Chapter 49: Say Something, Part 2 – Friday, September 20th, 2013

In Maddalena's hospital room, Cameron was looking her over when she came to. "Ms. DiMera. Can you hear me?"

Raising her head, Maddalena was confused. "What... what happened?" She began to rub her head.

Cameron checked Maddalena's vitals as he explained, "You fainted, and I ran more tests on you after the first tests came back."

Maddalena relaxed her head and hands before looking up to the ceiling. "What were the results to the first tests?"

Looking towards the door, Cameron asked, "Do you want me to get your grandson before I tell you?"

Maddalena slowly shook her head no. "I want to know."

After a sigh, Cameron shared, "The first round of tests were alarming. Are you already aware of your health situation?"

"Yes," Maddalena confirmed showing Cameron she wasn't surprised or bothered. "How long do I have, Dr. Davis?"

Cameron scratched the side of his face and said, "You don't have long..."

In the hallway, Ignazio had Alessandro on the phone. Alessandro was really worried due to the fact that Maddalena fainted and wanted Ignazio to find out what was going on. "I will get answers as soon as I can go into the room," Ignazio told his brother as he looked the place over for Chelsea. He tried to go to her office earlier but the door was closed. He really messed up.

"Does Dario know what is going on with our nonna?" Alessandro asked.

Ignazio answered, "No. I... Time... I haven't called him." He was flustered because he didn't want to talk about Chelsea with Alessandro. His focus was on her, and he hadn't even thought to call Dario.

Alessandro saw this as an opportunity. "Dario should be there at the hospital. I wish I could be there."

Coming out of the room, Cameron caught Ignazio's attention. "You can come in now." It was kind of weird talking to Chelsea's boyfriend and knowing so much about their relationship.

Ignazio moved the phone closer to his mouth as he told Alessandro, "I will call you back. I'm going into the room now."

After hanging up the phone, Ignazio entered the room alone to find Maddalena relaxing. "Did Dr. Davis tell you what happened – the reason you fainted?"

Maddalena did not want to tell Ignazio the truth. "He told me I overexerted myself, and that I will be fine." This part was true as far as her fainting in the room earlier, but she lied when she continued, "The tests came back with a clean bill of health for my age."

Relieved, Ignazio kissed Maddalena on the cheek before pulling his phone out to text Alessandro the good news.

Maddalena watched Ignazio closely. She knew no one was ready to find out about her health condition.

Meanwhile, Chad stood in another hospital room with Brian and Dr. Kahn. "So what exactly happened?" The tension from this whole situation was obvious through his body language.

Dr. Kahn, who had bruises all over his body, a cast on his leg, and a brace around his neck, shared, "Someone's wheel popped on the highway and crashed into my car. I'll be fine, but I won't be released until tomorrow. Unfortunately, that means I won't make it to the concert tonight."

With a look of sympathy, Chad said, "I understand." His thoughts went to Brian's text message earlier. Brian claimed he wasn't going to the concert either. Chad needed Brian there to perform tonight.

Looking at his son, Dr. Kahn got his attention. "Brian. You're performing tonight. I'll be just fine here because your mother is staying with me."

Brian exhaled deeply and claimed, "I was just so scared about what happened. I don't want to lose you dad."

"I'll be fine," Dr. Kahn reiterated.

Noting that Brian seemed set on performing again, Chad allowed a small smile to form on his face. He had dodged a bullet here. "I'll make sure you and your wife can watch the concert from your hospital room so you can see Brian rock it out."

"Thanks, Chad," Dr. Kahn offered with as much of a nod as he could.

"No, thank you."


From the Kiriakis mansion, Jen followed Jack and Nicole to the Horton Town Square, but lost them when she had to park her car. Looking the crowd over, Jen finally spotted Nicole standing by herself inside Mandalay Café. She wondered where Jack was.

"Looking for me?" Jack asked. He was standing behind her.

Jen nearly jumped and placed her hand over her chest because Jack caught her. "Jack, you scared me."

Jack gave Jen an annoyed look. "What do you think you're doing?"

Playing innocent, Jen claimed, "I am doing some late-afternoon shopping..."

"Don't," Jack released to stop Jen from talking. "I saw your car in the parking lot at Chad's club last night and again today outside of the Kiriakis mansion. Stop following Nicole and me around. You're wasting your time."

Placing her hands on her hips, Jen argued, "Must I remind you that we've had this conversation years ago? I have ownership of how I spend my time, so I alone determine what I want to do with it."

Hearing Jen say this triggered a memory for Jack.


Some time ago…


From behind, Jack approached Jennifer while she was on the phone at the hospital. Jack could hear her say, "Look, if you'd listen to me, I'm sure I could convince… Yes, I understand. Thank you."

After Jen hung up the phone, Jack leaned on the wall behind her and asked, "Talking to the warden, huh?"

