DECEMBER 2011:ml:namespace prefix = "o" ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

John will be going toe-to-toe with EJ in a deposition room.  He steels himself for it by sharing strong, emotional moments with Marlena.  EJ prepares in a very different way: he gives a live TV interview in which he promises to fight for the little guy from whom John has so callously stolen. 

The deposition begins and the tension runs high.  John doesn't hold back about what he thinks of EJ's cynical efforts to use the suffering of good people to further his own ends.  EJ stands firm, reminding John he's pled guilty.  Carrie comes between the two men.  EJ assures John that the public at large will see him as a criminal without peer, while the DiMera family name will come to be synonymous with virtue and good works.

Will spent the night out after trashing Maggie's kitchen.  He is full of frustration not only over what he knows about Sami and EJ, but over his breakup with Gabi, as well.  When he returns home, he finds worried Rafe and Sami.  They press him to come clean about what's making him so angry and he nearly boils over and tells Rafe the truth.  Sami orders him to return to Maggie's and clean up the mess.  She privately worries that Will may indeed know something about her and EJ. 

Bo and Hope try to get into the holiday spirit, anticipating decorating the Horton Christmas tree.  They make a surprising discovery: a note, tucked inside Alice's Christmas ball that is obviously from Stefano.  It grants "the bearer" every courtesy that would be extended to Stefano himself. 

The Hortons gather for the annual hanging of the family ornaments.  Things get awkward when Jack and Daniel both show up but Jennifer urges them both to stay.  Jack and Jennifer connect as they reminisce about a past Christmas, which leaves Daniel feeling uneasy.  Chad and Melanie fight their attraction, not wanting to hurt Abigail.  Maggie presents Daniel and Melanie with their own Christmas balls, and Julie gives Maggie one for absent Victor.  After all the balls are hung, the Hortons, et al, head to the tree lighting ceremony at the town square.

At the loft, Rafe and Sami decorate the tree with the kids.  Will continues to give Sami the cold shoulder.  Carrie and Austin arrive with a surprise guest - Marlena.  Sami is not pleased.  Carrie urges her sister to reconcile with her mother, but Sami and Marlena end up fighting.  Abe, Lexie and Theo arrive just as Will has a drunken outburst.  Rafe forces Will to apologize and sends him to sleep it off. 

EJ surprises Nicole with a nice dinner and a night off from work.  Nicole is touched when he asks her to move back into the mansion.  She admits it's the only place that has ever felt like home to her.  She talks about how she let her insecurities about Sami ruin their first marriage; she's happy they have a fresh start.  A guilt-ridden EJ is more determined than ever to keep his one night stand with Sami a secret.  Later, they make love in front of the fireplace.

Hope is at a loss over the voucher she found in Alice's Christmas ornament.  Clearly Stefano had given this to Alice - but why?  Bo finds Susan Banks's number, and they give her a call.  Hope tells Susan about finding her letter (asking for medical help for EJ) in Alice's things.  They also know she asked Alice to keep it from Stefano.  Susan says of course Stefano found out, which is why he went to Alice later on.  Bo and Hope pay Stefano a visit.  They show him the voucher and he claims not to know what it is.  Stefano reiterates his advice ... let the secrets of the dead stay buried.  

Kate witnesses Madison dumping on Sami and urges Sami to stand up for herself. Sami takes Kate's advice.  Madison is impressed - and so is Kate. 

Gabi opens up to Chad about her breakup with Will.  She feels a twinge of attraction to him.  Abigail runs into Austin and the two of them bond.  She invites him to her award ceremony.  He has to check with Carrie, but will try.  

It's the night of Abigail's award ceremony.  Chad has recruited Melanie to help him buy a present for Abigail.  They fight their increasing attraction, especially since tonight is about Abigail.  Before they can leave the square, a menacing man - a gambler named Horace - stops them.  He points a gun and throws them into a decrepit room.  Chad and Melanie hold on to each other... worried about what's in store.  Chad wants to protect Melanie and save her somehow but they are locked up tight.  Their desperate situation draws them closer...

Artie, the computer science nerd, approaches Sonny and Will.  The gamblers who were exploiting the site are angry, Artie warns - their cash has been cut off and they aren't the kind of people you mess with.  Will and Sonny catch up with Abigail and Gabi and soon all four receive a warning picture via text - Chad and Melanie with guns held to their heads.  Revive the sports site pronto or there will be dire consequences.   They debate going to the police but worry about endangering their friends.  They race to try to get the site back up online. 

Bo, Hope, Carrie and Rafe learn from a university basketball player that the gamblers were using Will, Chad and Sonny's website.  They swing into action.

Sonny gets a bead on where Chad and Melanie might be by using GPS.  He heads to the waterfront with Gabi and Abigail.  At the same time, Bo and Hope figure out the site is being worked on via activity on the server.  They trace it and find Will.  He tells them where he believes Chad and Melanie are and they race out.  Meanwhile, one of the gamblers captures the girls.  Melanie and Chad, emotional and desperate, confess they're falling in love with one another.  They give into their passion and kiss.

Bo and Hope arrive.  The gamblers realize the jig is up and make a last stand.  Rafe arrives, as well, with Austin right behind him.  In the confusion, Sonny rescues Melanie, and Chad saves Gabi.  Austin subdues the final thug and saves Abigail in the process.  The police handcuff the bad guys and the crisis is over.  Melanie and Chad share a charged look, their feelings for each other on the table now.  Abigail, grateful to Austin for his heroics, feels her connection with him growing.  And Gabi, trying to move on from Will, sees Chad in a renewed light.

Nicole sends Abe, Lexie and Jennifer misinformation regarding a charity event.  It causes Abe to miss an important speaking engagement.  Nicole has EJ unknowingly step into Abe's place and he's a huge hit.  Meanwhile, Lexie learns EJ has hijacked the event.  Jennifer is furious.  She, Abe and Lexie confront EJ and Nicole.  Lexie is disappointed in her little brother's behavior.  Later, EJ calls Nicole on this.  He was never supposed to speak at the charity, was he?  Nicole confirms and she asks if he's mad at her.  EJ thinks he's clearly hired the right woman for the job.  Elsewhere, Jennifer wants to fight fire with fire.  She tells a reluctant Abe if he's going to win this election, he might have to get his hands a little dirty.

When Sami's babysitter bails, she skeptically accepts Kate's offer to watch the children. Although Kate spoils the kids, Sami later thanks her for helping out ... Could this be the beginning of a thaw between these two bitter rivals?

Madison is put out when Brady gives her the cold shoulder and she calls him on it.  Brady thinks Madison's policy of separating work and pleasure is important.  It looks like Madison might throw up another wall, but she kisses him instead.  They share a romantic evening together, and they decide to give their relationship a chance.  They head back to Madison's hotel room, where they make love for the first time.

Daniel takes Jennifer on an ice-skating date.  While trying to undo a knot in her skates, he privately realizes his hands are too shaky to do it.  Suspecting it could be myasthenia gravis, he makes an appointment to get checked out.  Later, Daniel is upset when he tells Jennifer he got her tickets to <i>The Nutcracker</i> but Jack has already done so.  Daniel tells Jennifer he cannot continue to date her at the same time as Jack.  Jennifer isn't ready to make a decision but Daniel gently makes it for her - he ends their relationship.  Jennifer is devastated but understands.  They share a tearful farewell.

Jennifer admits to Abigail and Melanie that she hates having hurt Daniel and hopes they can be friends in the future.  Abigail slips that she's had the same thoughts about Chad.  This admission surprises both her mother and Melanie, especially when it comes out that Abigail is falling for someone new, someone she won't name.  When Jennifer asks whether the other guy feels the same way, Abigail admits she doesn't know and that it's complicated.  Abigail asks for Melanie's opinion.  Since Melanie has feelings for Chad and doesn't want to be self-serving, she only says Abigail has to decide on her own what's in her heart.

Kayla returns to Salem with Joey to help Caroline out with the pub for the holidays.  Sami is upset to learn she and Rafe can't renew their wedding vows in St. Luke's church on Christmas Eve.  She scrambles for an excuse when Austin asks what the urgency is. 

Carrie and Rafe work on John's case.  Rafe is excited when he realizes there is a discrepancy with the security photo of John - the shadows in the photo aren't possible due to new awnings the restaurant installed.  Someone changed the photo's date stamp to make it look like John was at the cafe when the illegal money transfers were made.  If he was there at all, it would've had to have been years earlier.  Carrie and Rafe are elated and share a hug over this hopeful news and already-anxious Sami walks in on this.  There's some tension between her and Carrie, who leaves to meet Austin.  Sami tells Rafe her bad news about the church.  Off her upset, Rafe has an idea - what if they renew their vows Christmas Eve at the town square by Alice and Tom's plaque instead?  Touched Sami goes into his arms and they begin to make love.

Stefano and EJ present John and Marlena with a shocking proposal.  If John is willing to sell them Basic Black, EJ will drop the civil suit.  John realizes EJ only wants to do this to improve his public persona - he will swoop in and save John's employees their jobs and also repay their missing pensions.  John refuses.  Stefano points out if he turns down their offer, they will go to the media and reveal that John refused to help his employees.  As EJ and Stefano leave, they warn John he only has 24 hours to accept their offer.  John says he doesn't need it - his answer is no.  

Rafe and Carrie fill Bo and Hope in on the doctored security photo.  It's proof that John has been setup.  They only wish they could link it to the DiMeras and get definitive confirmation.  Hope suddenly realizes they can use Gran's courtesy card from Stefano to help John!  Stefano is obligated to repay Gran's past kindness, whatever is asked of him.  And Hope intends to ask for John's exoneration.  

Brady and Madison reconfirm their desire to pursue a relationship.  He convinces her to take a rare day off from work and join him for a fun-filled day enjoying the holiday season.  They bring a Christmas tree back to Madison's room and decorate it.  Later, they playfully fall onto the bed and once again make love. 

Jack is stunned when Daniel reveals he's no longer in the running for Jennifer's affections.  Jack jumps to the conclusion that Jennifer broke up with him and even admits he thinks Daniel is a pretty decent guy.  Jennifer sets Jack straight, revealing Daniel ended things - and she still has feelings for him.  Deflated, Jack hooks up with Daniel and Austin at the pub where the three men bond.  Meanwhile, Jennifer anguishes over which man she truly loves. 

Melanie gets a job at the spa doing cosmetic procedures.  Gabi is also working there.  Chad and Abigail arrive.  It's awkward between Melanie and Chad, who feel guilty about the kiss they shared.  Abigail can't help still being attracted to Austin, who shows up to get a gift certificate for Carrie.  She's conflicted when she realizes how much he cares for his wife.  Gabi picks up on both Abigail's attraction to Austin and Melanie's preoccupation with Chad.  Gabi's own interest in Chad grows.  Melanie gives Chad and Abigail their space, reluctant to come between her friends. 

Sami realizes Brady and Madison made love.  She calls her boss on this, and Madison warns her to stay out of her business.  Sami says it puts her in an uncomfortable position.  Madison warns Sami if she's so uncomfortable then maybe she should find another job.  Later, Sami runs into Brady and puts him on the spot, as well.  Brady pretty much offers the same sentiment as Madison.  Kate overhears and approaches Sami,who tries to ignore her.  Kate wants to help.  Sami scoffs but Kate admits she's been watching Sami and thinks she has talent ... talent that wouldn't be wasted at Countess Wilhelmina.  Kate leaves Sami with food for thought.

Madison receives a mysterious call and tries to keep the caller at bay.  Later, she finds Brady and they laugh about Sami's concern.  Brady doesn't think things will get messy between him and Madison, especially now that they've opened up to each other.  There are no more secrets.  Madison smiles, but doesn't mention her earlier call. 

EJ breaks up a fight between Kate and Nicole and gets the women to come to a truce.  Both reluctantly agree and Kate leaves.  Curious Nicole asks if EJ or Stefano had anything to do with John's misfortune.  EJ simply says there are certain things he cannot tell her.  Nicole understands this is part of being involved with a DiMera; however, when it comes to "them" she wants nothing but truth and honesty. If there is anything he needs to tell her, tell her now.  EJ, covering that he had sex with Sami, promises there are no secrets.  

John says he wants to dissolve Basic Black and pay back the people who lost their life savings.  Carrie tells him he can't because all of his assets are still frozen.  Rafe and Carrie inform John and Marlena about the altered security photo.  Later, after John is returned to his cell, Carrie and Rafe bring up the i.o.u. that Stefano gave Alice Horton.  Marlena is stunned to hear about this and they wonder if they could use it to make Stefano exonerate John.  Marlena says John would never go for it and even if he did, she worries Stefano would hold that over their heads... Finally, she gives her assent and Bo and Hope leave, anxious to get an answer from Stefano. 

Stefano toys with them about the card's meaning and his ability to help John.  Hope challenges him.  She knows he made a promise.  Now is the time to make good on it.  Stefano seems affected by her words ... and then speaks cryptically, saying he may not be able to "access the information" needed to fulfill her request.  She presses him to explain what that means but he withdraws.  Bo and Hope ponder what he truly meant.

Daniel worries about his shaky hands and struggles to hide his condition.  He goes to Lexie, who tells him he does not have myasthenia gravis.  Curiously, that doesn't mollify Daniel, who thought that at the very least having it would explain the problem he's been having.  He takes himself out of the surgical rotation until some answers can be found.  Lexie knows just how much of Daniel's identity is wrapped up in being a surgeon and promises to do all she can to help. 

Bo and Hope report back to Marlena, Carrie and Rafe about their meeting with Stefano.  He left them with a cryptic hint.  Everyone wracks their brains trying to figure out what it means.  They finally realize Stefano was trying to hint that John couldn't have committed fraud because he didn't always have internet access to make the transactions.  The group decides to look into internet outages in his area and match them up with the record of illegal transactions.  Marlena can barely let herself believe that John may finally be proven innocent.

Rafe gets word from an Interpol connection that the French government secretly shutdown the internet to prevent a terrorist attack ... at the same time John allegedly made many illegal online transactions in Paris.  They finally have proof someone framed John!  

Kate visits Sami, who has been stressing out over money woes.  Kate offers her a job at Countess Wilhelmina at double what she is making at Mad World.  Sami is stunned - and immediately suspicious.  She grills Kate about her intentions but she swears she has no hidden agenda.  She simply believes Sami is a smart executive and she wants her working for her company and not the competition.  Kate tells her to think about her offer - but don't take too long.

Brady is impressed with Madison's business acumen.  Madison offhandedly says she owes a lot of her success to the words of someone quite wise.  Brady asks who.  Madison claims it was just an old colleague and quickly redirects the conversation to focus on Brady.  She gets Brady to admit his big dream as a kid was to become an astronaut.  He opens up a bit about his mother.  They go back to the mansion, where Brady shows Madison the stars through a telescope.  Madison opens up about how as a kid, she often wished her father would come back.  She and Brady bond about the absent fathers in their childhoods, then head out for a romantic stroll under the stars.

Abigail uses Melanie as a sounding board for what to do about Chad and the other guy she has a crush on.  Melanie stuffs her own feelings for Chad and says if it's not going to work out with the other guy, she should stay with Chad.  

Chad runs into Austin and Carrie.  He notes how happy they are together and Austin tells him if he finds someone who makes him happy, hold on to her.  Chad realizes that person is Melanie.  When he brings up their kiss and the things they said while being held captive, Melanie "nonchalantly" dismisses it as something that happened out of the fear and emotion of the captivity.  They deny their feelings for each other, and instead agree to forget what happened, because it didn't mean anything. 

Abigail tries to avoid Austin because she's recommitted to Chad, but he's so charming to her, she can't help falling for him again - until Carrie shows up.  Abigail sees the depth of their love and again feels like she's wasting her time caring about Austin.  Meanwhile, Rafe confides in Carrie that he doesn't understand why Sami pushed so hard to do the vow renewal now.  Carrie reassures him.  Rafe appreciates her support, and promises he will be there for her, should Austin ever give her a hard time. 

Maggie and Victor learn Daniel has taken himself off the surgical rotation because his hands are shaking.  It's not myasthenia gravis, but he won't be sure what it is until tests are done.  Daniel minimizes, but Maggie and Victor sense he's having a tough time.  Maggie reaches out to her son and comforts him. 

It's Christmas Eve in Salem.  Carrie and Rafe anxiously await word from the judge, who has been presented with evidence proving John is innocent.  They are hoping to provide John and Marlena with a Christmas miracle by getting him released in time for the holidays.  They share a close moment, then Carrie receives a call from the judge.  Later, John arrives at the square, where he surprises an overwhelmed Marlena.  He's a free man!  They share a tearful reunion, and family and friends congratulate John.  EJ burns when he learns John has been cleared of all charges.

Will brings Marlena to the square as his date to Sami and Rafe's vow renewal.  Marlena and Will have a serious talk about his breakup; he is quite tormented by feelings he doesn't understand.  EJ overhears part of this and is intrigued.  When Sami learns Will has brought Marlena, she asks her to leave.  Will gets his mother to back down and let Marlena stay.  Later, Will swells with anger as he sees Sami and EJ interact.  He and Sami have a heated confrontation, and he nearly reveals he knows about her affair.   Rafe brokers peace.  Rafe and Sami renew their vows, and she is very emotional over her guilt. 

