Billie is still hugging Eric at the Cheatin Heart as the show opens, and Eric can't get the image of Lucas and Nicole out of his head. Eric vents to Billie about how Nicole married the man who almost cost his sister her life. Eric then apologizes to Billie for talking about her family, but Billie says Roman has had his suspicions about them from the beginning. Eric says that he believes Lucas has some type of power or control over her, that is why she married him. Billie tells Eric that sometimes they aren't meant to know why things happen. Billie ends up talking about Bo and how he believes Hope is being controlled by Stefano. Billie says that she finds mind control a hard thing to believe, but that anything is possible with Stefano. Billie tells Eric about how Hope told her that she thought Bo was still in love with her, but she realizes now that Bo will never love anyone like he loves Hope. Billie wishes she could find a man to love her that way because she deserves it, and Eric tells her that she does. Billie tells Eric that they should talk about him and he should fall in love five or six more times. They then start talking about their lousy childhoods. When Billie says she is through with love, and Eric asks if his dad knows about this? Billie says that she and his dad are just friends, and she tells Eric that Nicole was out of her mind. Eric and Billie pal around and play some pool. Eric leaves to get them some drinks and Brandon comes in and starts hitting on Billie. Billie tells Brandon that she is with someone, and Eric returns and asks if everything is okay? Brandon tells Eric that he is a lucky guy and walks over to the bar. (this is after brandon leaves Nicole and Lucas in the park: see below).
In Salem Park, Lucas accuses Nicole of keeping secrets from him. Brandon threatens to beat him senseless because he thinks this is Eric, but Nicole says this is her husband. Brandon decides to go back to her place and meet her there. Lucas says her place is his place, unless she wants to end this marriage. Nicole says she doesn't, and she says she just needed time to think because the past few days have been very confusing. Lucas then tells Nicole's low life friend that Nicole has moved on and is a member of one of Salem's most important families. Brandon can't believe Nicole married this guy, and Lucas says she did and he should go to California were living on the streets is easy. Brandon says that Nicole doesn't want him to leave, in fact she begged him to come here. Lucas asks Nicole why she did that? Nicole becomes fed up and tells Lucas that Brandon is her brother! Lucas is shocked and then starts kissing some major butt to make up. Lucas offers to allow Brandon to stay with them at the mansion to make things "cool." Brandon tells Nicole that he'll see her later, and Lucas tells Nicole that he doesn't want them to have any more secrets between them. Nicole asks Lucas "what about the secret your keeping from me?" Lucas says he's sorry he put her through the whole confession scare. He says he did not kill anyone and only confessed to help Will. He says that he will do anything for the people he loves. Lucas then tells Nicole how his love for her has changed him, and he even offered to share custody with Sami. Nicole can't believe he would do that after she helped him get custody of Will. Lucas tells Nicole she is not listening, and he tells her how much he loves her. Nicole tells Lucas that she hopes he doesn't lose Will to Sami. Lucas says if he did, he wouldn't hold her to their marriage, he'd give her a divorce if she wanted it. Nicole says she doesn't want a divorce, but admits she did earlier last night. She says that her brother made her change her mind. Nicole tells Lucas that she's lucky to be with him, but Lucas says he's the lucky one, and the two kiss. At this point, Eric and Billie show up, they are taking a walk through the park. Eric was just telling Billie how Nicole never loved Lucas, when he sees them kissing.
At the penthouse, John has prepared a romantic candlelit bedroom setting for Marlena. John tells Marlena how excited the kids are about their mommy and daddy getting married. Marlena tells John that maybe it wasn't smart to announce their wedding plans because Stefano's has stopped weddings before. John says he has a plan to make sure Stefano won't stop the wedding. MArlena asks him why he hasn't told her, is he trying to torture her? John says he just thought of it, they can elope. Marlena refuses to give up her dream wedding and playfully accuses John of trying to save money. Marlena says she doesn't want to give Stefano the control of forcing them to change their plans, besides she wants the big wedding with all her friends and family. John assures Marlena that Stefano will never keep them apart, but Marlena says that is what Bo said about Hope. John tells her that good always wins over evil. Marlena says she wants to believe that, but is skeptical after what happened to him tonight. She fears that Stefano has found a way to play with his mind again, or maybe Stefano's threats about what would happen if he and Hope looked into their past came true. When the wind blows open the balcony doors, John grabs Marlena and shouts "look out!" He then apologizes and says it was only the wind. As they hug, Marlena continues to worry about John, and she tells him that they should postpone the wedding, she fears he is using the wedding as a distraction from his memory flashes. John says he is not running from the past, he's dancing into the future with the woman he loves. John tells Marlena that the memories are histories, he's letting it all go. He tells her that he can live with what he knows now, as long as she is with him. Marlena assures him that she is with him, but John needs proof. John says he needs to hear the vows, he needs to put a ring on her finger. They kiss, and then John begins to have more memories of Stefano telling him to fight or die. John then begins to do karate moves and jump on the bed, and throw things across the apartment. Then he grabs Marlena and looks like he is about to kill her. She shouts "John, no!" John fights the memory and tells Marlena that he beat it, and he knows when they marry, Stefano's power over him will be broken. John then says he doesn't want to talk, and kisses her.