Jen didn't even bother turning around and with an annoyed tone verified Jack's question, "Yes."

"She blew you off?" Jack followed up.

With a nod, Jen still didn't give her boss a complete confirmation. "More or less."

Nonchalantly, Jack shared, "I could've told you it would be a waste of time."

Jennifer contemplated facing Jack, but instead she headed towards the nurse's station as she asserted, "Well, it's my time, so I can do whatever I want with it, right?"

Jack followed her closely as he reminded her, "I think you're forgetting who you're talking to."

With her back still facing Jack, Jen did not let up. "Look, Jack. I put in a whole day's work at the paper yesterday."

Moving to Jen's side so he could see her face, Jack made a noise so not to argue with what she said, but then he questioned, "Where were you today?"

Jennifer couldn't believe Jack would ask her that question and finally looked at him. After a small pause to look him over, Jen said, "This is work, Jack."

"There's no story here," Jack quickly quipped.

Showing patience, Jennifer shared, "I want to write another article about Sally."

Jack wasn't having any of it. "Forget it."

Attempting to get Jack to reconsider, Jen offered, "Alright, we'll make it an editorial. When people find out that they want to take her baby, they'll be up in arms."

Even though Jen was showing passion, Jack couldn't help himself. "Then yawn and they'll turn to sports."

Annoyed, Jen shot back, "Everybody's not like that. They're all not like…" She suddenly stopped realizing what she was about to say.

Jack knew how Jen planned to finish that sentence. Moving his mouth next to her ear, he repeated, "I think you forgot who I am again."

As Jack stepped back believing he had put his foot down, Jen turned to face her boss one more time. "I want to write this editorial," she repeated with more of a demanding tone.

"No!" Jack swiftly answered almost cutting her off.

"Jack, if I do a good job we could pressure the warden to let Sally keep Hannah."

Jack didn't comprehend how Jen could keep fighting for this. "I run the newspaper, not the welfare service."

"I understand," Jen immediately responded, but when she realized what he had implied, she gave Jack a silly look as she stated, "I know that."

Slapping his hand on the nurse's station, Jack argued, "Well, you don't show it." With a slight smile on his face, he continued, "You're never going to last long in this business if you keep getting emotionally wrapped up in every sob story that comes along."

Jen did not smile back and only became more serious. "This is not just a story. This is a person."

Jack's smile faded and he became just as serious. "And you're not just a social worker, you're a reporter."

"Then let me do my job," Jen demanded.

Jack responded by reminding her of her job description. "A reporter has to be objective about every story the reporter writes." He began to laugh at how naïve and innocent she was. He followed up with a warning, "You can't get wrapped up in every little thing. Today it's Sally. Tomorrow it's some other person with some sad little story, and in the end it all ends up on the bottom of some bird-cage."

Jen paused realizing who she was talking to. With an accusatory but calm tone, she said, "That's really what you think, isn't it?"

As Jen turned from him, Jack responded, "Well, feel free to quote me."

With the intensity somewhat diminished, Jen turned to begging. "Please let me write this editorial."

Making a joke of this conversation, Jack answered, "At the risk of repeating myself, no."

"Why not?" Jen was still determined to fight this.

"Well, in the first case, I'm not going to give an opinion piece to a cub reporter."

"I'll do a good job." Jen believed she could make up for her lack of experience.

Jack remained cavalier about it showing his superiority. "That's beside the point. And you realize that your first piece got no response at all. Oh, yeah sure, you got a couple of nice little phone calls and two donations to the cause. One from Calliope."

Noting Jack was trying to tear her down, Jen contested, "What's wrong with that?"

Jack matter-of-factly stated, "Oh, come on. That woman weeps over every sad story – every little letter that comes in. It's barely a barometer for public opinion and sympathy."

Jen realized there was no use in arguing and stated, "I won't let you take this story from me Jack." She began to walk away, but then she stopped. Turning around, she shared with determination and great enthusiasm, "I'm going to write this editorial, and I'm going to prove to you that you don't have to be cold-hearted and selfish to be a good reporter."

Shaking his head, Jack did not show any response to Jen's drive. "Not on my time."

With earnestness, Jen asked, "If it's on my time, will you print it?"

Acting as though he was actually considering it, Jack let out, "Hmmm…" before finally releasing, "…probably not."

Jen eyed Jack and stared him down. "Oh, yes you will 'cause I'm going to make it so damn good, you won't have any choice."

After Jen stormed off into the elevator, Jack looked out impressed and stated, "Go for it."


Friday, September 20th, 2013


Snapping her fingers in front of Jack's face, Jen questioned, "Has Chad or Lexie talked to you about dropping this investigation?"

Jack shook his head. "I have no idea what you're talking about. Please, stop following us. You're not a reporter anymore. Go back to your hospital job." He walked off before Jen could say anything else.