At the town square, Santa Doug reads the Christmas story to the kids.  Hope is touched by the gifts Bo gives her for her birthday and their wedding anniversary.  Jack and Jennifer continue to bond, but when he goes in for a kiss under the mistletoe, she tells him she's still hurting over Daniel.  He apologizes and she's grateful for his understanding.  Victor, Maggie and Melanie enjoy their first Christmas as a family but worry about absent, heartbroken Daniel.

When EJ and Nicole arrive at the festivities, Lexie worries her brother will once again horn in on Abe's evening.  EJ swears he has no such intention.  He urges Lexie to drop by the house to see Stefano.  Though she initially declines, she ultimately brings her family by the mansion - after all, it's Christmas.

Sami and Rafe return to the loft, fresh off their vow renewal.  Rafe carries his "bride" across the threshold.  She's touched when she sees he's tried to make the loft look like a fancy honeymoon suite.  All his care and tenderness just make Sami feel guiltier.  Rafe questions her again about the urgency she felt to renew their commitment.  He asks if it had something to do with EJ, which freaks Sami out.  She covers, and they make love.

Bo has accidentally broken Ciara's Christmas bike and only makes matters worse when he tries to repair it himself.  Hope teases him, then finally convinces him they need to get a new one before morning.  They buy a new one at the bike store in the town square and while there, they get into some horseplay around Alice and Tom's plaque.  Bo knocks into the plaque and to their horror, it breaks in two.  To their surprise, they find a key hidden inside.

 Brady and Madison exchange presents, among them a real star that she has "bought" and named for him.  They become even closer when he gives her a photograph of her mother with her as a little girl.  Madison cries, overwhelmed that Brady knew and cared enough to track down the photo since all her family photos had been lost.  Brady is affected by this side of Madison.  When they hear John has been freed, they head over to see him and Marlena, who are celebrating with Will.

John's first order of business will be to dissolve Basic Black so he can repay all the people who lost money - even though he isn't the one who stole it.  Marlena just wants them to begin living the life they were denied when John was arrested.  Will opens up a little with his grandmother.  She asks him to consider moving in with her and John.  After Brady and Madison arrive, they gather all the food and take it to a women's shelter.  

The holidays are almost over, but John has something to be thankful for - his freedom.  After a morning of lovemaking, he and Marlena go to the pub where, with Abe's help, he has arranged a press conference to make a statement regarding his exoneration.  

EJ still cannot understand how John and his legal team managed to prove they were set up.  Stefano, who knows he was behind it, encourages his son not to be defeated.  EJ can still prove he is a worthy candidate for mayor.  EJ thinks John is going to play the hero and announce his intention to replenish the pensions that were stolen.  Stefano notes John isn't playing a hero - he is a hero.  EJ arrives at the pub just as John announces his intention of liquidating Basic Black and refunding all the lost pensions.  EJ quickly gets in front of the camera with John, stating he is not too big of a man to say he was wrong about him.  John is gracious, though he knows full well EJ is just playing to the cameras.  

Melanie realizes Daniel is not on the hospital rotation and tracks him down at the spa where he is taking a kickboxing class with Quinn.  Daniel tries to explain to his daughter about his hands, and why he didn't want her to worry.  He has had additional tests run.  Melanie promises to support him and she goes.  Daniel asks Brady what he would do if he had to stop doing the one thing he loved.  Brady offers his opinion, but it's Quinn who assures Daniel he can start over if need be.  Daniel receives a call that his results are in.

Jack and Jennifer bond while cleaning up after Christmas.  Jack wants to take Jennifer and the family on a vacation, and they end up sharing a kiss in the most unlikely of places ...

Carrie, Marlena and Rafe oversee the liquidation of Basic Black.  John thanks Rafe and Carrie profusely for clearing him.  Marlena realizes she must finally tell John that his freedom came about because Stefano owed Alice a favor.  As she expected, John is furious and can't help taking it out on her for making this deal with the devil.  Marlena defends it was the only way to keep John from spending the rest of his life in jail.  John doesn't care and leaves to confront Stefano.  

Bo and Hope spend a leisurely morning in bed.  Hope can't stop thinking about the key they found hidden in the plaque.  Bo arranged for them to meet with the man who made the plaque.  He reveals Alice's lawyer, Erin Hewitt, had him to put it there, per Alice's instructions.  Bo and Hope want to follow up with Erin, but she's out of town.  

Sami is still suspicious about Kate's job offer.  Kate insists she really does respect Sami's business acumen.  Sami leaves to resign from Mad World, and it's clear Kate has a plan up her sleeve.  After spending a blissful morning in bed playing videogames and making love, Brady and Madison are hit by the bombshell that Sami is resigning so she can go work for Kate.  Brady blasts her for betraying the woman he loves.  Madison is furious, but at least she still has Brady.   

After Rafe tells Carrie he's thinking about opening his own PI office, she proposes they go into business together.  Rafe loves the idea, but wants to run it by Sami first.  A spark slowly grows between Carrie and Rafe.

John confronts Stefano.  Stefano enjoys goading him; he hands him a pistol and tells him to shoot him.  John comes close, especially when Stefano claims he and Marlena share a bond.  John doesn't give in to his anger.  He puts down the gun and tells Stefano he knows his game.  Stefano wants to destroy John and Marlena'' relationship by planting seeds of doubt, hoping the mistrust will grow and eventually tear them apart.  It won't work.  John returns home.  Marlena isn't sure where she stands but John takes her in his arms and finally admits he would've done the same thing for her.

Abigail is torn between her feelings for Chad and Austin.  They meet up with Sonny, Melanie and Gabi.  Melanie and Chad fight feelings for one another, each believing the other doesn't reciprocate. 

Kate overhears troubled Daniel talking on the phone about his medical condition.  She tries to get him to open up, but Daniel resists, pointing out his hatred of her after all she's done to him.  Kate thinks she's the perfect person to confide in - she won't mince words or coddle him the way his family would.  Daniel finds himself sharing his fears and though there's still no love lost, they've definitely shared a human moment.

Will goes to Marlena, who once again tries gently to draw him out about his sexuality.  Will comes close to opening up but ultimately still can't say the words.  He goes to the Brady Pub and runs into Sonny, and is struck by how Sonny is able to live a full and happy life as an openly gay man.

It's New Year's Eve in Salem.  Tension arises at the loft when Sami informs Rafe she accepted a new job without telling him.  Rafe points out he had a job offer, too, but wanted to run it by her first.  When Sami learns the job is with Carrie, she balks.  Will blasts his mother for being selfish.  Melanie and Sonny arrive to go with Will to a party at the town square.  Sami picks Melanie's brain about Will's behavior.  Melanie thinks it all stems from Gabi breaking up with him.  Sami takes this to heart - maybe he doesn't know about her infidelity, after all.  Sami tries to make amends with Will, but he shrugs her off.  

Carrie and Austin arrive.  The mood is awkward, especially when Rafe and Carrie seem to be on the same wavelength during a game, while Austin and Sami seem better suited.  Austin and Carrie leave to ring in the New Year at the square, while Sami reconfirms her love for Rafe.  They make love.

John and Marlena's New Year's at home is disrupted when they learn they are completely broke.  He vows to rebuild Basic Black and Marlena offers her support.

At the town square, Will watches Sonny and his friend Tyler with envy - they are "out" and at ease with themselves.  Upset, Will makes an excuse to leave.  EJ secretly watches this entire exchange with interest.  Later, Will shows up at Marlena's and he finally opens up.  Marlena gently encourages him, assuming he is about to "come out" to her.  To her shock, Will painfully reveals he caught Sami having sex with EJ!

Chad and Abigail finally admit things aren't working out.  Though it's painful, they mutually agree to break up.  Abigail keeps quiet about her feelings for Austin and Chad does the same regarding Melanie.  They wish each other well, and Chad leaves.  Later, Chad finds Melanie alone at the town square and pulls her into a kiss at midnight.  Meanwhile, Abigail comes across happy Austin and Carrie, and she is heartbroken.

EJ and Nicole talk about the past and look to the future, ringing in the New Year with a kiss.

Madison is working late at Titan when Brady surprises her with dinner.  While he's out of the room, she receives another mysterious call, which she lies about when Brady comes back.  He takes her to the pub, where they dance.

Doug, Julie, Bo and Hope discuss Alice's secrets and the mysterious bank statements.  Hope relates how the money was routed all over the world, including Africa.  Doug realizes he was in Africa (along with Bill and Mike) when the bank account was first opened.  Later, Bo and Hope remember Zack on the anniversary of his death.  Hope suggests they see a therapist as a preventive measure and Bo agrees.

JANUARY 2012:

Austin helps Carrie and Rafe move into their new office, but when he makes a joke about their clients (or lack thereof), it fall flat.  He apologizes.  Rafe escorts their first client in.  When they understand what she is asking them to do, they realize beggars can't be choosers. 

Sami shows up for her first day of work at Countess Wilhelmina and learns Kate wants her to share inside info on Mad World.  Sami balks, but realizes she has no choice if she wants to keep her job.  Sami tells Kate about a top-secret product line that Madison is about to launch.

Madison is frustrated that Sami's defection is causing her to fall behind.  She tells Brady she'll have to push back a promotional tour for the men's line.  He tells her she can't; it will affect other divisions at Titan.  They argue and it gets personal.  They finally calm down and work out a compromise, making it clear that they never want their professional relationship to affect their personal one.

Brady learns of John's plan to resurrect Basic Black.  He makes a surprising proposal: to leave Titan and become John's partner.  John knows this is an impulsive decision and sends him away to talk to Madison and really think about what it would mean to come on board.  He does, and Madison confesses she doesn't want to see him leave, but understands the emotion driving his desire to partner up with his father.  She tells him she should do it.  Brady calls John and says they should meet.

Will opens up to Marlena about having witnessed his mother's affair and why he's so angry. Marlena advises her grandson to talk to his mom.   He makes an attempt to talk to Sami, but she's in a rush to get back to work and leaves before realizing he wants to talk. 

Marlena makes time for a session with Bo and Hope. Both feel there are splinters and cracks in their relationship. As Marlena works with them, Hope recounts painful memories. Her trust issues are just as bad as his wanting to sweep everything under the rug. They work on their issues and Marlena thinks they have made a good first step to finding the source of their trouble and urges them to keep working.

Will stops by Sonny's and Sonny senses something is up. Will admits he's having a rough time and asks Sonny if he's ever wanted to run away. Sonny admits he has, but it was due to his sexuality. Her urges will to get comfortable with himself.  Will is under pressure - both from the secret he knows about Sami and EJ, and questions he's asking about himself and who he is. He can't bring himself to stick around and makes an excuse to go.  Will goes to Marlena's, but he's unable to really open up about what is eating at him.  Will thinks he needs a fresh start and demands money from EJ so he can leave Salem.  If EJ doesn't, he'll reveal a secret he knows EJ wants to keep bottled.

Abe, Lexie and Jennifer meet with EJ and Nicole to discuss the upcoming mayoral debates.  The women begin to argue as Abe and EJ move off.  Abe and EJ bond over what it's like to be a candidate, and tell the women exactly how they want things to work.  The women inform them that they already hammered out a similar plan - they just work in a different way.  Later, Nicole tells EJ she plans to get the questions from the moderator in advance of the debate.  Meanwhile, Jennifer tells Abe and Lexie she knows what Nicole will try to pull - but she'll stop her.

Daniel gets the devastating news that his tremors are incurable, which means his life as a surgeon is over.  Lexie comforts him but he says he needs to be alone. He leaves and runs into Jennifer. She can tell something is wrong and he finally confesses he's received a devastating diagnosis.  She comforts him and Jack witnesses this closeness.

Abigail sees Chad and Melanie in a close moment and flips out. She confides in Austin that she and Chad broke up. Austin encourages her to go after the man she loves.  Melanie and Chad are trying to keep their promise to stay friends for now, so as not to make Abigail feel any worse. Gabi hears about the break up.  She asks Melanie if she thinks Abigail would mind if Chad and Gabi rekindled things.  Melanie bites her tongue.  Meanwhile, Quinn is starting to show interest in Melanie, and Chad sees it. 

With Madison's support, Brady breaks the news to Victor that he has decided to leaveTitan to work with his father at Basic Black.  Victor is outraged and thinks Brady is making a huge mistake.  Brady explains that he wants to strike out on his own, and more importantly, he wants to repair his relationship with his father.  Victor grudgingly accepts Brady's resignation.  Madison is about to leave, when Victor stops her.  Titan is going to need a new CEO. Victor thinks that person should be Madison.

John meets with Brady at the pub.  Brady tells John he's decided to work with him.  John is delighted and overwhelmed with happiness.  They are going to make a great team!

Maggie encourages Victor to give Madison some time to think. Madison runs into Brady and he tells her how excited he is to be working with John. Brady tells her not to worry - they will still find time to see one another. She reveals Victor offered the job and Brady says he will support her.

Hope and Bo struggle to come to terms with the difficult issues they discussed in marriage therapy with Marlena. After so much heavy discussion, they lighten things up by going on a date to the empty pub.  They both vow that they won't be intimidated by therapy because their love will see them through.  They pursue the mystery of the key they found in the plaque and discover it belongs to a safe deposit box Alice rented in Salem.  When they get to the bank, however, they're given a shock.  The manager tells them that there were two persons on the account and it is stipulated that the box cannot be opened without both present. Who was Alice's "partner"?

Will reveals to EJ that he knows he slept with Sami.  He ties to leverage this information to get EJ to give him money to leave town. EJ turns the tables and reveals he knows it was Will who tried to kill him when he was marrying Sami. EJ also hints to his awareness of will's conflicted sexuality. Will tries to back down, but EJ can't just forget that he tried to blackmail him.  He warns Will that from that point on, he would do exactly what  he told him to do because EJ owns him.

Nicole learns Will is now a part of their team. She is thrown, but accepts it and EJ gives Will a task he doesn't want to do, but he has no choice. We see Will at the pub where he steals some files from Abe's computer. It kills him to do this, but he has no choice. During this, EJ takes Nicole to lunch and promises his commitment to her. Will returns to the mansion with what EJ asked for and EJ tells a guilt-ridden Will the two of them aren't very different.

EJ calls Will with another assignment.  He's to take delivery of an envelope ... and the rest will be self-explanatory. He tries to get out of it but EJ is firm. Will gets the envelope and inside are the keys to a brand new sports car.  Will gets a further surprise when EJ presents him with the car as a gift.  Will doesn't get it and EJ explains that will works for him now and image is everything.

Jack overhears that Daniel suffered a stroke and can't operate.  He watches as Jennifer bucks Daniel up and gives him the support he so desperately needs.  Jack surprises Jennifer and Daniel by saying if Daniel needs Jennifer's support, he should have it. The competition they've been having hasn't been healthy for any of them and he thinks they should end it.  From now on, they'll just see where life takes them. 

Chad and Melanie reiterate their resolve to take things slowly.  Abigail arrives and blasts them.  Melanie asks Chad for a moment alone with her friend.  She tries to clear the air and explain that she and Chad never meant to hurt her, but Abigail really lets Melanie have it.  Chad confides to Sonny how much he cares for Melanie and how difficult this situation is.  Melanie arrives, still upset about her recent interaction with Abigail.  She tells Chad they can never be together; she can't keep hurting Abigail like this.

Abigail bumps into Austin on his way to his new office. She helps him get there and lets it drop that she's headed to financial aid about a job as an intern, Austin asks if she'd like to be his assistant. Abigail is so excited she could jump for joy. Austin doesn't suspect her feelings for him.

Will is with Sonny, who is in the midst of plans for the new coffee house he's opening.

Will meets Mateo through Sonny and they hit it off.  It looks like they may connect again but Will catches himself and shuts down. He leaves abruptly and Sonny has to explain to a thrown Mateo that Will is "just not there yet."

Carrie and Rafe are at their office where the thermostat is broken and the heat is off the charts.  Rafe goes shirtless and Carrie wears only a camisole since they can't leave on the first day they've opened up shop. Neither is aware of the sexual tension. Rafe pitches a case of a woman who doesn't have enough to pay them. Carrie winds up agreeing to rep the young man when she sees how much it matters to Rafe.

Sami tells Kate she believes their talent search is over... the new faces of Countess W. are at the counter. Kate agrees and likes the interaction between Gabi and Chad. Sami and Kate coax the two unsuspecting beauties into having a few pictures taken. Chad is reluctant at first but then agrees.

Kate asks Chad to stop by the house and see his father. He says he will consider. Sami directs the photographer as he snaps pictures and Gabi and Chad are on fire. 

Abigail introduces herself to Madison and she asks for the opportunity to work with her. John and Brady talk about business and Madison. John is happy for his son and Brady loves the fact that he and Madison have no secrets. She receives another one of her mysterious calls. John and Brady decide Basic Black will focus their energies on what they know, and that's fashion.

Sami meets with Kate to look at the test photos that were taken of Gabi and Chad. Kate's beyond thrilled and wants to make Chad and Gabi an offer.  What she doesn't realize, however, is that Sami is a double-agent!  She's actually been working for Madison the entire time. Sami meets with Madison for the reveal. They revel in how they've pulled the wool over Kate's eyes. 