At command central, Gina tells Stefano that she will copy the painting tomorrow, and then he can concentrate on bringing back John. Stefano becomes upset by Gina's one track mind. He tells her that he doesn't know if he can trust her anymore, he almost lost his priceless painting because of her. Gina says that she saved the painting. Stefano says she will replace the painting, but it will not fix the broken trust. Gina then tells Stefano if he brings the old John back, Marlena's world would be destroyed and he could once again go after her when she turns to him for comfort. Gina then begs for Stefano's forgiveness, but Stefano asks why Marlena would turn to him? Gina says she turned to him to save Sami, but Stefano says Marlena was desperate. Gina says that is exactly how she will feel when she looses John. Stefano says he no longer needs or wants Marlena, but Gina says she knows he still loves Marlena. Stefano asks Gina why she has developed this sudden interest in his feelings for Marlena? Gina tells Stefano not to let her stupidity rob him of his future with the woman he loves. Rolfe shows up and says they should proceed with the plans to turn John back, but Stefano says the plans have changed. Stefano decides to tend to his ailing wife and tells Gina to go to the townhouse and do her job. Stefano leaves and Rolfe asks Gina what she did to change Stefano's mind? Gina tells him that she blew it and explains what happened. She then informs Rolfe that he will help her change Stefano's mind about John, she can't live much longer without him. Gina asks Rolfe what John will remember once he demagnetizes the chip? Rolfe says that the chip in his brain is suppressing memories of his prior life. Rolfe says that once the chip is demagnetized, John will not remember Marlena and he will believe no time has past sense he last saw Princess Gina. Gina says that is what she wants. Rolfe asks what about Stefano, who is planning on being with her? Gina says that Stefano wants Marlena, and once John leaves her, Steffie will be there to help her pick up the pieces. Gina says at least she won't be alone like she was when John left her. Stefano walks in and asks how she can compare her partnership with John to his romance with Marlena? Gina asks Steffie if he is still going to let her mistake ruin everything? Gina tells Stefano that he still has the painting, and once she and John steal the last Renet for him, he will be the wealthiest collector in the world! Still, Stefano says he doesn't like her wanting John back so badly. Gina says that she isn't just an art thief, she is an addict. She says that she needs the excitement she and John had back! Stefano tells her that he thought she wanted to be with him? Gina says she does, she is waiting for him to whisk her back to Europe. Rolfe asks if this means the transformation is back on? Stefano tells Rolfe to get the demagnetizing apparatus so they can show Gina how to operate it. Gina is stunned that Stefano is going to let her do it, and she assures him that he won't be sorry! Stefano tells Gina that if he ever finds out she has lied to him again, she will not live long enough to have the luxury of regret!
Austin shows up at the hospital and asks Ali if she has seen Carrie? Ali says she hasn't seen her around, and then asks if the messenger found her? Austin asks her how she knew about the messenger? Ali says he came here last night looking for her, so she told him to try Tuscany. Ali says that she hopes she didn't do anything wrong. Austin says that she couldn't have known that what the messenger was delivering were divorce papers. Ali tells Austin that she is taking his advice, she is going to fight Mike. Austin is glad to hear that. Ali tells Austin that she is going to sue Mike for sexual harassment, she's going to make that SOB pay for what he did to her.
Mike finds Austin in the hall and asks to have a word with him. Austin goes into Mike's office and Mike tells Austin that he is being very vindictive, serving Carrie with divorce papers in public was cruel. Austin says that he thought he'd be happy he's divorcing Carrie! Austin asks Mike when Carrie will be back? Mike says she won't because she doesn't work here anymore. Austin can't believe she quit, but Mike says he asked her to resign. Austin says that makes sense, how else is he going to cover his butt. Mike asks him what in the hell that is supposed to mean? Austin says that maybe he decided he was through with her, so he got rid of her so he didn't have to see her anymore. Mike says that he and Carrie will be together forever, but Austin says that is probably what he tells all his women before he blows them off. Austin says he knows about the law suit, and he doesn't want to see Carrie go down with him. He tells Mike that he knows everything, and hopes Ali wins!
Carrie is sitting by herself in Salem Place thinking about receiving her divorce papers last night. She then pulls out the papers to look at them, and Sami shows up and says "who thought it would ever come to this." Carrie tells Sami that she doesn't want to hear "I told you so," but Sami says she wants to help. Sami tells Carrie that she came to visit her in prison and she thinks it was for help. Carrie says she visited her because she felt guilty about the way she treated her. However, Sami believes she really felt guilty about Austin catching her in bed with Mike. Sami says she is not here to judge her, she want to help both her and Austin. Sami doesn't understand why Austin wants to divorce her, has she given him reason to believe there is no way to save their marriage? Carrie says that Austin has not given her a reason that he wants to save their marriage. Carrie thinks Sami isn't sorry about Austin and her, she has wanted this all along. Carrie knows that she has never stopped loving him and never forgiven her for exposing Will's paternity. Carrie says she knows Sami can't wait to make a move on Austin. Sami says she does love Austin, he is her best friend and she can't stand to see him hurting. Carrie tells Sami that Mike asked her to resign, and Sami says that is a good start because now she can work on making things right with Austin. Sami says that if she told Austin that she loves him and wants to work things out, he would drop the divorce in a second.