Jen wanted to go after Jack, but she heard a female voice come from behind her. Someone had said her name and when she turned to see Diana, she was surprised. "Diana?"

"Sweet Jennifer," Diana released with a warm smile. "It's so good to see you. I'm guessing Mr. Deveraux didn't tell you I'm in town now."

Jennifer didn't know what to make of this. "He didn't. What are you doing back in Salem?"

Diana grinned even wider. "I'm glad you asked me that because I would like to sit and talk with you. I have a proposition for you..." Once she knew, she had Jen's full attention, she said, "I want you to come work with me at The Salem Spectator."

The surprises kept coming. Jen looked back to see Jack had joined Nicole in Mandalay Café before turning to face Diana again. She didn't know what to say.


Lucas, Allie, and Sophie arrived for the concert earlier than everyone else. Will immediately came over with a big grin on his face because he was so excited to see them. After giving Lucas and Allie hugs, he went over and shook Sophie's hand. "It's good to see you again."

Almost matching Will's excitement, Sophie genuinely shared, "You have grown so much, Will. I'm ecstatic that I get to see this show tonight."

Motioning them to follow him, Will led them to the area where they were supposed to sit. "This is the family VIP section. Mom, Johnny, and Sydney haven't arrived yet."

Lucas directed Sophie and Allie to take a seat as he decided, "I'll grab drinks for everyone." Looking at his son, he requested, "Walk and talk with me."

Will nodded his head and walked with Lucas towards the bar. He could feel the butterflies in his stomach as he realized this was all really happening. Focusing on positive thoughts, he told himself that everything would go amazingly tonight and found himself smiling.

Lucas didn't waste any time and delved into talking about Chad. "Has Chad tried anything with you since he returned to Salem?"

Will's smile disappeared. Even though he hated this question, he replied, "I understand you have been in China this whole time, but you should know from our phone conversations and the conversations I'm sure you've had with Grandma Kate and mom that nothing romantic has happened between Chad and me."

Lucas placed his hand on Will's shoulder and admitted, "I find that hard to believe."

Once they were at the bar, Will turned to Lucas and maintained, "Dad, you have nothing to worry about." Hitting the bar, he moved on. "We're only serving non-alcoholic drinks. Enjoy the show; I need to check in with Uncle Eric."

Bringing in boxes of sodas into the back storage room, Kai hoped they didn't run out tonight. After putting the boxes down, he wiped his forehead as his thoughts went to Cameron. He hoped Cameron would get off early because he needed more help since Ezra seemed distracted.

Josh walked into the room parched. "Do you have any bottled water?"

Kai handed Josh a bottle of water and said, "It's great to see you again."

After taking a sip of water, Josh nodded his head. "It's good to see you. What are you doing here?"

Moving a box, Kai explained, "I told Will I'd help serve drinks tonight for the concert."

"That was nice of you," Josh replied before taking another sip of water.

Giving Josh his full attention, Kai began to laugh as he brought up, "Remember that time when you, me, and T saw that fight between the Italian man and woman?"


Friday, January 13th, 2012


T, who was wearing a gold mask and a green and gold cape for the masquerade, patted Josh on the back and asked, "Are you going to make any moves on Abigail tonight?"

Josh, who was wearing a small orange and black poncho and a feathered mask, shrugged his shoulders as the three guys walked past the arts and crafts store. He suddenly stopped them from walking further when he spotted Ric and Azzura outside of The Mighty Pen. They were arguing.

"Why are you following me? Did Maddalena send you?" Ric questioned Azzura.

Azzura showed she didn't appreciate Ric's attitude. "You are definitely getting too comfortable again. Watch it! You are beneath me, and I am not fearful to put you in your place. What are you and Ignazio planning tonight?"

With an unimpressed look, Ric said, "Ignazio is Maddalena's grandson. You are not related, so it would make sense that you are beneath him. I don't have to tell you anything."

Ric tried to walk off, but Azzura grabbed his arm to turn him back around. With great impatience, she yelled, "Don't walk away. You better watch it. Your loyalty should be to Maddalena over everyone. Yes, Ignazio is Maddalena's grandson, but she trusts me more. He had better not mess things up again. If I were him, I would have gotten rid of you a long time ago, but unfortunately – and disgustingly – you two are infatuated with each other."

Ric pulled his arm from Azzura's grasp and adjusted his coat. "You better watch it. If I were you, I would be more careful with how you cross Ignazio."

Azzura went to follow Ric, but she stopped, pulled her phone out of her pocket, and sighed. She looked up in the direction Ric headed and warned, "Ignazio better watch out or I'll be the one to take over Maddalena's assets and home."


Friday, September 20th, 2013


"That was crazy," Josh said with a smile. His thoughts went to Abigail and how he didn't get to see her that night.