Sami gets a significant shock when she discovers Will with EJ, holding the keys to a brand new car.  She can't believe Will is working for EJ.  Will takes a certain pleasure in how uncomfortable this makes her.  He even adopts EJ's calm approach to discussing the whole thing, refusing to rise to her level of emotion.

Nicole thinks it's more than coincidence that Will was hired the day after getting Abe's campaign plans. EJ reminds her that he's said along there would be things in this campaign that it was better Nicole didn't know a thing about and this is one of them.

Marlena questions Will about his decision to work for EJ.  She cautions him about getting sucked into the DiMera world.  Will denies that's what is going on.  EJ defends that it was Will who came to him about wanting a job.  He pretends he isn't sure what Will's reasons were, but he was happy to hire him since he considers will to be family.

Nicole stands up to Jennifer's attacks re: EJ's speech and the theft.  She defends EJ to the hilt.  The fight quickly gets personal and Jack and Daniel arrive in time to separate them before things can get physical.  Daniel takes Nicole aside and she is thrown to learn he's still in love with Jennifer, who she sees as a manipulator.  Jack is with Jennifer and after she calms down he tells her the surprising news that Daniel is considering leaving Salem. Later, Jennifer confronts Daniel.

Daniel breaks the news to Melanie, Maggie, and Victor that he's decided to leave town.  He needs some time away to get past letting Jennifer go and losing his career as a surgeon.  They will all miss him, but understand his need to get away.  They say their goodbyes.  Melanie tries to cope with the devastating news that her dad is leaving Salem. 

Melanie goes after Abigail and makes a last ditch effort to try to salvage their relationship, but Abigail won't forgive either her or Chad. Chad appeals to Melanie, asking her to forget this thing with Abigail. She's never going to forgive them.  Melanie can't.   Chad tries to comfort Melanieand she turns away telling him that she feels a relationship with him will be a betrayal to Abigail.  He presses his case, convinced they belong together.

Abigail fantasizes about kissing Austin.  When Austin learns she's taken on an internship with Madison, he offers to find someone to replace her as his assistant.  Anxious for more time with him, Abigail promises she can do both.  They spend the afternoon together putting together a syllabus and enjoying each other's company.

Abe authorizes Bo and Hope to hire outside help to aid in the capture and prosecution of long-standing Salem criminals who always seem to skate without serving jail time.  Rafe is happy to take the job but Carrie is conflicted since her heart is with defense law, not prosecution.  Sami goes to see Rafe at the office and feels like a third wheel around him and Carrie who clearly get along well and have their own "in" jokes. Sami feels a little left out though Rafe has no idea.

Bo and Hope sit with the safe deposit key, knowing Alice rented the box with a partner.  Their instincts telling them it was Stefano.  But they also know that he'll deny if they approach him about it.  Bo concocts a scheme to lure Stefano to the bank to "clear up" a problem with the box.  When Stefano shows up it will be all the proof they need that he indeed is Alice's "silent partner."

Sami tells Rafe about her secret job as a mole inside Kate's business, all the while reporting to Madison.  He doesn't have the reaction she thought he would and some friction surfaces as she defends what she's doing.  Rafe believes she's rationalizing and it gets personal when her continuing frustration over his working with Carrie surfaces.  It ends tensely between them when he leaves for work, nothing resolved.  Tensions arise between Austin and Carrie as they attempt the simple task of coming up with a night they can both be free for a romantic date.  Austin's frustrations with Carrie's new job with Rafe surface.

Rafe returns home to discover Sami hasn't left for work. She again defends her actions and finds herself at an impasse with Rafe.  He joins Carrie at the office where she reveals she's uncovered a break in the case of the boy accused of arson.  Sami calls to talk to Rafe, but he can't talk. After the DA calls to tell Rafe and Carrie he's dropping the arson case based on their new evidence, they end up in a spontaneous hug.  Their growing feelings for each other are just below the surface. Austin and Carrie seem very disconnected even though they have settled on a date night.  

Rafe is out of his element as he tries to make last minute party favors for Sydney's birthday party.  Carrie comes to his rescue and they bond. Rafe receives an upsetting phone call; the people they hired to portray Sydney's favorite TV characters - a prince and princess - have cancelled. Rafe and Carrie dress up as the prince and princess to save the day. They find themselves caught up in the romantic dance.

Chad learns Kate wants to hire him and Gabi as models for Countess Wilhelmina. He balks and accuses his stepmother of trying to bring him back into the DiMera fold.  Kate denies this and says she will only hire them as a pair.  Gabi urges Chad to reconsider and he does.

Madison hires Abigail as an intern at Mad World.

Madison confesses to Brady that Sami is still working for her.  She's sabotaging Kate.  Brady is furious and Madison becomes concerned about him forgiving her.   Madison meets with Victor, Brady and Maggie and turns down the job to run Titan.

Sami joins Kate to oversee Countess Wilhelmina's fashion shoot and it is an incredible success.  Gabi enjoys spending time with Chad and it shows in the photos, which are much better than even Sami anticipated.  She shares this information with Madisonm who instructs her to sabotage them somehow.  Kate nearly catches them talking, but Sami covers.  Sami tries to delete the best photos from the shoot, but Kate interrupts.

John and Brady work together on the re-launch of Basic Black.  Though they've agreed that they'll return to their roots, fashion for men and women, they disagree as well. They end up laughing at themselves and by end of day have reached a compromise that works for both of them.

Abigail shows up for her first day of work at Mad World and learns that Madison has an interesting plan for her. She wants Melanie and Abigail to be the faces of Mad World's young cosmetics line. She wants to shoot out of Quinn's day spa and offers him the chance to go national with her. He accepts.

Nicole gets Will alone and reveals she knows he's the one who stole the information from Abe's computer for EJ.  Knowing EJ may have more jobs in store for him, she says it's imperative that she be kept in the loop and offers him a bribe to do so.  Little does Nicole know Will was playing her... on EJ's orders.  He'd predicted she'd try this and loves her all the more for the games she's playing.

Will is stunned when EJ requests that he bring Sydney to the mansion for a birthday party since he was not invited to the one Sami is throwing.  EJ pressures him to follow his orders, and Will finally realizes he might enjoy watching his mother flip out.

Bo and Hope confront Stefano about the safe deposit box he shares with Alice. He realizes they've caught him and agrees to open the box. Hope hesitates after Stefano warns her of what she may be getting herself into.  Stefano withdraws his key tells her to let him know when she's ready.

Bo and Hope report their latest battles with Stefano to Doug and Julie.  They advise Hope to be wary of Stefano, who's clearly trying to get her to question herself.  Hope is resolute about taking the fight to Stefano and getting answers.  Hope pushes Stefano's buttons until he blurts that she has no idea the trouble she's stirring up - the two secrets in the box could destroy many lives!  Hope jumps on this and Stefano finally gives her and Bo the whole story.  Stefano told Alice he knew a damaging secret about her loved ones; she in turn claimed she had a secret about him.  Without revealing their respective intel, they agreed to put their evidence in a shared safe deposit box so both secrets would remain neutralized.  Stefano asks again: do they really want to open the box?

Jennifer's been informed that EJ is making moves to get the debate questions in advance.  To level the playing field, she can do the same for Abe.  He remembers well his intention to take off the gloves and do what it takes to beat EJ knowing that if he loses, Salem does too.  He authorizes Jennifer to go ahead but warns Lexie must not find out.  He even proposes feeding EJ false questions to tip the election in his favor.  Abe makes the debate questions switch. 

Will struggles to be comfortable with himself when he hangs out with Sonny and his gay friends.  One of the friends assumes Will is gay and asks what his "coming out" experience was like.  Sonny rescues a flustered Will, who later insists to Sonny that his friend was mistaken in thinking he was gay.  Will goes home, disgusted with himself and full of self-loathing

Marlena shares a meal with Will, and tries yet again to let him know she's here for him if he wants to talk about his sexuality.  Sonny interrupts and invites Will to spend some time with his gay friends who want to get to know him better.  Uncomfortable, Will tells Sonny he's not interested. Once alone, Marlena encourages Will to spend more time with these people if he likes them.  Will claims he's not interested. Marlena continues to try and draw him out, but he isn't ready to come out and retreats from her.

Jennifer is stunned to learn Daniel is leaving town.  He explains he's going to travel the world for a bit to gain some perspective on his life, figure out what he's going to do now that he can't be a surgeon.  They make peace about their failed relationship.   As he's about to leave for the airport, Jennifer gives him one last kiss goodbye and breaks down once he goes.

Marlena convinces Jack to attend a group therapy session she runs for military vets.  He is resistant at first, feeling he'll be trespassing since he wasn't in the service but Marlena persuades him. We hear a couple of stories that lead Jack to tell his and see flashbacks of his terrible ordeal. By the end of the day, Jack and the others have bonded in their shared experience and emotions.

Abigail fantasizes about confessing her feelings to Austin, and having him respond with a kiss.  In reality, Abigail only informs him of her potential new modeling gig.  Austin innocently asks if she's gotten permission from her parents and she balks - she's an adult!  Austin apologizes and says he still sees her as a little girl.  Austin assures Abigail she's be successful no matter what she does.

FEBRUARY 2012:

Sami and Austin catch Rafe and Carrie in a close moment.  They rush to explain that they were rehearsing a dance for Sydney's party.  Neither Sami nor Austin is satisfied. Sami learns Will has Sydney at the DiMera mansion, and she makes a scene. Sydney witnesses. To make it up to Sydney, Sami must invite EJ and Nicole to join at the pub.

Carrie and Rafe are devastated when she learns her law firm can no longer afford to front their business.  She considers moving back to Switzerland. Rafe rallies her spirits, and they decide they will stick it out and do whatever it takes to make their firm a success.  The bond between them grows ever stronger.

Sami runs into Madison, who tells her that she wants to pull the plug on their operation. Sami has a huge reaction; she's risked so much to gain Kate's trust.  The two strong women argue, each convinced they're right. Sami winds up quitting her job with Madison, informing her that she'll stay working for Kate, for real this time, and will build her career at Countess W. instead of Mad World.

Rafe and Carrie take on the case of a woman who suspects her husband is cheating on her.  They bond over their marital problems.  Carrie appreciates Rafe's support, finding herself drawn more to him than ever before; Rafe privately feels the same way.  In a burst of excitement/celebration after solving their first big paid case, Carrie and Rafe embrace.  Before they realize what they're doing, they fall into a passionate kiss.  As it continues, Sami walks in.

All hell breaks loose. Upset Sami lashes out at her husband and her sister, who both try to explain, saying it's not what she thinks, but Sami won't hear it. Austin arrives and overhears that Carrie and Rafe were kissing. He nearly attacks Rafe, but Carrie defends him and this doesn't sit well with Austin. Back at the loft, Rafe encourages Sami to talk about this... Sami, upset about everything - including her own betrayal -tells Rafe to get out!  Austin realizes Carrie has feelings for Rafe, and storms out, refusing to discuss it with her.

Madison informs Brady that she is pulling the plug on her plan to sabotage Kate.  Madison explains to Brady how much he really means to her, how for the first time in her life, her company is not her top priority - he is.  She gets up the nerve to tell him about her mystery caller, but she's interrupted by the caller. Madison loses her nerve. Brady tells Madison he loves her, and she tearfully returns the sentiment.

Stefano has laid a very clear choice out in front of Hope and Bo.  They realize he's playing games with them and they make him admit there's something he wants in all this-- the envelope. Bo challenges Stefano the same way he challenged them.  Does he want to open it? Later, they meet at the bank, having decided to move forward with opening the safe deposit box.

EJ nearly catches Abe switching the real debate questions with a false set he and Jennifer have cooked up, but he manages to cover. He's doing what he must to keep EJ out of the mayor's office. EJ and Nicole are ready for the debate, confident they will win now that they've gotten the questions in advance. 

EJ and Nicole go to the town square for the televised debate against Abe. Abe and Jennifer are conflicted about sending EJ fake debate questions but know they had no choice if they want to keep DiMera out of office.  The debate begins and EJ is stunned when he's hit with questions for which he hasn't prepared. Abe does extremely well. EJ and Nicole figure out Abe had the questions in advance and somehow got fake ones to EJ.  EJ goes back into the debate guns blazing, and both men finish strong.

Abigail finds Austin on his office couch and learns there is trouble in paradise with Carrie. When Carrie sees the two together she jumps to a wrong conclusion.

An excited Abigail tells her parents about modeling for Mad World. Jennifer expresses her disapproval. Abigail informs her mother she wasn't seeking her permission.  They argue and Jack tries calm things down. Abigail storms off. Jack talks Jennifer down, reasoning that Abigail is an adult. They can only support her and hope they've raised her well enough to make the right choices.  Jennifer is impressed.

Will asks Sonny how he knew he was gay. Sonny explains what he went through, hoping Will can relate.  Sonny never pressures Will to admit anything.  Sonny talks about how coming out changed his life for the better and though Will is affected, he's still not ready to confess his secret.  Will is grateful to Sonny for opening up, and Sonny makes sure Will knows he has his full support.

Nicole has had it with EJ's new relationship with Will and demands that he tell her what's really going on.  EJ breaks his promise to Will.  He tells Nicole that he's blackmailing Will because he is the one who shot him at the altar, not Lucas.  In response, Will comes close to telling Nicole about his mother sleeping with EJ but EJ quiets him by telling him he's giving will his own apartment in the new DiMera complex overlooking the town square. Nicole still feels there's more going on.

Sami presses Will to explain his moving to an apartment EJ has leased for him. In a big moment, Will finally reveals he saw her having sex with EJ!  Sami is horrified as Will unleashes his anger, accusing her of destroying her family and betraying Rafe. Sami realizes Will has confronted EJ, and fears he is going to tell Rafe.  Will, full of loathing, tells Sami her secret is safe - he doesn't want to hurt Rafe or his siblings, but he wants his mother to stay out of his life.  Sami refuses to give up on her son but he lashes out, saying she is exactly what she hated about her own mother.

Carrie shows up at her office and discovers Rafe spent the night there after Sami kicked him out. They wrestle with what to do. There are still strong feelings between them.  Carrie especially is tempted to pursue a relationship with Rafe, but he makes it clear he's going to do everything in his power to work things out with Sami.  Austin begs Carrie's forgiveness.  She feels like she is the one who needs his forgiveness.

Will is shocked to learn Rafe has moved out then grows angry when he learns that Sami kicked him out. When Rafe steps out of the room, Will blasts his mother for her hypocrisy - what she did with EJ was much worse than what Rafe did with Carrie.

Brady shows up unannounced at Madison's hotel room to take her on a fancy and romantic date. They go to the café in the town square, where they first met. He's pulled out all the stops as a prelude to asking her to marry him!  Madison doesn't give Brady an answer. He's kind and caring; no matter what she decides, he knows he'll never stop loving her. EJ and Nicole arrive just in time to witness Brady's proposal. Nicole is wistful. She and EJ could never have that kind of relationship.

When Madison returns to her room, she finds an older, attractive man.  It's clear the two have a long history and though he's perfectly charming on the surface, his presence makes Madison very nervous.  Ian asks who she was talking to in the hall and wonders if she's involved with someone.  Before she can answer, Brady arrives and is baffled when Ian opens the door.  Brady wants answers from Madison and Madison alone, but when he looks at her, the look of despair in her eyes is all the answer he needs.  He goes, wanting nothing more to do with her or this situation.  Madison tries to follow, but a menacing Ian tells her she isn't going anywhere.

Kate inquires what's going on with Stefano and he reveals what's been going on between him, Bo and Hope. Kate can't believe Alice Horton had something on him and urges him to open the envelope.  He does, and gets the shock of his life.

Bo and Hope are stunned to find that the contents of the mystery envelope are papers and a marriage certificate... for her and John!   John informs Marlena that apparently he and Hope might be married if the certificate is legitimate. Bo, Hope Marlena and John meet at the pub and learn together it is indeed legit.  Carrie informs them that John and Hope cannot get an annulment because their marriage was consummated.  They must get a divorce, but they have to travel to Alamainia to file in person and then stay for two weeks while the judge reviews the case.

After winning the debate, EJ and Nicole accuse Abe and Jennifer of switching/receiving the debate questions early. Lexie defends Abe, then asks him point blank about EJ's accusation and he chooses to lie. Nicole realizes not only has Abe played dirty, he's kept it from his wife. Can they exploit this and bring Lexie back into the DiMera fold?

Austin winds up at his office... where Abigail has been working.  She sees he's drunk and distressed and attempts to help him, be his sounding board.  Austin at first resists opening up to her but she's everything Carrie has not been: loving.  Understanding.  Comforting.  He gives in, telling her how amazing she is... and they come together in a kiss!  A very hung-over Austin wakes in his office to find himself nearly naked on the couch with Abigail. He jumps to the conclusion that he made love to her. She allows him to believe they did sleep together and it was wonderful.  Privately horrified that he's cheated on Carrie, Austin tries to let Abigail down easily, but she is so smitten, she doesn't hear what he is saying. 