At the penthouse, John is talking with all the wedding planners telling them what he needs and that money is no option. Marlena shows up and John tells them to head off to work. Marlena tells John that he doesn't have to do all of this, but John says a lot of people have been waiting a long time for them to get married. John assures Marlena that this will be a wedding that Salem will never forget. John also tells Marlena that he thinks they should write their own vows. Marlena says she will have to start right away because she has so much she wants to say to him. We then see a flashback of the first time John (who thought he was Roman at the time) and Marlena made love. After a kiss, Marlena says she has to call the children about the wedding. She feels bad for Carrie and Sami, who are struggling right now. John says they will find their way, and they will help them. Marlena hopes that they find their own soul mates, and John and Marlena have more flashbacks about their past together, this time we see them kissing in the park after chasing one another. Unfortunately, John has more mercenary flashbacks. Marlena asks John what he is thinking about? John says that he doesn't need to remember the past, because he has her with him right now. Marlena gives him a look and says she knows he was having a memory of being held captive by Stefano. John doesn't want to think about that and wants to concentrate on their future. Marlena asks him if he thinks Stefano will let them do that? John tells her that the wedding will happen, and asks if she knows who she wants as her maid of honor? Marlena says that she wants Sami and Carrie to both stand up with her. Still, Marlena is afraid of what Stefano might do, even though John tells her that Stefano doesn't have the power to stop their love.
Bo shows up at Lilly's place to talk with "Hope," but Lilly says she was gone when she got up. Bo wonders if she even stayed here last night. Bo tells Lilly that he thinks "Hope" may be working with DiMera, and he will uncover why. Lilly says that she has warned her about that man, and to think they may be working together. Lilly says that she loves her like a daughter, which is why Bo tells her that they have to help each other. Bo says that she has to tell her anything she can about "Hope," that she may be keeping from him, otherwise they can both lose her. Lilly says that she doesn't know anything. Bo tells her about "Hope's" fake fainting spell to save the seascape. Bo is positive that the seascape ties in with her painting thefts. Bo says that he looked at the police report of her theft, and Gina was never questioned. Lilly says that is because she was so upset that she had to be sedated. Lilly says that "Hope" has told her time and time again that she hates Stefano. Bo pulls out the picture of Hope in Stefano's lap and asks her how she can explain it? Lilly is shocked by the photograph. Lilly asks where he got it, and he said he found it in "Hope's" room and she says she got it from one of her (Lilly's) books. Lilly says she did bring some of her brooks from Lugano over, and she remembers "Hope" looking through them the night of her accident. Bo says that is when "Hope" started acting strangely, and is angered that instead of answers he is coming up with more questions. When Lilly says they may never know the truth, Bo assures her that he will find out why the paintings are so important to DiMera. Bo tells her that he is going to have an expert examine the paintings, he will bring DiMera's reign of terror to and end and get Hope back.
At command central, Gina tells Rolfe not to lecture her. Gina says the most important thing is that Stefano has agreed to bring back John. When Gina tells him that it is best if he keep his mouth shut and do as he told, Rolfe yells that he does not work for her! Gina reminds him of the blackmail material and says he wouldn't want Steffie to know the truth. Stefano shows up and asks what Rolfe doesn't want him to know? Gina says that Rolfe doesn't think she is capable of bringing John back. Stefano says that the procedure is complicated, she has to render John unconscious and then demagnetize the chip with a device. Still, Rolfe says he's not sure they should bring John back, but Stefano says it must be done because John is becoming too dangerous. Still, Rolfe says that everyone will become suspicious when John disappears. Stefano already has a plan, he's coming up with an alabi to prove he had nothing to do with John's disappearance. Stefano says that thanks to Gina, John will not show up for the wedding. Stefano says that he will arrange for John's death, and Gina will come up with an excuse for why she must leave for Europe immediately, and then John and Gina will get him the last Rennet, and they will all live the life they are meant to live. Gina tells herself that she and John will live the life with the love they were meant to, until he took John away. Stefano tells Gina to find out everything she can about the details of the wedding, and Rolfe is to get the demagnetizing device up and running. Gina calls the penthouse to talk with John or Marlena, but learns from Chelsea that they have gone to Salem Place to make wedding preparations.
Gina goes to Salem Place and spots John window shopping. She manages to bump into him and congratulates him on his wedding. She hugs him and tells him that she's so happy for him. Elsewhere, Stefano runs into Marlena and tells her that he was just on his way to see her.
