Yeah. I've hung out in the study for the most part. What are you doing?"
Will glanced behind him and shared, "We're on break between performances. Safiya is resting her voice and relaxing, and I think Chad is somewhere around. He keeps disappearing on me." Returning his eyes to see T, he asked, "Have you had any visitors today?"
"No," T answered. "I talked to Frank for a second earlier, but it's been quiet here. I think everyone is just busy today."
Feeling somewhat bad, Will apologized, "I'm sorry things have been so hectic. Life in Salem has changed a lot since we've gotten older. Have you given anymore thought to what you want to do? Are you ready to live again?"
T couldn't break through the wall holding him back, but he hoped Gabi could help. "I need to talk to Gabi, but I'm afraid I'll mess everything up."
Will wished they could have this conversation in person, but he didn't want to shut T down. "How do you think you'll mess things up?"
Carter. Seeing his son meant the world to him. "The last thing I want to do is put Carter in my parents' hands. They want him, and I can put a stop to it, but what if I can't take care of him?"
Will couldn't imagine what T was experiencing. "This is all so new to you. I've always heard being a parent for the first time can be nerve-wracking, but it comes to you as you experience it. You already want what's best for him. Just go with that and start there."
A small smile fell on T's face. Though he wasn't fully confident, Will managed to encourage him. "I need to talk to Gabi," he repeated. "She can help me figure out the best way to do this."
"You should call her," Will suggested. "I'm sure she's willing to visit you."
Remembering what happened the last time, T shook his head. "I think I'd rather wait until someone else is here. I want her to feel comfortable around me… safe."
The last thing Will wanted T to feel was dangerous. "You are safe, T. I trust you. You should trust yourself." Feeling uncomfortable leaving T alone, he decided, "I'll text my uncle, Eric, to see if he can stop by for a visit since I haven't been able to reach Sonny or Dario."
"Don't bother with it," T quickly cut in.
Will pushed, "My uncle already volunteered at Safiya's album release party."
Deciding to accept Will's offer, T exhaled, "Fine. I'm cool with it. I was trying to avoid a shower today, but I guess I will do so if I'm getting a visitor."
Will grinned and joked, "I hope you're showering either way. Bad hygiene is no good for the soul." Turning his head to the side on the screen, he said, "I have to go. I will check in later."
After Will waved goodbye, T ended the video call and headed for his room to grab what he needed for a shower. The doorbell rang. T knew it wasn't Dario or Sonny because both had a key to the place. He also knew it couldn't be Eric because there was no way Will got to him that fast. Perhaps it was Gabi. He wasn't ready to talk to her, but he didn't want to push her out either by ignoring her.
Finally in front of the foyer door, T opened it and was surprised to see who had actually rang the doorbell. It was Will's grandmother, Marlena.
With a huge smile on her face, Marlena greeted her grandson's best friend warmly. "Hello, T."
Without a pause, T shared, "Will is out of town."
Marlena entered the foyer and closed the front door. "I actually came to see you, T. I'm curious to know how you're settling in."
With the aggressive way Marlena approached him, T grew anxious. "Did Will ask you to stop by?"
Marlena chose not to confirm or deny anything. "I am retired, but I worked with many patients who struggle with PTSD and other mental disorders. I want to help you."
Feeling extremely uncomfortable, T quipped, "No one can help me except for myself."
"You're right," Marlena agreed. "…but I think I can help you in helping yourself. It can be our little secret if you don't want to tell anyone."
T didn't know what his answer should be, so he said, "I'll think about it."
Marlena handed T her card. "Take this and call me when you're ready."
"Thanks," T released as he looked the card over.
Marlena saw herself out. She hoped this worked. Will had to see her benevolence through this.
(*)*(*)*(*)
With his apartment ready, Ignazio moved into his new place. Holding the final box under his right arm, he headed down the hall to his door. Once he reached it, he saw the property manager walking towards him.
"I see you're already settling," the property manager stated. He didn't seem too thrilled to have Ignazio living there.
Ignazio still offered him a grin while nodding his head. "Yes. I want to say thank you for allowing me to move in… and so quickly."
Avoiding eye contact, the man replied, "Well, you're lucky we had the space and that a neighbor stepped in on your behalf. I'll let you get to it."
