Chapter 53: Damage Control, Part 1 – Thursday, January 12th, 2012

It was Thursday late morning, and everyone at the police station was scrambling around taking phone calls and working to keep things under control due to the leaked story about Abe's attack and disappearance. Bo, Hope, and Roman walked into Roman's office trying to determine ways to get the press off of the force's back, so they could focus their energy entirely on finding Abe and keeping Salem safe. In frustration, Bo slammed his hand on Roman's desk as he let out, "Dammit, the press wants a new statement every half hour, and it's causing the people to be more riled up. I thought that after a couple of days, things might simmer some, but they are relentless and won't let it go."

Roman tried to remain calm and wanted Bo and Hope to keep their heads on straight. "We've managed to keep the chaos under control for the most part. The people are panicking because they think that Abe is dead."

"They need a leader. With Abe gone, they don't know what to do with themselves," Hope commented as she placed her hands on her hips pacing the room.

Bo was still frustrated. "It's been almost two weeks, and we still don't have any definite leads."

Before Hope and Roman could respond there was a light tap on Roman's office door. Hope walked over, opened the door, and let D.A. Woods into the room. "Woods, we weren't expecting you."

D.A. Woods looked the three officers over and shared, "Well, I came here to check on your progress. The people and the media are demanding answers and want someone to blame for this mess."

Roman stepped up deciding he should update Woods on their current status since he was the commissioner. "We are still working on a lead in the prison, but we aren't really getting any hits there."

"Well, have you looked into what exactly was used to slash Abe's tires before his attack?" Woods asked infuriating the others.

Before Bo could react to the D.A.'s clear mocking tone, Roman communicated, "Of course. That was one of the first things we did. Abe's tires were slashed by a 13" Italian Stiletto Knife, but we have yet to find anyone who owns one. It's most likely not registered."

D.A. Woods gave Roman a disappointed look as he continued to question their ability to solve a case. "Well, are there any other leads you're trying to follow up on?"

Roman took a step back as he thought about Arianna. He had asked her to keep an eye out at the DiMera Mansion for the knife or any other suspicious behavior from Stefano. Wanting to protect Arianna, he decided not to share any info on the undercover operation. Instead, he shared, "With the story out, we are hoping someone will come forward and tell us they saw something that night."

"I doubt anyone will come forward now. It's been thirteen days." D.A. Woods took a seat deciding he was tired of standing. "What's really on people's minds is the office of mayor. The people are going to want it filled, so they can start to feel safe again."

Hope thought Wood's subject change seemed to come out of nowhere. "Do you have any idea who the office is considering to finish Abe's term?"

Woods gave Hope a pleased smile because he hoped someone would ask him that question. "Actually, according to some sources, I am on the shortlist," he shared causing Roman and Bo to trade glances. Neither thought the idea of him becoming mayor was a good idea.

Deciding he couldn't stay quiet anymore, Bo stated, "No one can replace Abe though. Abe was an honest and good man."

Woods slightly jerked from the chair at Bo's passive insult but bit his tongue because he didn't want to show disrespect to a man who might be dead. "Mayor Carver truly was a good man, and he will be missed." Standing up, he decided to excuse himself. "I am going to head back to my office after giving a short statement to the media. I will say we're making progress in finding Abe while making sure we bring stability back to the streets of Salem."

After the D.A. left, Bo made a ticking sound with his teeth in frustration. "Something needs to happen. Hopefully Arianna will be able to find that knife at the DiMera mansion."


Lexie got off the phone with Brandon feeling overwhelmed by everything that happened the last few days. She could really feel the pressure of the truth hitting her now. With the story leaked, it made everything more real – especially with the current state of her son.

As Chad attempted to play with Theo, Celeste placed her hands on Lexie's shoulders. "Darling, please take a break to try to calm your nerves. You need to breathe. You've been moving around constantly since the news broke out."

Lexie dropped her hands to her sides and turned to look at Theo. She took note of Chad's attempts in trying to get Theo to say something or stop the patterned behavior he was now doing with his car. She couldn't believe he saw the news, and that it rendered him speechless. Realizing that taking a break didn't help her feel better about anything, she turned to her mother and said, "I can't do this. I feel so stuck!" Lexie pulled away and looked through her phone. "I need to call Abe's brother and sister. I'll call Jonah first and then Karen."

Celeste stopped Lexie from making the call. "Alexandra, please stop with the phone calls. You need to eat or drink something. Come to the kitchen for a bit before I leave with Theo."

"Mom!" Lexie let out frustrated. "I'll go to the kitchen alone, but I am going to call Jonah right now. I'll eat something after. I promise." Lexie held onto her phone as she exited the living room into the kitchen.

Celeste sighed and said a silent little prayer to the spirits as she looked up. Turning to Chad and Theo she made eye contact with Chad. Chad stood up and joined Celeste by the door that led to the kitchen. "Theo still hasn't said anything. He won't play with anything besides that car my father brought him last week."

Celeste could see that this situation caused Chad to feel discouraged as well. "We are in a tough situation, but we will get through it. We will help Theo through this." Wanting to check in with him about his personal life, Celeste thought it would be good if Chad talked about himself for a while. "Have you had anymore dreams?"

"I've had dreams – well nightmares – but they haven't featured any tarot cards," Chad informed Celeste. "I don't know why the tarot dreams suddenly stopped again."