Austin tells Mike that he knows Ali is suing him and he hopes she wins. Mike tells Austin he has no idea what he is talking about. Mike says he dated Ali, but it didn't work so they broke up. Austin knows Mike used Ali for kicks and then dumped her, and he's not going to let him do the same thing to Carrie. Austin says that he promised Ali a promotion to get her into bed, but Mike says that is a lie. Mike says that Ali is mentally unstable, but Austin says that she looked pretty sane to him. Mike says the lawsuit will be thrown out, and he forced Carrie to resign to protect her name. Austin says if he's not guilty, why should he protect her? As they continue to argue, Austin refers to Carrie as his wife. Mike reminds him that he served his wife with divorce papers. Austin says he did that because he can't stand the thought of his hands all over his wife. Austin tells Mike that he makes him sick, he is nothing but a two faced lousy bastard. Mike informs Austin that he loved Carrie before they even married, but he put them aside out of respect for him. He says that he only learned about Carrie's feelings for him after he ran off with Sami. Austin tells Mike that he took advantage of his wife and ruined her reputation, and one day Carrie will realize it. Austin says he is done with this and asks him to tell Carrie to sign the divorce papers when he sees her next. Austin then leaves.
Ali and Alice meet for coffee at the Java Cafe. Ali tells Alice that she respects her so much, she only wishes she could have met her husband. Alice asks Ali why she is suing Mike if she respects the Horton's so much? Ali tells Alice that Mike offered her the head nurse position to get her into bed, she felt used. Ali says this lawsuit is about integrity and injustice, not about money. She says she has to do what her heart tells her to do, she has to understand that. Ali tells Alice that she does care about Mike and the hospital and would drop the suit if Mike said he was sorry and tried to make amends.
In Salem Place, Sami tells Carrie that Austin would drop the divorce if she told Mike that she doesn't want to see him anymore. Carrie says it isn't that simple, Mike was there for her when Austin wasn't. Sami tells Carrie that all she has to do is make the first move, and not make the mistakes their parents made. Carrie says it is not the same thing, but Sami says it is close enough. Sami says that things would have been different if Dad had stayed and fought for Marlena. Carrie begs to differ because she believes that John and Marlena belong together. Carrie says that sometimes there is no choice, you have to follow your heart. Sami says that following one's heart often hurts those who love you. They argue over infidelity and what she and Mike did. Sami tells Carrie that Mike has been after her since before she married Austin, is she that blind? Sami says that Mike set her up and she fell into his trap. Carrie says Mike is a good person, and then is angry when she spots Ali with Alice Horton at the Java Cafe. Carrie fumes and rants and raves about Ali's delusions that Mike and her will have a future. She says she has to find out what is going on and races over to see Ali. Ali tells Carrie that she is in a hurry, but Carrie says she wants the truth. Carrie asks Ali what she is up to, why is she being so chummy with Alice? Ali says she and grandma Horton have a lot in common. Carrie tells Ali that she is up to no good, and she won't let her get away with it! Carrie tells Ali that Mike is not interested in her, she is making herself the laughing stock of the hospital. Ali tells Carrie that at least she wasn't fired! Ali says that they have something in common, they've both been used by Mike Horton.
Meanwhile, Sami says that Carrie is obviously obsessed with Mike. Sami runs into Austin, who is still set on divorcing Carrie. Austin says Carrie is his past and he has to concentrate on their future. Sami asks him what he means by their future? Austin tells her that they have to concentrate on getting custody of Will. Austin says he has to go meet Mickey and he will ask him about getting custody.
Stefano runs into Marlena as she is shopping in Salem Place. Stefano wishes Marlena and John an abundance of happiness, but Marlena knows he doesn't mean it. Marlena asks Stefano how he plans on stopping the wedding? Stefano says he's not going to stop her wedding, but Marlena doesn't believe him. She asks where he will be taking her this time, so she knows how to pack. Stefano tells her that he has changed his ways and believes marriage is sacred, therefore he won't interfere. Marlena says she can't trust him because he did not help her when she begged for him to save Sami's life. Stefano assures Marlena that he will not hold her in debt. Stefano says there was a time that he was obsessed with her, and has done some reprehensible things to her, but he has learned from those experiences and is sorry. He hopes they can find some kind of peace and she could find it in her heart to forgive him. Marlena can't trust his promises, and Stefano hopes she changes her mind one day. He then present her with a wedding gift. Marlena tells him that she wants nothing from him, so Stefano opens the gift for her. Inside is a set of opera glasses, and they remember the night he took her to the opera. Sami shows up and tells Stefano to leave her mother alone. Stefano says he has her mother's best interests at heart, and says goodbye. Sami asks her mom what the gift was for? Marlena says she has news, she and John are getting married tomorrow. Sami is shocked, but says that she and John deserve so much happiness. Marlena says there is so much to do, she has to call Eric and Carrie. Sami tells Marlena that Carrie won't be in the mood for a wedding. Marlena asks why? Sami tells her that Carrie and Austin are getting a divorce.