Nodding his head, Kai shared, "I've run into that woman a few times since then. I broke up a fight between her and Nicole Walker at the square, and I've seen her around the hospital. I think her name is Azzura, and I believe she works for the DiMeras."

Josh was surprised. "She must have a thing for fights in the HTS then. Have you run into the guy at all?"

Kai gave Josh an intense look. "Actually, the guy ended up in prison. It was crazy seeing his picture in the news. He made some kind of confession for being involved with what happened to Chad's sister's husband – the mayor – and Will's attack on the pier."

Stunned by the news, Josh wondered, "Azzura accused him of being up to something that night. I wonder if that was what he was hiding – Will's attack I mean."

Kai thought about it and admitted, "It's possible."

Outside, Alessandro pulled up in his car. After parking, he grabbed his backpack. It was filled with alcohol. "Sorry Chad. I have to ruin this night for you."


Gathered in the main room in the Kiriakis mansion, Maggie, Victor, and Brady were discussing the concert tonight. "I've heard good things from Abigail and Melanie," Maggie shared.

Grabbing a drink, Brady took a sip before saying, "I know Will has talent." He wished he could have convinced Will to record with Titan.

Victor took a seat to relax. "I went ahead and gave Manny the night off so he can watch his brother perform." Looking to the side, he remembered how something seemed off about Manny – even more so. He questioned if Manny had become a lost cause and considered pushing forward on convincing Nico to come back for good.

Maggie went over to Victor's side and rested her hand on his shoulder. "That was sweet of you to do."

Grabbing the newspaper, Brady looked over the headline. "Did you read about Colin's escape from prison?"

Victor raised his eyes to his grandson and began to shake his head. "It was only a matter of time before it happened," he commented. "Whoever Colin is working for – whether it is Stefano or someone else – has the connections necessary to get him out of there."

Standing in the foyer where no one could see him, Manny decided to head back into another room. He contemplated what he should do with the evidence he found in the condemned bedroom. What were those vials? The evidence still didn't make sense to him, but the other information he found showed that Victor didn't trust him and would throw him under the bus if he ever did something to upset him.

A part of Manny believed Victor had been good to him and his family though. He rubbed the top of his head thinking about how he was being blackmailed to come forward with the evidence against Victor and blackmailed at the same time by Victor – if Victor really was the one who put the files on his family members together. How did the man know where to find those files? What if the man who contacted him put those there himself? But what about Nico? Nico was Victor's man, and he put the vials with those files.

Manny felt manipulated and confused about everything. Remembering what Lexie said to him about owning the guilt, he wondered if it would be better if he just went down for the murder at the park like he did with Emily for Rafe to protect the family. He questioned if Colin could be involved somehow. There was so much at stake, and Manny needed to do whatever necessary to protect his family.


Outside of Maddalena's mansion, EJ glanced at a text message he received from Chad earlier. Chad asked him to convince Lexie to come to the concert if he had time. Taking a deep breath, he knocked against the door hoping he wouldn't have to see Azzura.

Fortunately, Lexie answered the door. She was surprised to see EJ there. "Maddalena still hasn't returned from the hospital," she greeted her brother hoping he wasn't there for her.

Wanting to carefully approach his sister, EJ asked, "Is she okay?"

Lexie rubbed her shoulder and answered, "I'm not sure because I expected her to return by now."

EJ noted that Lexie wasn't putting up a fight. "May I come in?" When she moved out of the way, EJ stepped into Maddalena's mansion and took a few moments before sharing, "I stopped by because I think we should go to the concert together to support our family."

Scratching the side of her head, Lexie replied, "I can't go because I don't want to be around family. I asked Brandon to pick up Theo, so I'm thinking I'll have a night to myself."

It bothered EJ so much to see how great the distance between them was now. Allowing the agony to show in his face, he said, "I don't want to have a night to myself. I need my sister."

Lexie didn't believe that. She turned away and moved towards the foot of the stairs. She stopped halfway though. "What about Sami? You should go with her."

EJ wished it was that easy. "Samantha doesn't want to have anything to do with me at the moment."

Eyeing her brother, Lexie thought about the night she found EJ passed out drunk with Azzura. She wasn't surprised he and Sami hadn't worked things out. "Maybe you should try to talk to her instead of coming to talk to me."

Lexie was being colder than Sami here. EJ knew he needed to talk to his wife, and though he was trying to remain positive about it, he couldn't stop replaying in his mind how short Sami was with him earlier that morning. Through a sigh, he shared, "Samantha doesn't trust me – though she's right not to because you obviously don't trust me either."

With her brother opening up to her about his problems, Lexie had to turn away. She needed to push him out so she didn't get emotional again.

EJ continued to get emotional because Lexie's silence didn't help him. "I need you, Alexandra. I may have lost Samantha for good."

