At the Black household
Brady arrives home and sees that Belle is there. They discuss Doug’s memorial. He asks about Shawn, and Belle confides that they are getting a divorce. She admits it’s for the best, as her marriage has been over for a while. They talk about Brady’s children, and Belle asks about his love life. Brady mentions he doesn’t have much of one but reveals he does have a date with Ava. Belle’s face drops at the news. Brady tries to backtrack, but Belle calls him out, saying they’re both single and free to date.
She brings up Ava’s criminal past, and Brady counters by warning how things might escalate when Kristen finds out.
Brady then tells Belle about Kristen blackmailing Xander for the serum and her assumption that Brady would be with her. He believes Ava can handle herself against Kristen. Brady also shares how Xander threatened him during the ordeal involving Sarah, when they mistakenly thought he had run her over. Belle is shocked, but Brady explains Xander will do anything for the woman he loves.
As Brady prepares to leave, he asks Belle when she’s heading out. She says it’ll be tonight, and he urges her to visit more often before departing. Alone, Belle removes her wedding ring. There’s a knock at the door—it’s Philip. He apologizes for her divorce and mentions he saw Shawn. Philip then brings up his legal troubles, explaining that he lost his lawyer. He asks Belle to represent him.
At Brady’s Pub
Justin reviews the divorce papers and tells Shawn everything is in order. He asks Shawn to help Xander by providing a deposition in his favor for the Titan case. Shawn refuses, explaining he already agreed to support Philip. Justin is surprised that Shawn prefers Philip as Titan’s leader. Shawn defends his choice, stating Philip has Titan in his blood and that his grandfather would’ve wanted him to run the company. He also has evidence to back this claim. Justin understands and leaves.
Jada enters to offer condolences about Doug’s passing. Shawn thanks her and mentions he’s sober now. He also apologizes for hurting her, her sister, and Rafe. Jada accepts his apology and asks how long he’ll be in Salem. She suggests he consider returning to the Salem PD. Shawn is surprised but listens as Jada reveals she’s now the first Black woman to serve as commissioner. She explains they’re understaffed and could use a skilled officer like him.
Shawn is conflicted, wanting to be there for his father, but he reflects on what his dad would want. Ultimately, Shawn accepts the offer. Jada is thrilled and welcomes him back as a detective, leaving to process his paperwork. Alone, Shawn looks at the signed divorce papers and removes his wedding ring.
At the Kiriakis home
Xander is determined to defeat his brother Philip and secure his position at Titan. After finishing a workout, Sarah suggests they go to dinner, but Xander insists he still needs her help with his training.
Later, Justin arrives to inform Xander that Shawn is supporting Philip in the Titan case. Xander hints that Philip will face a setback, but Justin wants no details about any plans. Alone with Sarah, she questions Xander about the “setback.” Xander confesses to orchestrating a situation that will make it difficult for Philip to find a new lawyer.
At a hotel
Stephanie arrives to meet Philip, who answers the door partially dressed. He apologizes, explaining he thought he had time to shower before their meeting. After changing, Philip returns and listens as Stephanie outlines her work. He thanks her but expresses doubt about their chances of winning his case against Xander.
Philip starts to admit something about the forged letter but changes course, saying he’s just concerned their evidence isn’t strong enough. He mentions having a great lawyer but suddenly gets a call—the lawyer has quit due to a conflict of interest, as they previously worked for Xander. Philip accuses Xander of sabotaging him. He cuts the meeting short to find a new lawyer, but Stephanie suggests an idea: they could enlist Lady Whistleblower to publish stories about Xander, instead of relying on “Body and Soul” spoilers.
At Horton Town Square
Kristen is discussing DiMera Enterprises when Ava approaches. Their conversation quickly turns snarky. Ava criticizes Kristen’s treatment of Brady, especially her manipulation involving their daughter, Rachel. Ava also mentions she and Brady plan to use their Nutcracker tickets, which prompts Kristen to accuse Ava of trying to steal Brady.
Ava asserts that she’s just being upfront about their plans. Tempers flare, and the two women exchange slaps. Ava stands her ground, stating she’s not afraid of Kristen, while Kristen warns her to be careful. Kristen lists her past misdeeds as a warning before leaving.
Ava texts Brady to meet her. When Brady arrives, he asks if she’s canceling their date. Ava assures him she’s not but wants to inform him about her confrontation with Kristen.
At home, Kristen fumes over Ava slapping her back and starts plotting how to get Ava out of her way.
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