Elsewhere in Salem Place, John tells "Hope" that she wasn't this happy last night when he made the wedding announcement. He asks her what was with her little fall last night? "Hope" says she just got a little lightheaded. "Hope" tells John that she was a little surprised that he and Marlena want to marry so soon. John says they didn't want to wait, and nothing will stand in the way of them being married. "Hope" once again says she's so excited for him and asks where the wedding will take place? John says he can't reveal the location because it is a big surprise for Doc. John tells her that all she has to do is clear her schedule for tomorrow because she will be coming with Bo, correct? "Hope" says "are you kidding . . . . of course I will!" "Hope" suddenly becomes dizzy and admits to John that she's having some disturbing moments. John understands and tells her about his memories of being DiMera's mercenary. "Hope" asks if the migraines are still bad, and he says yes. Suddenly, "Hope" passes out and John catches her. "Hope" comes too and asks what happened? John says she fainted and he wants to take her to the hospital. "Hope" says she is fine, it must be the heat. She hopes the weather for the wedding will be better, and asks if it is outside? John tells her no comment, she'll have to be surprised like everyone else. They talk about John's headaches for a bit, John only remembers being a mindless fighting machine. "Hope" tells him that he can't have been under Stefano's control the whole time. John says there is no way to prove it other than turning him into the man he used to be. "Hope" asks "then why don't we do that?" John asks her what she's saying? "Hope" says that maybe if he tried to remember his past he would know the truth, but John refuses to do that. "Hope" tells him that she knows he cared about Gina and Greta as if they were his family. John says that dredging up the past will do him no good, he doesn't want to jeopardize his future with Marlena and the kids. JOhn tells her that if she won't support him, then stay away from him! "Hope" apologizes and says she doesn't want to lose him as a friend, she always wants him to be a part of her life. John tells her that he always wants to be her friend, he just overreacted. She asks him if she ever learned more about John and Gina's relationship, would he want to know? He says he would. "Hope" decides to leave, and John spots Stefano and wonders what he is up to. John continues to remember more and more of Stefano's brainwashing of him into a fighting machine. In the flashback, John is hooked up to a computer and Stefano gives him his orders, "he will destroy the enemy." John suddenly grabs Stefano in a choke hold! Meanwhile, Gina believes she will have John back again, and he won't be under Stefano's control.
In Salem Place, Sami explains to Marlena how Carrie was served with divorce papers last night at Tuscany. Marlena is concerned and wonders why Austin is rushing this, why doesn't he give her a chance? Sami says she doesn't know, but wishes he would. Sami admits to her mom that she wants Austin to be happy, and she knows he loves Carrie still. However, Sami says Carrie has changed, she has given up on her marriage. Sami says that Carrie is so in love with Mike that she can't see straight. Marlena understands what Carrie is going through, and she knows Carrie fought her attraction to Mike for a long time. Sami says that Mike is the guilty one, he went after her. However, Marlena says that nobody forced Carrie to do it.
Elsewhere in Salem Place, Ali and Carrie are arguing. Carrie accuses Ali of living to make trouble for her and Mike. Ali accuses Carrie of being jealous of her relationship with Mike. Carrie tells her that she never had a relationship with him! Ali says there are many types of relationships, and she and Mike will be spending time together very soon. Carrie tells Ali that she is delusional. Ali says that she is stuck in Jr. High, if she can't have Mike, no one can. Ali tells Carrie that Mike dumped her! Carrie says that is not why she resigned. Still, Ali tells Carrie to get a recommendation fast, because Mike's reign at the hospital is about to come to an end. Carrie asks Mike what she's saying? She asks if she thinks Mike is going to quit his job and run off with her? Ali tells Carrie that everyone is in for some big surprises.
Gina is still in Salem Place thinking about turning John back into her partner. She spots John, who has Stefano in choke hold. Stefano says "at ease soldier," but it does no good. Gina runs up to them and pleads with John to let Stefano go. Gina tells her that she's Gina and asks him to stop, but eventually pulls out her compact and shines it in his face. John takes off and Stefano, who is gasping for air, tells Gina what happened. Gina tells Stefano to go, she'll find out why John attacked him. Gina finds John near bye, he is blinded and is suffering from a major migraine. John tells her that he heard Stefano telling him to kill anyone who got in the way, his enemies. He saw Stefano and went after him, which puzzles him. John says that he was loyal to Stefano, why would he go after him? Gina says that he wasn't always loyal to Stefano. Gina then remembers John telling her that he had a plan to take care of Stefano so that they can live the life they want, along with Greta. John asks "Hope" why she thinks he was disloyal to Stefano? "Hope" says that maybe he wanted out. John begins to feel better. Suddenly, Marlena and Sami show up and Marlena asks "Hope" what she's doing with John? John tells her that he saw Stefano and it triggered a headache. "Hope" is so happy to see Sami and they hug. She tells her that she must be happy about the wedding, but Sami fears someone may stop it. "Hope" tells her that this wedding will go off without a hitch. John asks Marlena what she has, and she shows him the glasses. The glasses trigger another memory for John. John says they should get going home, but Marlena wants to talk to him alone first. John thanks "Gina" for helping him, which shocks Marlena. Marlena tells John that he called "Hope" "Gina." "Hope" says that it was her fault, they were talking about the past. John apologizes, and Sami and "Hope" go to get a cappuccino. MArlena asks John if the memories are getting more intense, and if "Hope" is encouraging him to remember? John says no, "Hope" stopped him from almost killing Stefano. Marlena asks when this is going to stop? John says that it will end the second he marries her. John says he can handle anything as long as she is by his side, it will be his mantra. We then see a flashback of John saving Marlena multiple times. Once from Maison Blanche, once from Satan, once from Paris, and once from the secret room. John tells Marlena that they have survived it all, and the best is yet to come.