EJ was really getting inside of her. Lexie closed her eyes and tried to turn all her memories, emotions, and pain into darkness – complete darkness. After a moment, she finally opened her eyes and argued, "If you keep drinking your life away, you won't ever get her back!"

Confused, EJ asked, "What are you talking about?"

"I'm not surprised you don't remember." Crossing her arms, Lexie explained, "I returned to the mansion the night we had that blowout about my job at the hospital. You were drunk with Azzura in the living room."

EJ's ears perked up realizing this may be why he felt a connection to Lexie that night when he was wracking his brain to remember in his office at DiMera Enterprises. Without saying too much, he requested, "Remind me what happened."

Thinking nothing of it, Lexie shared, "You were pretty much passed out, so I helped Azzura take you to the nearest bedroom. After Azzura left, I tucked you in and left." EJ told her that night he didn't need her.

EJ's eyes widened, and his heart stopped as he realized he did not have sex with Azzura. He went in and hugged Lexie while saying, "You have saved my life!" As he continued to hold his sister, he recognized the fact that he woke up with Azzura in the bathroom. How did they end up together the next morning?

EJ decided that didn't matter at the moment because now he knew Azzura had lied to him about a couple things that night. Azzura claimed he seduced her into bed that night, and that they went to bed together, but Lexie was there. She said he was too out of it to walk upstairs on his own and tucked him in after Azzura left.

Frozen, Lexie was confused as to what just happened. She didn't know what to make of EJ having his arms wrapped around her. How did she save his life? It seemed as if he really did need her again.

Pulling away from his sister, EJ looked directly into Lexie's eyes. "The family needs to stick together and support each other. I apologize for treating you like a delicate flower."

Lexie could see that EJ was being sincere with her. She also looked closely into his eyes and could see he had been through hell with Sami and the rest of the family. It was all there, and she couldn't escape it.

"Go with me to the concert," EJ requested again.

Lexie's thoughts went to what Dario said to her earlier. More emotions began to fill her, and she didn't like it. She needed EJ to stop emoting, so she sidetracked for a moment. "Will you take care of Theo if something should happen to me?"

Concerned and confused, EJ replied, "I promise I will make sure Theo is taken care of."

"I'll go to the concert then," Lexie declared.

Though he was happy Lexie agreed to go, EJ still wanted to check in with his sister. "Is something going to happen to you?"

Shaking her head, Lexie denied it and maintained, "What is important is that I am going to the concert to support the family business."

EJ tried to assure himself everything would be okay. He was happy that he convinced Lexie to go and that he knew Azzura had lied to him. Things were coming together.

Standing near the top of the stairs, Azzura focused on EJ and the pregnancy test. She watched as EJ left and questioned what he would do if she was pregnant. She needed to get back to her bedroom.


Walking down the stairs of the Carver home, Celeste looked at the coffee table where her deck of tarot cards were waiting for her. She wrapped her arms around her body to hold herself. "It feels so dark... so cold," she commented herself as she headed to the sofa.

After taking a seat, Celeste looked up and began to pray. "Please, we are in need of hope and healing." She turned her attention to the coffee table and grabbed her tarot cards to shuffle them. Spreading them across the table, she chose one to turn over. It was the Fool card and understood, "There's something I can do that is connected to Chad."

Turning over a second card, Celeste studied the Empress card. She did not understand what Chad's mother had to do with anything. The third card was the emperor card causing her to think about Stefano's condition. She tried to connect everything and wondered how Madeline could lead to Stefano.

Deciding to turn over one last card, Celeste swallowed hard because it was the Judgment card. "Is this what I was hoping for?" she questioned as she studied the card. "The past uncovered and brought to light will bring forgiveness and growth."


"I wanted to check in with you about the screens and videos," Chad announced as he approached Will at the venue.

Since this was the first time Will saw Chad today, he couldn't help looking Chad over. He looked really good in what he chose to wear tonight. Refocusing his brain, Will glanced to the side and said, "Everything is good to go. My uncle and I got here early enough to make sure it all works."

Attempting to mask his nerves, Chad thought about the show ahead. After working things out with Brian, he hoped for no more surprises. He wasn't sure if he could handle it.

Will noted that Chad went quiet and seemed overwhelmed with stress. He placed his hand on Chad's shoulder and encouraged, "Everything will work out tonight."

Chad locked eyes with Will and allowed a small smile to appear upon his face. "Do you promise it will?"

Will smiled. "I promise that tonight will be a great night for everyone." Removing his hands, he found himself having to refocus once more. "So are you still planning to announce the name of the club?"

With a small nod, Chad answered, "Yeah. I hope you approve of the name."

"I'm sure I will," Will replied as he remembered what Sonny said earlier about Chad possibly naming the club after him. Glancing towards the entrance as more people arrived for the concert, he spotted Sami walk in with Johnny, Sydney, Rex, Cassie, and Jay. "What?" he released in shock.