Abigail apologizes to Melanie for the way she treated her and Chad.  She reveals she and her mystery man are finally together.  Now that Abigail has found "true love," she can see she never belonged with Chad.  She gives Melanie her blessing to be with him, and the two girls finally make up.  Abigail goes in search of Austin... and finds him in a kiss with Carrie. She is devastated.  Abigail runs into Melanie who sees her distress.  Melanie is rocked to learn that Abigail was with a married man... and even more so when she learns that man is Austin.  Melanie asks if they slept together.  And she tells Melanie yes. 

Sami lashes into Carrie for being the same old sister whom she hates.  She warns Austin he's a fool if he doesn't see it, too.  Rafe once again pleads for them to put what happened with Carrie behind them.   Rafe takes a strong stand with Sami, insisting he's not going to let her walk away from their marriage, and sweeps her into a passionate kiss. 

Madison begs for Brady's forgiveness.  He lets out all his rage and anger at Madison for lying to him, and letting him fall in love with her when she was already married.  Madison tries to explain, but it falls on deaf ears.  Brady makes it clear they are through.  Ian shows up to see Kate, and we see they had a passionate past.  He dumped her, and she is reluctant to let him back into her life, but she's clearly attracted to him--they nearly kiss.  

Madison and Brady learn that Ian is the new CEO of Titan. Victor and Maggie learn Madison is married to Ian.  Victor wants to renege on his offer, but Ian has signed his contract and isn't going anywhere. Ian happens upon Kate and pulls her into a passionate kiss. 

Marlena and John talk about Stefano's latest manipulation. Though Marlena isn't jealous of Hope, she fears that the marriage between John and Hope is but the beginning of a serious malevolent strategy by Stefano to tear her and John apart.  John, Marlena, Hope and Bo head to Alamainia, but only two are allowed to go and that's John and Hope!

Will tells EJ aside he told his mother that he saw them sleeping together.  EJ is furious, afraid Nicole will find out now but Will reassures; the last thing his mother wants is for anyone else to know.

Jennifer turns down an opportunity to have a poll supervisor stuff a ballot box. She informs her contact that Abe will win this election fair and square. When the results come out that Abe has won, EJ reels. He doesn't understand how this could have happened. Stefano lays into EJ and says he's had nothing but missteps ever since he chose to run. EJ tells Nicole they should have won and she replies: don't worry. We will.  Lexie hears via a reporter that Abe received the debate questions in advance and managed to get false ones to EJ. She can't believe Abe lied to her.

Abe gives his acceptance speech after winning his bid for reelection, but it's not quite how he would have imagined.   EJ goes to the square to make his concession speech.  Nicole shows up with news that there is a challenge to the results due to ballot tampering. Abe can't believe this and lays into Jennifer, but she swears she told the poll supervisor not to do it. Lexie happens upon this and hears what Abe is accused of.  She loses it.  It looks like EJ might be the new mayor and Abe is a loser.

When Jack finds Abigail in tears, she almost confesses about her relationship with Austin.  She doesn't reveal his name.  Jack wants to help, but Abigail insists she's grown up enough to handle it herself.  Carrie is very concerned for Abigail.  When Abigail decides to confide in Carrie about her heart being broken by a guy at the u, Austin, knowing he's the one on the hot seat, begins to sweat. After hearing what the guy did to Abigail, Carrie thinks this guy is a major jerk.

Rafe tells John, Bo and Hope that none of his contacts can get Bo and Marlena into Alamainia.  John and Hope will have to travel alone to get their divorce.  They discuss how John and Hope could be walking into Stefano's trap, but they resolve to still go.  They head for the airport, wary of what lies ahead. A mystery man watches and follows them. Hope trips and falls into John's arms and we see a hint of their old attraction to each other.

Sami is cool to Rafe and Marlena encourages them to talk and try to work things out. Sami bristles at Marlena's "interference" and Rafe leaves, not wanting to fight. After he's gone, Marlena and Sami get into a heated argument.  Marlena encourages Sami to make things right with Rafe. Marlena finally tells Sami that she is doing to Will exactly what she has always accused Marlena of doing to her. Sami accuses Marlena of having some inside information on her.  Marlena tries to protect Will, but he interrupts the confrontation and confirms he told his grandmother Sami slept with EJ.  Guilty Sami lashes out at both of them, believing Will wants to hurt her.  Marlena urges her daughter to tell Rafe the truth, before it destroys her family. 

Will joins Sonny at the pub, where he opens up about his mother cheating on Rafe with EJ.  Unbeknownst to the two boys, Rafe overhears and is stunned.  He storms over to the loft, where he confronts Sami.  Sami begs Rafe to give their marriage another chance - to keep their family together. 

After Will shares his secret with Sonny, the guys head over to a party at the town square.  Will meets a cute guy and wanting to forget his troubles, gets drunk.  Later, an inebriated Will suddenly pulls the cute guy into a kiss - much to Sonny's surprise.  Will breaks from his kiss and realizes Sonny has seen it. He rushes off. Sonny pursues and tells Will he only wants to help. Will refuses to talk. He goes to see Marlena and confides in her that he kissed a guy. Marlena is supportive and understanding.  She tells Will she loves him and will support him no matter what. Just as it seems he is about to come out and admit to being gay, Sami storms in and accuses Marlena of telling Rafe that she had sex with EJ.

Brady comes to Madison, almost against his better judgment, ready to hear why she lied to him all this time.  A pained Madison recounts the story of her relationship, and Brady is thrown to learn that her love was never returned and that Ian has a past with Kate.  Brady doesn't understand why she hasn't divorced Ian. Ian arrives to declare he won't allow it.  Ever.

Ian is with Kate and their connection is palpable, even as she attempts to resist it.  They kiss but she pulls away and attempts to leave, but he tells her there's never been anyone like her. She goes home and we see she's rattled... and that's when she finds a mysterious note from Stefano claiming he had to leave town unexpectedly and will be in touch.

Ian drops in on Victor, Maggie and Brady, claiming he wants to mend fences.  They are begrudgingly impressed when he presents an impressive business plan for Titan, but the jury is still out until he implements it.  An ugly confrontation between Kate and Madison builds as Ian observes.  Kate brings up Brady, but Madison counters, making Ian and Kate aware that she knows this isn't the first time they have seen each other.  

Nicole and EJ are hugely celebratory now that he is the official winner in the mayoral election.  He's curious about how she managed to pull off this promised upset.  She insists she doesn't want to dwell on it and would rather focus on his achievement.  They celebrate by making love.  Later, Nicole makes a cryptic call regarding EJ's victory.

EJ surprises Nicole with a romantic picnic by the fireplace for their one-year wedding anniversary.  They talk about their future and make love.  Then EJ gets down on one knee and "proposes" to Nicole with a new ring.  He says he wants to start over, do their marriage right this time.  Nicole tearfully accepts - just as an angry Rafe begins banging on the front door.  Sami tries to stop him but he kicks in the door and physically attacks EJ. Nicole throws her ring back at EJ and leaves.

Austin has called Abigail to his office and tries to apologize for hurting her. She tells Austin if he wants to save his marriage, he needs to be honest with Carrie and tell her everything, including that he and Abigail slept together. And she will go with him and be there when he does.  Carrie walks in on their conversation.  Abigail comes dangerously close to telling Carrie the truth, until Austin sweeps her away for lunch. 

Jennifer finally allows Abigail to take the modeling gig with Madison's company. Jennifer praises Jack for how he's changed and declares that she wants the two of them to get back together. Jack surprises her by saying that all he's ever done is hurt her and he's sure he will again, so he thinks it's better if the two of them just remain good friends.  Jennifer is devastated.


 

MARCH 2012:ml:namespace prefix = "o" ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

Sami gets a shock when she sees Lucas wearing a ring and learns that he got engaged while in Hong Kong.  At first lashes she out at him for leading her along.  Lucas insists he wasn't doing anything of the kind and embarrassed Sami is forced to stuff her unease.  Kate shows up, not so thrilled to see her son with Sami.  She can't control her reaction and warns him not to let Sami get her hooks into him again.  Lucas can't help wondering if Kate has really accepted Sami.  Kate insists she has, but we know she's plotting Sami's downfall.

While Brady and Madison celebrate their reunion, Kate gives Ian a head's up, since he was the one who told her Sami was working at CW as a mole: she is going to come down on all three who were involved.  Ian tells Kate she might want to reconsider going after Madison and Brady and reminds her what happened the last time she crossed him. 

Madison tells Ian she plans to divorce him.  He says if she leaves him, he'll see to it that Brady is charged by the feds for his role in Sami's corporate espionage.  Madison tells Brady she's decided to remain with her husband, with whom she's in love.  Brady eventually believes Madison and storms out.  Madison breaks down in tears and seethes to Ian that she hates him.

Kate introduces Gabi and Chad to the new Co-CEO of CW - her daughter Billie Reed.  During the ad campaign photo shoot, Billie picks up on Gabi's love for Chad. 

Hope and John grapple with the fact that dead ISA Agent Walsh turned up in their room.  John admits that he's back acting as an agent for the ISA.  Hope demands that John let her help him figure out what Stefano is doing because it's the only way they'll be able to leave Alamainia and return to the people they love.

Roman finds out that Bo is planning to search Moroni's warehouse without a warrant and busts him for cutting corners, which is exactly how Abe got in trouble.  Moroni's thugs jump Roman and Bo.  Roman comes to, but Bo is in terrible shape.  Heroic Roman carries his brother to the pub where Kayla tries to save him.  Bo is brought to the hospital. Daniel tries to save him, but he ultimately lapses into a coma.  Roman vows to find who did this and make them pay. Daniel explains to Roman and Marlena that it's not looking good.  Billie races off to see Bo when she learns he's in the hospital.

Daniel and Billie meet, and each knows who the other is.  Daniel allows Billie to see Bo. She is alone with Bo, on the phone with extremely anxious Hope in Alamainia when Bo's machines go off.  As Billie screams for medical help, Hope hears that Bo is dying!  Lexie rushes in and attempts to resuscitate Bo. He is stable, but in bad shape.

John and Hope are face-to-face with Stefano, who has them at gun point. Both think he had something to do with Agent Walsh's death. Hope learns Bo has been attacked.  John and Hope learn that they can't leave the country without the passports they were forced to surrender to the judge when they filed for their divorce.  They decide they'll use their old prowess as art thieves and steal the passports from the government office.  It's their only hope.

EJ tries to make amends with Nicole but she won't hear it. He follows her to the town square, and when he grabs her, Rafe tells him to leave her alone. It looks like Rafe is going to beat up EJ, who uses his new job as mayor, saying Rafe could end up in jail.  Rafe vows to get EJ eventually. Rafe offers to take Nicole home, but she thanks him and declines.

Austin and Melanie know it's more than just a coincidence that they've all bumped into each other at Green Mountain Lodge.  The tension is high and when Austin finally gets alone with Abigail he demands to know what's going on.  She insists she's there because she loves him but he tells her he's here to work things out with his wife. 

Austin and Carrie try to reconnect. When she leaves, Abigail shows up and reveals she arranged for Carrie to win a massage so she and Austin could spend time together.  Austin orders her to stay out of his life.  Abigail breaks down.  Carrie runs into Melanie in the locker room.  Melanie realizes Abigail must be with Austin and tries to prevent Carrie from heading back to the room.  Carrie is stunned to walk in on a half-naked Austin holding Abigail tightly in his arms.  Abigail tells Carrie that she and Austin love each other.  Austin almost succeeds in convincing Carrie that he doesn't love Abigail, that a crush on him has grown out of hand.  Melanie tries desperately to keep Abigail from ruining their marriage but she announces that Austin made love to her.  Austin, unable to refute, is slapped hard by Carrie who tears off.  Austin is hot on her heels.

Jennifer visits Daniel in his office and the two of them decide to be friends.  Jennifer tells Jack thjjat Daniel was a bit "off."  Jack tells Jennifer to go with her gut and later, after placing flowers on Tom and Alice's plaque with Maggie (for their anniversary), the ladies talk about Daniel.  Maggie also notes her son hasn't seemed the same since his return to Salem.

Will and Marlena talk about his sexuality and he admits he feels comfortable talking to his grandma about it. She promises will she will always be here for him, but hopes he can get comfortable with being himself.

Lucas and Will have an emotional reunion. Lucas tells Will he's engaged, then tries to draw his son out. Will avoids and Lucas gives him space. Will reveals that EJ has been blackmailing him re: knowing he is the one who really shot him. Lucas is furious. Will surprises his  father by telling him he likes working for EJ, but Lucas will not stand by and watch his son lose his soul to the DiMeras.

Will is late getting to EJ, who is upset. Will apologizes, but Lucas shows up and puts his foot down, telling EJ he knows about the blackmail. EJ offers to release Will from their "deal" but he doesn't want to go. Will and Lucas argue.  At EOD, Will decides to stay put and EJ couldn't be more proud.

Kate forces Sami to burn the midnight oil in order to find their mole. This unnerves Sami. She's put out that she can't go home to see her kids. Kate tells Sami that she and Billie will feed and tuck them in. Kate reveals to Billie that she knows Sami is the mole. Lucas shows up to help Sami with her assignment to uncover the mole at CW.  When he gets too close, Sami is forced to confess that it was her all along.  Lucas is furious, but Sami defends what she's done.  The most important thing is to keep Kate in the dark.  Lucas finds himself stuck in the middle.

Hope is driven to get to Bo. John reminds her of their plan to break into the Alamanian office building and get their passports back. Dressed in black, they break into the office, then are caught by none other than Stefano.  He has their passports and no amount of Hope's insisting that she needs to return to Bo's side will get him to budge.  Police sirens are heard approaching and John and Hope realize they're going to be arrested.  Stefano gets them to safety but again refuses to hand over the passports.  He may need them for something here in Alamainia.  John and Hope know that whatever Stefano needs from them, it can't be any good.

Rafe checks up Nicole her but when she runs off to the bathroom to throw up, he realizes she's been hiding a pregnancy.  She is adamant that EJ not learn about it and he supports her.  Her health is the number one priority and when he learns she's not been able to keep anything down and is reluctant to go to the hospital, he calls in Daniel.

Back in Salem, Carrie confesses to Rafe that Austin may have cheated on her with Abigail, but she cheated too... emotionally, by falling in love with Rafe.  Austin overhears.  Austin leaves, hurt, and Carrie almost follows, but then admits she doesn't want to.  She wants to be with Rafe. Rafe confesses he also has feelings for her, but in spite of those feelings, they are both still married.

Abigail, meanwhile, returns to town anxious to find Austin, but Melanie sits her friend down to tell her she's not being realistic. Abigail slips up talking about how things will be when they finally make love for the first time.  Melanie is reeling.  Abigail has been lying this whole time?  She insists that Abigail has to find Austin and tell him the truth... now.  Abigail still believes that Austin cares for her. Melanie convinces her she has to be honest now and tell him the truth. 

With encouragement from Melanie, Abigail wants to confess her duplicity to Austin. but after a few words to him she decides Carrie should be a part of their conversation. Austin balks at this, saying she's with Rafe.  It doesn't take long for Abigail to realize there is trouble in paradise and she decides not to confess. Abigail says that if Carrie is with another man, there's no reason they can't be together. Austin warns Abigail that they will never be together.

Abe tries to put his marriage back together, endlessly trying to explain to Lexie that what he did re: the election was just.  Lexie continues to resist him, saying he's hurt their bond, their trust, and their family.  Lexie admits Theo is having a hard time due to what Abe has been accused of.  Devastated Abe learns Theo doesn't want to see him.

Daniel and Billie find themselves at the day spa together. They start a workout.  Impressed with Billie's spirit, Daniel gives her a few pointers. Billie hurts her wrist and he wants to look at it, but she says no.  She knows his m.o. with patients. We see something starting between them.

Melanie leaves a message hoping to meet Chad later for dinner.  Sneaky Gabi deletes it when he is not looking and invites Chad to have dinner with her.  Later, Melanie is miffed Chad hasn't shown up. With encouragement from Kayla she tries to call him, but we see he's with Gabi and after deleting her earlier call and a text, she turns his phone off and he is completely unaware. The two co-workers bond, but Melanie shows up and the two go off together, leaving behind a jealous, thwarted Gabi.

Daniel checks on Nicole and suggests someone should stay the night with her.  Rafe volunteers.  They bond over their predicaments with EJ and Sami. Rafe insists his marriage is over.  Nicole questions his feelings for Carrie and realizes he is in love with Sami's sister. Nicole falls asleep, and Rafe undresses for bed. EJ drops by unexpectedly and misreads the situation, believing Nicole and Rafe had sex. Rafe decks EJ, who storms out. Rafe comforts Nicole.

EJ is inaugurated as the new mayor and makes an eloquent speech promising to rid Salem of corruption in government and crime in the streets. His first act as mayor is to have Abe and Jennifer arrested for election/ballot tampering.

Rafe drops in on Nicole with some food. He assures her that he has no agenda, except making sure she's okay. Nicole is touched. Rafe tell her he hates having to leave the kids, but he needs to move on with his life and get Sami out of his system. Nicole understands and feels the same with EJ.

Sami finds Rafe waiting at the loft.  He tells her he's done... it's time for them both to acknowledge their marriage is broken, and hire lawyers.  Sami fights for their relationship but Rafe's mind is made up.