Sami and "Hope" have their cappuccino, and "Hope" tells Sami about the nightmares she has of being controlled by Stefano. Sami says she has nightmares of almost dying. "Hope" tells them that they suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome, and she may need some help. She then suggests that John get the same thing, but not from Marlena because "Hope" thinks Marlena is making things worse. "Hope" tells Sami that Marlena is too close to John to be objective, and John is remembering more and more about his past. "Hope" says that she's not trying to scare her, she's just afraid that John may go off the deep-end.
In Carrie's office, Mike finds Craig, Nancy, and Claire. Craig says that an upset Claire ran in here, and they went after her to see how she was. Craig says they'll leave, but Mike stops him and says that he has some explaining to do. Mike asks what this powwow is about? Craig says that Claire just told them about the lawsuit, and she asked him and Nancy to testify against Mike. Nancy and Craig tell Mike that they are on his side. Claire tells Mike that she will find someone at this hospital who will testify for Ali. Mike tells Claire that this law suit will never even make it to court. Claire thinks that Mike is ready to settle out of court. Mike tells her that there will be no settlement, his lawyers will prove that Ali is unbalanced and delusional with the aid of a psychological examination. Claire says she doesn't care about the money, she wants to stop him from abusing his power in the future. Claire tells Mike that she will bring him down, and stomps out of the room. Mike apologizes to Craig and Nancy. Nancy says she and Carrie will protect him, but Mike orders them to leave Carrie out of this. Later, Nancy and Craig worn Claire that she and Ali better keep quiet about their part in this conspiracy. Claire assures them that they won't be implicated. Ali shows up and tells them about her encounter with Carrie. Craig asks Ali what she told her, and she explained that she was going after Mike. They all shove ALi into Carrie's office and Claire tells Ali that she has to leave people alone and accept the fact that Mike doesn't want her. Craig screams at them to shut up and cool down before they ruin everything. Claire apologizes to Ali, who cries on her mom's shoulder.
Mike goes back to his office and Carrie shows up. Carrie says she needs answers, she's heard that Ali is causing big problems for him and she won't leave until she knows the truth. Mike asks what Ali said? Carrie tells him that Ali said she'd be spending a lot of time with him and that he won't be COS much longer. Mrs. Lewis and Mr. Winston show up and asks Mike if Ali Macntyre's sexual harassment suit has any merit?
At the DiMera mansion, Nicholas and Vivian talk about the party. Nicholas tells his aunt that "Hope" is a lot like Princess GIna, though "Hope" is more stunning that the Gina he remembers. Nicholas doesn't understand why Bo lets "Hope" treat him so poorly? Vivian says that he obviously inherited his father's poor taste in women. Nicholas knows she is talking about Kate, and says that he thinks Kate is something special. Vivian gags and can't believe he finds her attractive. Nicholas says he's only getting to know the enemy, but Kate won't kill her like Stefano will if he learns she is not dying. Vivian says that she has a plan, she is going to use Kate against Stefano. Vivian says that when she takes over Titan, Kate will blame Stefano. Vivian believes that Kate and Bo will keep Stefano busy. However, Nicholas reminds Vivian that Uncle John told her never to underestimate Stefano. Vivian rants and raves about Kate's incompetence running Titan. Nicholas suggests that she spend the rest of her life on earth protecting her investment, and that way Titan will be much better financially when she is miraculously healed.
Stefano returns to the mansion and tells Rolfe about his encounter with John. Stefano is eager to get control over John back, and if John isn't 100% loyal, he'll be eliminated!