As Johnny and Sydney rushed over to say hi to Allie, Chad noted the stunned look on Will's face. "What's wrong?"

Will didn't respond. He headed for the entrance, and Chad followed him. When Will was close enough to Sami and the others, he traded an intense look with Jay. They remembered the last time they saw each other.


Monday, August, 19th, 2013


After the Taylor West fiasco, Will and Jay found themselves at Jay's condo. Things were awkward and tense because Chad had ruined recording among other things that night. Will watched as Jay cleared out the dish washer. Jay hadn't really said a word since they arrived, and Will wanted to change that. He wanted things to go back to how they were before Chad showed up at the studio.

Moving behind Jay, Will placed his hands on Jay's hips and whispered, "We should end tonight on a good note."

Jay usually liked the way Will touched him, but he couldn't get into it. He turned around and pulled away from Will. "There's something I need to know first," he announced. "Do you still have feelings for Chad DiMera?"

Will looked down as he remembered what happened between him and Chad outside of the studio. Shaking his head, he answered, "No... No..."


Friday, September 20th, 2013


Interrupting Will and Jay's memory, Sami pulled Will into a hug and exclaimed, "I wanted to surprise you with a few people from Chicago."

Will smiled and gave Rex and Cassie hugs as well. "Thanks for coming. It really means a lot that you're here."

Rex kept his focus on Will as Cassie gave Chad an unimpressed look. "We're glad your mom told us about the concert. Are you performing tonight?"

When Will denied it, Cassie returned her attention to her nephew. "Whose stupid decision was that?"

Will didn't answer Cassie's question. Instead, he shared, "It's going to be a great show," before turning to Jay again, who then pulled him into a hug.

Chad awkwardly stood by as Will finally introduced him to everyone. Shaking Cassie and Rex's hand, he said, "It's nice to meet you." Rex and Cassie didn't seem too thrilled to meet Chad as they looked everywhere else to avoid having to look at him.

When it was his turn to shake Chad's hand, Jay smiled and sarcastically joked, "I remember you well. I've really missed you."

Feeling very uncomfortable, Chad scratched the back of his head. "I am sorry if I caused any damage that night I showed up in your studio."

Jay showed he had no problem with Chad. "I'm interested in sizing up the competition."

Seeing this all play out in front of her, Sami smirked before placing her hand on Will's back. "Will, can you show everyone to their seats while I get everyone drinks." After Will walked off with the others, she made sure she smirked once more for Chad before heading towards the bar.

Chad wondered what Sami was up to. "Don't get distracted," he instructed himself before heading off to find Dario. He hadn't seen him there yet.

At the bar, Ezra grabbed a drink for Abigail hoping he could surprise her. Before he could leave to search for her, Sami approached him. "Mrs. DiMera... You are looking beautiful tonight..."

Sami smiled at Ezra and said, "It's good to see you here. Have you seen Sonny?"

Ezra looked around realizing he hadn't seen Sonny. "He must be running late. If I see him, I'll tell him you're looking for him."

"Thanks," Sami released as Ezra headed off.

After Sami ordered a few drinks, Kate approached Sami to talk some sense into her. "You were so cold towards EJ earlier today."

Focusing on Kai as he got her drink order ready, Sami replied, "I don't want to talk about EJ right now."

Shaking her head in disappointment, Kate said, "I never thought you would actually prove me right when I told you that you would never make a proper DiMera wife."

Sami quickly became annoyed as she remembered Kate saying that before she and EJ got married. Facing Kate now, she said, "For the record, I have no intention of letting go of EJ."

Raising her eyebrow, Kate questioned, "Have you let EJ know that? As far as I've seen, EJ is telling everyone it's over."

Sami was surprised to hear this and didn't know what to think – especially after EJ rushed towards her at the DiMera mansion earlier. She didn't have time to process through this though. "I need to go take these drinks and find my seat. The concert is scheduled to start in less than an hour. Have you said hi to your son and daughter yet?"

Perplexed, Kate reminded Sami, "I'm the one who picked up Lucas and Billie at the airport."

Sami pointed towards the VIP section. "I'm talking about them."

Kate turned around to look and was dumbfounded when she saw Rex and Cassie playing with Johnny, Allie, and Sydney. She turned back to Sami to find out why they were there, but Sami walked off. The possibility that it had to do with Chad and Will crossed her mind. She could no longer assist Sami in this because she and Chad had called a truce.

Spotting Marlena and John walking into the club, Kate rushed over to greet them. "Tonight should be a really good show."

"I believe it will be," John replied as Marlena eyed Kate as if she had lost herself.

Kate smiled at them and shared, "Sami brought Cassie and Rex in from Chicago."

"Ah," Marlena released knowing why Kate came over to them. She looked the crowd over and spotted the twins. "We should go say hi."