Rafe returns to Nicole's and reveals he's just come from seeing Sami and told her it's over.  She is relieved for him, knowing he's been ready to make this leap.  She encourages him to move on and find someone who's right for him.  Taking her advice, Rafeheads off to find Carrie.

During a mass for Bo, it's revealed that Austin slept with Abigail and that Carrie told Rafe she's falling in love with him. A huge argument ensues, everyone hurling accusations back and forth until Marlena stops them and reminds them they need to be there for Bo and their family.

Jack bails Jennifer out of jail and she is thankful. Abigail and Austin run into one another. Feeling guilty, Abigail wants to talk about the night they made love. Jack and Jennifer overhear and he goes apoplectic. Unable to take it anymore, Abigail confesses. She and Austin didn't have sex. She made the whole thing up.  At first Carrie doesn't believe it, but an emotional Abigail presses her case, insisting she's only trying to fix what she's made so terribly wrong. Carrie believes her and blasts her for the lies.  Austin, quieter, asks Abigail how she could do this to his marriage.  Carrie is upset and rushes away but Austin catches up, with one question for her: does this change things - do they have a chance?  Carrie is conflicted and an impassioned Austin presses.  Finally she admits you just don't walk away from a marriage like theirs...  and that's when Rafe arrives, unseen - and assumes their reconciling.  He withdraws, disappointed.  But Carrie continues with Austin, saying she just can't say what's in her heart right now.  She goes, leaving Austin frustrated.

Madison and Billie meet and share mutual respect and admiration.  Billie seems intrigued with Ian, but Kate warns that he's bad news. Ian tells Kate he doesn't care what she does to Sami, but if she goes after Madison, she'll regret it. Ian attempts to make nice with Madison and tells her he loves her and wants to make her happy. Madison says if that's true, then let her go free to be with Brady. Ian refuses and coldly orders her to never ask that of him again.

Kate confronts Sami about being a spy for Madison.  Sami initially tries to wiggle out of it but realizes denials aren't getting her anywhere.  She tells Kate the spying ended months ago and she's been a loyal employee ever since, but that doesn't go over well.  Kate says she's going to let Sami twist in the wind for a while before calling the police... and taking away her children. 

Hope and John are taken by surprise and carted off to a jail cell where Stefano appears via a two-way video monitor. He needs their help.  John and Hope refuse. Stefano is sorry to hear that and he tells the guard to kill them.  John calls Stefano's bluff.  When push comes to shove, Stefano needs them for this "project" of his.  Stefano confirms John is right but says he has other means of persuasion at his disposal.  He reveals he's got a man following Marlena back in Salem.  Stefano flicks a switch and to John's horror he sees surveillance camera video life, showing a man shadowing Marlena.

Stefano finally reveals the project he needs them for.  Back in the day when Hope was Princess Gina and John was the Pawn, they stole a priceless jeweled egg for Stefano... but never made delivery.  He wants it now to complete his collection.  John and Hope tell Stefano they can't help him simply because they have no memory of the theft. Stefano had planned for that possibility - and wants to return them to those identities via post-hypnotic suggestion.

Gabi drops by Chad's place with exciting news - their Countess Wilhelmina ads have been released!  As they bond in their excitement, Gabi continues to fall harder for unaware Chad.  She later opens up about growing up poor and her hopes of pursuing a life of glamour and fame.  While Chad takes a call from Melanie, a scheming Gabi leaves one of her earrings on his bed.

Will and Sonny are horsing around and Lucas walks in on it.  He later warns Will that someone else might have gotten the wrong impression.  This rattles Will, who covers.  Later Kate arrives and, when she's alone with Will, she reveals she's known all along that he is gay.  Will freezes, then denies, says she has it wrong.  Later, Will runs into Marlena; she sees he's upset and tries to get him to open up.  Will is reluctant at first but then will finally utters the words: he thinks he may be gay

Sami reveals to EJ that Rafe wants a divorce.  EJ is shocked and he and Sami try to figure out how they ended up having sex that night.  EJ assures Sami she will get through this setback, because like him, she's a survivor.  EJ lets it slip that Rafe and Nicole had sex and Sami is livid.

Rafe and Nicole run into EJ, who continues to believe they had sex.  In private, Nicole tells EJ she filed the divorce papers that she made him sign all those months ago.  He is devastated and makes one more bid to get her back.  Though affected, Nicole stands strong. 

EJ gets Sami and her children an apartment. He also reveals that he has gotten Kate to back off. Sami hugs EJ in gratitude. Lucas lets Sami know he isn't happy about her accepting help from EJ. Sami sincerely tells Lucas she's grateful for everything he's done and couldn't have gotten through any of it without him. Lucas gets a call from his fiancée, who wants him to come home. When Sami hears, she blurts out that Lucas can't leave her!  Lucas says she doesn't need him; she has EJ. She tells Lucas he's wrong about EJ. If she has "unresolved feelings" about anyone, it's Lucas.

Nicole asks Rafe to help her get out of town so EJ can never find her. Rafe talks her out of it, promising to help her any way he can. EJ overhears that Nicole is pregnant.  He believes the child is his. At first he is loving and concerned, but this changes after Nicole tells him she has no intention of being with him again. EJ vows that she will never keep their child away from him. Rafe tells EJ that the baby is his.

Carrie reaches out to Sami, who lashes out at her sister, blaming her for ruining her marriage and her family.  Carrie informs Sami that austin did not sleep with Abigail.  Sami wonders if Carrie is going to stay with Austin.  Carrie admits she's not sure and Sami interprets this to mean that her sister plans to string along both Austin and Rafe. Carrie tells Rafe about Austin/Abigail.  Rafe tells Carrie he hopes she and Austin will be happy. Sami returns and confronts Rafe about him sleeping with Nicole right in front of a stunned Carrie!  Rafe denies and realizes that EJ passed on this misinformation.  Sami doesn't buy it, leaves feeling worse than ever.  Rafe needs Carrie to believe him and though he can't tell her why he was with Nicole he swears it wasn't to sleep with her.  Carrie tells him she believes him.

Carrie, terribly torn, tells Marlena that Abigail lied about sleeping with Austin. He didn't cheat and wants to try to salvage their marriage, but Carrie isn't sure she does. She talks about her feelings for Rafe, and decides Rafe is the one she wants to be with. Later, however, she overhears Rafe saying he's the father of Nicole's baby.

As head of Titan, Ian hosts a dinner for fashion editors. Ian pushes Brady's buttons throughout the evening until he pushes back. Intoxicated, Brady comes off badly.  Madison warns Brady not to let Ian get to him. Brady kisses her, but Madison runs from him and her feelings. Kate confesses to Ian that Stefano is still in love with Marlena.  Ian thinks Kate should dump Stefano and be with him.  He came back to Salem for her, not Madison.  Kate insists she loves Stefano.    

Billie asks Kate if Stefano is behind John and Hope's troubles.  Kate insists her husband is innocent but is unnerved when Billie wonders if this has something to do with Stefano's obsession with Marlena.  Billie asks Kate if she can move into the mansion to keep an eye out for her mom.  Once Billie gets the okay to move in, she calls Agent Spencer and vows to find evidence against Stefano.  She brings her stuff to the mansion and begins leafing through confidential DiMera files, but is soon caught by EJ.

Billie and EJ don't trusts one another.  Billie tells him she's moving in and claims it's to look out for her mother's interests. EJ warns Kate to put the kibosh on taking Sami's children away from her, and she'll deal with him if she ignores him. Billie digs around.  She finds something interesting in Stefano's private files and takes a photo of it. Kate suspects Stefano is harboring romantic feelings for Marlena.  She confronts Marlena who has never despised Stefano more than she does now. 

Hope and John remain Stefano's prisoners in Alamainia. Although they've agreed to let Stefano turn them back into Gina and the Pawn, they second guess this decision, worried he won't turn them back into themselves.  Worse, what if the passion they once shared gets the better of them?  They have no choice, knowing Stefano will harm Marlena and Bo if they don't cooperate.  They will be able to go home once they remember where they hid the valuable art piece they stole from Stefano years ago.  Stefano brings in an expert on hypnosis who uses gas to put their minds in a suggestive state.  Later, Hope and John "become" Princess Gina and the Pawn.  As they "see" one another for the "first" time in a long while, they go into a major kiss.  Stefano is pleased.  Later, Stefano is monitoring their hotel room but they discover and disable the cameras/ microphone. Privately, the Pawn and Gina reveal their plan: to recover the egg, sell it and disappear. Stefano orders his minions to follow their every move.  They leave for a night of dining, dancing and gambling. Later, the Pawn and Gina play Stefano in a private poker game. The stakes are high: if Stefano wins, the Pawn and Gina have to recover his egg immediately. If they win, Stefano will leave them alone forever. Stefano wins. We see that he cheated when he pays off the dealer.  The Pawn and Gina know he cheated but don't care. Once they recover the egg, they'll sell it, run off together and disappear forever. 

Lexie bails Abe out of jail and apologizes to him; she has come to realize she's been too harsh.  He's forgiven her many times in the past, and now she must do the same.  The two happily reunite and Abe moves back home.  They make love and vow never to let anything else come between them.  Later, Lexie suffers an excruciating headache but downplays it in front of Abe.

Marlena, growing more and more worried about John and Hope, calls Roman and tells him something's wrong. She knows it. And she needs his help.

Will admits to Marlena he thinks he might be gay; she reassures him it's nothing to fear, but something to embrace.   She gets him to admit he's just scared of abandoning his dreams for a life he never planned on.  Still, he's not ready to accept being gay.  Later, they run into Kate and uncomfortable Will makes a hasty exit.  Marlena cautions Kate about being too pushy re: Will's sexuality. 

Chad romances Melanie at his apartment.  She confesses she's jealous of the fans who throw themselves at him, as well as of Gabi with whom he has incredible chemistry.  Chad makes it clear that Melanie is the woman he's falling in love with.  They are on the verge of making love when Melanie discovers an earring in his bed. She runs out, crushed.

Melanie reveals to Abigail that she found another woman's earring in Chad's bed. She's afraid he's been cheating on her. Abigail insists Chad would never cheat. Chad tells Gabi how upset and hurt Melanie was when she found the earring. Gabi (having previously planted it) sees the earring and tells Chad it's hers and goes with him to explain to Melanie that she simply "lost" it when she and Chad were sitting on his bed looking through photos. Gabi tries to get Chad to go with her for a fitting, but he chooses to be with Melanie instead. Abigail questions Gabi a little more about the earring.  We see she doesn't quite buy Gabi's explanation.


 

APRIL 2012:

EJ reacts to hearing that Nicole is pregnant and believes the child is his. She tells him she has no intention of being with him again. EJ vows that she will never keep their child away from him, but Rafe says the baby is his.

Sami pleads with Lucas not to leave her and go back to Hong Kong. Sami denies that there is anything between her and EJ. If she has "unresolved feelings" about anyone, it's Lucas.  Sami declares Lucas is the one she loves. He thinks she's only saying that because he's taken and she can't have him. Lucas learns his "secretary" has cancelled his reservation and the flight is booked. He knows Sami is the one who canceled his reservation and should be mad, but isn't.  Sami pulls out all the stops and Lucas reluctantly agrees to stay a little longer. He calls his fiancée to warn her.  EJ arrives and drops the bomb that Nicole is pregnant with Rafe's child. This rips Sami in two and EJ comforts her. Lucas sees this and EJ goes. Lucas tries to buoy Sami's spirits, but she's hurting. He's helping her move some things into her apartment when EJ arrives. Both ask what he's doing there and he points out since he owns the building, he's moving in. 

Carrie tells Marlena that Abigail lied about sleeping with Austin. He didn't cheat and wants to try to salvage their marriage, but Carrie isn't sure she does. She decides Rafe is the one she wants to be with, until she overhears him saying he's the father of Nicole's baby.  She rushes off in tears. Austin finds her.  He still wants to save their marriage and she agrees.  EJ demands Nicole take a paternity test. At the hospital, they learn they can't do the test for ten weeks. EJ still strongly believes Nicole is carrying his child. She is terrified.

Rafe and Nicole tell Daniel that EJ discovered her pregnancy.  However, Rafe has claimed he's the father.  Nicole offers to let Rafe off the hook, but he insists he will help her. They discuss what to do about EJ's request for a paternity test.  Rafe suggests asking Daniel to switch the results but Nicole doesn't want to put him in that position. Carrie and Austin have been trying to reconnect. She tries to match his enthusiasm over their reconciliation, but her heart isn't quite in it. Carrie tells Rafe their flirtation was a mistake; she's committed to Austin now.

Billie receives a call from ISA Agent Spencer. Billie gives him the photos she took of the arms invoices she found at the DiMera mansion. Spencer notes Stefano may still be in Alamainia. Billie wonders if John could try to track down the money used to buy arms, but Spencer warns John is too close. Billie continues to believe EJ is behind the stolen pensions.  Spencer says they'll need proof and Billie notes she's the one to get it.

Kate seeks out Ian, unaware that Stefano is keeping tabs on her.  He reveals he sent that packet of info on Marlena's comings and goings to the house as a test, to see if Kate would remain loyal. Ian brings her to his place and she rails about Stefano, insisting that just because she's mad at her husband doesn't mean she's turning to Ian. A vulnerable Kate loses her footing when Ian says he came to Salem to get her back. They come together in a passionate kiss.

Marlena is growing more and more worried about John and Hope.  She calls Roman and tells him something's wrong. She knows it, and she needs his help. She voices her fears to Roman and Abe re: Stefano turning John and Hope back into his Pawn and Gina. They go to Kate and ask if she knows Stefano's whereabouts? Kate swears she doesn't. Meanwhile, Gina meets with Count Wilhelm, and goes back to his castle bedroom to recover the egg. John and Gina manage to knock out the Count and recover the egg.  They are about to celebrate their new life by making love, when something catches John's eye, the picture of Marlena. He's mesmerized by the photo and Gina calls him on it. She tries to continue their tryst in the shower, but John is pulled back to reality by flash cuts of Marlena. Gina wonders what's going on. John asks her about Bo. A frustrated John calls Gina "Hope" and she wonders who "Hope" is.  John, having shaken off Stefano's hypnotic trance, helps Hope do the same but Gina resists. He finds a Salem newspaper with a picture of Bo and shows it to Gina.  Hope is finally able to shake the hypnosis.

Will tells Marlena he enjoys their time, it's just that everyone is on him to find himself. But how is he supposed to get comfortable in his own skin when everyone is badgering him? Will finally admits he is gay!  Once he's calm, he realizes how liberating it is, though he's still apprehensive about his future.  He's not sure what his next move is, whether he'll come out to his friends or his parents.  Marlena makes sure he knows she will be there for him no matter what.

Melanie is upset when Gabi informs her that someone has posted about her sordid past on the Mad World webpage.  Chad assures Melanie he loves her, no matter what she did in the past.  Melanie is touched and goes online to delete the post.  Gabi burns, seeing the couple grow closer.  We realize she was the one who posted the comment. 

Abe comes home to celebrate his and Lexie's anniversary. They celebrate with Champagne and romance.  Lexie is hit with searing head pain and collapses.  Abe is about to call 911, but Lexie wakes and tells him no. Daniel arrives to check her out and suggests that Lexie have a few tests run. Celeste shows up and tells her daughter she is in terrible danger. Abe and Lexie are stunned by Celeste's sudden return to Salem and by her declaration that Lexie is in danger.  They are skeptical when Celeste reveals her intel came from her tarot cards but she insists they take her seriously.  Lexie must get those medical tests done, that night.  Lexie finally gives in and they all go to see Daniel. Celeste tells Lexie she has a secret to confess but she's interrupted when Daniel returns with the results.  He gravely tells Lexie the news is not good.

Daniel tells Lexie she has an inoperable brain tumor.  Abe and Celeste are rocked but Lexie simply gets up and walks out.  Abe tracks her down with a patient.  Lexie insists that despite her news she still has an obligation to the patients. Once she finishes with her task, she allows her prognosis to sink in.  Abe holds her, promises that if there's a way through this, they'll find it together.

Abigail is stung when she walks by the pub and sees Austin and Carrie kissing. She turns to flee and runs smack into an attractive young man, Cameron.  He has an outsized reaction to the damage she's done to a framed photo he's holding. She promises to replace the frame, but he wants nothing to do with her and leaves.  She's thrown by how rude he is. Later she sees him in the hospital, lost. Cameron, calmed down now, apologizes for his behavior earlier. He's nervous about meeting Lexie--his half-sister!

Rafe encourages Nicole to keep a positive attitude about her pregnancy. Lucas sees them together and warns Rafe that by sleeping with Nicole he's practically pushing Sami back into EJ's arms. Rafe warns Lucas not to get caught up in the drama of Sami.

EJ makes another attempt to reconcile with Nicole, but she believes the fact that he's moved in next door to Sami is proof he wants her. EJ leaves a message that he and Sami need to discuss the future.  He shows up at Sami's apartment and pulls her into a stunning kiss.  She is outraged but EJ explains he just wanted to prove there is nothing romantic between them. There is still an attraction, which is quite evident when EJ tries to fix a leaking pipe and gets drenched and must remove his shirt so Sami can dry it. Sami has a moment of vulnerability and EJ comforts her.  They shake on their deal to keep things platonic, though we sense it won't be that easy.