At Titan, Billie asks her mom to sign a Countess Willamenia offer. Kate tells Billie that she has been doing a great job lately. Kate then tells Billie about Vivian's horrid party and how Vivian pined over Victor all night. She also tells Billie that Stefano has given Vivian his 49% share of Titan stock! Kate says the stock supposedly return to Stefano when Vivian dies, and she also is angry at Bo for pressuring Victor into attending the party. Kate fears that Bo and Vivian are in cahoots to bring her down. Billie says that is not like Bo, besides he is too focused on getting his Fancy Face back. Kate says maybe Bo will get fed up with Hope, and she'll have another chance with Bo. Billie tells Kate not to even think about it. Kate then tells Billie her fears that Victor may never come home from the rehab center. Kate goes on and says that last night, she slept in Victor's bed so he could hold her, and Victor told her how sad he is not to be able to give her the marriage she should have. Billie remembers that Kate and Victor still aren't married, but Kate says they are both committed to each other in every way. Billie tells her mom to get out and enjoy life, but she says keeping Vivian's claws off of Victor and out of Titan is fun enough for her. Suddenly, Vivian and Nicholas show up, and Vivian says she's reporting for duty.
Marlena and Sami are at the bridal store shopping for Marlena's dress. Sami is so happy that her mother is including her in the plans. Eric shows up and asks why she had him meet her here? MArlena tells Eric that she and John are getting married tomorrow, and she'd love to have his blessing. Eric hopes his mom has a better chance at finding lasting love than her kids have. Marlena tells Eric that she and John are putting the past behind them and focus on the future, and she'd like him to do the same thing. Eric gives his mom his blessing, and Marlena tries on wedding dresses while Sami and Eric rate them. The song playing during this fashion show is Amy Grant's "Lucky One." The kids end up bored, Eric falls asleep, and later Eric and Sami play pattycake! Marlena finally tries on a dress which wins their approval, but we do not see it. They then buy Belle a dress for the wedding, and Marlena tells Eric and Sami that John loves the both of them. We then see a flashback of John, as Roman, with Eric and Sami. Marlena tells them that before they found out the truth, they loved him as much as he loved them. Sami says it is like the way Austin and Will love one another.
In Mike's office, Mike tells Mrs. Winston and Mr. Lewis that Ali's sexual harassment charges have no merit at all. The board members say that they need Carrie to do the same kind of damage control she did in the past for Mike, referring to the sex scandal that almost cost Mike the COS race. Mike doesn't think that is a good idea, but Carrie says she would be happy to do it. A woman and her son show up to see Mike to thank him for the new drugs he proscribed them. The woman and her son are both HIV positive, and she says that Mike saved their lives. Mike delivered Daniel and has been their doctor ever since. Daniel gives Mike a T shirt which says AIDS day of compassion on it. After they leave, Mike tells the board members that he is going to make sure this case never goes to court because he will prove Ali is mentally unstable. The board members become concerned that Mike let her continue working here when she could have hurt patients. Mike says that he has never allowed Ali to put the patients in danger. Carrie suggests that instead of going after Ali, they should just stand behind their COS. The board members leave and Mike gets a call from Marlena, who asks to speak to Carrie. Marlena tells Carrie that she and John are getting married tomorrow. Later, Carrie asks Mike why he hid the law suit from her, is that why she wanted her to resign? Mike says he was just trying to protect her, but Carrie says that she doesn't need protecting. Carrie tells Mike not to keep anything from her again, and he recalls sleeping with Ali. Carrie asks Mike if he has something esle to tell him? Mike says nothing important. Carrie tears up her resignation and tells Mike that her first order of business is to expose Ali as a malicious liar.
Out in the hall, the board members confront Ali about her lawsuit. The board members inform her that they stand behind Mike. Ali tells them that she is not Mike's first victim, and as she's about to implicate Carrie, Craig butts in and says he needs a nurse and Ali is it. Craig tells Ali to forget about Carrie, but Ali says she can't because Carrie ruined everything between her and Mike. Ali is pulled away by Mrs. Winston, who asks if there is anything they can change or do to spare an unpleasant scandal? Ali says that an unpleasant scandal pales in comparison to what he did to her. Craig thinks that maybe Ali can handle the psychiatric evaluation after all, but Nancy reminds him that they're dealing with Ms. Jeckel and Ms. Hyde. Later, Ali confronts Craig and Nancy about some exam she has to take. Nancy and Craig tell her that she has to take a psychiatric exam and pass, and Ali says she intends to, with flying colors. Ali says that she has Mike just where she wants him, now she just has to get Carrie.
Bo calls Greta, who is in Salem Place shopping for a gift for MArlena and John. Bo asks Greta to find Hope and tell her what he is planning to do in regards to the seascape. Bo says that if he's right it will prove that DiMera is controlling "Hope." Later, Mr Clarke, a friend of Bo's, comes to the townhouse to examine the paintings. Mr. Clarke tells Bo that these are hardly masterpieces, but they were all painted but they were painted by the same artist. Bo asks him if he knows an artist by the name of Gina Von Amburg, but he says no. Bo then asks him if the seascape looks unusual to him. He says no, and Bo explains what happened with "Hope" last night and how she is being controlled by the paintings original owner. Mr. Clarke looks at the seascape again and says the painting does look familiar. He tells Bo that there was a painting at a recent art auction with a cover just like this one. He explains to Bo that when a painting is stolen it is often painted over with a worthless painting. Bo asks if that wouldn't destroy the masterpiece? Mr. Clarke says not if you use the right materials. Bo becomes excited and says they should look underneath the seascape. Mr. Clarke says that he will take the picture for an examination. Bo says this may be DiMera's downfall, but it will incriminate the woman he loves in the process.