Celeste believed she knew why and commented, "Maybe you're not ready for more because there is something you must do before they resume. The last dream you had featured EJ in the chariot. You're avoiding a battle."

Chad remembered The Chariot dream and began to wonder aloud, "I haven't told Will about Mia yet. That may be the reason the dreams have ceased." Frustration hit Chad as he admitted, "I've been so caught up in helping my sister and nephew that I have put off what I need to do with Will. I guess in a way I am not ready to face what will happen once Will finds out. It's a battle I may lose."

Celeste felt bad for Chad because he was so torn on what to do. She decided to give him some guidance. "Maybe you should talk to Will today about it." Celeste noticed the time and realized she and Theo needed to leave soon. "However… I need a favor from you before you talk to Will."

"What is it?"

Celeste grabbed her purse and keys as she requested, "Keep an eye out for Lexie. She hasn't been well, and I can't do it now because I have to take Theo to his therapy session at the hospital. When the session is over, I will make sure to stay with her, so you can talk to Will."

Chad agreed and helped Celeste get Theo ready for his appointment. After some time, Celeste and Theo headed out so Chad walked over to the kitchen door to check on Lexie. He stopped from going into the kitchen completely when he heard grief in Lexie's voice as she talked on the phone. He hated hearing his sister sound so distraught.

Wiping the tears that were continuously coming out of her eyes, Lexie told Jonah, "I don't need you to come to Salem right now. I will keep you updated on any news I hear concerning Abe." Jonah told her he would talk to Karen about everything and added that they would be coming to Salem if it comes to the point where they have to plan a funeral. Lexie tried to control her crying as she told him, "I will let you know."

Lexie and Jonah said their goodbyes, and Lexie ended the phone call. Turning around, she spotted Chad standing at the door staring at her. She immediately wiped her tears and pretended she hadn't been crying. "Did my mom and Theo already leave?"

Chad tilted his head to Lexie as he mentioned, "You're shutting down on me and your mother just like Theo has with all of us."

Lexie continued to wipe her face as she managed to stop crying. "What happened with my brother-in-law on the phone was just a weak moment for me because I have had to be so focused." She and Chad traded glances as they remained silent for a moment. She wanted to move on from what just happened. "The masquerade tomorrow will be my first official public appearance since it all happened."

Chad gave his sister a concerned look as he wondered out loud, "Are you sure that's a good idea? You don't need to take care or worry about the people of Salem. You need to focus on you and Theo."

"I am the mayor's wife, and I will do this," Lexie directed.

Not wanting to push his sister away, Chad backed off on trying to talk her out of it for now. "Whatever you decide, I will be there to support you and make sure no more pain comes your way."

Almost breaking again, Lexie rushed over to Chad and gave him a hug. After kissing him on the cheek, she thanked him for staying with her through everything. Without thinking she added, "I know that EJ would have volunteered to take care of me, too, but he has a family of his own to take care of."

Chad held onto Lexie feeling hurt by the comment. He dismissed the hurt though, so he could continue to comfort his sister. "I'm not going anywhere as long as you need me."


Dario and Gabi decided they needed to reconnect as brother and sister due to their disagreements in the recent past. They didn't want to continue to push each other's buttons because there was already enough drama happening within their family. Dario agreed to help Gabi find a dress, while finding a costume for himself, for the Friday, the 13th Masquerade.

Walking by the tree, Dario said, "Ari and Mama are supposedly coming up here later. I know Mama really wants to go to the masquerade tomorrow, but she's definitely weaker."

"She's trying her best to hide it, though, "Gabi commented wanting to hold onto some hope, but the truth of her situation always seemed to win out in her mind. "She's trying to be so strong and doesn't want us to know that she's really torn up inside."

Hearing Gabi's comment reminded Dario of the concerns Chelsea shared with him about his younger sister. Since they were trying to reconnect, he thought now would be a good time to check in with her about her life. "What's going on with you currently? Any updates on the T situation or Kinsey's baby?"

Gabi could tell Dario was trying hard to reconnect with her, but she wasn't ready to talk about her personal life with him. "T is still the father, and Kinsey is a bitch. She left Salem again after the truth came out." Trying to get out of saying anything more she added, "Except for the fact that we're shopping for this party, my life at the moment is to only focus on Mama."

"I think that's good," Dario let out before reconsidering. "Maybe it's not a good thing. What's our life going to be like when she's gone?"

Gabi wanted to avoid that subject at all costs. "I don't want to talk about that. I am not ready to even think about it."

"Me neither," Dario admitted. As he and his sister made their way to the costume shop, they spotted Kai sitting at a table by himself. Dario remembered his run in with Kai the week before at the park and decided to avoid him. Gabi was on the same page. To show his appreciation to his sister, Dario shared, "Thanks for never saying 'I told you so'."

Gabi nodded her head and decided not to say anything about Sonny to her brother. Instead she suggested, "I was thinking we should get some coffee after we've done some shopping, but maybe we should go somewhere away from the square to avoid Kai." Dario agreed with the idea as he led his sister into Enchanted Costume & Tuxedo Shop.

Will walked up to Kai and took a seat at the table. "Hey Kai. Thanks for meeting up with me."

Kai gave Will a nervous smile since it felt like forever since they saw each other. "I'm glad you called me. A part of me wondered if we would still be friends."

Will tried to fight the discomfort of the situation as he replied, "I want us to be. How are you?"