Sami, Johnny and EJ have a warm family moment, which Rafe and Nicole see. There is a huge, dramatic and emotional confrontation between the four of them. Sami lashes out at Nicole for sleeping with her husband. Nicole fires back re: Sami and EJ making love. Nicol regrets losing EJ and nearly slips about her baby's true parentage. Sami lashes out at Rafe. EJ pours his heart out to Nicole, but after all the hurt he's caused her, she can't ever believe or trust him again. He is devastated.

Rafe meets with Carrie, but is disappointed when Austin shows up and they reveal she wants to officially dissolve their partnership.  Rafe signs the papers.  Austin meets up with Billie and tells her that he and Carrie are working hard to repair their marriage. A troubled Rafe confronts Carrie but she thinks she has every right to be upset with him after he lied to her about sleeping with Nicole.  Rafe is on the verge of telling Carrie things aren't the way they seem, but Sami and Lucas interrupt. Rafe admits to Nicole that he almost told Carrie the truth again but he reconfirms his commitment to Nicole.

Lucas sets up a campsite in Sami's living room in an attempt to take her mind off her troubles. She points out she hates camping but he reminds her they first admitted their feelings for each during a camping trip.

Kate makes love with Ian.  She immediately realizes it was a terrible mistake because in her heart she still loves Stefano.  She warns Ian if Stefano ever finds out they slept together, he will be out for blood.  Ian claims he isn't afraid and we reveal for the first time that his walking stick is embossed with a phoenix that matches Stefano's.  Stefano is crushed to hear of Kate's betrayal but his hurt turns to anger and the desire for revenge.

Stefano apologizes to Kate for abandoning her. He says he loves her and misses her.  Kate is guilt-ridden especially after Stefano explains that he's been having Marlena followed not because he's in love with her but because he wants to use it as leverage against John.

Billie discovers a cache of documents in the DiMera mansion and EJ catches her. He checks out the documents and is stunned by what he discovers. Nicole shows up and EJ tells her that his father has betrayed him. Nicole jumps to a conclusion and tells EJ that Stefano rigged the election for him to lose. EJ wasn't talking about the election. He shares the plan to frame John was all his.  To make matters even worse, the millions that EJ thought he had stashed is now missing!  EJ is reeling over learning that Stefano has been pulling strings all this time.  Nicole tries to comfort him. He moves in for a kiss, but Sami interrupts. EJ tries to track down the missing money.

Stefano presses John and Hope about bring him the egg. Hope almost reveals they have it, but John pre-empts her. John warns Hope that Stefano can't be trusted. He believes they need to use the egg as leverage.  Hope realizes that the egg contain surprises inside. They locate the mechanism that opens the egg and marvel over what they discover inside - a golden coin with a code engraved into it. They decide to keep the coin as insurance in case Stefano tries to double-cross them. John creates a replica and they call Stefano. Satisfied, he allows "the Pawn" and "Princess Gina" to run off and live happily ever after. 

John and Hope rush to the airport. Stefano is outraged when he discovers the coin is a fake. Hope and John are about to board a flight to Salem but are stopped at the departure gate. Agent Spencer arrives and realizes John and Hope did something as Gina and the Pawn. They give him the inscribed coin they took from inside the stolen egg. John and Hope tell him Stefano still thinks they are Gina and the Pawn and they need to get back to Salem before he realizes they aren't. Spencer thinks he may have figured it out already when one of his men tries to take them at gunpoint. Spencer hurries them off to a private ISA jet. Stefano learns they've escaped and is furious.

Marlena is elated when John surprises her with his return.  He explains how Stefano kidnapped him and Hope and turned them into his pawns to get a mysterious code.  John reveals he's working for the ISA again to bring down Stefano.  Marlena begs John not to put his life at risk but he argues he needs to do this to protect their family. 

Hope rushes to the hospital to be by Bo's side. She thanks Billie for looking after Bo and informs her that Stefano was behind his beating. Hope begs Bo to give her a sign that he will be okay.  An unconscious Bo manages to move his hand to touch hers.  Daniel says it's a good sign, but Bo isn't ready to come out of his coma yet. Hope talks to Bo about their life together. Bo's eyes flutter open, then closed. Hope races to Daniel to get his help. Daniel does what he can and Bo opens his eyes, finally speaking.  Hope gets a call from Spencer alerting her that the ISA has been working on decoding the coded message on the gold coin. It appears to be about Alice.

Will comes out to Sonny, who is happy for his friend. Will asks for his advice on how to come out to his father.  When Will reveals he doesn't intend to tell his mother because of their strained relationship, Sonny advises him to reconsider.  Will promises to think about it, and they share a hug which sparks a bit of attraction from both of them.  Will heads home, but the incident leaves them both affected.

At the Brady Pub, Chad asks Gabi if she's busy later. She thinks he wants to be alone with her. She's disappointed when she learns Chad is planning a romantic evening with Melanie and wants Gabi to go to his apartment and "set the scene". As she does this, Gabi gets increasingly upset and breaks a framed photo of Chad and Melanie. Chad brings Melanie back and they make love for the first time.  Melanie wakes up in Chad's arms.  They are able to spend the whole day together because he booked all her appointments just so he could cancel them.  He gives her a robe to keep at his apartment.  Melanie regrets being angry about Gabi's earring.

EJ catches Billie looking for the box from the secret panel. Billie bargains with him: he can turn her in and get nothing or they can work together and solve the mystery of the missing money. EJ considers. Daniel and Billie dine together and have a wonderful time. They nearly kiss but she pulls away.

Stefano has a romantic dinner planned with Kate. He reveals he knows she slept with Ian. He then kicks her out of both his life and the mansion. Things get worse for Kate when Stefano tosses her an envelope. Kate is shocked at what she sees inside. She vows Sami Brady is a dead woman!  Stefano has taken CW away from Kate and given it to Sami.  Kate goes to Sami, who has been waiting for this encounter and lets Kate have it. Lucas comes into it, shocked to see Sami enjoying it. Kate finds out Hearth and Home was taken away by Stefano, as well, so Lucas is also out of a job.

Austin and Carrie make love.  She is now fully committed to him.  Carrie goes out to clear her head- not noticing Rafe is out doing the same thing. Later, Carrie confides in Rafe that she can't get him out of her head or her heart --which is unfair to Austin. Rafe admits that he never pursued anything because he had heard Carrie tell Austin she wanted to make their marriage work. Carrie asks why he slept with Nicole but then tells him that he does not owe her an explanation.

Kate is informed that all of her things were removed from the mansion under Stefano's orders.  EJ reveals to Kate that Stefano has been plotting behind his back. Stefano goes to the hospital and confronts Hope and John about the coin they removed from his collectable egg. He wants it back. They resist because they know that the coin ties back to Alice. Stefano gives them a deadline and goes.  Stefano returns home to find EJ and Kate waiting. EJ refuses to go anywhere until he gets some answers.

Kate makes a final effort to get through to Stefano, but he is done with her.  EJ asks Stefano why he has been sabotaging his efforts to lead the family. Stefano tells EJ that he has failed in doing so. EJ leaves and Stefano pulls out the envelope that Alice Horton had in her possession and it is revealed that EJ is not Stefano's son.

Abigail sees a "stranger" behind the bar at the Brady Pub and she accuses him of stealing! It is Cameron, who volunteered to help Caroline. Things go from bad to worse and they end the day not liking each other very much.

Gabi asks Will to help her get Chad. Will is surprised that she wants him to help her break Chad and Melanie up. Gabi reveals her emotional scars over her breakup with Will and he feels guilty. To make sure she understands it wasn't her fault, Will finally confesses to her that he's gay. At first she blames herself, but Will assures her that she is not to blame.  Gabi still wants Will's help in breaking up Melanie and Chad. Will refuses and tells Gabi that no good can come from it. With or without Will's help, Gabi is determined to come between them.

Abigail and Cameron meet up by accident and the tension from their last meeting remains.  They're stuck together for the evening with Chad and Melanie. Abigail finally realizes that she's being too hard on Cameron and asks if they can start over. 

Abe has found the best specialists and neurosurgeons to consult on Lexie's case. She has an appointment with a specialist who is coming to Salem to examine her. EJ arrives and Lexie reveals that she has a brain tumor.  EJ is devastated for his sister.  He promises he regrets everything he's put her and Abe through and vows to help.  He goes to his children, needing to embrace them.

Ian tells Madison that he is giving her a divorce. He then makes a mysterious call and states that he's given Madison her freedom and he intends to go forward with his plan.  Kate reveals to Ian that Stefano knows about their affair and that he's taken everything from her. Ian reveals that he's let Madison go and he wants to focus on Kate. Madison tells Brady that Ian is letting her go and they celebrate by making love. Brady says the proposal is still on the table and Madison is happy because she wants to marry him.  Madison is concerned that Ian might have a change of heart regarding the divorce.

Madison learns that Sami is in charge of CW and receives a declaration of war from her former employee. Kate and Madison receive a text from Ian, asking to see them.  Brady and Madison arrive at Titan. Ian explains he's called Madison and Kate there to assemble the troops against Sami and Stefano.  He names Kate Co-CEO of mad world, but Madison flips out and says over her dead body.

EJ tells Nicole that he is determined to win her back and opens up to her about his life falling apart. Nicole invites him back to her place and says that she might take him back, but only if he agrees to start a new life with her away from Salem.   EJ tries to convince her they can be great together anywhere, including Salem, but she accuses him of wanting to stay for the power, the prestige and perhaps for the proximity to Sami. He denies it, but she's furious and later when she runs into Sami, she lashes out.  Later Nicole sees a civic improvement sign bearing EJ's name. She suddenly feels a sharp pain and doubles over, clutching her abdomen.

Austin and Sami spy on Rafe and Carrie. They interrupt them right before Rafe can confess that Nicole is not carrying his baby.  Sami reveals that she is the new CEO of CW. Austin tells Carrie that he can tell she still has feelings for Rafe. Carrie is unable to deny it, but she stuffs her doubts and commits to Austin, though her mind still wanders to Rafe.

Kate breaks the news to Stefano about Lexie. He races to the hospital where he learns that Lexie's tumor is inoperable. He tries to bully his way into getting her some kind of hope for recovery, but the doctor makes it plain that the disease is fatal. Then, Stefano learns from the doctor that toxic gases from underground tunnels are a leading cause of this type of tumor. Stefano remembers imprisoning Lexie that way and is hit with a startling revelation: this may be all his fault. Abe walks up and overhears.

Abe tries to find out what Stefano means but they're interrupted when Nicole comes into the hospital. EJ gets angry when Rafe is allowed into her room but he is not. He demands that Stefano help him but he refuses. EJ threatens Stefano -a threat overheard by the others.  Stefano returns home, trying to figure out if he's the cause of Lexie's illness.  The doctor tells Abe that gases found in tunnels could be the cause of Lexie's tumor and Abe knows for sure:  Stefano is to blame.

Daniel treats Nicole, who only starts to calm down when Rafe arrives.  She's given a sedative and Rafe never leaves her side, talking her down as Daniel tries to find out the source of her sudden pain. In a dream induced by her drugs, Nicole imagines a future after she's given birth to her baby, with EJ by her side as the father. But that figure transforms and it's a loving and caring Rafe she's with, both proud parents.  She wakes up realizing that Rafe is the one she wants to be with.

Carrie is crushed when she hears Rafe pledging his commitment to Nicole and their baby. Daniel tells Nicole that her test results were good and she can be released.  He argues, however, that the stress of keeping this secret from EJ is jeopardizing her pregnancy. He encourages Nicole to come clean, but she refuses.  She doesn't want her child to be raised as a DiMera. Nicole runs into Carrie and doesn't correct her when she references that Rafe is the baby's father. Carrie hurries off.

John reveals that the mysterious code on Stefano's coin is tied to the off-shore account that Alice had maintained for some mysterious beneficiary.  Everything is tied together but Hope is frustrated. She doesn't have any more real answers than when she started. They expect Stefano to come down on them for holding on to the coin but they get a shock when they see him with Lexie and learn about her tumor.  They receive a texted threat from Stefano. John takes Marlena are followed back to the penthouse. Bo and Hope start to make love and discover someone is watching them from outside. Marlena and John are attacked and a thug holds a knife to her throat!

Ian is confident that Kate and Madison will be able to put their animosity aside and make a formidable team. Kate accepts his offer and Ian buys her a whole new wardrobe. She's touched by his gesture. At the coffee house, they run into Celeste and Cameron and learn that Lexie is dying. Kate rushes off to see Stefano.

With support from Abe, Celeste and Cameron, Lexie meets with a specialist, Dr. Yu.  While waiting for the test results, Lexie and Cameron bond. Dr. Yu informs Lexie that there is nothing she can do; she expects that Lexie only has weeks to live. Abe and Lexie comfort one another, vowing to make the best of whatever time they have left together.

EJ overhears Stefano ordering tests to be done on the tunnel and confronts his father about being responsible for Lexie's tumor. EJ is still upset at Stefano for stealing the election and the pension funds he stole from John Black to prove that he's worthy of heading the family.  Stefano says he was only testing EJ. Stefano is about to show EJ his birth certificate but they are interrupted by the news that Nicole has been released from the hospital. When EJ returns, Stefano is gone. He breaks the drawer where Stefano hid the certificate, but Stefano has it.

Billie and EJ try to discover what Stefano is really up to. Billie taunts EJ by telling him to look into how Carrie, Rafe, etc. found out about the evidence that cleared John Black. She exits, leaving EJ taking her bait and determined to find out.

Lucas warns Sami that Kate and Madison are going to come after her. Sami isn't worried. Lucas gets a call from his fiancée in Hong Kong and she breaks up with him.  Sami comforts him and the sexual tension rises. Sami tells Lucas she has a proposition for him.  She offers Lucas a job and he reacts, asking if she realizes that she's asking him to go up against his own mother. In scenes that spark with sexual tension, Sami presses her case; she's sure they'll make a great team. Lucas needs time to think about it, but when he hears about Kate's dogged determination to have her revenge on Sami for taking over CW, he decides that she's going to need an ally and tells her that he's in.

Sami and Lucas enjoy an outdoor family outing with Will and Allie. Things are still tense between Will and Sami but Lucas works hard to make the day enjoyable for all of them. Will takes Allie for ice cream. Sami is grateful to Lucas for planning the day and they end up in a kiss.

Melanie and Chad make plans to leave town together. Gabi reminds Chad they have a photo shoot later, but then learns that it's been cancelled. Gabi is upset that Melanie and Chad will have some time together for romance. Later she comes back into the pub with a headless doll that she says was left at her doorstep with a threatening note.  She's being stalked!

Abigail sees Cameron and learns that Lexie is ill; she comforts him as Celeste gets her first look at their growing friendship. Celeste does a reading for Abigail and reacts to something in the cards. She warns Cameron to steer clear of Abigail.

After learning that Gabi is being stalked, Chad and Melanie put their trip on hold. Gabi balks at the idea of telling the police because she fears that if her brother finds out, he'll make her quit her job and stay at home. Melanie insists that Gabi not be alone, which leads to the decision that she should move into the loft with Chad. 


 

MAY 2012:

Marlena is being held at knifepoint by one of Stefano's thugs. She escapes and the thug gets away. Roman suggests that until the threat from Stefano is dealt with, Bo, Hope, John, and Marlena should move to a safe house. Rafe, Carrie and Roman help them settle in along with agents Spencer and Harmon. Spencer reveals a duplicate coin has been sent to Stefano. Harmon tells Stefano that the coin is a fake. Stefano orders agent Harmon to "take care of this."

Harmon jams the cell phone signals of those in the safe house. There are explosives rigged to the alarm system. The moment a door or window is opened or a wall is breached, the bomb will detonate. Carrie is about leave when Rafe notices a glitch and they discover the alarm system control panel has been packed with explosives. They aren't able to get a phone signal. They try to find a way to disarm the bomb, but fail.  Roman tells Spencer he's going up there and will use the code to get inside.

Roman arrives and Hope writes out a note that alerts him to the danger. Roman establishes communication via radio and says he's leaving to get help.  When he comes back, he's with Shane, who expertly guides them through taking the bomb apart.

The final wire is cut and they all breathe a sigh of relief, but moments later, the digital clock loudly engages and begins its countdown to zero; the bomb is armed and there's nothing they can do about it.

Bo and Hope, John and Marlena, and Rafe and Carrie tell each other how much they love one other.  Carrie gets a surprise when Rafe tells her that the baby is EJ's and they come together in an incredible kiss. To protect themselves, they build a "blast wall" using every scrap of furniture they can. The house is rocked by a powerful explosion.