Ignazio watched the property manager walk away before entering his new apartment. He placed the box next to the others and wondered who could have stepped in on his behalf. "It must have been EJ," Ignazio whispered to himself. "EJ isn't a neighbor though," he realized before taking in the emptiness of his new apartment. He felt somewhat confined. The apartment was bigger than the room he had at Dario and Sonny's mansion, but he felt very alone. Loneliness usually led him somewhere he didn't want to go. He needed to escape the voices.
Grabbing his phone, he looked at the screen to see if he had any missed calls or messages. None. Ignazio thought about what was going on with Dario and Sonny and wished he could help them in some way. Unfortunately, he needed to keep his distance. He wanted them to find their happiness again. Since they weren't home, he hoped they had.
Ignazio's phone suddenly began to ring. Answering it, he was surprised to hear Manny's voice.
"Do you know where Gustavo is at the moment?"
"He is currently out of town," Ignazio informed Manny. He chose not to tell him why Gustavo left Salem or about Maddalena's missing body. Realizing he never told Dario about their grandmother, he began to feel guilty.
(*)*(*)*(*)
Sitting at his desk in the DiMera guesthouse, Frank told Chad over the phone, "It seems there is more here than we hoped."
"What do you mean?" Chad questioned with some concern. He was inside a rental and had just returned from the store since Safiya needed a few personal things.
Frank put the call on speaker before placing his phone on the desk so he could look through what he gathered on his laptop. "I verified T was not on the flight from Spain to New York or the one from New York to Florida. Someone else was on board under the alias he used to get here."
Chad interjected, "So T lied."
Correcting Chad, Frank said, "He didn't. T never told me he was in New York or Spain. He only told me he flew in from Florida." He moved on. "I did more digging on who was actually on those flights, and I discovered that the person fits T's description to a T, but there was one difference. The stand-in was clean-shaven on the first two flights, but as you know T had more than a days' worth of hair on his face when he arrived to the wedding. Stefano or someone who has international ties definitely had T before he flew into Salem."
It had to be Stefano; he had used doubles before. In fact, Chad had his own previously. This made Chad nervous, and he hated that T was alone in his and Will's home with Dario and Sonny to watch over him. "You work fast," he commended Frank.
"I've actually been working on this for a while," Frank humbly admitted. He wanted Chad to know that he took this seriously. This wasn't a simple task to him.
"How long?" Chad questioned next.
Frank heard something in Chad's voice that told him Chad wasn't happy about something. "Four days. Is there a problem?"
Chad wasn't sure. Four days wasn't a long time, but he couldn't help wondering why Frank didn't say anything initially. "I'm only curious. I know you and T are or were close. Does any part of you feel the need to protect him?"
Frank wasn't sure if Chad was trying to imply more with his question. Was Chad asking if he and T were more than friends. "No," he awkwardly answered. "I simply wanted to verify everything before possibly passing bad information. There's nothing going on here. I'm not keeping anything from you."
While Chad and Frank continued to talk over the phone, EJ was focused on changing his little sister's mind inside the mansion. "Forget what I said earlier. I do believe spying on Peter and Kristen is ill advised."
Confused, Jade wondered what changed her brother's mind. "What reason do you have to pull me from my desire?"
"Mother," EJ revealed believing Jade would understand. "She rang and informed me you two haven't spoken in some time. She also reminded me of the promise I made when you moved here: I would take care of you."
Jade wanted to roll her eyes, but she refrained. She needed this. She couldn't allow her brother's fear to take this away from her. "Your eyes will ensure no harm comes my way. Peter took me for a fool when I requested his assistance in rescuing JJ from prison! I am in the absolute – the perfect position to do this for you and your family. You will not alter or direct my mind away from this desire!"
EJ could see this was very important to his sister. "Jade, I appreciate your desire to do this, but you are my family as well, and I want to do what I can for you."
"Then support me," Jade directed. "My heart is beating more than it has ever in my short and pointless lifetime. This is who I am, EJ. Even if people cannot see me, understand me, I am a person." She looked into her brother's eyes and could see he would not be swayed. It killed her. Before EJ could say anything, she quickly rushed out of the room and headed upstairs.
EJ sighed and was set to follow her, but his phone rang. It was Chad. His thoughts went to how Charles was dead. He knew his brother wasn't aware of this fact yet and decided it would be best to wait to tell him in person. "The tour going smoothly?" he eventually answered.
Chad confirmed it before moving on to what he wanted to discuss. "I think we may have a problem with Frank. He may be too loyal to T." He sensed an awkwardness with Frank when he began to question Frank about his relationship and connection to T. It seemed as though Frank was holding back – hiding something.
Distracted, EJ asked, "What are you going on about?"