Kai didn't want to get into anything deep, so he answered casually, "I am okay. How are you and Chad?"

Hearing Chad's name caused Will to smile wide to the point he began to blush. "Even though Chad and I don't get to see much of each other, we are doing great!"

Kai was happy for Will but questioned, "Why aren't you two seeing much of each other?"

"I'm sure you've heard about what happened to the mayor before New Year's Eve. Chad's sister is the mayor's wife, so he's been staying with her and trying to help her through this," Will explained. "Chad and I do find time to see each other though when he's available." Thinking back on it, Will realized he and Chad actually saw each other for short periods since what happened to Abe leaked. Chad was a lot busier and more distracted now.

Kai nodded his head as he and Will sat in awkward silence for a while. He still didn't want to talk about Sonny, so he decided on a topic they could go back and forth on. "What are you doing to occupy your time before school starts?"

Will picked up on Kai wanting to avoid talking about Sonny and questioned what he should do about it. He figured Kai could use a friend to talk things through, but he didn't want to overstep. "I'm just trying to enjoy the last few days of break," he said to buy him more time on how to delicately bring up Sonny. "What about you? How is life… after everything that happened with Sonny?" Will hadn't planned on coming out with it like that, but it was too late to take it back now.

Kai looked away and admitted, "It's been hard." Even though he was annoyed that Will managed to bring up Sonny directly, he decided it would be best to just talk about it so there wasn't this pink elephant whenever they hung out. He wanted his friendship with Will to continue outside of the context of Sonny. "I have to move on, so I guess everything will be fine in the end."

Will could tell Kai still questioned if everything would be okay. "You don't have to answer this if you don't want to, but do you still love Sonny?"

Kai continued to avoid eye contact as he answered, "I do, but I will never get back with Sonny."

Wanting to understand what Kai was feeling and thinking, Will commented, "I don't understand how you handle having feelings for someone, but then knowing you have to stay away from them when they want you back. Do you feel like you're betraying your feelings at all?"

Kai thought about Will's comment and question. "I don't think so. Sonny cheated on me, and I know that's not how I want to be treated. If anything, I am protecting my feelings by staying away from him. You would understand if Chad cheated on you."

Will suddenly became defensive as he disputed, "Chad would never cheat on me." He knew deep down that Chad wouldn't hurt him or cheat even if he questioned if they were meant to be together.

"Never say never," Kai countered. "Did you ever think Sonny would be the type to cheat?"

Will didn't even have to think about it as he answered, "No."

Seeing that he may have made Will second guess Chad, Kai decided to generalize the cheating by sharing, "Apparently all gay men cheat from what I've heard."

Will didn't enjoy hearing that stereotype. "That's not true for everyone. What is true is that no one is perfect. We all make mistakes. I know from experience now that all relationships have their ups and downs."

Kai nodded his head. He didn't want to start an argument with Will. "I never expected Sonny to cheat on me. I would just keep an eye out on Chad if I were you."

"Thanks for the advice," Will replied deciding to leave it at that. He didn't want to talk about it anymore. Will began to look around the square and spotted Gabi and Dario in Enchanted looking at a masquerade dress. He figured it would be best if they changed the subject. "Are you going to the masquerade tomorrow night?"

Kai welcomed the subject change and smiled. "I'm planning on it because Brett really wants to go. Hopefully, he can get the night off. Speaking of Brett, remember that time I tried to hook you and Brett up at that party?" Realizing he was encouraging Will to cheat in that situation, Kai's smile faded. "I am really sorry for being a tool."

Will didn't think much about what happened and laughed it off. "You already apologized and that was so long ago. Brett seems like a nice guy. Are you interested in him?"

"No, we're just friends," Kai informed Will. Kai smiled as he remembered that moment he had with Will after their snowball fight during finals week. He still questioned if all gay men struggled with staying faithful. He wondered if he was screwed at ever finding happiness in a monogamous relationship.


Maxine crossed over to Daniel and Jen and gave Daniel a bit of attitude as she shared, "I have to say that things are running smoothly, Dr. Jonas, but I am concerned about your health."

Jennifer gave Maxine a knowing look as she exclaimed, "I have been trying to tell him the same thing. I think some of the other doctors could help lighten his load because he has taken on so much more than everyone else. Being the temporary Chief-of-Staff adds more pressure and more stress."

Daniel didn't enjoy being worried over – especially in third person right in front of him. Before he could get in a response, Nathan and Melanie walked up. They had just ended their shifts and wanted to say goodbye when they overheard Jennifer's concern. "I can help out and pick up a few patients if I need to," Nathan volunteered.

Feeling overwhelmed, Daniel informed everyone, "That's not necessary. I am going to be fine. I have the night off tomorrow."

Nathan didn't want to take back his offer to help. "That's great you're going to have a night off, but in the future I would like to help with your load because the patients aren't going to recover as well if you're overworking yourself."

Melanie was a bit shocked at how Nathan stood firm with Daniel, while giving great advice. "Nathan is right, dad. If you are set in keeping this schedule, I will be forced to make you take more breaks if I have to."

Daniel realized that everyone was right. "Okay. I will try to relax, and I'll look at patients I can pass on to other doctors." Daniel pulled Melanie into a hug to assure he was fine. "You and Nathan can go have fun now. You have my permission." Daniel made sure to give Nathan a look to let him know he was still keeping an eye out for his daughter. Nathan didn't respond and took Melanie's hand so they could leave.