After a sigh of relief, Kate honestly admitted, "I was hoping for a buffer."

Giving his wife a look to make sure she was okay, John decided, "I'll grab drinks at the bar."

"I just want some water," Marlena informed John before following Kate over to the VIP section.

John headed to the bar and spotted a woman standing at the bar alone. The way she held herself seemed so familiar. "Excuse me," he released to catch her attention, but when she turned around, he realized she wasn't who he thought. "Oh, sorry. I thought I knew you," he stated before glancing up. When he looked at her face he realized he did know her. "Diana?"

Diana gave John a nervous look. She didn't want to catch up with John. "John, sorry. I have to go." She began to go through her purse for her keys.

Still a bit surprised that Diana was actually in front of him, John questioned, "You're not staying for the concert?"

Shaking her head, Diana denied it. "I had to check in with one of my reporters who is covering the concert. I'm watching the show from home," she claimed.

John watched as Diana walked off and whispered, "Something was really off about her. She actually called me John and not Roman."

In the VIP section, Marlena and Kate were talking to Rex and Cassie – actually Kate remained quiet because she didn't know what to say. Marlena decided to help Kate by asking the questions. "How long are you two staying in Salem?"

Cassie tried to be as civil as possible. "Rex and I are heading back tomorrow because I have to make sure my business doesn't run into any problems."

"I also have a huge presentation I need to finish by Sunday night," Rex added.

Butting into the conversation, Lucas asked, "Have you invented something else?"

This was all too weird for Rex. He claimed, "I'm not allowed to talk about it."

Seizing the opportunity, Mayor White approached Marlena and introduced herself. "Dr. Evans, correct? I am Mayor White."

With a nod and grin, Marlena shook the mayor's hand and said, "It's a pleasure to meet you. How do you know me?"

"Who doesn't know you?" the mayor teased before publicizing, "I would like to set up a meeting for next week at the hospital psych ward. There's a project I'd like to include you in."

Marlena smiled and showed she felt honored that the mayor considered her. "I actually know the person who runs the psych department at Salem University Hospital. I could figure that out if you need me to."

Mayor White shook her head. "That won't be necessary. I have already talked to Dr. Brown, but since you know her, I'll just have her call you when we decide to meet."

Marlena nodded and agreed to the mayor's plan.

Jay stopped Will from walking away by putting his hand out and standing up. "It's really good seeing you again."

Will became nervous and admitted, "I wasn't sure if we would."

Jay could see Will wanted to leave. "I know you're busy, so we can talk more after the concert." He took Will's hand and rubbed his thumb in Will's palm.

"Yeah. We can talk more then," Will agreed with a grin before walking off.

Josh found Abigail in the back before having to get on stage. "Abby. We need to talk."

Abigail almost stopped breathing when Josh approached her. "Don't you have to get up there?"

Ignoring Abigail's question, Josh said, "I've kept my distance, but I can't take it anymore. I need to talk to you about everything – about my feelings."

Abigail felt a welling inside of her. "I've kept my distance as well, but I have wanted to talk to you, too. We can wait until after the concert though."

"I know what you did," Josh quickly spat out. He didn't want to wait.

Abigail gave Josh an uncertain look. "What do you mean?"

Josh didn't waste time explaining. "I wondered for the longest time why you didn't put up a fight when I told you I was leaving Salem. You kept me at bay, but I know now that you knew all along. Before I even told you I was leaving, you knew about the situation with my father. Abby, you're the most selfless person I know, and you are the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. Not only are you beautiful, but you are so strong."

Walking up with a drink in his hand, Ezra witnessed Abigail pull Josh into a kiss. He couldn't believe it and dropped the drink in the trash can before walking off disappointed.

Abigail separated from Josh and looked down for a moment. She had wanted to do that for the longest time. "We need to talk after the concert because I feel completely selfish at the moment."

Josh didn't know how Abigail could feel selfish, but he agreed. "Okay. We'll talk after."

Outside, Chad was leaving a voicemail with Dario since he didn't answer. "Dario, I'm getting worried because you're not here. I'm going to keep texting you until you respond. Please let me know you're okay."

Chad pushed the power button to end the call and rested his phone to his side. He took a deep breath as he noted the sign of his club covered with a large white sheet. The plan was to unveil the name of the venue tonight at the end of the concert and just thinking about it really excited Chad. He smiled as he remembered how he came up with the name.


Thursday, July 4th, 2013


Working a shift at the Moonshine Bar in Texas, Chad took a few deep breaths because the place was rather busy due to the holiday. Alessandro came over and tapped his shoulder so he would take a break. "Thanks," he told his friend and co-worker before heading towards the back. He didn't make it to the break room though because someone stood in his way.

"Chad DiMera? Is that really you?" a man in uniform questioned.

Chad looked at the man and almost didn't recognize him. "T? Whoa man. You look completely different. What's new?"