Breaking it down for EJ, Chad explained, "Frank has info on T's whereabouts before his return to Salem. It seems someone doesn't want T traced back to him or her. I'm thinking it's dad, but did Frank tell you anything about this?" Deep down, Chad knew Frank was trustworthy, but he chose to check in with EJ to make sure he wasn't overthinking this or allowing his fear of Stefano to get in the way of rationally thinking through this.
"No," EJ answered finding that strange. He questioned how long Frank had withheld this information.
Chad hated this. "Frank has been solid in the past, but I think T may be a different situation. When I asked him about it, something seemed off… like he was keeping something to himself."
Feeling a tad overwhelmed with everything, EJ said, "I'll keep an eye on Frank." He knew he needed to play this correctly because he didn't want a repeat of the Marco situation.
Upstairs, Jade managed to get Kristen on the phone. "Peter directed me to you due to him leaving Salem. He's an extremely busy man these days." She hoped Kristen could tell her where Peter was heading.
Kristen hoped Jade had answers as well. "He has been busy and hasn't been around lately," she commented. "He said he has to deal with Delphi's family, but I'm not sure if I believe him. Did he tell you where he was going?"
Dammit. Kristen didn't know where Peter was going. "He did not share his complete plans, unfortunately. He seemed distracted though, which I have never sensed from him prior to today… it's as if there is more to his leaving Salem."
Agreeing once again, Kristen wished her brother was more forthcoming about his actions. "He's definitely keeping something to himself. Wait…" Since she placed the call on speakerphone, her voice sounded different. "It seems he's heading for London. Why would he go overseas if he's dealing with Delphi's family?"
"That is odd," Jade concurred. She had what she needed. "My time is limited. Before I end this call, is there anything you need to request of me?"
Kristen was tempted to use Jade to spy on her brother for her, but she refrained because she suddenly became skeptical of EJ's sister. "Peter told me you're set on hurting your brother. Why?"
Jade realized if she wasn't careful, Kristen would catch on that she was spying on them and working for EJ, even if EJ didn't want her doing this anymore. "He continues to direct my focus onto something of no importance while detaining me on the outside of his life. It is extremely provoking and there's nothing I loathe more. I despise the darkness I'm forced to live in while everyone gets to parade around in the light… I have a life to live just as everyone else!"
Relating to Jade's plight, Kristen said, "I'll let you know if I have anything, but I think we can help each other out."
Back downstairs, EJ assured Chad, "Don't worry. I'll have a conversation with Frank. We cannot turn him against us."
Fearing the worst, Chad pleaded, "Please, I don't want anyone to get hurt. Keep an eye on him and T if you can. Will, Safiya, and I will be back on Sunday."
"I've got everything covered," EJ confidently promised. "Focus on what you're doing with Safiya. Business is important." Ending the call, he looked up when he heard someone coming down the stairs.
Jade entered the main room from the foyer. After a slight groan, Jade released, "If your concern for me is deeply extreme, I will erase Peter from my focus… but I must request a favor."
Suspicious of the sudden change in his sister, EJ questioned, "What's the favor?"
"I need a break," Jade began. "I want to return home and visit with mother for the weekend. I owe it to her for ignoring her calls."
EJ thought it would be good to get Jade out of Salem for a short while. "I'll get the DiMera jet ready. When do you want to leave?"
"Tonight?" Jade checked in with EJ.
EJ nodded his head and repeated, "I'll make the call."
Jade jumped for joy and gave EJ a hug.
After Jade left to pack, EJ pulled out his phone and sent Frank a text: "I need the jet to be ready for a trip to London tonight. Jade is visiting our mother for an extended weekend."
EJ noticed he had a few missed messages. One in particular caught his attention. "The results are in on authenticating father's will. It's time to know whether Renée owns almost everything…"
(*)*(*)*(*)
After calling Melissa, Philip was surprised to discover that Maggie had actually spent a lot of time working at Chez Rouge recently. It worked out because he'd rather avoid seeing his father since they didn't have anything to say to each other.
Maggie lit up when she saw Philip and greeted him with a hug. "What brings you here?"
When Maggie took her seat, Philip sat down as well. "To check in and see how things are going in Casa Kiriakis."
Maggie understood that Philip wanted to know how things were going with his father, but she also knew she couldn't say anything to Philip about Victor's health issues. She wished she could take back that promise. "That's sweet of you. I've kept busy here."