After Nathan and Melanie left, Jennifer grabbed Daniel's hand giving him an apologetic look. "I know you don't enjoy being watched over, but soon I will be your wife. I want to keep you safe."

"And I'm your head nurse," Maxine commented with a smile. "We need you healthy, Dr. Jonas." Daniel nodded his head deciding not to put up a fight.

Jack walked out of the elevator and quickly but calmly strolled over to Jen. "Jen, I really need to talk to you."

Letting go of Daniel's hand, Jen turned and gave Jack a dissatisfied look. "I am very disappointed in you, Jack Deveraux! You put that story first instead of Lexie and Theo!"

Daniel watched as Jack recoiled at Jen's frustration. He didn't want to get in the middle of their disagreement, but he needed to say something to Jack, "We have a hospital to run, and we don't need the press getting in the way of that. I hope that goes without saying."

Jennifer turned to Daniel and grabbed his hand again. "I know you have patients to see, so you can go if you want. I can handle Jack." After giving him a hug, Daniel left, while Maxine continued to stand close by. She wanted to see Jennifer handle Jack.

Seizing the opportunity to talk to Jen without Daniel there, Jack began to try to reason with Jen, "I report the news and this was a huge story. I wasn't going to drop the ball and let it remain a secret. This is about the safety of the people of Salem – which includes you, Abigail, and JJ. I did this for us. I need this so I can provide for our family."

Jen didn't want to hear it. "Oh, I know how important a big news story is to you. You can say you did this for the family and for the people of Salem, but we both know, deep down, you were more concerned with putting your name out there. I'm all for you helping out with the kids, but we don't need it at the expense of your ambition."

Confused at Jen's reaction to all of this, Jack countered, "You used to love this about me."

Jennifer traded a glance with Maxine because she didn't want to lose it on Jack in front of anyone. Maxine took her cue and walked away after shaking her head in disapproval at Jack. Jennifer regained focus to respond to her ex-husband. "Yes, there are things I used to love about you, but now I realize that I find those things the most annoying."

Feeling burned, Jack stepped back deeply hurt. "So you regret our whole relationship?"

Seeing the hurt in Jack's eyes and hearing the pain in his voice caused Jennifer to soften. "I am sorry that came out that way. I don't regret our past or are relationship. I'm just upset for what Lexie is going through. It's almost like my situation when I had no idea if I would ever hear back from you again. At least, I knew you were alive, while Lexie doesn't even know about Abe. I got to read your posts on that stupid walkabout blog. Lexie has nothing!"

"Well, I hope you know that most of that blog wasn't even me," Jack admitted.

Jennifer bobbled her head. Jack's admission completely threw her. "Wait. How much of that blog was actually you?"

Jack thought about what he had read on the blog after he finally left captivity with Tony. "Well, I guess the initial post is the only thing actually written by me. The rest of it came from notes I sent to the editor because my accident happened sometime after my first post was published."

Still trying to wrap her mind around all of this, Jennifer asked for more clarification. "How were you gone so long?" she asked thinking about how Jack's accident must have happened shortly after he disappeared on her. She realized his injuries and healing process must have been worse than she believed before.

As Jack and Jen continued to talk, Daniel returned from the hall and spotted the two in what seemed to be a heart to heart. He didn't see the same frustration in Jen's eyes anymore and wondered what Jack said to make her look worried about him. Daniel heard his name and turned around to find Sami wanting to talk to him. "Sami, what are you doing here? Is everything okay?"

Hearing Daniel's voice, Jennifer realized her fiancé was standing close by once again. She quickly turned to Jack and decided to dismiss him. "Jack, I can't waste any more time at work."

Jack felt some whiplash from Jen's sudden change in shutting him out again. "Uh. Can we meet up later then?"

"I don't think that's a good idea," Jennifer responded trying to wrap things up with Jack to find out what Sami and Daniel were talking about. "Please just go. Maybe you should try working on your relationship with Abigail and JJ. A new semester is starting, and that could be a great way for you to get involved again."

Jack let out a sigh of defeat. "Thanks." He left.

Jennifer joined Daniel and Sami asking, "What's going on?"

Sami shifted her body to include Jen on her conversation with Daniel. "I was just telling Daniel that I'm here for a board meeting. The board apparently wants to talk about Lexie's situation, and Daniel possibly being a permanent replacement since Lexie has shown no interest in coming back in the near future. There are claims going around that she's been working closely with the mayor's office and may stick around there."

Daniel and Jen could not believe what they were hearing. "That is absurd," Daniel let out and continued, "I can't believe the board is trying to replace Lexie so quickly."

Sami nodded her head in agreement. "I am going to try to postpone any decision for as long as I can. Daniel, I think you should come to the meeting to talk to the board as well. I think it could help them wait to make anything final if you're there to support Lexie."

Daniel nodded his head. "I'll do whatever I need to."


At Maggie's house, Maggie began to sort out some clothes for JJ as Victor sat with JJ on the couch discussing Jack. "Tell me, JJ. What do you think about your father returning to Salem?"

JJ's face lit up as he excitedly replied, "It's great that dad is here. He's one of the reasons I decided to stay in Salem. The whole family is here."

Victor noted JJ's excitement figuring JJ had no clue about his father's involvement in leaking Abe's disappearance. He wanted to dig deeper. "So I take it you're feeling great about everything."