T grinned and shared, "I'm actually stationed nearby before I head overseas for deployment."

Patting T on his shoulder, Chad said, "Well, you look really good, man."

"Thanks," T released before asking an important question. "What are you doing here?"

Chad scratched the back of his head and claimed, "It's a long story, but I needed to get away from Salem for a while."

T stood up straight and crossed his arms over his chest. "Does that mean you left Will behind as well?"

Chad was too embarrassed to answer.

"This can't be the end of Chill!" T exclaimed catching Chad off guard.

Almost laughing, Chad asked, "What did you just say? Chill?"

T laughed and shared, "It's a portmanteau of your name and Will's name. A while back Kinsey came up with it when I talked about you two on the phone with her. It was while I was dating Gabi and she was trying to keep me away from you guys."

With a huge grin on his face, Chad said, "I like Chill."

Nudging Chad with his elbow, T questioned, "Does your smile mean it's not over between you and Will? I totally ship Chill."

Chad began to blush as he replied, "We shall see."


Friday, September 20th, 2013


Chad took a deep breath as he returned to the present. This was it. "Hopefully, everything will go to plan."

"Hey Chad."

Turning around to see who said his name, Chad couldn't believe who was in front of him. "Alessandro? What are you doing here?"

Adjusting his backpack over his shoulder, Alessandro claimed, "I'm here to see a show and to make sure you have a blast tonight."

Chad went over and gave Alessandro a hug. "You're going to be my good luck charm tonight."


Dario wiped his hands on his jeans as he approached his mother's tombstone. He knew his time was limited, but he needed to do this. Keeping his distance at first, he reflected over his life and how a lot was holding him back. He didn't want to completely lose it though.

Pulling out the letter Isobel wrote to him, he began to read it aloud to his mother's grave:

"My little Dario,
I know things have gotten darker between us because of the confusion you are currently experiencing, but I want you to know you are still my son. I remember your big heart as a little boy. You were always willing to do right by people and help those who were suffering. I learned so much from you because when I would get onto your brothers and sisters and try to teach them a lesson, you always managed to show me how to do it with love. Yes, you have shown anger, but I believe when you express anger it's because you love too much. Mijo, maybe that is your problem. You have a heart for everyone, and some people take advantage of that. Being a homosexual is evil and detestable. I know you are neither of those things, so I will never believe that is what you are. You must not believe that either. I know one day you will open your eyes and find a woman... a woman to truly love and have a family with. Do not let others try to convince you any differently. Be careful because there are plenty of people who will try to come into your life and tell you who they want you to be, but I, as your mother – your Mama – know you very well. Stay true to your family values and do not adapt to what the world or outsiders try to tell you. I know you will do the right thing. I know you will grow old and live a full life. If you need guidance seek counsel from the church because they will direct you in the right path. You must learn to hate the sin, Dario. There's so much I want for you, mijo. Te amo.
"

Dario put the letter away and looked at Isobel's tombstone again. "In your letter, you told me repeatedly that you love me." He shook his head and reflected on his life before moving closer. "Mama, I love you, but there are some things I need to say to you." Grabbing his arm, he continued, "All my life, you told me to be strong. I was strong, Mama, but not the strongest I could be. I allowed this idea that what I wanted made me less of a man. I allowed your wishes for me to keep me from fighting to live."

Remembering how Chad mentioned asking what if questions the night before, Dario shared, "I ran away a lot. I went on retreats and asked myself What if questions before returning home because I wasn't sure how the family would receive me after being away for so long. I know now I've been on a retreat for too long asking the same questions. I realize I would have continued to ask those questions until I died because of my fears, and that's no way to live, Mama."

Dario dropped his hand and took another step forward. He inhaled and exhaled deeply and slowly. "I know from your letter that being gay is very disappointing to you. I know you want me to find a wife and have a family that way, but at this point in my life, I wouldn't be happy with a woman because I already love someone else."

Shutting his eyes to let what he just said sink in, Dario thought about Sonny. He didn't know where Sonny stood on things and figured it was never going to happen. That didn't matter at this point though. He needed to have this talk with his mother even if she couldn't say something in return. When he opened his eyes again, he continued, "I wish you were still alive to accept this, but I can't wait for that anymore because I need to move forward. I need to be stronger. I need to believe in myself and trust myself. I know you love me, so my smiling should make you smile."

Dario felt his cell phone vibrate in his pocket. He pulled it out to look at the screen. He saw the missed calls and voicemail from Chad as well as text messages from Will and Melanie. He knew he needed to head back to the venue, but he had one last thing to say to Isobel. "Before you died, I performed Scars and let you see me at my most vulnerable. I came to you and showed you who I am." Looking directly at his mother's name on her tombstone, he declared, "Mama, I am a man. I am going to allow myself to show the world just how strong and resilient I am."