Everyone survives the explosion but they tell Roman and Shane they must let everyone think they are dead so they can bring down Stefano. Roman helps the six 'dead' people into hiding.  Shane gathers Kayla, Sami, Lucas, Will, Austin and Billie at the pub and informs them of Stefano's threats, the move to the safe house and the bomb.  Roman arrives and informs everyone that there were no survivors.  Everyone realizes that they should bring the person who did this to justice and that person is Stefano. He calls Double Agent Harmon and we learn that Stefano never wanted any of this to happen. </p> </div>

Kate sees the kiss between Lucas and Sami. Despite a feeling that he may be sorry, Lucas tells Sami he's going to work with her. He brings up their kiss and Sami says it was a result of spending a wonderful day as a family and they kiss again.  Kate and Madison realize that as much as they hate each other, they do have one thing in common: their hatred of Sami Brady. They need to put their differences aside to bring her down.

EJ is upset that Sami is getting back with Lucas but couches it as concern for the childrens' reaction to having yet another man in their mother's life.  A crisis erupts with a CW account who wants to drop the product line now that Kate is no longer in charge. Lucas manages to smooth everything over and saves the account.  Sami and Lucas make love. Kate arrives and realizes that they were making love.

Brady learns Nicole is pregnant and Rafe is the father. He gets upset. Nicole says she and Rafe came together after they were betrayed by EJ and Sami. They're not in love but he's helped her.  Brady says he's in love with Madison.

Madison brings Ian divorce papers.  Ian says he's keeping his promise because it's Kate he loves. Brady encounters Kate and throws a little doubt her way about Ian actually walking away from Madison. We see Brady is right to have doubts when we see Ian make a mysterious call, making it clear that he isn't giving up on Madison. When Ian sees Kate, however, he lies to her about how much she means to him.

A mystery man shows up and gives Ian a curious pouch. Ian invites Brady for a drink to "clear the air." When Brady's back is turned, Ian pours some of the contents of the pouch into his drink. Later Brady is affected and he snaps at Madison. 

EJ questions Stefano as to how Rafe, Carrie, etc., were able to learn the internet outages were the key to clearing John. Stefano feigns ignorance, then exits. EJ searches and finds a document that shocks and horrifies him.  It proves he isn't Stefano's son! EJ confronts Stefano, who reveals that Alice Horton saved EJ's life when he was a baby and somehow learned the secret of his real paternity. Stefano swears that he doesn't know the identity of EJ's real father. EJ realizes this is no longer his home or family and has to leave. He hopes Stefano will ask him to remain but he only says not to tell anyone the truth yet. EJ leaves in agony.

Lexie tells Chad about her fatal tumor.  EJ is there, still reeling from discovering he's not a DiMera after all.  All the talk of the family rallying together in this time of crisis hits him hard.

EJ accepts Sami's offer for an evening with the kids.  After they put them to bed we see that she's affected by his vulnerability and invites him to stay a little longer. They start drinking and talking and an electric moment passes between them.

The Irish wake begins and everyone gathers to share stories and memories of the deceased.  Victor is determined that Stefano will pay for what he's done. Chad overhears and challenges him.  Chad comforts Gabi, who misses her brother terribly.  EJ brings Stefano to the pub to see how much suffering he's caused. Stefano denies responsibility and leaves.

Carrie, Rafe, Bo, Hope, John, and Marlena, meanwhile, are alive and planning their next move. They plant misinformation with Agent Harmon so that it gets back to Stefano. Shane tells Billie that it's time to bring her into the operation.  Roman announces that the people who died in the explosion are actually alive. He makes it clear that they must continue to pretend all are dead so they can bring down Stefano.

The team strategizes over how they are going to take down Stefano. Their conclusion is that the only way to end his reign of terror is for him to die.   They decide to allow Billie to tell EJ about Stefano's ultimate deception - helping them free John Black.  Billie tells EJ that Stefano was responsible for the tip that led to the charges against John for the pension theft being dropped.  EJ confronts Stefano and warns him that he still intends to have the DiMera Empire. 

Lucas tells Will that he and Sami are getting back together. Will thinks his father is making a huge mistake.  Lucas convinces Will to try to work things out with Sami. She tries to make amends with Will, but he doesn't make it easy.  Sami says a few insulting things about how Will, working for a DiMera, could end up in jail. This forces Will to confess how EJ kept him out of jail for shooting him. Sami learns the only reason Will was working for EJ is because he initially blackmailed him into it. Sami tells Will he doesn't have to work for EJ anymore, but Will says he likes the job.

Kate and Ian share a date and he charms her and assures her that he's nothing like Stefano. He promises to do everything he can to make her forget the horrible man she's married to, but that seems impossible, especially once she learns what Stefano, or so she thinks, has done to his adversaries. She worries that if he'd do that to them, what would he do about her and Ian?

Lexie informs Celeste and Cameron that she is forgoing any further medical treatment.  She wants to spend whatever precious time she has left enjoying her family and living life to the fullest.  Cameron expresses concern that Lexie is giving up, but she assures him that's not the case. They all agree to help Lexie complete her "bucket list." Abe and Lexie put together a few photo albums. Abe tries to maintain strength for his dying wife, but it's not easy.

Rafe tells Nicole that he told Carrie he's not the father of her child. Rafe asks Carrie if she's sure she wants to walk away from her marriage. Carrie insists that she loves Rafe.  Roman brings Austin to the safe house, where he nearly walks in on Carrie and Rafe kissing.  Austin speaks with Carrie privately, and Roman tells Rafe to keep his distance from his daughter. Carrie makes another attempt to tell Austin she wants to end their marriage, but Roman interrupts before she gets the chance. Rafe and Carrie agonize over hurting Austin, but they also know in their hearts they must be together.

Hope uncovers a jeweler's mark on the half coin that links it to an Italian jeweler who has served the DiMera family for generations. Stefano demands that Agent Harmon gets the coin back from the ISA. Harmon gains access to the ISA office where Hope and Bo are working in secret.  They can only watch as he steals the coin.

Now that Stefano has the coin, he could leave town at any moment and their window of opportunity could pass. They decide to use the ISA's intel on Stefano's dealings with an arms trafficker to set up a sting, feeding misinformation to Stefano via his spy.

John, Bo, and Hope explain their plan to Rafe. They are going to meet with Vladimir Nevsky, an international illegal arms dealer. Acting as prospective buyers, they want to outbid Stefano's original offer. They hope that this will cause Stefano to contact Nevsky and then they will be able to bust him for arms trafficking. They meet with Nevsky, who says that he knows who they are and why they are really here. John et al smoothly and cleverly talk Nevsky down saying that John is a long-standing enemy of Stefano's, Bo and Hope are disgruntled cops, and Rafe is ex-FBI, who has a personal score to settle with DiMera. The dealer buys it and they get enough information and arms "samples" from him to convince Stefano that they're legit. At EOD, they overpower the mercenaries, arrest them, and prepare to carry out their "sting" on Stefano.

John, Bo, Hope, and Rafe have all donned disguises and Bo is wearing an electronic voice altering device to take the place of the arms dealer Stefano was supposed to meet. A furious Stefano contacts them. He knows that they were making a deal with someone else. He finds out where they are and informs them that he's on his way. When he arrives, they get him to confess to arranging to buy illegal arms with the intention of re-selling them. They reveal themselves and arrest Stefano.

Madison, Kate, and Brady prepare for an important meeting with Serge, a fashion editor. They want to convince him to promote the Mad World and Basic Black joint venture. Ian manages to slip drugs into Brady's protein powder. Brady shows up very high and screws things up. Serge informs Kate and Madison that he cannot support their project when Brady is such a liability. Madison asks Brady if he's drunk or high. Brady denies, but is devastated that he's ruined everything.

Lexie asks Cameron to be part of her son's life after she's gone. Having worked with autistic children during his residency, Cameron agrees. Celeste, Cameron, and Lexie decide to make a series of DVDs from Lexie to share with Theo as he grows up.

Gabi finds that her lie about her stalker is getting harder to tell. First, Will insists she get out of town until it's resolved, but leaving Chad alone with Melanie as a result is something she finds unacceptable. When Gabi pretends she's being followed, Melanie says this is a job for the police to solve.  Gabi convinces her not to call.

Abe works on Lexie's "bucket list." He ticks off one of the more extravagant items: going back to Paris. EJ has arranged for a private jet but Lexie's specialist says she's not well enough to travel. Abe and EJ continue their tentative peace for Lexie's sake. They bring Lexie to the town square where with EJ's mayoral help, it's been transformed into a replica of Paris.  Lexie and Abe enjoy the recreation of a night in Paris. Abigail and Cameron continue to get closer. Gabi arrives and hates seeing Chad and Melanie together. She plays the "stalker" card to turn their attention away from each other and onto her.  Abigail is suspicious. 

Sami tells Lucas how grateful she is that he took the fall for Will in EJ's shooting. When she learns that Lucas has been aware all along that EJ knew and blackmailed Will, she blows up.   How could he lie to her? Will walks in on this and is amused to hear that Sami is angry with someone else for lying. It leads to a fight between them during which the frustrations between them are all laid bare. She tells Will that when he grows up, maybe he'll understand that lies are sometimes told to protect people; they're not always bad.  Will doesn't buy it.  He's carrying around a secret of his own and decides it's time to finally come clean.  He tells his parents that he is gay.

Sami and Lucas react in shock. Sami is particularly hard hit, not able to believe she didn't know what her son was going through. Reeling from both the shock and guilt, Sami flees, leaving Will devastated. Will and Lucas have a serious heart-to-heart. Lucas admits that he's disappointed because he imagined a different future for his son. Will assures his dad that he can still be happy but then asks Lucas the key question-- can his father accept will being gay? Meanwhile, Sami runs into EJ and he figures out that Will has come out, and Sami confides that she feels like a terrible mother. How could she have not known? EJ is the voice of reason and gently points out that she's looking at this all wrong. She needs to be there for her son.

Lucas says Will should never question his love.  Will tells Lucas he was able to confide in Marlena while he was going through all of this. Sami returns to hear Will praise Marlena. She lashes out at Will for confiding in Marlena instead of her. Will can't believe she's making this about her yet again. He storms out. Lucas tells Sami that she has to fix this or she's going to lose her son forever.  She has to let him know she accepts him being gay and loves him. They also argue about how much time she still seems to spend with EJ.

Maggie has arranged a private dinner to celebrate Victor's birthday. Lucas drops by to wish Victor happy birthday and to thank him for the love and support that he gave Lucas when Victor was married to Kate. He also thanks Maggie for being there for him, never judging him and helping him at what was probably the hardest time of his life. While Maggie sees him out, Henderson comments that he hopes Victor will always be this happy. Victor hopes so too and thinks the only thing that could change it is if Maggie learned the truth. Maggie overhears and confronts him: the truth about what?

Carrie is reeling from the possibility that she might be pregnant. She goes into deep denial, knowing that a baby would complicate things with Rafe. She and Rafe reunite, but they both know it's time to talk to Austin. Austin arrives and he is over the moon about seeing Carrie. He shows her brochures for homes to buy.  He wants to expand their family. Carrie finally says it's time to talk.  When Austin kisses Carrie, she doubles over in pain from a cramp. Carrie and Austin go to the pub and she slips out to pick up a pregnancy test. The test is positive - she's pregnant with Austin's child!

Carrie is torn. She knows that the baby is Austin's but she wants to tell him that she is in love with Rafe. She steps away from the table and Austin accidentally discovers the pregnancy test in her purse.  He joyously confirms the news with Carrie. Rafe and Nicole enter and Austin shares the good news. Rafe is shocked. 

Austin and Carrie go to Daniel's office to get a blood test to confirm that she is pregnant. Rafe and Nicole arrive for her checkup. Rafe is reeling because Carrie was still sleeping with Austin.  Carrie says she was trying to save her marriage. She hopes that this test will prove she isn't pregnant. Carrie assures Nicole she'll never reveal her secret - that EJ, not Rafe, is her baby's father. The blood tests confirm that Carrie is pregnant.

Daniel confirms Lexie probably only has days left to live. She makes him promise not to tell anyone and he agrees.  Roman gives Abe a file that confirms the tunnel where Lexie was held contains toxic gases.  This proves that Stefano is to blame for her illness. Roman reports this to Shane.  

John, Hope, Bo, Shane and Rafe present Roman with a new prisoner for booking: Stefano DiMera. They all get a shock when a man in a suit arrives and demands Stefano's release. They think that he's a lawyer but it gets worse: he's from the CIA.  Everyone is stunned. John, Roman, and Bo tell the man that Stefano was trading in illegal arms.  The operative reveals that Stefano was actually working on a CIA project. He was buying the arms in order to get them off the market.  Roman says Stefano's not going anywhere until he finds out more about this. Everything the agent says is absolutely true.

John, Marlena, Bo, and Hope are furious over Stefano slipping through their fingers, yet again. Bo points out they won't be safe until Stefano is neutralized. They all silently acknowledge this must happen, no matter what it takes.  Bo and Hope spend a day making love, but she realizes they truly can't move on until Stefano is dealt with. Marlena sees John buy a gun and tells him he can't use it to kill Stefano. He says he won't; however, we see he's got a one track mind. He's not the only one; Marlena has a gun of her own!

Stefano throws a lunch for Lexie. Stefano and EJ exchange words which turn ugly. Abe blames Stefano for Lexie's illness.  He hasn't told Lexie, but warns Stefano he's paying for his crimes by losing his daughter. Chad arrives and reconciles with his father. Chad is surprised when Melanie shows up. Lexie encourages her family to try and get along.

John and Marlena spend the day with Abe and Lexie, remembering and recreating parts of a special trip they all took together in the past. We play upon what these four have meant to each other and shared throughout the years. Lexie knows that her condition is worse than she is letting on. Without using the words, she says "goodbye."  Lexie collapses.

Sami finds Lucas at her place attempting to make dinner for her. He knows she's worried about having blown it with Will and has likely neglected to eat. She has a confession to make and tells him about meeting up with EJ in the square earlier.  Lucas reveals he's already aware, having seen them together but he is happy she told him instead of trying to lie about it. Sami says she has already blown it with Will and doesn't want to do the same with Lucas. 

EJ and Will discuss Sami's reaction to him coming out. Will is disappointed in EJ's defense of Sami but EJ assures that he is someone Will can count on. They discuss Stefano being touted as a "hero" for bringing down the arms dealer. The DiMera name is gaining respect. This can only help EJ's gubernatorial campaign. EJ finally forces Will to admit that Stefano made him ensure that Rafe found out that EJ and Sami had sex.  Will says Stefano convinced him that Rafe deserved to know the truth and that Nicole was no good for EJ. EJ confronts Stefano for causing him to lose Nicole. Stefano argues that it was EJ's mistake for sleeping with Sami that led to Nicole breaking it off with him. EJ argues that Stefano's interference has cost him both Nicole and his child. Since Stefano has destroyed his life, EJ warns that he will destroy Stefano.

Maggie overhears Victor telling Henderson that she can't know "the truth." She tries to find out and he finally confesses to her that he's the one who made her harvested eggs go missing all those years ago. He didn't know they were hers at the time; he just had friends who were desperate and needed them.  Maggie doesn't know what's worse - what he did in the past or the lying he's been doing in the present. Finally he tells her that she's overreacting. That statement takes things to a whole new level. She walks out, intending to spend the night at her old place.

Austin is elated over the news that Carrie is pregnant, but she and Rafe are deeply shaken. They agree that the baby means they can't possibly be together. They share a heartbreaking and emotional farewell, and then Carrie leaves to celebrate her pregnancy news. Nicole supports Rafe as best she can, but it's clear his world has been turned upside down.

Nicole and Rafe arrive at Daniel's office for the paternity test EJ ordered. Nicole wonders aloud if there's any way to make the results name anyone else but EJ as the father. Daniel balks at the risk of losing his medical license. EJ arrives, demanding that the test to be done immediately. His behavior reminds Nicole of exactly why she doesn't want him in her child's life. She decides to take matters into her own hands and changes the labels on the DNA samples herself.  She's almost finished doing so when Daniel returns to his office and sees her at his desk.

Nicole opens up to Daniel about how tough her life has been, dealing with this alone. He understands, having also felt alone after he lost Jennifer. They come together in a kiss that builds in passion. They are interrupted when the lab calls, asking for the test samples. Daniel takes them. We sense that both Nicole and Daniel are surprised by their unexpected connection.

Will is still trying to find EJ, worried about what he'll do now that he knows Stefano enlisted him to break EJ and Nicole up. Instead of finding EJ, Will finds his mother, who has come looking for him to mend fences. Will doesn't want to hear it but Sami begs him to hear her out. Sami surprises Will by accepting him for who he is. Just when they're about to move on from their past and have a healthy mother-son relationship, Will admits that he's responsible for her marriage to Rafe blowing up.  He admits he's the one who made sure Rafe found out she slept with EJ.

Sami is stunned, but she feels Will was manipulated by Stefano. Will says he's more worried about how he hurt EJ than he is about how he hurt his own mother. Sami loses it and it seems all the progress they've made is suddenly forgotten.  Unfortunately for Will, EJ is in no mood for his apologies and ends up stripping his protege of everything he gave him, leaving Will devastated and homeless.  Will gives EJ confirmation that Stefano is indeed responsible for Lexie dying. Sami commiserates with Rafe about how her own son chose someone else's side over hers. Despite Sami's betrayal, Rafe suggests she think about the repercussions before she acts in the moment next time.