After a thought, JJ admitted, "Not everything. My sister has not been the nicest person to my dad. She's getting in the way of everything." He wanted to use a different word to describe his sister, but he figured his Aunt Maggie wouldn't appreciate foul language in her house.

"So your sister is not happy that your dad is back?" Victor asked not really wanting an answer yet. He had another question he wanted a response to. "What about your mother? How is she taking your father's return?"

Maggie stopped what she was doing and cleared her throat because she knew she needed to step in. "JJ, I have all your stuff in this one bag. I think your sister pulled up as I just heard a car outside. Will you come check through this stuff to make sure I got everything?" As JJ stood up from the couch to look the stuff over, Maggie gave Victor a look to let him know she was aware of the fact that he was trying to get information on Jen due to his concern for Daniel.

Just as Maggie suspected, Abigail arrived to pick JJ up. Giving her brother a slight nudge, she asked, "You ready to head home?"

JJ grabbed his bag as he turned to his sister. "There are these awesome shoes I saw earlier. I want to go back to the square and get them before we head home. I talked to mom and she said she would pay you back if you bought them for me."

Abigail wanted to go straight home but then commented, "I do need to buy a costume dress for the party tomorrow night."

Maggie's eyes lit up when Abigail mentioned the masquerade. "I am so excited about the masquerade tomorrow. Chez Rouge is going to look completely different and fabulous. Is Josh taking you tomorrow night?"

Uncomfortable, Abigail answered, "I'm still waiting to be asked."

"I'm sure he will ask. He's probably just waiting for the right time," Maggie covered hoping she didn't cause any awkwardness. She gave JJ and Abigail a hug as Abigail mentally commented to herself that she had already missed the right moment.

After Abigail and JJ left, Victor stood up from the couch and announced, "We should probably head out if we're going to make the hospital board meeting."

Maggie jolted as she shared, "We really need to be there if what I heard is true."

"I'll get the car."

As Victor walked out, Maggie grabbed her purse and decided to head upstairs to check on Mia. Knocking on the bedroom door, she called out to her. After Mia opened the door, Maggie informed her, "I just wanted you to know that I am heading out for a meeting at the hospital. Oh, and here's some money so you can buy a gown for the masquerade tomorrow. You should definitely get out of the house."

Taking the money, Mia made sure to thank Maggie. After Maggie left, Mia closed the door of the bedroom as she thought about how it was her last weekend in Salem. She hadn't seen Chad since their last run in at the cemetery on Monday, but she hadn't heard from Will either. She questioned if Chad had even told Will about her being in Salem. Mia placed the money in her pocket when her cell phone chimed. She received a text from Ignazio. He wanted to meet to discuss their plan.


After spending some time with Johnny and Sydney before their nap time, EJ made his way downstairs and found his father finishing a conversation on the phone. He noted Stefano was talking to someone in prison. Taking a seat on the couch, he waited until his father hung up the phone. "Who were you talking to, father?"

Stefano placed his phone in his pocket and headed for the bar for a glass of water. "It's not important. What's on your agenda today?"

Before EJ could say anything, Arianna arrived through the side door. "Sorry to bother you, but I need some sort of headache medicine. It seems we are out in the guesthouse."

EJ stood up from the couch and volunteered to get it, while Stefano remained at the bar trying to avoid any contact with the Hernandez girl. "You can wait here if you want. I am sure I can find some upstairs. The kids are napping, and I need to make sure I don't disturb them," EJ said and headed out of the room leaving Arianna and Stefano alone.

Arianna looked around the room as she thought about Roman's request. She gave a small smile to Stefano, who finally turned around, hoping he wouldn't catch on to why she was really there. "How is the search going for Abe? My mother told me to tell you that she has been praying for Lexie."

Stefano wasn't sure how to respond to Arianna. He did find her presence annoying. He didn't like random people hanging around the house. "Tell your mother she is appreciated. Unfortunately, there hasn't been any news."

Marco walked into the room ready to report to Stefano, but when he spotted Arianna standing there, he couldn't help greeting her first. "Arianna, it's always good to see you. How are things with your mother?"

Stefano watched Marco and couldn't believe his complete lack of respect. Arianna smiled at Marco. Trying not to lose focus in front of him, she answered coolly, "Things are improving believe it or not. She's not out of the woods, but she is fighting."

"If you ever need anything, please don't hesitate to ask," Marco replied as Stefano cleared his throat to get Marco to remember why he arrived in the first place. Marco quickly turned around to greet Stefano as Arianna stepped back to watch in silence. "My apologies boss," he stated before reporting, "Chad is currently with Lexie. They have traveled together around Salem getting things ready for the event tomorrow night and are currently headed for the mayor's office."

Stefano wasn't exactly pleased with the current family situation, but he was willing to work with what he had. "It's good that Chad is still involved with the family. Though I wish he didn't continue to keep his distance from me." Thinking about the masquerade, Stefano moved on. "I want you to tighten security for the family tomorrow evening. There's no telling if someone will try something else, and the press will not help either. They will be focused on getting a story on Lexie, and that is when I fear someone may strike." Not forgetting how Marco ignored him to talk to Arianna when he walked in, Stefano made sure to add while giving the side eye to Arianna, "I need you focused on this task! No dilly dallying around, and no distractions."

"I'll get right on it, sir," Marco stated firmly. "The family will remain safe," he added making eye contact with Arianna one last time. "Have a good night, Arianna."