Gina is at the Java Cafe daydreaming about being with John, forever. Gina opens the paper and sees John and Marlena's wedding announcement. She tells Doc that she's sorry, but she can't let her have John. Gina remember John telling her that he will fake his death and then he, Gina, and Greta can disappear and be a family. Gina says that it might have taken a long time for their dream to happen, but it will be worth the wait. Gina looks at her compact when Greta shows up. Greta asks "Hope" if that is her missing compact? "Hope" says it isn't, it's a duplicate she had made in hopes that it would trigger her memory, but it hasn't. Greta said she happened to be shopping for John and Marlena's wedding. "Hope" says tomorrow will be such a happy day because there is nothing Stefano can do to stop John and Marlena's wedding. Greta is surprised by "Hope's" 180 because last night she was anything but happy for them. "Hope" tells Greta that many things will change after this wedding, she is going to reclaim the life Stefano stole from her. Greta sympathizes and says she feels the same thing about her and her mother's lives. Greta says that she felt so alone when her mother died, and she hoped Father John was her dad. Greta says it was just a silly fantasy, but "Hope" tells her that it is not and she feels that Greta will find her father very soon. Greta then works Bo into the conversation and tells her that Bo called an art expert to look at the paintings. "Hope" chokes on her coffee. She asks for the check and asks Greta where Bo is. Greta says that he is at the townhouse. "Hope" suddenly remembers she's late for an appointment and takes off. Greta pulls out her phone and calls Bo. Greta tells him how "Hope" reacted to their news. Bo knows "Hope" is headed straight to Stefano's.
At the penthouse, John recalls the first time he saw Belle after he learned that she was his daughter. Roman shows up and John tells Roman that he and Marlena are getting married tomorrow. Roman congratulates him and says that he is happy for them. Roman jokes about their last wedding and how he probably wants him on his side this time. John tells Roman that he needs his help. Roman agrees to help him, but we don't hear what it is that John asks Roman. John thanks Roman and says this is a loose end from his past he'd like to tie up. Roman tells John that he's heard that he is having more memories. John tells Roman that he's beginning to doubt he was ever a priest. John also tells Roman about his mercenary flashbacks, and how today he almost killed Stefano. Roman asks if he thinks he had a reason, other than normal, to attack Stefano? John believes he wasn't as loyal to Stefano as he thought he was. They continue to talk and realize that if John and Hope are on the same wavelength, they might be able to turn the tables on Stefano and put him away for good. Roman and John take a walk through Salem PLace and continue their conversation. John says he's trying to forget about the past and focus on the future. They see "Hope" with Greta and Roman wishes Hope would follow John's lead. John tells him that he'll have Marlena throw the bouquet at "Hope." Roman wonders if they should say hi, but John says no because "Hope" will just want to talk about his past. Roman is upset because unlocking John's memories might explain why Stefano is against the Bradys. John says that is true, but the price is too high, he doesn't want to jeopardize his future with Marlena and the kids. Roman says speaking of kids, lets go tie up that last loose end. John and Roman return to the penthouse, and Marlena, Eric, and Sami soon follow. John tells them that he asked Roman to come over because they have a surprise, and John hands Marlena an envelope. John and Roman had Belle's father's name on her birth certificate legally changed. Marlena cries and thanks Roman. Sami feels so bad and apologizes, but John says it is not necessary because they are all moving on.
Stefano is still feeling the pains from John's strangling him. Stefano is angry and tells Rolfe that he assured him that John would not remember his previous life after they turned him into Roman. Rolfe says that was fourteen years ago and technology is much more advanced now. Rolfe says that at the time he told him that he could not guarantee long term results, but when he is turned into his mercenary again he will have no memories of Marlena. Rolfe is upset that Stefano is going to let Gina turn John back into father John after she lied to him. Stefano says that he's not happy about her not finishing the paintings, but Rolfe says that is not what he was referring to. Stefano asks Rolfe if there was another instance in which Gina lied to him? Rolfe ask Stefano if he has ever wondered if Gina and John's relationship was more than a professional one, but Stefano doesn't believe that because they were both under his control. However, Rolfe reminds him that the real Gina wasn't, but Stefano says that this Gina is. Still, Rolfe is skeptical that this won't work out as Stefano plans, he thinks Marlena will naturally blame Stefano for John's disappearance. Stefano says that Marlena will blame herself, because he warned her not to help John dig into his past. Rolfe asks "What about Bo?" Stefano says that Gina is taking care of Bo. Stefano says he will take great pleasure in seeing Marlena and Bo lose the great love of their lives. Rolfe then suggests that perhaps Bo and Marlena can comfort each other, which makes Stefano laugh. Stefano says that is almost as ridiculous as John and Gina.