Philip raised his eyes and pointed out, "I heard. I thought you'd be relaxing more since you semi-retired."
"You know me," Maggie started, "I can't stop working. How are you? Still working with Lucas and your mother?"
Philip nodded his head. "Yeah. I'm still at Hearth & Home until I figure out where I belong in life. Hopefully, I don't screw that up."
Maggie offered Philip a smile. "I'm sure you're doing well. Lucas has told me you're a great part of the team."
"He has?" Philip questioned.
Confirming it, Maggie added, "He also told me that he senses at times that you're bored, which he understands why."
Philip agreed. "…because I don't want to work in that setting. I want to do more, something that actually means something… to me I guess."
Maggie's smile grew bigger. "I completely understand. The reason I love what I do here at Chez Rouge is that I can offer people an experience where they can relax and enjoy a night out. It's important for me to serve others." Noticing how Philip was processing what she shared, she added, "It's nothing like how you served when you were in the military, but it is important to me."
Reflecting on his past, it felt like ages since he was injured during his service in the military. An idea came to Philip and he suddenly became excited. "Maggie, you are a genius."
Not following, Maggie thanked Philip in a questioning tone before wondering, "May I ask what you're thinking? Why am I a genius?"
Standing, Philip showed he was still processing the idea in his head. "Not yet. I need to go."
Maggie stood as well and gave Philip a hug. She took a deep breath before releasing, "I know it probably seems like a lost cause, but I'll try to talk your father into doing something for Thanksgiving if you're interested."
Philip doubted it would work, but he didn't want to discourage Maggie. "You can try. Just let me know." After a warm nod, he turned around and left the office. On his way out, he realized his father was there with Belle. He quickly ducked out of the restaurant when his phone rang.
Philip didn't recognize the number. "Hello?"
"Philip, it's Mimi Lockhart," Mimi replied.
Mimi Lockhart? Why was she calling? "Did you misdial?" Philip questioned.
Mimi let out a frustrated laugh. "No. I called you on purpose, Philip. I need your help."
Philip straightened his back. He wondered why Mimi needed his help.
Back inside, Belle was curious to know why Victor asked her to join him for dinner. She figured it related to Titan and her brother, but she wasn't exactly sure what he would say about both. "Victor, I want you to know Brady and Titan are important to me."
Victor could see Belle's anxiety in her facial expression and her body language. "You have nothing to worry about," he stated as he rested his hands on the table. He felt the need to hold onto the table because he felt off-balance.
"Easier said than done," Belle replied immediately. Leaning closer, she let her nerves show more. "I don't understand why you're not concerned about the future of Titan or my brother – your grandson."
Victor continued to press his hands against the table to rally his strength. "I'm not moved with concern about Titan because I have you." He remembered how Saunders noticed tension between Brady and Belle before his death and wanted to use it to his advantage. "I want you to take charge of Titan."
Belle was completely thrown by Victor's offer. She didn't know what to say.
(*)*(*)*(*)
Hanging out at her sister's place, Ciara handed Chelsea the bowl of popcorn after they finished an episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. "Buffy keeps getting better even though I think Spike is a creep."
Grabbing a few pieces of popcorn, Chelsea chuckled before saying, "He's a nice creep."
Ciara pulled her feet up onto the sofa. "What did the first slayer mean by death being Buffy's gift. That has to be weird for Buffy since her mom died."
Chewing on the popcorn, Chelsea got excited as she teased, "You'll find out soon enough." She placed the popcorn bowl onto the coffee table before standing. "Do you want a refill before we start the next episode?"
Standing, Ciara admitted, "I need a small break from your couch." She grabbed her cup and followed her sister into the kitchen. As Chelsea began to refill their cups with soda, she questioned, "So… is Cameron a nice creep or a tortured soul?"
Chelsea laughed at her sister's silly question. "Cameron is not Spike or Angel. He's definitely nice and loyal."
Ciara's thoughts turned to Theo. He had the same qualities as Cameron, but there was more to him that others didn't get to see often.
Noting the smile on Ciara's face, Chelsea asked, "Any change with your best friend?"
"Cameron hasn't told you anything?" Ciara's smile faded quickly as she thought about Theo's situation.
Though there was some awkwardness between her and Cameron, Chelsea knew her sister only questioned their relationship because she didn't want to talk about Theo. "Theo will wake up again," she encouraged Ciara. "It's only a matter of time."
Ciara shook her head and reflected on Theo and his gift. "Maybe Theo's gift is death," she mumbled.
"What did you say?"