"Good night, Marco," Ari responded realizing it wasn't even evening.

Marco walked out of the room and received a text from Azzura before walking out the front door. In the text, Azzura seductively asked him if he had a moment for her. Marco knew he needed to accept her invitation and texted her back to wait for a text with a time and place.

EJ walked back into the room with a bottle of aspirin. "This is all I could find. I hope it's what you need."

Arianna took the bottle and thanked EJ. "I will bring it back tonight after my mother has gone to bed." She decided she had heard enough and would sneak in later.

"That won't be necessary," EJ informed her. "We have plenty here. If you need anything else don't hesitate to ask."

Arianna bit her lip because she no longer had a reason to return to the mansion later. "Thanks again." Arianna gave a small smile and left through the side door.

Stefano gave EJ an aggravated look as he commented, "I don't like it that they have access to our house whenever they like. You may be friends with Arianna, but she's still a Hernandez!"

EJ dismissed his father's comment. "I saw Marco walking on my way down the stairs. What did he have to say?"

"Chad is still with Alexandra. They are headed to the mayor's office most likely discussing that stupid event at Maggie's restaurant tomorrow," Stefano updated EJ. "Have you heard anything from your lovely wife?"

EJ wasn't sure what to think about his father calling Sami lovely. "Samantha is most likely just getting into the room to start the meeting with the board. She said she was going to ask Daniel to talk in the meeting on Lexie's behalf. It's ludicrous if they really do want to get rid of Lexie at a time like this."

"I'm sure that will work in Alexandra's favor. The board will see right through the lies someone chose to spread to get rid of her." Stefano knew someone was out to get Lexie but wasn't completely sure who it might be. He did have his suspicions though.

EJ remembered his father asking about his agenda for the day. "Tonight is the night, father. We are initiating Ignazio, and Chad has agreed he will be there to help."

Stefano scratched his chin thinking about his sister. "That's good. It will be interesting what Ignazio does when he is put in a life or death situation. His true motive will be clear tonight."

EJ's phone suddenly began to ring. EJ looked down and didn't recognize the number. "I need to take this," he informed his father. "We can talk more if you're still around." EJ walked out to take the call.


Sonny walked into the Java Café and spotted Chelsea with Ciara. "Hello ladies. What are you two up to?"

After Ciara greeted her cousin, Chelsea told Sonny, "I am on a play date with my sister. We decided to step in and have hot cocoa with banana nut muffins before we head back to the pub." Chelsea took a quick sip of her cocoa before asking, "How are you doing?" She was aware that Sonny wasn't doing well because she had heard about his relationship problems but didn't want to ask him about it because Ciara was in front of them.

Sonny chose not to be honest due to Ciara's presence as well. "I'm okay." Feeling awkward about lying, Sonny scratched the top of his head as he looked around the room. Doing so, he spotted Brett sitting on the other side by himself. He turned back to Chelsea and Ciara dropping his hands into his jean front pockets. "I'll let you two get back to your sister time. I just spotted someone I need to talk to. Have fun."

After Chelsea and Ciara said their goodbyes, Sonny made his way over to Brett. Taking a breath, he knew things would only get more awkward. "Can I have a moment?"

Brett looked up from his phone. When he saw it was Sonny, he put his phone down. "Sure. I'm feeling generous today."

Sonny placed his hands on the top of the chair across from Brett and leaned on it. "How is Kai?"

Brett began to tap his thumb on the table. "Well, he's doing horrible. What do you expect?"

Sonny finally took a seat as he couldn't take standing anymore. He remembered how he felt drawn to talk to Dario over the weekend because Dario had given him space. He hoped the same would happen with Kai after some time. "I have kept my distance from Kai. I figure he needs space even if it's killing me. I want to talk to him so bad."

Brett could see that Sonny felt like crap and decided to back off on judging him. Instead, he offered some genuine advice, "Move on."

Sonny didn't want to hear that. He lowered his head, so he could move the conversation forward. "Has Kai found his own place or is he still staying with you?"

"Neither," Brett started. "He's staying with your great-uncle, Victor Kiriakis. I thought you would have heard about that by now."

Sonny couldn't believe that Kai was staying with Victor and didn't know. He couldn't believe his great-uncle got involved again. Trying to get over the shock, Sonny asked Brett for more details.

Dario and Gabi walked into Java after deciding to take a break from shopping. Running into Chelsea and Ciara, they decided to say hi. Chelsea noticed both had shopping bags in their hands. "What did you two buy?"

"We went shopping for that thing tomorrow night," Dario answered.

Gabi gave Dario a look as she went into specifics, "We found Dario a very nice tux and mask. I also managed to find a really cheap but awesome masquerade gown that is currently being altered so it will fit better tomorrow night. We're going to pick it up before we head home."

"I'll have to check that out," Chelsea said. She hadn't thought much about the masquerade and wondered if she should go.

Spotting Sonny with the guy who called him a fag at the Cheatin' Heart, Dario asked, "Who is that guy with Sonny over there?"

As Chelsea noted the look in Dario's eyes, Gabi answered in a way so it wasn't a big deal to protect her brother. "I think he goes to Salem U. Maybe he's decided to move on from Kai." She couldn't believe that they managed to run into Sonny when they decided to come to Java to avoid Kai. She felt bad for her brother.

Bored with the others' conversation, Ciara got her sister's attention. "I want more hot cocoa."