Abigail admires Cameron for trying to fill the void for Lexie's patients. Cameron wonders why Abigail isn't already dating someone. She admits that she made some mistakes in her last relationship. Cameron appreciates her honesty and they end their date with a sweet kiss. Jack and Jennifer celebrate their anniversary. Cameron goes to the celebration and shows real potential as someone Abigail could get closer to. 

Abigail tells Chad and Melanie she thinks it's odd that they are never with Gabi when she's contacted by her stalker. She thinks Gabi might be making the stalker up to get Chad's attention. Chad doesn't believe this, but Melanie is on the fence. Gabi hires someone to be her stalker. She calls Chad when she's being followed and he chases away the stalker. Chad, Melanie and Abigail realize the stalker is real and not someone Gabi made up.

In a seedy part of town, Will buys a gun. He braces himself to take action against Stefano. Will runs into Marlena and reveals EJ fired him because of something Stefano made him do. He admits that Stefano was blackmailing him, but doesn't go into much detail. Will runs into Lucas and drops the bag with the gun. What is Will doing with a gun?!  Will covers, claiming it belongs to EJ. Lucas takes it and intends to lock it up until it can be returned. Will storms off, both frustrated and unpredictable.

Lexie's condition continues to deteriorate. Abe admits to Bo and Hope his anguish at the prospect of losing Lexie. He makes an ominous threat against Stefano, who he holds responsible. Lexie shares emotional moments with Hope and Bo. Abe realizes that Lexie is barely holding it together.   Hope and Bo agree with Abe that Stefano must be held accountable. We see Bo has a secret gun.

It's an emotional day for Lexie and EJ.  Finally he realizes that Lexie is the only person he can trust with the truth and he explains he can't use the DiMera name because he's not Stefano's son. EJ's real fear is he'll lose Lexie as his sister. She reassures that she will never leave him, even after death. 

Lexie and Stefano share what is very likely their last scene together. Abe heads home to find an emotional Stefano lingering as Lexie rests in the next room. Abe lambastes Stefano for his part in Lexie's illness. Stefano is wracked with guilt and assures Abe that he hates that he had anything to do with it - just in time for Lexie to hear. Horrified Stefano shares a look with his daughter. Abe comforts her.

Kate, working with Ian, is furious when she receives papers from Stefano stating his intention to invoke legal means to keep her from working, on top of divorcing her. She shakes with rage and pushed to the edge and once alone, she pulls out a gun.

EJ wants to honor the promise he made to Lexie to look after the family and he pulls a gun on Stefano.  Although Stefano taunts him and questions his manhood, EJ cannot pull the trigger.

Roman warns Bo, Hope, John, and Marlena not to try to bring Stefano down on their own because it's against the law. They reassure him, but privately they all get their weapons ready, clearly intent upon killing Stefano.  

Abe confronts Stefano, consumed with anger for what is happening to Lexie. He realizes that shooting Stefano would bring him down to his level. Abe leaves his gun behind.  Stefano visits each of his tormented adversaries, reminding them that he's won over them before and will do so again.  John, Bo, Hope, Marlena, Kate, Will and EJ visit Stefano.  He is enjoying his victory with a cigar, brandy and his favorite opera when a figure enters from behind, picks up Abe's gun and fires!


JUNE 2012:

EJ arrives at Daniel's office for the paternity test results. Rafe is declared the father! EJ accuses Nicole of fixing the test. Nicole denies and tells EJ to leave her alone. EJ vows this isn't over. Nicole tells Rafe she has no idea how the results came out in her favor. Nicole thanks Daniel for letting her get away with switching the tests. Daniel explains he was touched by her concern for her child.  It seems Nicole manipulated Daniel into feeling sorry for her.

Austin reveals to Carrie that the paternity test showed that Rafe is the father of Nicole's baby. Carrie is devastated. Rafe swears he doesn't know how or by whom, but the test results were changed. Carrie believes him but she's carrying Austin's child and everyone thinks Rafe is the father of Nicole's. It's impossible for them to be together. Carrie's going to do everything she can to make her marriage work. Carrie apologizes to Austin for any pain she's caused him.

Stefano has been shot!  A figure wearing gloves sets down the gun and makes his/her escape. Roman considers Bo, Hope, Abe, Kate, Will, John, Marlena, and EJ as suspects. He gets confirmation that the weapon found in the house was Abe's and each one of his suspects held that gun and left fingerprints on it at one point.  Roman questions Abe, then shows up at Kate's and tells her that her fingerprints were found on the gun. 

Sami hears about Stefano's shooting. She tells EJ they finally have a chance, talking about their family and their kids. Roman shows up and asks EJ if he shot Stefano. EJ balks at the idea of shooting his own father. Sami says EJ had no motive. Roman produces a motive - Stefano's latest will left nothing to EJ.  EJ realizes it was never filed and tells Roman his father was bluffing. Roman reveals EJ's prints were on the weapon and warns him not to leave town.   Billie talks to Rafe about the missing pension money and Stefano's involvement in John's acquittal.  This would give EJ motive to shoot his father.

Roman questions John, Marlena, Bo, and Hope. The four admit they separately went to the mansion to confront Stefano. They each picked up the gun, but they all swear they didn't fire it. Before Roman leaves, he asks them all to submit to a GSR test. They all hope whoever did shoot Stefano gets away with it.

Will gets fired up about Stefano causing him to lose his job with EJ. Sonny warns his friend to be careful about what he says. Sami drops by and asks Will why he was upset the previous night and they argue. Sonny manages to broker peace. Then Roman arrives and reveals his grandson's prints were found on the gun and Sami lets it slip that Will had a gun. Roman asks Will what he was doing at the DiMera mansion that night.

Lucas arrives as Roman is questioning Will. Lucas recounts taking the gun from Will, locking it in the safe at the Pub, then discovering it was gone. Will admits to taking it and disposing of it. Roman takes Will to the station to have his hands tested for gunpowder residue. All the other suspects have already come in, been tested, and the tests were all negative. Will's tests results come back positive and Roman arrests him for shooting Stefano!  Will admits to firing the gun to try it out but swears he didn't shoot Stefano. Sami and Lucas call Justin. They worry Will could be guilty.

The stalker, Andrew, has realized Gabi didn't hire him for publicity, but to get Chad's attention. Chad, Melanie, and Gabi order takeout.  Gabi finds a dead rat in her container. Chad and Melanie are horrified. Gabi knows her "stalker" must have done this, but doesn't go to the police. Chad tells Rafe what's been going on. Rafe tells Gabi that her modeling days are over.  Gabi gets mad at Andrew. Because of his unapproved stunt, Rafe has forbidden her to model, which means less time with Chad. Andrew vows to make it up to her.

Stefano's family gathers at the mansion for an intimate memorial.  Chad and Melanie are surprised when they learn that Will was arrested for Stefano's shooting.  Lexie says goodbye to her father and forgives him for all that he has done.

Rafe denies EJ entrance to the DiMera mansion. EJ sneaks inside and finds the paper Stefano hid in the hidden panel. Rafe gets a call that Will has been arrested. EJ overhears.   Rafe suggests Carrie as a lawyer for Will. Sami wonders why Rafe would recommend her if he's truly given up on her. Roman asks Rafe to take over the case and he accepts.  Sami reluctantly agrees to let Carrie assist in Will's defense. Sami, Carrie, and Justin learn that Rafe has replaced Roman as the lead investigator. Sami bristles at the idea that Carrie and Rafe will be working side by side again, but knows they both are motivated to clear Will. 

Ian visits EJ to offer his sympathy for what happened to his father. He then suggests they work together as Salem's two power brokers. EJ notes the irony that the man who slept with his father's wife is now trying to lure him over to his side. Ian insists his motives are pure. Ian leaves the mansion, but first takes a proprietary look around. 

Will is told he's made bail. He assumes it was paid by his parents but is shocked to see it's EJ.  EJ orders Will to remain available to do his bidding.  If he doesn't, EJ will tell the police that Will took a shot at him. 

Chad demands to know if Will shot his father.  Will denies, but Chad says the evidence gathered against him makes him have doubts. Chad's frustration turns into anger. Melanie reminds Chad what a good friend Will has been to all of them. Chad turns his anger on her.  Upset Melanie runs off, unaware that Andrew is on a mission to kidnap her. Chad tries to call Melanie to apologize for his behavior, but Gabi convinces him to give her some time alone.

Jack tells Jennifer his book about his experiences in Afghanistan is going to be published. They go to visit Lexie, who continues to say "good-bye" to the people that she loves.  Abe and Lexie explain to Theo that his grandfather has gone away. Theo asks if his mom is going away too. Lexie says yes, but she will always look out for him.

Abe runs into Kayla. Jennifer arrives as Kayla confides that she had a terrible fight with Steve. She also reveals that she and Joey came back to Salem because she and Steve needed time apart.

Brady goes to apologize to Madison because of his action at the business dinner with Serge. She tells him that his behavior has given her doubt about their future. Ian runs into Kate, and she voices her fear that Brady is back on drugs.

Bo and Hope meet with Marlena for their couple's therapy. They are more determined than ever to make their marriage as strong as they possibly can. They discuss the fact that they still have not managed to secure John and Hope's divorce in Alamania, but they decide to put the troubles of the past behind them.

Victor has set out an elaborate lunch for Maggie to apologize about lying to her. Maggie is reluctant, but Victor swears he will never lie to her again and asks if there's any hope for them.   They struggle to work through the fact that he lied to her about knowing her eggs had gone to Daniel's mother. Victor expresses his devotion and Maggie realizes she made mistakes in her own marriage to Mickey. She and Victor agree to give their marriage another chance.

Kate is thrilled to learn she's going to be a grandmother. Austin assures her that he and Carrie have put the mistakes they've each made behind them. When Kate sees how Carrie reacts when Rafe walks in, however, she realizes that there might be some lingering feelings. Kate warns Carrie not to hurt Austin.

Will confronts EJ.  Did he shoot Stefano? EJ doesn't appreciate Will's lack of gratitude. EJ asks Will to take him through exactly what happened the night Stefano was shot and he is shocked at what Will reveals.  EJ urges Will to save himself by telling the truth. Meanwhile, Neil has revealed that Will was at a gay bar with him.  Roman thinks that's impossible. Will arrives and admits it's true and reveals that he is gay.

Sonny tells Will he did the right thing. Lucas and Sami are worried for Will.  Lucas is impressed how Sami has rallied around their son. John learns Will is gay and is okay with it. It is clear Will's family truly does love him for who he is.

Andrew abducts Melanie. Chad and Gabi search for her so he can apologize to her. Andrew takes Melanie back to his basement. He takes her phone and sends a text to Chad saying she wants time apart and she's going to Europe to see her mom and he shouldn't call her. Gabi is confused but happy to have Chad to herself.  Later, Andrew takes Gabi to the basement where Melanie is being held. Gabi decides whatever Andrew has to show her can wait because she needs to be there for Chad.  Melanie tries to pull herself together and uses a bobby pin and manages to pick the lock.  She is about to escape, but Andrew catches her. Melanie wants to know why he's doing this.

Abigail gives away concert tickets to send the day with Cameron. They share another kiss. Cameron admits he's sticking around Salem not just to support Lexie and Theo, but because he does not want to say goodbye to Abigail.

Lexie doesn't have the strength to go to an event Abe planned on her bucket list. They spend a wonderful afternoon together in their garden, talking about their life and love until she dies peacefully in his arms.  Her spirit does her best to comfort Abe and her family. She talks with Theo and urges EJ and Abe to get along. Spirit Lexie crosses over.

Chad confides in Abigail how Melanie left. Abigail doesn't understand. Chad wants to go after Melanie, but Gabi warns him not to. Chad learns about Lexie's death and Abigail and Gabi comfort him.

Friends and family comfort Abe and Theo and help them with Lexie's death. Cameron tells his mother that he's going to stick around for Theo and Abigail. Celeste is not happy about this.

During a meeting with Madison and Ian, Brady shows signs of being on drugs. Madison asks Brady to take a drug test. He does, unaware that Ian is secretly been spiking his shake and gotten him hooked on drugs.

Victor talks to Daniel about his marriage to Nicole and how she'll use any man to get what she wants. Daniel can't help but to wonder if he's being used.  Later, Nicole thanks Daniel for helping her keep EJ from learning the baby she carries is his. Daniel wonders if she's using him to get what she wants, but they both acknowledge that the kiss they shared generated feelings.

Will is about to uncover EJ's secret (that he's not a DiMera).  EJ yanks the paper out of his hand. EJ meets with Stefano's lawyer, who drew up a revised will disinheriting EJ. EJ tries to explain that Stefano's revision is to keep EJ under his thumb, but Arthur says he knows for a fact that EJ is not Stefano's son.

Spencer asks EJ if he's agreed to be interviewed in the murder investigation. EJ says he should not be a suspect and does not want his reputation marred. Spencer and Rafe try to get a search warrant for EJ's apartment. Nicole says she could search it.

Will faces public scrutiny off being outed by the local paper. Sonny tells him to get used to the stares and comments but Will wonders if he was better off in the closet. Sonny is shocked to learn that Will is back under DiMera's employ. Will says he's looking for dirt to use against DiMera since EJ has something on him. Will's parents hear this.

Will tells his parents that he's back working for EJ because EJ is holding the threat of Will shooting him over his head. Lucas and Sami are frustrated that EJ continues to blackmail their son. Will tells Sonny that EJ is hiding something and he's determined to find out what it is and use it as leverage. Lucas talks to Sonny about Will. During their conversation, Lucas realizes Sonny has fallen for Will. Sonny says the time isn't right for Will to know. He needs Sonny's friendship more than anything.

Sami tells EJ to leave her son alone. Their confrontation escalates. Lucas tells Sami to stay away from EJ. EJ chastises Will for running to his mommy with his problems. Will denies and tells EJ he's learned a lot from him. He asks EJ what he ever saw in Sami.

Nicole goes to EJ's apartment and tells him she's there to extend her sympathy for the loss of Lexie. EJ buys it and Nicole gets him to leave. Alone, she searches his apartment and finds a box of bullets.  She manages to slip it into her purse as EJ returns. The two end up bonding when the baby kicks for the first time. They reminisce about the first time Nicole was pregnant. EJ recalls how Nicole lied to him then, just like she's doing now.

Nicole delivers the box of bullets to Rafe.  He and Roman realize the bullets match the kind used in the murder weapon.

As Bo and Hope prepare for Lexie's funeral, they remind themselves how lucky they are to still be together. Ciara worries her mom will leave her the way Theo's did. Bo and Hope explain to Ciara how ill Lexie was and urge her to be a friend to Theo through this time.

Abe has a hard time preparing for Lexie's memorial service. Kayla drops by and gives him a DVD that Lexie wanted him to watch on the day of the funeral. Everyone watches as Lexie appears and gives Abe words of encouragement and hope. Abe is moved, his spirits lifted. He asks EJ to be a pallbearer. EJ says because of Lexie, they will always be family.

Lexie's family and friends gather at Chez Rouge to pay a final tribute to one of Salem's most beloved citizens. When Cameron admits he wishes he knew more about his newfound sister, everyone tells stories about Lexie's life. Abe has everyone participate in a dance per Lexie's request. Hope gives a heartfelt toast to her dear friend. Finally, Marlena ends the evening with a reading.

EJ privately shares his own memories of Lexie with Sami, who puts aside her anger to comfort him. Sami recalls her contemptuous past with his sister and hopes Lexie really did forgive her. EJ believes she did. Otherwise she never would have told EJ that she believed he and Sami could probably make each other happy. Sami is doubtful about that possibility. The two are thrown together when Johnny insists they share a dance.

Daniel finds Nicole in his office.  He questions her and she silences him with a kiss that leads to lovemaking. After, they remind each other of the negative impression they had of one another, but they decide to make sure the attraction is real by having sex again. Daniel asks Nicole out on a date. She's hesitant at first, not wanting him to feel obligated just because they had sex. Daniel assures that's not the case. He wants to get to know her better. They have a fun-filled date, which ends in a passionate kiss.

Rafe asks Carrie to meet at the police station. He tells her of his suspicions that EJ murdered Stefano. Carrie asks why he really called her there. Rafe admits he misses her and really wanted to see her. She says she misses him too and they nearly kiss but stop themselves.

Chad is growing more upset that he hasn't heard from Melanie. Melanie tries to talk to masked Andrew about why he's doing this to her. Gabi arrives to talk to Andrew about setting up another "stalker" incident to get Chad focused back on her. Andrew returns to Melanie and she surprises him with a kickboxing move and it appears she will escape.

Brady's drug test turns out positive. Madison is disappointed. Brady, high from the drug s Ian has slipped into his protein shake, is positive that someone has been slipping him drugs. Kate wonders if Ian has been giving Brady drugs because he doesn't want anyone else to have Madison.  Brady accuses Ian of somehow slipping drugs into his system. Ian denies it and offers to send Brady to rehab.  Brady sees that it's just another way for Ian to get him away from Madison. Brady says he will find a way to prove what Ian is doing to him. Ian says no one will believe a drug addict. 

Jack and Jennifer support Kayla as she expresses her anger and hurt about Steve abandoning her for an assignment with the ISA.  Bo and Hope are stunned to learn that Kayla is thinking of filing for a divorce.