Ciara was relieved Chelsea didn't hear her. She didn't want to repeat what she just said. "I'm focused on school and doing what Theo and I planned to do together… even if he's not here to do it with me."
Chelsea returned the soda bottle to the refrigerator. She made eye contact with her sister and assured her, "Maybe Theo will join you on your plan to own high school."
Ciara wondered if it was all worth it if Theo wasn't there. She didn't want to talk about it anymore though. "I'm ready for the next episode," she decided as she grabbed her cup.
"To the next episode then," Chelsea declared as she raised her glass. She hoped this sister time was helping Ciara.
(*)*(*)*(*)
Ezra found himself alone with his mother in her hospital room. She was still in a coma, and he wondered if she would ever wake up again. Standing, he looked out the window to see if anyone was nearby. "Where are you, dad?" he questioned.
Returning his eyes to Delphi, Ezra shook his head. "Why is dad always hiding? Is it a family trait? Is it our M.O.? How many more family secrets are there?"
(*)*(*)*(*)
Since Arianna had to work, Marco decided to finally return home with groceries. As soon as he placed them on the counter near the fridge, Renée came storming into the room. "Where have you been?"
Marco began to put the groceries away. "I've been with Arianna and had to take care of a few things."
Deciding to let this slide for now, Renée wanted to refocus on what mattered most. "Since you're home, you should know I had a few visitors this morning."
Marco immediately stopped what he was doing. "Who?"
Renée felt overjoyed to see her son still had concern for her. "Alessandro DiMera and Peter Blake."
"What did they want?"
"Alessandro came to reintroduce himself to me, but we didn't get to visit much because Peter came soon after," Renée shared. "Peter offered his hand. He wants to work with us."
Marco returned to placing the groceries in the fridge. "What did you tell him?"
"I told him no," Renée answered, "…but I only told him no for now. I think he could be useful. Someone who can help us get what we want."
Closing the refrigerator, Marco looked at his mom like she was crazy. "You've got to be joking. Peter is not someone you want to mess with."
Annoyed by her son's tone towards her, Renée reminded him, "This is the plan. My plan that I've worked so long to put into place at the right time. I am getting what I deserve… we both are."
Feeling frustrated, Marco complained, "I liked our lives better before I found out the truth. I'd rather have nothing to do with DiMeras. I'm only doing this because it's so important to you, but is it really worth it?" The way Stefano sent his last will to Renée before his death was too convenient. He didn't trust it. It could be a trap. "We could have so much more if…"
"If what?" Renée cut her son off. "There's no other way to have a better life. My life was boring before, and I'm not going back to that."
Marco placed his hands on his hips and groaned, "I'm sorry I was so boring and not enough for you."
"That's not what I'm saying…"
"Right," Marco released knowing what she would say next. "It's all about the money, the prestige, the influence, the power. You've missed it all these years. You've craved it, and you'll do whatever to get it, even screw your own family."
Confused, Renée countered, "I thought you didn't care about the DiMera family."
"I'm not talking about them," Marco argued. "I'm talking about Joselyn. Your sister. I talked to her, and she seems like a real person. She's trying to live her life the best she can without the DiMera family. She's successful without them. We can be, too."
Renée felt really upset now. "You went and talked to Joselyn behind my back? Is she one of those errands you had to do when you disappeared on me? She's a waste and not worth our time. She's not a real DiMera."
"But Peter Blake is?" Marco argued. "What about Tony? You're so focused on me disappearing, but you don't even seem bothered by how Tony has disappeared. Am I worth your time? I guess I should really ask, am I worth your time still? I know I was worth it when I worked for my own grandfather as his head of security. You loved hearing my stories about the trouble and danger I found myself in when I protected him not knowing he was family! I am done! I am done with this."
Renée watched as Marco turned around to wipe his brow. "You're done? Take a break. Tony is simply somewhere alone thinking everything over and hiding from everyone. You can do the same if you want. I'll take care of things since I'm on the inside now. You can come back when you're…"
"I said I'm done," Marco repeated. "I don't want any part of this anymore. I want my life back. You can have yours."
Renée watched in shock as Marco walked out of the room and out the front door. She turned to the groceries that still needed to be put up. This had never happened before.
(*)*(*)*(*)
A person wearing a hoodie entered a studio apartment before grabbing a wallet on the stand. Opening it, he pulled out a picture of Chad and Will together. An evil grin covered his face. "Everything is aligning perfectly without me even trying. It's now or never."