Chelsea stood up to get Ciara more cocoa, but Gabi stopped her. "I can take her to get more. Dario and I still need to order drinks anyway."

Turning to Dario, she offered, "I'll get you your usual." She didn't want Dario to have to handle being closer to Sonny and thought Chelsea and Dario could use a moment alone. Gabi took Ciara's hand and led her to the barista to order more drinks.

Chelsea continued to watch Dario because he couldn't stop glancing over to Sonny and Brett. She wondered how much Dario knew about Sonny's situation. "I heard Sonny cheated on Kai, but I never heard who he cheated with. I wonder if it's that guy."

Dario tried his best not to show the discomfort he suddenly felt due to Chelsea's comment. "He... I don't know. I didn't even know that Kai and Sonny broke up," Dario said attempting to appear ignorant on the whole situation. His curiosity of why Sonny was with Brett quickly disappeared as he focused on what he needed to do to forget Sonny. He remembered his conversation with Ignazio the week before about Chelsea. He knew what he needed to do to change the subject. "You told my sister you would check the sale out at the square. Does that mean you're going to the masquerade tomorrow?"

Dario's question caught Chelsea off guard. This weird feeling came over her as she questioned why Dario would bring up the masquerade. "I'm considering it, but I don't know if I have anyone to go with," she admitted. "I hear it's better to have a date for those things."

"Do you want to be my date tomorrow night?" Dario spit out rather quickly. He feared if he stalled any longer, he would have lost the courage to ask her. He couldn't believe this was so hard for him. He used to have an easier time asking girls out.

Pleasantly surprised, Chelsea quickly accepted. Dario took a deep breath and smiled back. He told himself that everything would be right again. He believed going on a date with Chelsea would help him heal and move on from what he felt with Sonny.


At the mayor's office, Mr. Olsen walked out of the conference room and found Lexie sitting next to Chad waiting. "Thanks again, Lexie for agreeing to meet with the board today. You have been really helpful the last few days around here, and we all appreciate you very much."

Lexie smiled as she took Chad's hand for strength as she replied, "Thanks. I know I am not my husband, but I want to help as much as I can."

Mr. Olsen returned the smile as he continued, "Our agenda in the meeting today is to talk about who we should appoint as Mayor Carver's stand-in for the rest of his term – if that should be the case, but…" Mr. Olsen paused hoping he did not cause Lexie to get upset due to the subject matter. Once she seemed okay, he finished, "but first there's something I want to tell you personally."

Letting go of Chad's hand and standing up, Lexie asked, "What is it?"

Mr. Olsen reflected on the meeting the board had with Maddalena on Monday. "You are Abe's wife, and as I mentioned before, you have helped us out a great deal the last week. The board has agreed that before we discuss any other candidate, we would like to offer you the job of Mayor. It would be great to have you work for the city of Salem in a bigger capacity."

Chad got excited for his sister figuring this would be good for her. "I think you should do it."

Lexie gave Mr. Olsen a look of gratitude. "I appreciate the offer. Unfortunately, I have to decline because I am not ready to give up my post at the hospital. I know I am not working at the moment, but I truly believe I can use my talents there more than in this office."

Mr. Olsen slightly lowered his head to let her know he wasn't upset with her decision. "In that case, we will proceed with the meeting." Stepping back as Chad began to stand, he claimed, "I am sorry, Mr. DiMera, but you cannot join us in the meeting."

Chad stood still. He was unsure of what to do because he had planned on supporting his sister through the meeting.

Lexie put her hand up to Mr. Olsen with a request. "I will join you in a sec. I'd like a moment alone with my brother before the meeting starts."

After Mr. Olsen returned to the conference room, Chad suggested, "I can wait out here for you."

Lexie placed her hand on Chad's arm. "That won't be necessary, Chad. I appreciate you spending the day with me, but I know there is something you have been putting off. I can't let you not live your life because you're trying to help me live mine."

Chad didn't want Lexie to worry about him. "I have no idea what you're talking about. I am not purposely focusing on you to avoid my own life."

Lexie simply smiled and gave her brother a hug. Pulling away, she let her hands remain on his arms. "Chad, I know you have been putting off talking to Will about something important because I've overheard bits and pieces of your conversations with my mom. I'm not sure what I think about you and my mom spending time together, but I do know you need to talk to Will."

Chad knew his sister was right, but he still struggled with leaving his sister. "I'll talk to Will, but I need to know you're going to be okay."

Lexie gave Chad an assuring smile. "Yes, I am fine. I will call you when the meeting is over. We can regroup after that."

Chad smiled back and pulled his sister into another hug. Lexie made sure to give Chad a kiss on the cheek before they separated. "Thanks. I will talk to you later." Lexie wished Chad luck before heading into the conference room. Chad headed out to his car ready to tell Will about Mia.


Will and Kai arrived at Will's apartment door. "I called earlier to make sure Sonny wouldn't be around," Will informed Kai to let him know he didn't have to worry. Walking in, the two were surprised to see T sitting on the couch, sulking. "T, what are you doing?"

T didn't bother turning his head. "I am so done with everything. Time doesn't heal anything. My life still sucks."

"I agree with you," Kai said as he crossed over to T. "But that's when you have to make a change or find something else to do. Try living life in a new context. One away from Gabi and whatever is going wrong in your life."

Will decided to share his thoughts as he agreed with Kai. "Yeah. A new semester is about to start. Focus on that. You still have that, right?"

T let out a sigh. "Yeah, I guess I do. My parents decided that was the one thing they wouldn't take away from me." Even though T was appreciative about that, the cut off from his parents still seemed a lot worse. "What classes are you guys taking?" he asked trying to get his mind off the negative aspects of his life.

"I'm not entirely sure," Will admitted. "I'm taking a lot of music classes since I changed my major. I'll go print my schedule. I have to print it out anyway, so I can get my books and stuff from the campus bookstore this weekend."

After Will left the room, Kai joined T on the couch. "So tell me, what do you want to do in this exact moment?"

T still felt tense. "Honestly, I want to hurt my parents and Gabi for the way they hurt me. I would do anything for them to feel what I feel right now."

"Like kissing Will in front of Gabi?" Kai questioned reminding T of his propositioning Will. "Are you sexually curious or do you really just hate Gabi that much?"

T sat up straight on the couch. "I'm not gay or anything. I just know that Gabi kept me away from living my life and enjoying my friends because she feared Will, Sonny, or Chad would turn me gay."

Kai immediately started shaking his head. "That is so ridiculous. Sure Sonny and Dario happened, but I think Dario has always been gay. He admitted it to me." Kai shook his head as T was surprised to hear that Sonny cheated on Kai with Gabi's brother. Kai continued, "Gabi is so dim. Even though she did warn me about Sonny, I still hate that bitch."

T nodded his head glad that someone else saw Gabi for who she was. He then got the urge to ask Kai a question. "Would you ever kiss a straight guy?"

Kai began to laugh as he shared, "I heard that's every gay guy's dream."

Will walked back in interrupting Kai and T's conversation. "Chad just sent me a text. He wants to meet me here alone. I hate to do this, but is there any way..."

"T and I were going to head out anyway," Kai interrupted Will hoping T would go with it.

Will wasn't sure what to think, but T confirmed it. "Yeah, I think we might go to the pub or something for a drink."

"Okay," was all Will could get out at first. He found Kai and T hanging out alone interesting but decided not to ask because he was getting the privacy Chad requested. After saying bye, Will watched as Kai and T left. He wondered why Chad wanted to meet with him like this. He questioned if Chad was finally going to open up to him about his secret.


As they waited in the park, Ignazio and Ric discussed their next move. "After we finish here, I have to head home and change. I got a call from EJ telling me he had a special assignment for me late in the evening."

Ric was about to ask if Ignazio knew anymore about the special assignment, but Mia arrived on time. She looked at the two guys carefully as she wasn't sure what to think of their plan. "I can't believe Chad hasn't said anything. Your plan seems to have worked – whatever you did."

Ignazio thought about how the truth about Abe coming out was perfect timing to detour Chad from talking to Will about Mia. He believed they had stalled long enough. "It's time we put the next part of our plan in action. You will need your phone ready to dial Chad."

"Why?" Mia asked. She knew Ignazio asked her to trust him, but she wasn't going to do it blindly.

Ric grew impatient with Mia's questioning. "You will be calling Chad soon because your life is in danger." To put fear in Mia, Ric stepped up to her to make her cower.

Through her sudden fear of urgency, Mia turned to Ignazio with a confused look. "Your plan is to attack me?"

Ignazio stopped Ric from doing anything else, so he could explain everything to Mia. "We aren't going to hurt you too horribly. We need to make it seem like someone really wants you dead. After Chad comes to your rescue and finds you hurt, he will be more inclined to keep the fact that you're in Salem a secret. He will want to protect you and be there for you."

Mia wasn't completely sold on the idea. "How can you be sure of that? Half of Salem already knows I am in town."

Ignazio struggled with appeasing Mia's need to know everything, but he really needed her to believe him. "I need you to trust me. I truly believe Chad will remember your past love and forget about Will. You have told me it was something special. Of course, this is only part of the plan. There is more, but I will tell you about that later. For now, we have to stage this attack."

Mia took a deep breath, but she wasn't satisfied still. "I have one more question, and then I promise we can go ahead with your plan. I know why I want this, but why do you want this so bad?"

Ric tried to step in again, but Ignazio held him back. Giving her a serious and convincing look, Ignazio answered, "Chad needs to move on and start a new life outside of Salem. It's my hope he will return to New York with you. I think you are the answer." Ignazio had noted previously that Mia seemed to be very self-confident and hoped that feeding her ego would keep her in check with what he needed from her.

Satisfied with the answer, Mia brushed herself off and pulled out her cell phone. She pointed the screen to Ignazio and Ric as she instructed her phone to call Chad DiMera. Ric began to move closer to Mia slowly causing her to rush away. Ignazio placed his hand on Ric's chest so Mia could get a head start.

As Mia continued to run away through the snow, Chad finally picked up his phone. "Mia, if you're calling me to keep me from telling Will, you're wasting your time."

Chad sounded annoyed, but Mia didn't let that stop her. "Chad, you have to help me. There are these two guys going after me. They've followed me all day, and when I confronted them, they tried to attack me!"

"Where are you?" Chad asked with concern in his voice now.

Mia looked back and tripped on the snow dropping her phone. She screamed trying to find it. "Chad, I'm at the Salem Park! Please help me! Help me please!" Mia looked up and saw Ignazio and Ric standing over her. They began to slap her around causing her to make grunting sounds loud enough for Chad to hear through the phone. Chad knew what he had to do.